Covers 16-30 April
In This Issue Since 1909 StrategicBIRTH ANNIVERSARYPartnership CELEBRATIONS for Bilateral Defence Cooperation 4
(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 63 q No 8 27 Chaitra - 10 Vaisakha,1938 (Saka) 16-30 April 2016
The journal of India’s Armed Forces published every fortnight in thirteen languages including Hindi & English on behalf of Ministry of Defence. It is not necessarily an organ for the expression of the Government’s defence policy. The published items represent the views of respective writers and correspondents.
Editor-in-Chief AMC Surges Ahead to Hasibur Rahman Gallantry and other 8 14 Senior Editor Editor Defence Decorations be the Leading … Ruby T Sharma Ehsan Khusro Coordination Business Manager Sekhar Babu Madduri Dharam Pal Goswami Our Correspondents DELHI: Dhananjay Mohanty; Capt DK Sharma; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva; Col Rohan Anand; Ved Pal; ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Dr MS Patil; CHANDIGARH: Parvesh Sharma; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma; JALANDHAR: Naresh Vijay Vig; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JODHPUR: Lt Col Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Lt Col E Musavi; KOLKATA: Wg Cdr SS Birdi; 7 COAS Visits USA Dipannita Dhar; LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Rahul Sinha; 19 COAS Visits HQ Dakshin… Field Marshal Narendra Vispute; Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; Gp Capt SK 24 NAGPUR: PALAM: 20 50th Batch of Medical… Manekshaw… Mehta; PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: MA Khan Shakeel; SHILLONG: Gp Capt Amit Mahajan; SRINAGAR: Col NN Joshi; TEZPUR: Lt Col Sombith Ghosh; 28 Ten Soldiers From Indian Army… THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suresh Shreedharan; UDHAMPUR: Col SD Goswami; 29 Joint Efforts Enable Early… VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju. 32 Indo-Indonesia Joint Training… Published by: Nitin D Wakankar 33 Centres of Excellence in… Offg Addl DG (Media & Communication) 34 Commissioning of Offshore… Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 Regulars 22 Photo Features: Media Tour to Follow us on: Forward Areas 35 Armed Forces Panorama www.facebook.com/DefenceMinIndia
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On front cover: Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar accompanied by his US counterpart Dr Ashton Carter proceeding to the venue of delegation level talks in South Block on April 12, 2016. pic: GD Mehra US Secretary of Defense visits India Strategic Partnership for Bilateral Defence Cooperation
ollowing is the text of the Indo- FUS Joint Statement on the visit of Secretary of Defense Dr Ashton Carter to India from April 10-13, 2016: US Secretary of Defense Dr Ashton Carter is on an official visit to India at the invitation of Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar from April 10-13, 2016. Defence Minister hosted Secretary Carter in Goa. They visited the Indian Naval Base in Karwar and the INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier. They also visited the USS Blue Ridge which was conducting a port call in Goa during the Secretary’s visit. Secretary Carter then traveled to New Delhi for official regular Ministerial-level oversight of to pursue those priorities. These talks with Defence Minister. He will the robust and deepening bilateral included expanding collaboration also meet the National Security Advisor and the Prime Minister. Defence relationship. under the Defence Technology and During their meeting, Defence Trade Initiative (DTTI); Make in India The United States and India efforts of Government of India; new share a deep and abiding interest in Minister Parrikar and Secretary opportunities to deepen cooperation global peace, prosperity, and stability. Carter reviewed the important in maritime security and Maritime Bilateral Defence cooperation is steps taken since the signing of the Domain Awareness; military-to- a key component of the strategic new Framework for the US-India military relations; the knowledge partnership between India and the Defense Relationship last June United States. Secretary Carter’s visit to deepen bilateral defence ties. partnership in the field of defence; marked the fourth meeting between They discussed the priorities for the and regional and international him and Defence Minister Parrikar coming year in defence ties, as well security matters of mutual interest. within a year, demonstrating the as specific steps both sides will take Defence Minister Parrikar
4 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 and Secretary Carter welcomed technology transfer. the South China Sea. They vowed the efforts by the Indian and US In support of the India-US their support for a rules-based order Armed Forces to further expand Joint Strategic Vision for the Asia- and regional security architecture collaboration in the years to come. Pacific and Indian Ocean Region conducive to peace and prosperity in They welcomed plans across our and the maritime security objectives the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean, Services for greater complexity in therein, both sides agreed to and emphasized their commitment their military engagements and strengthen cooperation in the to working together and with other exercises, including developing area of maritime security. In this nations to ensure the security and plans for more advanced maritime context, they reaffirmed their desire stability that have been beneficial to exercises. Both sides acknowledged to expeditiously conclude a “white the Asia-Pacific for decades. India’s participation in the Rim-of- shipping” technical arrangement Defence Minister Parrikar and the-Pacific (RIMPAC) multilateral to improve data sharing on Secretary Carter reviewed the progress naval exercise in 2016 as well as commercial shipping traffic. They and reiterated their commitment participation by the Indian Air Force agreed to commence Navy-to-Navy to pursue co-development and co- in the multilateral Red Flag exercise discussions on submarine safety production of advanced defence in April-May 2016 in Alaska and and anti-submarine warfare. They articles under the DTTI. In this US participation in the International also agreed to launch a bilateral context, they agreed to initiate two Fleet Review of the Indian Navy at Maritime Security Dialogue, co- new DTTI pathfinder projects on Visakhapatnam in February 2016. chaired by officials at the Joint Digital Helmet Mounted Displays They expressed their desire to explore Secretary/Assistant Secretary-level and the Joint Biological Tactical agreements which would facilitate of the Indian Ministries of Defence Detection System. They commended further expansion of bilateral defence and External Affairs and the US the on-going discussions at the cooperation in practical ways. In Departments of Defense and State. Jet Engine Technology Joint this regard, they announced their in Secretary Carter and Defence Working Group (JETJWG) and the principle agreement to conclude a Minister Parrikar reaffirmed the Joint Working Group on Aircraft Logistics Exchange Memorandum of importance of safeguarding Carrier Technology Cooperation Agreement, and to continue working maritime security and ensuring (JWGACTC). They agreed to work toward other facilitating agreements freedom of navigation and over flight towards greater cooperation in to enhance military cooperation and throughout the region, including in the field of cutting-edge defence
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 5 technologies, including deepening consultations on aircraft carrier design and operations, and jet engine technology. They noted the understanding reached to conclude an information exchange annex (IEA) to enhance data and information sharing specific to aircraft carriers. With the aim of encouraging greater participation of US Defence Industries in the Make In India program of the Government of India, Defence Minister Parrikar informed Secretary Carter about the recently announced Defence Procurement Policy and other reforms in the government project agreements in the Government of India for their Indian defence sector. Both sides the area of science and technology support in facilitating the recovery agreed to encourage their respective cooperation: Atmospheric Sciences for effort. The Indian Government defence industries to develop new High Energy Lasers, Cognitive Tools agreed to support America’s partnerships in the pursuit of a range for Target Detection, Small Intelligent commitment to bringing its fallen of cutting-edge projects. In support Unmanned Aerial Systems, and Blast personnel home and providing of Make in India, the United States and Blunt Traumatic Brain Injury. their families the fullest possible shared two proposals to bolster Before departing India, accounting, and looks forward to India’s suite of fighter aircraft for Secretary Carter will oversee further humanitarian missions of this consideration of the Government of a repatriation ceremony of US kind over the next few years to return India. World War II remains from India the remains of these US heroes to Secretary Carter and Defence to the United States. Secretary their families. Minister Parrikar welcomed the Carter expressed his gratitude to - Nitin Wakankar finalization of four government-to- Defence Minister Parrikar and pix: GD Mehra and Vijay Kumar
6 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 COAS Visits USA
he Chief of Army Staff (COAS), TGen Dalbir Singh, embarked on a four day goodwill visit to USA from April 5 to 8, 2016. The visit assumes special significance in light of enhanced defence cooperation between the two countries. The visit is a part of the ongoing High Level Exchanges between India & USA. India-US ties have been transformed in recent years with a renewed Defence Framework Agreement, supply of defence equipment, sharing of technology and military-to-military exchanges.
Gen Dalbir Singh, COAS Interacting with Mr Syed Akbaruddin, Ambassador and Permanent representative at Permanent Mission of India to the UN. The COAS along with Peacekeepers to global peace, with Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, the highest standards of training, Permanent Representative of India to discipline and dedication. UN met Mr Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary On April 7, 2016, the COAS General, United Nations on April met Gen Mark A Milley, the Chief 4, 2016. The Secretary General of Staff of the US Army, the Chief appreciated the strong support of Host for the ongoing four day visit to India to UN Peacekeeping, which is USA and was accorded the Guard the second largest at 7695 troops of Honour in an Army Full Honour among all UN troop contributors. He Arrival Ceremony. Earlier in the admired the commitment, discipline day, he paid homage at Arlington and quality of Indian Peacekeepers National Cemetery in the Army Full Gen Dalbir Singh, COAS meeting Mr Ban in the United Nations. COAS Honour Wreath Ceremony at the Ki Moon, Secretary General of the United assured the Secretary General of ‘Tomb of Unknown Soldiers’. As Nations. the continued commitment of Indian part of visit itinerary, Gen Dalbir Singh also visited CENTCOM, SOCOM and Maneuver Centre of Excellence (MCoE) where he met the Commanders & had extensive discussions. In Washington he met US Secretary of Army, Chairman Jt Chiefs of Staff of the US Army and Commander US Marine Corps, alongwith other officials. The military and security leaders of both the nations discussed a wide range of strategic and security issues of mutual interest. Gen Dalbir Singh, COAS at UN HQ - Col Rohan Anand
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 7 Investiture Ceremony Gallantry and other Defence Decorations
he President and Supreme duty at a solemn ceremony at the and 24 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals to TCommander of the Indian Rashtriya Bhawan in New Delhi on senior officers of the Armed Forces Armed Forces Mr Pranab Mukherjee March 22, 2016. One Kirti Chakra for distinguished service of an conferred two Kirti Chakra and and five of the Shaurya Chakra were exceptional order. The following eleven Shaurya Chakras to Armed given posthumously. is the list of awardees in order of Forces Personnel for displaying The President also conferred presentation and photographs of the conspicuous gallantry, indomitable 16 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, awardees are in the following pages courage and extreme devotion to three Uttam Yudh Seva Medals along with corresponding numbers. PARAM VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL 1. IC-34003 Lt Gen Man Mohan Singh Rai, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Corps of Engineers 2. IC-34014M Lt Gen Amit Sharma, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Armoured Corps 3. MR -04133N Lt Gen Bhushan Kumar Chopra, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Army Medical Corps 4. Vice Admiral Parasurama Naidu Murugesan, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal (01958-Z), Vice Chief of Naval Staff 5. IC-35036X Lt Gen Nitin Kumar Kohli, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Corps of Signals 6. IC-34356A Lt Gen Navkiran Singh Ghei, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal,Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry 7. IC-34385P Lt Gen Anil Kumar Ahuja, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal, Regiment of Artillery 8. IC-34402K Lt Gen Ghanshyam Singh Katoch, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry 9. IC-34454A Lt Gen Gurdeep Singh, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry 10. IC-34396F Lt Gen Ravindran Narayan Nair, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, Infantry (Retired) 11. IC-37022W Lt Gen Kulkarni Sanjay, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry (Retired) 12. Vice Admiral Ashok Viswanath Subhedar, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal (40735-B) 13. Air Marshal Pochana Prasad Reddy, Vayusena Medal, (15008) Flying (Pilot) (Retired) 14. Air Marshal Kulwant Singh Gill, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Yudh Seva Medal, Vayusena Medal, ADC (15220) Flying (Pilot) (Retired) 15. Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh, Vishisht Seva Medal, ADC (14814), Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) (Retired) 16. Air Marshal Herikudru Babu Rajaram, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal (14939), Administration, Air Traffic Controller (RETIRED) KIRTI CHAKRA 17. JC-413444W Sub Mahendra Singh, Sena Medal, 9 Battalion The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) attached with 6th Battalion The Rashtriya Rifles 18. 3986807H Sep Jagdish Chand, 546 Defence Service Corps Platoon (POSTHUMOUS) UTTAM YUDH SEVA MEDAL 19. IC-35479Y Lt Gen Balwant Singh Negi, Yudh Seva Medal, Sena Medal, Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry Headquarter 14 Corps 20. IC-35904Y Lt Gen Sarath Chand, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry, Headquarters 4 Corps 21. IC-35494N Lt Gen Subrata Saha, Yudh Seva Medal, Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry, Headquarters 15 Corps BAR TO ATI VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL 22. IC-35650M Lt Gen Bobby Cherian Mathews, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry 23. Air Marshal Karath Padmadass Nair, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (15195) Flying (Pilot) (Retired) ATI VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL 24. IC-35137L Lt Gen Pattiarimal Mohamadali Hariz, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Mechanized Infantry 25. Air Marshal Chandrashekharan Hari Kumar, Vayusena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal (15881) Flying (Pilot) 26. IC-31634X Lt Gen Ravindra Singh Panwar, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Corps of Signals 27. IC-34901Y Lt Gen Palepu Ravi Shankar, Vishisht Seva Medal, Regiment of Artillery 28. IC-35109A Lt Gen Rajeev Vasant Kanitkar, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Armoured Corps
8 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 29. IC-37247YLt Gen Govind Singh Chandel, Yudh Seva Medal, Infantry 30. IC-35796A Lt Gen Kanwaljeet Singh, Vishisht Seva Medal, Corps of Electronics And Mechanical Engineering 31. V-00347M Lt Gen Jagvinder Singh, Vishisht Seva Medal, Remount Veterinary Corps 32. IC-39818 Lt Gen Suresh Sharma, Corps of Engineers 33. IC-34148L Lt Gen Rajendra Prasad Rai, Vishisht Seva Medal, Army Service Corps (Retired) 34. IC-34765 Lt Gen Iqbal Singh Singha, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry (Retired) 35. Vice Admiral Srikant (02297-W), Inspector General Nuclear Safety, Indian Navy 36. Air Marshal Anil Khosla, Vayusena Medal (15871) Flying (Pilot) 37. IC-35480N Maj Gen Surinder Singh, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry 38. IC-39342K Maj Gen Rajesh Sahai, Sena Medal, Infantry 39. IC-40353H Maj Gen Paramjit Singh, Sena Medal, Infantry 40. IC-40382X Maj Gen Arvind Dutta, Vishisht Seva Medal, Infantry 41. IC-38747H Maj Gen Ramkishan Saiwal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Army Ordnance Corps 42. Rear Admiral Sri Prakash Lal (40973-W), Vishisht Seva Medal, Admiral Superintendent Naval Dockyard, Mumbai 43. Rear Admiral Kishan Kumar Pandey (02329-T), Vishisht Seva Medal, Flag Officer Fleet Review 44. Avm Rajeev Sachdeva (16582) Flying (Pilot) 45. AVM Archan Kumar Bhattacharya, Vishisht Seva Medal (16322) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) 46. Avm Jitendra Kumar Singh, Vishisht Seva Medal (16545), Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) 47. Air Commodore Harpreet Singh Basra, Vayusena Medal (19174) Flying (Pilot) SHAURYA CHAKRA 48. Mohd Shafi Sheikh, Head Constable, J&K Police, Distt Handwara (Posthumous) Shri Reyaz Ahmad Lone, Constable (307/H (EXK055949), J&K Police, Distt Handwara (Posthumous) 49. Shri Hira Kumar Jha, Second-in-Command, 7 Bn, CRPF (Posthumous) 50. Wg Cdr Sandeep Singh (25336) Flying (Pilot) 51. IC-55822X Col Munindra Nath Rai, Yudh Seva Medal, The Gorkha Rifles / 42nd Battalion The Rashtriya Rifles (Posthumous) 52. Commander Milind Mohan Mokashi (04755-F), Commanding Officer, INS Sumitra 53. SL-05351Y Lieutenant Harjinder Singh / The General Service / 3rd Battalion The Kumaon Regiment 54. 9421485 Havildar Tanka Kumar Limbu, 21st Battalion The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) 55. IC-70237P Maj Praphul Kumar Bhardwaj,12 Para (SF) 56. 4190712P Nk Kheem Singh Mehra, 21 Kumaon 57. 15614460W Naik Satish Kumar, Brigade of The Guards/ 21st Battalion The Rashtriya Rifles (Posthumous) - N Ao
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April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 13 252nd Anniversary of AMC AMC surges ahead to be the leading light of health care in India
ill this year for quite some time fingers worked round the clock in Tnow, AMC celebrated her darkness without sterile environment, glorious past on the first day of safe an aesthesia or sophisticated the new year with pomp and glory instruments to arrest the bleeding as she kept her pace to move with and to remove a damaged part as times in a journey that all began they saved many by their enviable in a humble way 252 years ago as surgical acts executed to perfection. Indian Medical Services (IMS) with In the process these brave healers handful of paramedics for providing became immortal like their fellow the medical services to troops of soldiers who fought relentlessly the erstwhile East India Company. They enemy and emerged victorious were meant basically to provide first by their sheer valour and physical aid and shift soldiers to medical units skills. War created heroes so also mostly run by the British Doctors, surgeons of exceptional abilities. providing health care to troops of East Surgeons became heroes even in India Company. Medical services for defeat. War surgery became a bible India under British were provided by Father of the Nation Proud Member of for budding surgeons where prompt AFMS Indian Medical Department (IMD) to act and precision in act became and Indian Hospital Corps (IHC) lives by their dare devil acts. The the ultimate mantra for success. which also assisted IMS. With the conditions in those times were Their surgical skills and techniques expanding military activities of the pathetic and devastating yet many became the ultimate method of British, the role of IMS increased with survived to face the surgical scalpel. surgery leading to advancements active combat duties. These brave They won the hearts and minds of in surgery including transplantation men in uniform did commendable every one by their gentle healing to be followed in best of the best job both within and outside India touch and precise first aid acts as institutions in the world. In turn as they saved many while swiftly the combat medical care became they shouldered day in and day out shifting dying soldiers from open stepping stone for advancements blood soaked soldiers struggling battle fields to well entrenched dug in emergency and critical care to between life and death. The in operation theatres where British evolve as a highly specialised branch surgeons toiled to save precious surgeons with lions heart and ladies of Health Care today. Their self-less sacrifice attracted many volunteers like Mahatma Gandhi, to become a paramedic to treat wounded soldiers while was in south Africa as a young barrister. Today one is proud to find the photograph of the father of nation in his paramedic attic as an eternal member of AMC family attracting the attention of everyone as they enter the awesome office of the AFMC Commandant. The unfortunate one in those days died due to bad bugs in an era when asepsis was unknown and no antibiotics to counter. Epoch making discoveries about asepsis to prevent infection and antibiotics Jewel in the Crown: Army Hospital (R&R) to treat infection by Joseph Lister
14 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Maj Laishram Jyotin Singh, Col Rangarajan, MVC: ACE Lt Col N Linyu: Lady Medical AVM JHF Manekshaw: Pioneer in AC: A Martyr & Nation’s Pride Paratrooper & Strategist Officer on the top of World Aviation Medicine and Alexander Fleming respectively Medical Services (IMS) to become independent AMC, made great brought much needed morale Indian Army Medical Corps (IAMC), strides by incorporating the best of the booster to military surgeons who one will remember Field Marshal medical practices and moving ahead despite their best efforts could not Manekshaw, MC, every year. On this of their civilian counterparts. AMC save some of their precious patients. day late Field Marshal was born in did exemplary job in all their combat With these developments military the year 1914 at Amritsar where his missions and earned the praise of surgeons treated every case with father had settled down for pursuing every one for their professionalism. their skills while medicines did rest medical practice after serving British AMC driven by passion to serve of the trick to make soldier fit and Army as a doctor. Incidentally Late the nation had many stalwarts who fine to fight again as it happened Field Marshal’s brother AVM JHF led upfront by their raw courage, with legendary Field Marshal Manekshaw, PVSM, AVSM joined intellectual abilities, compassion Manekshaw, MC seriously wounded Air Force as a doctor after doing and scientific temperament. They during 2nd world war but saved by MBBS from Punjab University in excelled and were second to none. the timely intervention of military 1943, became an Aviation Medical The first Indian to become Director surgeon by operating him in the war Specialist and served Armed Forces of Medical Services was in 1947 zone in Burma and later by medical Medical Services (AFMS) with was Lt Gen KS Masters, MC, KHP, therapy at Madras as maggot had distinction. He was instrumental who later became the first DGAFMS invaded his surgical wound while he in establishing world renowned on February 14, 1949. Legends like Col Rangarajan, MVC became the took arduous sea route to reach then Institution of Aviation Medicine (IAM) Military Hospital Madras in 3 week’s first Indian paratrooper and was with first hyperbaric oxygen therapy time. Dedicated professionals of awarded MVC during operation in facility at Bangalore. Armed Forces AMC of pre- independent era (when Korea UN peacekeeping Mission Medical Services (AFMS) of pre- modern medicine was at primitive in March 1948. He was also an independent era was glorious even stage in field conditions) did a great able military strategist who had the when medical science was primitive. service to the Indian Nation by distinction of being an instructor in It may be noted that Major Ronald saving then a young captain who prestigious Defence Services Staff Ross, a British Doctor while serving later became a legend to command College (DSSC). Then there was at Secunderabad, Wellington and Indian Army to give India that famous alady from my college (Mysore victory against Pakistan in 1971. As Kolkata did pioneering research on Medical College) Lt Col (Mrs) Farida one celebrates from now onwards transmission and pathogenesis of Rehana driven by passion to excel AMC day on 3rd April each year, to Malaria for which he was awarded became an ace para trooper and mark the amalgamation of Indian Nobel Prize. distinguished herself as a daredevil Medical Department and Indian When India became Republic surgeon in para medical battalion. Hospital Corps (IHC) with Indian IAMC became AMC. Post Lt Gen Y Singh, PVSM, VSM, PHS,
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 15 Brig Surjit Singh : Toughest Admiral (Mrs) Purita Arora: Lady Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyaya Lt Gen KS Masters, MC & Best with Magic Touch an eminent surgeon and former hospitality and personalised care AFMS a cutting edge over others DGAFMS was a South Asian ensured quick recovery of the soldier while giving state of the art health champion in athletics while Lt Gen affected by ill-health be it due to care to their clientele. Today AFMS SA Cruze, who retired as DCIDS was battle fatigue, injury or medical is gearing to have more specialist a national hockey player in his AFMC illness. Soldier knew very well that doctors including Lady Medical days later excelling as a mountaineer his doctor was next to God and Officers in her fold. It is a matter and Sports Medicine Specialist of the hospital was the best place to recoup of pride to note that AFMS has national team. Major Laishram Jyotin completely thanks to extraordinary significant number of Lady Medical Singh was awarded Ashok Chakra professionalism of AMC. RMO Officers and many of them excelled. posthumously for acts of exceptional became a friend philosopher Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyaya, bravery while fighting terrorists in and guide. Even the toughest PVSM, AVSM, VSM, PHS became the Afghanistan in 2010. AMC is proud Commander felt that doctor’s first lady Medical Officer to occupy to have Lady Medical Medical counsel should prevail. Medical the coveted post of DGMS(Air). Officer Lt Col Neikhrietuonuo Linyu, officer was expected to be strict This was soon followed by another VSM, hailing from Nagaland who and there was no compromise on exemplary professional Admiral conquered Mount Everest. medical fitness. His sanitary rounds, (Mrs) Punita Arora, SM, VSM, PHS a Great strides were made medical examination of troops and Gynaecologist with a lions heart and in research related to Combat interaction with commanding officer lady’s fingers that imparted magic Medicine, High Altitude Medicine on health matters should bring a cure to her vast clientele, occupying Marine Medicine and Aviation change for the better to make the the coveted DGMS (Navy). Now Medicine. Many stalwarts like Lt soldier fighting fit all the time. AFMS has new hospitals built in Gen Indersingh, PVSM and Brig ND From this period of purely a corporate style, state of the art health Menon, AVSM did pioneer research military medicine practiced in strict care facilities, specialists proficient in High Altitude Medicine that are corridors of military power came in latest technology and many new well known to scientific Community. transformation in the pursuit of drugs used for the first time in the Many Medical Officers like them excellence. The work load exploded, country. AFMS has entered a new were second to none when it came to new hospitals replaced the old world of Medicine where everything originality, ingenuity and ability to do ones, sophisticated instruments and is available on touch of a button and something just more than soldiering drugs came in much before civilians robots are new bunch of doctors and routine medical practice in counterparts used them on their replacing the dare devil act of well spread out grand old Military patients and new breed of highly surgeons of yester years. hospitals of British era amidstidyllic educated doctors through exemplary In this advanced era of and green surroundings. These professionalism kept pace with their science and technology, there are were excellent places home away formidable counterparts working many challenges ahead for AMC from home, the real hospitals where in best institutions in civil to give to tackle including emergence of
16 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 new diseases, natural calamities, stand encompassing than before. AMC disasters, bourgeoning clientele, Chose the best for the health to today can boast of finest training their expectations, cost and succeed institutions, excellent hospitals and litigations. There remains a question many stalwarts to motivate and In every seed and every deed whether AMC in this changing lead. Many of her facilities are world scenario face these challenges class and specialists the top class. formidably and come victorious Yes we can through enduring Their foot soldiers are confident as before when conditions were presence hard core professionals always primitive and tough? To heal with competence and there with the soldier and ready Yes we can. Because AMC is care to perish with comrades in arms. driven by passion to fulfil dreams AFMS has all of it in great Innumerable examples of supreme of a true doctor enunciated by measure sacrifice for the fellow soldier by the famous physician Dr William AMC personnel like the recent one Clientele and challenges to Osler- “to go to the root cause of a that of late Nursing Assistant Sepoy deliver problem, to make available the best Suryavanshi along with late Lance possible remedy for the needy in the Resources and support without Naik K Hanumanthappa in siachen any fear shortest possible time for prevention avalanche that caught the attention and treatment of the disease and to of entire nation. tread in to those areas which have Lucky to be a part of this great AMC has changed in her perplexed philosophers of all ages”. treasure long journey but her character is Yes we can because AMC has It is up to us to succeed in our stronger by the day, seasoned by a splendid vision about the disease entire endeavor selfless service of many generations and care it has to offer to a soldier Wake up, and lead the rest of professionals never to be found Disease is filth and impending Be the best for the world to trust anywhere. AMC is an epitome of death personalised compassionate care Our primary focus should be To those under its evil spell of one of its kind in the world. AMC is the health and fitness of the soldier immeasurable depth an exemplary military organisation at all times. Every soldier should standing tall among the rest that In its elimination lies ones feel safe and sound and death can’t is totally dedicated to the Nation wealth triumph in terrains unsurmountable and following the glorious tradition For the success and glory in the and enemy the most deadly as there of Sarve Santu Niramaya. In these chosen path is a doctor of AFMS who defies nature, in stills hope, saves life and challenging times when public health To serve ceaselessly for realising care is on the verge of collapse the truth brings back all that is majestic and glory of the valiant. This miraculous and corporate health sector has Yes to cure some and solace to transformation is possible by being become too commercial AMC is the all beyond death a professional. We in AMC are leading lightin the country for their Many in the past knew how to angels or God in human form that undisputed abilities to achieve cure treat every soldier wants as a companion with utmost compassion and care. With magic touch and medicine at the time of calamity. This is the The record of AMC in many conflicts the last dream of this glorious AFMS. We and disasters have proved every time can realise by dedicating ourselves that those who find recluse in her Brought happiness with the least for a noble cause through discovery caring arms don’t have to fear death cost of new ideas and developing them and even God of death cannot We have today world at our feet for delivering on the ground. Then extend deadly claws to grab a sure Answers of all sorts on touch of only We can really be the best. dying patient who has found refuge a button instant Yes we can,because AMC in her all-encompassing care. We have to be wise to take a is confident, vibrant and all- - Lt Gen (Dr) BNBM Prasad
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 17 252nd Raising Day Anniversary of AMC
wreath laying ceremony A was organized at AMC War Memorial on the occasion of 252nd Raising Day Anniversary of Army Medical Corps (AMC), in Lucknow Cantonment on April 3, 2016. Lt Gen MD Venkatesh, Commandant, AMC Centre & College and Officer- In-charge (OIC), AMC Records paid homage by laying a wreath at AMC War Memorial to those AMC martyr who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. Later, a Special Sainik Sammelan was addressed by Lt Gen MD Venkatesh at AMC Stadium. About 5000 officer and troops were present on this occasion. Addressing the Sainik Sammelan, Lt Gen MD Venkatesh exhorted all ranks of occasion of the 252nd AMC Corps Trophy and Cash Award for the Best Army Medical Corps to strive hard to day and prayed for good health and Recruit (MT Battalion) while Sep maintain the high standard of training prosperity. Rajnish Pratap Singh, Recruit Dilip imparted so that the best of care can Kumar, Recruit Driver Shiva Rathi To commemorate the occasion be rendered to the sick and wounded and Recruit Nursing Assistant Uttpal both during war and peace. of AMC Corps day Anniversary, Kumar Singh awarded Mr SP Arora Lt Gen MD Venkatesh Lt Gen MD Venkatesh felicitated cash award for the Best Recruit congratulated all ranks for tireless soldiers for demonstrating (Technical Training Wing). Mr and exemplary service rendered outstanding performance in various Chandra Prakash, MTS felicitated across the country as well as abroad fields. Nb Sub JS Kushwah awarded for the Best Worker (Civilian). No during war, peace and natural for Lt Gen SR Mehta Rolling Trophy 2 Military Training Battalion was calamities to keep the flag of Army and Cash Award for the Best Junior adjudged the Best Sub Unit. Col Medical Corps flying high. Lt Gen Commissioner Officer (JCO). Vinod Kumaran TT received the Venkatesh conveyed his best wishes Recruit Vikram Singh awarded Lt trophy on behalf of the Sub Unit. to all ranks & their families on the Gen B Sadananda (Retired) Rolling - Gargi Malik Sinha
18 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 COAS Visits Headquarters Dakshin Bharat Area
eneral Dalbir Singh, Chief Gof Army Staff along with Lt Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Commander, Southern Command visited
Lt Gen Jagbir Singh, General Officer Commanding introducing Maj Gen SK Panigrahi to General Dalbir Singh, Chief of Army Staff during his visit to Dakshin Bharat Area, Chennai. Headquarters Dakshin Bharat Regimental Centres. They were also Area on March 12, 2016. He was briefed on various welfare measures received by Lt Gen Jagbir Singh, being undertaken for serving and General Dalbir Singh, Chief of Army Staff General Officer Commanding, retired Army Personnels of the five visits Dakshin Bharat Area, Chennai. Dakshin Bharat Area who briefed States Telegana, Andhra Pradesh, Lt Gen Jagbir Singh, General Officer Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Commanding, Dakshin Bharat Area are him regarding training activities also seen in the photo. being carried out at various The General Officer was also briefed on the assistance provided by the Army during the recent Chennai Floods and the Rescue and Relief effort undertaken wherein 19,500 civilian were rescued, 20,000 were provided with Medical Aid and more than two lakh relief packages distributed. The visiting dignitary expressed his appreciation of the good work done during Chennai Floods and satisfaction on the welfare initiatives being undertaken. During the visit Mrs Namita Suhag, President AWWA and Mrs Madhulika Rawat, Zonal President AWWA me the families of Army Lt Gen Jagbir Singh, General Officer Commanding introducing Brig KS Selvan, Station Personnels and enquired about their Commander to General Dalbir Singh, Chief of Army Staff during his visit to Dakshin Bharat well being. Area, Chennai. - T Shanmugam
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 19 Commissioning Ceremony 50th Batch of Medical Graduates of AFMC
rmed Forces Medical College, A total of 6258 medical APune achieved an important graduates have passed out of AFMC milestone on March 31, 2016 since 1966. This year, medical when the fiftieth batch of medical graduates of AFMC have completed graduates was commissioned into fifty years in the service of the nation, the Armed Forces Medical Services. in uniform. As part of this landmark Defence Minister Mr Manohar event, the parade culminated with Parrikar was the chief guest at the a martial display of Khukri Drill by Commissioning Ceremony. This is a contingent of 1/9 Gorkha Rifles the only ceremony in the country representing the Indian Army, Air in which officers are simultaneously Warriors Drill team representing the commissioned into the Army, Navy Indian Air Force and Brass Bands of and Air Force. INS Shivaji representing the Indian Lt Gen BK Chopra, Director Navy and AMC Centre and College, General, Armed Forces Medical Lucknow representing AFMS. This Services and Senior Colonel underscores the tri-services affiliation of Armed Forces Medical Services. Commandant, AMC accompanied Navy and seven will join the Air the Defence Minister in reviewing the Force. The solemn ceremony which The Commissioning Ceremony parade and commissioning officers. witnessed a praiseworthy standard of was followed by the Academic Awards The ceremony was witnessed by Lt drill, marked the transition of young Presentation Ceremony. This year, Gen Bipin Rawat, General Officer medical graduates into soldier the prestigious “President’s Gold Commanding in Chief, Southern doctors. Medal” and “DGAFMS Gold Medal Command and a galaxy of senior Since 2008, the and Kalinga Trophy” were awarded serving and retired officers of all three commissioning ceremony parade to Surg Sub Lt Abir Mazumder. services and the civil administration. has been commanded by a newly According to Lt Gen AK Nagpal, commissioned officer. This year Director and Commandant, AFMC, the parade was commanded by 97 medical graduates including 78 Medical Cadet (Now Lieutenant) male officers and 19 lady officers Shivank. He hails from Kangra in were commissioned into AFMS. Himachal Pradesh and is the second Eighty two graduates will be joining generation of his family to join the the Army, eight will be joining the Armed Forces.
20 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Twenty three trophies, prizes and Exhibition’, where the creative talent medals, to recognise outstanding of Medical Cadets in fine arts were achievements in academics on display. The day ended with a and all round performance by Variety Entertainment Programme by undergraduates were awarded by the newly commissioned officers and the DGAFMS. Another highlight a banquet in the Officers Mess. of the occasion was a ‘Hobbies - Mahesh Iyengar
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 21 Media Tour to Forward Areas
ournalists from Nagpur and Mumbai Jvisited 16 Corps Zone to include the Line of Control, Districts of Naoshera, Rajouri and Poonch from March 8 to 11, 2016. They witnessed the intense training being undertaken by the Army at Corps Battle School, Sarol in Rajouri. The also witnessed the Sadbhavana initiatives being undertaken by the Indian Army and how it is making a difference and change in the area and contributing to the overall development of human index. They had extensive interaction with Army officials and locals from Kulali (Hill Kaka) and forward villages across the fence to include children who are studying in various schools. They also had a fruitful interaction with Lt Gen RR Nimbhorkar, General Officer Commanding, 16 Corps and other officers of the formation. - Lt Col Manish Mehta and Journalists interacting with ceasefire firing victims in Mendhar Sector of Poonch Wg Cdr SS Gangakhedkar
Journalists observing counter IED drill in Mendhar Sector of Poonch district
22 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Journalists getting a feel of the bullet proof jacket and patka at Journalists being briefed at Corps Battle School Sarol in Rajouri Corps Battle School Sarol in Rajouri
Journalists witnessing firing at Corps Battle School Sarol in Rajouri Journalists interacting with locals at Kulali village in Surankot of Poonch district
Journalists being briefed at Corps Battle School Sarol in Rajouri Journalists being briefed by the Instructor at Corps Battle School Sarol in Rajouri
Journalists going through the training area at Corps Battle School Sarol in Rajouri
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 23 Field Marshal Manekshaw - An Enigma
e was an enigmatic to many but in his late teens, always inquisitive Hfor soldiers and fellow citizens he and comrade in arm to his fellow was a hero, a father figure and an academy colleagues. He was open, inspiration. As Indian Armed forces frank and was liked by fellow cadets commemorate his 102nd birth day for his wit and genuine friendship. on April 3 this year, his country men British Officer in charge of his are once again reminded to draw course at that time perhaps irked by inspirations from his extraordinary his charming wit felt that this young personality. Undoubtedly he was a cadet had attributes that could at the great human being, a soldier and most take him to the rank of a Major commander of Indian Army one of in his future army career and not the finest in the world. His genius beyond that. He proved everyone was evident as a student. Born at wrong as he was a born leader the Amritsar on April 3, 1914, young day he stepped in to academy- had Manekshaw excelled in studies and the best of both head and heart. stood first in the entire United Punjab As a young captain while posted Province in Senior Cambridge as a Company Commander of a examination. He was excellent Sikh company of 12 North Western in English and Mathematics. He study in medicine. When his father Frontiers Force (NWFF), he won wanted to become a doctor like his did not encourage him to proceed hearts and minds of his Sikh troops father and go to England for higher abroad, he later joined Indian instantly. He was fluent in Punjabi studies when he was barely 15 years Military Academy (IMA) at Dehradun and Pashto and Farsi. As a young old. When he approached his father, where he remained something Company Commander, he used a Parsi from Mumbai who had distinct from fellow cadets who to spend most of his time with his settled down in Amritsar for pursuing were as such burdened by rigorous troops to sort out their problems Medical Practice, his father felt that discipline and training schedule of instead of partying, to the utter his bright son was too young and the academy. He was the charmer dismay of his fellow officers. He knotty to go England and pursue par excellent and a handsome boy earned the reputation of being an officer known for his finest wits with an uncanny ability to convey to his men his displeasure without hurting a bit their sentiments whenever they were paraded before him for acts of indiscipline. He never punished them by locking them up in quarter guard for breach of military discipline at a time when minor acts of indiscipline used to be dealt with firmness. His Sikh troops proudly used to say that this captain, whom they revered as a jewel in their crown, will never hit them below the belt and will pardon them for any violation of good order and military discipline. His men loved him from the heart and his commanders respected him. When he was grievously hurt at Burma while fighting Japanese during second world war, his Sikh troops came to
24 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 his rescue. Braving bullets they took for the treatment under my care in him to an Advance Dressing Station 2003. His legal aid who happened (ADS) where he had to undergo to be my patient at that time told me emergency urgery for bullet injuries. that Field Marshal was pretty serious His life was in grave danger in an when it came to disciplinary matters. era when there were hardly any He added that late Field Marshal antibiotics and surgical wound used when he was COAS used to study all to get infected without them. He was matters related to discipline in great evacuated to MH Madras by ship detail and invariably not approved three weeks later with septic wounds recommendation of his subordinates in abdomen, where he recovered to award punishment in such cases. and then returned back to war front He reinforced this fact by narrating to fight again. His heroism and a case involving one young bright selfless service with readiness for Major who was recommended for leave, as a Senior Officer he used supreme sacrifice by laying down a severe punishment by an Army to ensure that they got their leave his young and precious life attracted Commander but was turned down in time from the concerned unit the attention of GOC of the Division rightly so by then COAS General without any heart burn or overt sign in Burma who instantly pinned his Manekshaw. He added that due to of an act of interference in the unit Military Cross (MC) on badly hurt genuine act of COAS, the affected functioning. Every act of rendering young Manekshaw as he felt that this Major rose up in his career to retire help against all odds to others brave may not survive to get it from as a Lieutenant General. That was who came to his attention was his Her majesty, the Queen of England Field Marshal who always felt that at a later date. His GOC respected passion. True to his conviction in his his troops were precious and always him and never wanted to give MC illustrious careers panning over 4 stood solidly behind them like a posthumously. That was Manekshaw decades, he never court-martialled a rock. When he was Army Chief then and even later. Even in later single army personnel. He confessed in 1971, there was tremendous years in his illustrious Army career he this fact to one of the Sikh soldier political pressure on him to wage always cared his men. When troops that he met in the corridors of Army an immediate war against erring under his command were denied Hospital (R&R) where he had come Pakistan in their eastern province, now Bangladesh. As usual in his inimitable style he conveyed his act of firmness to then PM that he will not be a party to such a hasty decision. For him country comes first and his troops next always and every time. He wanted victory and all his valiant men alive to rejoice that hard earned victory. He decided the timing of war and gave the finest victory to India in the shortest possible time against all odds with minimum casualty. I asked him in later years when he was under my care for his lung ailment-Sir, how much time you had for your office work as you were so busy in interacting with troops yet managed to command such a large Army to achieve an excellent outcome? In those days
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 25 while he was COAS, he used to finish his office work quickly without any compromise and walk in to his subordinate’s office unheralded to enquire about their problem. He told me proudly “doctor I used to work very hard in those days by burning midnight oil and I was always lucky”. Undoubtedly for him his luck was hard work, concern for troops and love for the nation. Heavy office work never burdened him as he was razor sharp and quick in taking decisions. He was a perfectionist who silently went into great details and had in- depth understanding of his subject. He was hard working, never showed off and more importantly never took credit for the good work. Though he meticulously planned and executed to perfection that famous 1971 victory in the war against Pakistan, When it came to signing the surrender treaty with then ignonimous Pakistan Army whose brutal oppression led to for a retired life at distant coonor active there till the ripe age of ninety war, he sent his then Eastern Army from the hustle buzzle of power and was invariably a star attraction in Commander Lt Gen JS Arora for that centric Lutyen’s Delhi where he was many functions as he charmed every world famous event. promised a permanent bungalow one by his magnetic personality and In later years, he settled down by then Government. He remained characteristic wit not withstanding his advancing age. He kept a respectful distance from Indian Armed Forces and never interfered in their functioning although his advice was respected and much sought after. He was proud that nobody could interfere in his functioning while he was in service and therefore made it a point not to interfere when he was out of it. He inspired all men and women who came in contact with him in civil life. He along with his wife Mrs Siloo Manekshaw carried out charitable work for local tribes in Coonnor. I was told by his personal physician Dr Shinde that late field Marshal used to wait for his turn in his clinic whenever he visited for a health check. When he visited me
26 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 his other brother Raul even changed his surname to Jehan Manekshaw . His concern for his Gurkha family who looked after him in coonnor was phenomenal. He really cared them- enhanced their salary, gave descent education to their children and ensured them a good living condition in the quarters adjacent to his Bungalow. During his time, it was compulsory for all staff course officers belonging to Gurkha battalion to have a meal with him at his bungalow ‘Stavka’ even at his ripe age. When he died the entire population of Nilgiris lined up every available space to pay their last respect to a father figure whom they loved from the depth of their heart. At his memorial service held at Parsi Anjuman in Delhi, few days at Army Hospital (R&R) where I was that his son- in- law treated me well after his death, many who gathered posted there as a Chest Physician, I with choicest drinks and food. He there and once his close associates was witness to his respect for doctors. was concerned about me till the very were unanimous on one thing- Despite prior appointment, like any end. Though he was frail and weak Field Marshal was an embodiment and breathing heavily, the moment other abiding patient, he used to of magnetic charm, razor sharp I entered his ward few days before wait for his turn in my busy OPD intellect and humanity to the point before entering my chamber and his death, he opened his eyes and of divinity. This was substantiated by then lie down on the examination looked at my face to recognise Late President Dr Abdul Kalam who couch after removing his shoes me instantly even in those dying described him a true military leader with readiness to submit his body moments and enquired –Col Prasad and adored him from his heart. It for thorough physical examination are you all right? Did you have your was a splendid sight to see two great by loosening his cloths and turning food?. legends in intimate conversation his face other way with few deep He never used Army facilities and charming each other with their breaths. After the examination he for his family and sternly warned his genuine affection and razor sharp was eagerly keen to know my opinion family members against any misuse. intellect when late President called and then ask me invariably whether His son-in-law Dhun Daruwala who on ailing Field Marshal in 2008 I had consulted his personal doctor cared him all through in later years at Military Hospital Wellington. however junior he may be .He used politely declined to use Army medical to take my opinion seriously and facilities for his own use despite he President Kalam wrote- MH opinion given by another doctor had suffered from a serious ailment. wellington is always the best. Please should be respected and can’t be His children never used his staff look after the only Field Marshal brushed aside. His family members car. His beloved daughters both Manekshaw. That was Field Marshal were respectful and lived up to his Mrs Sherry Batliwala and Mrs Maza Manekshaw, MC a legend in his life values. He ensured that all who Dharuwala kept him in good humour time a true Field Marshal and the visited were really taken care off. and ensured that he was really cared only Field Marshal I am lucky to be Whenever I called on him to enquire for. His grandson Jehan Daruwala associated with. about his health he used to ensure who adored him from his heart like - Lt Gen (Dr) BNBM Prasad
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 27 Ten Soldiers From Indian Army Qualify For Rio Olympics - 2016
ndian Army has been contributing significantly towards the country’s sports Iand adventure performance in the global arena. It comes naturally to a soldier to excel in various discipline of sports. Indian Army has laid out the road map for a concerted vision for maximum qualifications for the Rio Olympics with the aim of ‘finishing strong’ at the podium with medals for the country. The training of the qualified sportsperson are being carried out through a scientific approach being planned & executed through Army Sports Institute, Pune and Army Marksmanship Unit, Mhow among other institutions under the flagship initiative of Mission Olympics. Ten soldiers of the Army have qualified for the Rio Olympics 2016, till now. - Col Rohan Anand Hav Gopi T, 11 Field Regiment, Marathon
Hav Irfan K T, 5 MADRAS, 20km walk. Hav Nitendra Singh Rawat, 6 KUMAON, Hav Sandeep Kumar, 16 JAT, 50km walk Marathon crosses the finish line to win the SCMM 2016 Indian Elite Men Title
Naib Subedar Chain Singh, JAK LI, 50m Naib Subedar Jitu Rai, 50m Air Pistol, AMU, Naib Subedar Kheta Ram, 6 JAT, Marathon Rifle shooting Mhow
Subedar Gurpreet Singh, 10m Air Pistol, Hav Devender Singh, 2 RAJ Rifle, 20km Hav Ganapathi K, 11 MADRAS, 20km walk AMU, Mhow walk.
28 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Joint Efforts Enable Early Completion of Rescue Operations
ndian Army at Fort William IKolkata called in for relief and rescue operations at the Vivekananda flyover collapse by civil administration was immediately mobilised and commenced rescue operations along with NDRF, police and civil administration officials. The Army initially sent four rescue columns, three medical teams with seven ambulances and one engineer team with specialist equipment. This was later built up to five rescue columns, seven medical teams with 16 doctors including Surgical specialists and Anesthetists with 12 ambulances. The rescue work was duly coordinated under Headquarters Bengal Area. The Army officials on arrival assessed the situation and in coordination with NDRF and civil administration commenced rescue operations. The timely and quick action by police and civil volunteers in the first two hours saved a number of lives. The Army along with the NDRF and civil administration continued the rescue operations throughout the night on March 31, 2016 to look for survivors to be able to give them immediate relief with its medical teams on standby at the site of the incident. Constant coordination and joint effort of army, NDRF and civil administration enabled quick clearance of debris and recovery of bodies. The relief and rescue work continued till afternoon on April 1, 2016, and once it was confirmed that there were no more survivors; the civil administration derequisitioned the Army. The positive and professional approach of civil administration, police and NDRF enabled the Army to conduct and complete rescue operations early. - Dipannita Dhar
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 29 Relief and Rescue Operations at Collapsed Vivekanand Flyover
olkata witnessed Collapse of the KVivekanand Flyover on March 31, 2016. The magnitude of the destruction was alarming and the authorities immediately called in the Army to carry out the rescue operations. The Army under the aegis of Headquarters Bengal Area was swiftly mobilised and columns started reaching at the site, within 35 minutes of requisitioning by the civil authorities. The Army mobilised 5 Rescue Columns from 12 Garh Rif and 7 Bihar, 7 Medical teams with 16 Soldiers getting under rubble to look for survivors Doctors including Surgical specialists concrete slabs to make a passage to operation wherein he interacted and Anesthetists with 12 Ambulances enable the soldiers to move under the with Coln Cdr’s officials of NDRF from Command Hospital, Kolkata slab to look for survivors. All actions and Police. The Army Commander and Military Hospital, Barrackpore were completed in an efficient and assured the civil administration of all and one team of 51 Engineer well-coordinated manner. The the necessary assistance required for Regiment. entire rescue operation was duly the rescue operations and expressed The Army persons on arrival coordinated and supervised by Lt his condolences to the bereaved assessed the situation and the extent Gen Rajeev Tewari, GOC Bengal families of the victims of the tragic of the damage and took control Area. incident. He stated that “the Army of the complete rescue work duly Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi, GOC- is fully committed in providing all coordination with civil administration in-C Eastern Command also visited possible resources and assistance and NDRF. In order to look for the site to assess the situation and till completion of the rescue survivors holes were drilled in the took stock of the ongoing rescue operations”.
An Over View of the Catastrophe Soldiers Removing Steel Rubble bare hand
Army Cdr & GOC Bengal Area at the site Army Cdr meeting civil authorities & NDRF The Army continued the rescue operations throughout the night on March 31, 2016 to look for survivors and provided immediate relief with its medical teams which were on standby at the site of the incident. The relief and rescue work continued till late afternoon on April 1, 2016. A total of 28 fatal cases and approximately 80 personnel were injured in the bridge collapse. The civilian administration complemented the Army for the timely and efficient rescue operations. Soldiers Digging Holes on Concrete Slabs - Lt Col Anupam Roy
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 31 Indo-Indonesia Joint Training Exercise Garuda Shakti IV
he opening ceremony of the fourth edition of the TIndo- Indonesia Joint Training Exercise Garuda Shakti IV was conducted at Military Training Area, Magelang, Indonesia on March 11, 2016. The Indian contingent comprised of platoon sized troops of an Infantry Battalion under Southern Command theatre and the Indonesian Army comprised of 503 Airborne Battalion of the TNI- AD. In an impressive military function the contingents of both the Armies conducted a ceremonial parade where National flags of both nations were marched in. The event was witnessed by senior ranked officers of both the countries. Post the ceremony the Indian Army troops were oriented to the terrain and tactical aspects of training. Training comprised of tactical drills wherein the troops of both armies trained jointly sharing each other’s experience in Counter Insurgency operations. The cross training phase was meshed with games and sports to enhance interaction and develop camaraderie. The training culminated in a three day joint training exercise and lessons drawn were consolidated for incorporation in the next edition. The fourteen day exercise aimed to build and promote positive relations between both armies and contributed towards enhancing their ability to undertake joint tactical level operations in Counter Insurgency greater cooperation and coordination in the employability environment under the United Nations Charter. The of a joint platoon group of Indian and Indonesian Army exercise finally concluded with the closing ceremony for Counter Insurgency operations in an International wherein outstanding performers were awarded and environment. The exercise is also a milestone in ensuring cultural programmes showcasing the rich culture and the cordial relations between the two great nations in heritage of both the countries were displayed. Asia. The conduct of the joint training exercise ensured - Col Rohan Anand
32 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Welding Conference on Industrial Sectors Centres of Excellence in Manufacturing Technologies
he International Institute of industries among others. Several TWelding (IIW) in association applications for conventional and with Indian Institute of Welding, modern engineering materials have Hyderabad chapter is organising motivated the researchers to develop the sixth welding research and suitable consumables and joining collaboration colloquium during processes. Continuous innovations April 7-9, 2016 at Hyderabad. in emerging welding techniques are This event is the first ever of its kind essential, to achieve both greater being organised in India, with IIW’s productivity and enhanced quality focus in bringing together several of components manufactured by professionals, renowned for their the welding industry. Keeping this international stature in the field of in view, the international Welding welding research/industry under Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Scientific Adviser Research and Collaboration one roof. It is a great opportunity to Defence Minister addressing the 6th Colloquium is planned in an unique Welding Research and Collaboration for Indian Engineering fraternity Colloquium on April 7, 2016 at Hyderabad manner viz., with focused technical in general and for the Welding sessions dedicated to individual Community in particular, especially organisers and emphasised the industrial sectors such as defence, in light of the government’s thrust importance of welding for Defence aerospace, automotive, power and to promote manufacturing industry applications and also urged to energy, oil and gas, nuclear, heavy to strive towards ‘Make in India’. concentrate on green technologies. engineering and ship building, which The event was inaugurated by Dr G The centres of excellence in advanced will be benefit the Indian industry in Satheesh Reddy, Scientific Adviser manufacturing technologies need to a big way”. be established which can provide to Defence Minister, Ministry of Participation in this colloquium, innovative solutions to our industries, Defence. The technical program of offers an unique exposure to he added. the colloquium includes 30 invited welding professionals by way of lectures, 24 flash talks, and 18 Welding Technology is the interaction with a wide spectrum of posters presented for the benefit of heart of fabrication practice in industry professionals, discussing the over 100 delegates participating in sustaining the growth of nuclear, current challenges in the field. Also, the event. aerospace, automotive, power welding researchers from across Speaking on the occasion, generation, shipbuilding, oil, the globe will be sharing their latest Dr Satheesh congratulated the petrochemical, and process innovations and upcoming research initiatives for the future. Presentations are followed by discussions on new ideas/ methodologies/ techniques, spin-offs and best practice solutions related to welding and joining research - ultimately aimed at evolving a vision for research in welding and joining. It is also expected that several industry-R&D collaborations will be formulated to realise the new initiatives thus launched. The organizers gratefully acknowledge the delegates and invitees for their active participation, and the sponsors for the financial Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Scientific Adviser to Defence Minister releasing the Abstract of the 6th support in making the colloquium a Welding Research and Collaboration Colloquium in the presence of Dr G Padmanabhan grand success. and Dr Madhusudan Reddy - K Ramesh
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 33 Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel ICGS Shoor
ndian Coast Guard Ship “Shoor” Ithe second ship in the series of six Off Shore Patrol Vessels (OPV) was commissioned at Goa by Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways Mr Nitin Jairam Gadkari on April 11, 2016 in the presence of Director General Rajendra Singh, Director General Indian Coast Guard, CMD Goa Shipyard Limited and other senior dignitaries of the Central and State Government. ‘Shoor’ meaning ‘Valiant’ is a projection of Indian Coast Guard’s will and commitment “To serve and protect”the maritime interest of the nation. This 105 meters OPV has been designed and built indigenously by M/s GSL and is fitted with The ship draws 2350 tons India. Presently, Indian Coast Guard most advanced navigation and (GRT) and is propelled by two has a Fleet of 120 Ships/boats, communication equipment, sensors 9100 KW diesel engines to attain further 70 Ships/boats are at various and machinery. The features a maximum speed of 23 Knots. It stages of construction at different include 30 mm CRN 91 Naval has an endurance of 6000 NM shipyards. With the commissioning Gun, Integrated Bridge System ateconomical speed. The sustenance of this vessel and other assets, the (IBS), Integrated Machinery Control and reach coupled with the latest Indian Coast Guard will emerge as a System (IMCS), Power Management and modern equipment and systems stronger and potent force to address System (PMS) and High Power provides her the capability to perform the emerging security challenges in External Fire Fighting System. The the role of a command platform and our maritime zones. ship is designed to carry one twin accomplish all Coast Guard charter ICGS Shoor will be manned by engine Light Helicopter and five of duties. 14 Officers and 98 men commanded high speed boats including two by Deputy Inspector General QRIBs for fast boarding operations, The ship on joining Coast Surendra Singh Dasila under the search and rescue, law enforcement Guard Fleet will be based at New administrative and operation control and maritime patrol. The ship is Mangalore and deployed extensively of the Commander, Coast Guard also capable of carrying pollution for EEZ surveillance and other duties Region (West). response equipment to combat oil as enshrined in Coast Guard Charter, spill contamination at sea. to safeguard the maritime interests of The commissioning of ICGS Shoor will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capability to discharge the multifarious maritime tasks. The induction of a sophisticated and state-of-the-art Offshore Patrol Vessel will give a fillip to the maritime protection of our vast coastline of Western Seaboard in general and the Maritime State of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Goa in particular. - Comdt IJ Singh
34 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Army Training Command Visits IML
t Gen PM Hariz, General Officer appointments. He is recipient of Ati LCommanding-in-Chief, Army Vishist Seva Medal, Sena Medal and Training Command, Shimla, visited Vishist Seva Medal. Institute of Military Law, Kamptee on During his visit to the IML, an April 1, 2016. The Army Commander elite institution functioning under was received at the GRC Helipad by the Army Training Command, Brig Vijay Kumar, Commandant, the Army Commander interacted Institute of Military Law and Brig with the officers of the Institute of DV Singh, Commandant, Guards Military Law and civilian staff. The Regimental Centre. Army Commander was briefed by The General Officer is 1978 Brig Vijay Kumar, Commandant batch officer from 19 Mechanized , IML about the training being Infantry. He has attended TK Tech, imparted at Institute of Military Army Staff Course, Camberley Law and new methods of training Lt Gen PM Hariz, GOC in C, Army Training (UK), Senior Command, Higher introduced for the recent courses. Command, Shimla receiving memento from Command and National Defence The Commandant expressed his Brig Vijay Kumar, Commandant, IML, Kamptee College. He has also been a Military gratitude to the Army Commander Observer / Chief Personnel Officer / for sparing his valuable time for the of Military Law. He complimented Regional Commander, UN Mission Institute of Military Law. The Army the Commandant and his team for (ANGOLA). He has served in varied Commander remarked that it was their good work. terrains and tenated a host of heartening to see the high standards Commands, instructional and staff of training being imparted at Institute - Wg Cdr SS Gangakhedkar FOC-IN-C, SNC Visits Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala
ice Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding- day official visit on April 2, 2016. The Flag Officer Vin-Chief, Southern Naval Command, arrived at Commanding-in-Chief is accompanied by his wife Mrs the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala on a three Preeti Luthra and personal staff. Upon his arrival, he was received by Rear Admiral MD Suresh, officiating Commandant. The Commander- in-Chief was formally briefed on major training and administrative issues at the INA. A station reception was held in the evening to welcome the Commander-in- Chief, attended by all officers of the station. During his visit, the Flag Officer will be inaugurating an environmental park and training area named ‘The Voyage’ and new laboratories of the Mechanical Engineering and Electronics and Communication Faculty at INA. The Admiral will be departing INA on Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, being received by Rear Admiral MD April 4, 2016. Suresh on his arrival at INA. - Lt Commander Rahul T
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 35 IAF Woman Officer Saves Three Precious Lives
howing valour and determination, parked nearby to take these Sreflecting the true spirit of Indian mortally injured personnel to nearby Air Force, Flying Officer Neha medical post within Air Force Station Gurnani, saved the life of three Memaura where they were attended passengers who had met with a road by Senior Medical Officer Flt Lt Mitul traffic accident on highway near Air Singh. Force Station Memaura. The three passengers namely, Flying Officer Neha Gurnani, Mr Vinod, Mr Sarvesh and Mr Kishan who is an Indian Air Force officer of Khatola Village on their Passion undergoing Basic Course in Air Pro Bike had sustained injuries which Defence College, Air Force Station were life threatening in nature. their state of the art ambulance to Memaura was on her way back On preliminary examination, it King George Medical College. from Lucknow town when she found was found that Mr Sarvesh, one of three injured personnel lying in pool the injured, had severe head injury, Enroute one of the patients suffered of blood. No assistance was being dropping BP and no pulse. Due to two seizures, was given Cardio extended by any passing vehicle or timely medical support provided in Pulmonary Resuscitation and revived. people gathered around. the form of first aid and critical basic The precious lives of these three On assessing the gravity of life support in first golden hour of people could only be saved due to situation, the Flying Officer took injury, three lives could be saved. timely and prompt action by Flying immediate control of the situation. After stabilizing, Flt Lt Mitul Singh Officer Neha Gurnani and Flt Lt Using her presence of mind, she and two Indian Air Force medical Mitul Singh. persuaded the owner of a Scorpio personnel moved the patients in - Gargi Malik Sinha Army College Of Nursing Celebrates Convocation Ceremony
ifth Convocation Ceremony Vajra Corps (Patron, Army College College of Nursing) in his welcome Fof Army College of Nursing, of Nursing) was the Chief Guest. address extended a warm welcome Jalandhar Cantonment was held to the Chief Guest, Senior Officers on April 6, 2016 at Ashoka Hall Brig MJ Jacob, Commandant, of Army, parents and the recipients of the College. Lt Gen JS Cheema, Military Hospital, Jalandhar of Degrees. Mrs Varinderpal Kaur, General Officer Commanding, Cantonment (Director, Army Officiating Principal in her report highlighted the achievements of the graduates in academic excellence and other co-curricular activities. The degrees to the graduates of batches which passed out in 2013 and 2014 and prizes to the meritorious students were awarded by Lt Gen JS Cheema. The Chief Guest in his address, congratulated the graduates for their hardwork and dedication in achieving the goals set and for their contribution towards enriching the academic and community environment of the campus. - PK Sharma
36 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 DG Coast Guard Visits Western Seaboard Headquarters
G Rajendra Singh, Director DGeneral Indian Coast Guard (ICG), paid his maiden visit to the Headquarters, Western Seaboard and the Regional Headquarters under its operational command viz the Regional Headquarters (West) at Mumbai and North West at Gandhinagar from March 28 to 31, 2016. The Flag officer during his 4 day visit to the strategic Western Seaboard Headquarters, reviewed the operational readiness of the fleet and the ongoing infrastructure development projects. In addition to Mumbai and Gandhinagar he units in exhibiting highest standards also whilst in harbor, being the eyes also visited the District Headquarters of professionalism in the conduct of and Ears of the Sea. at Porbander. During the visit he the various operations as per the During the visit the Director interacted with the officers and laid down ICG charter. The Director General also called on Chief other ranks of the field units under General emphasised the need to Minister of Gujarat, Smt Anandiben the respective Headquarters. He continuously engage and interact Patel. lauded the efforts of the combat with the fishermen during patrol and - Comdt IJ Singh Attestation Parade Held At 11 GRRC
t an impressive and clockwork ceremonial parade 11 GRRC and witnessed by a host of officers, Junior Awas held at 11 Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Other Ranks (ORs) (11GRRC) on April 2, 2016 in Lucknow Cantonment. and proud parents, brothers and sisters of the recruits. 89 energetic recruits took the oath to serve the nation The Commandant traditional “Silver Khukri” was with honour and pride even at the cost of their lives, presented to the “Best Recruits” - Rifleman Abis Rai, if need be. This oath guides a soldier throughout his Rifleman Michael Kirant Rai and Rifleman Anilsan Rai. service for complete dedication to his regiment in the Awards were also presented for the best performance in highest traditions of the Indian Army. The parade, various discipline of training such as Weapon Training, reviewed by the Brigadier Pankaj Singh, Commandant, Physical Training, Bayonet Fighting, Theory and Sports. Brig Pankaj Singh addressed the parade and inspired them to serve with utmost dedication and sincerity. He specially stressed on the single defining quality of a soldier that is Loyality -to peers, subordinates, superiors, the Regiment and the Nation. In order to recognise the spirit of the parents whose sons and daughters get enrolled in the Indian Army, Army Headquarters has initiated the award of “Gaurav Padak”. On the occasion of the attestation parade 12 parents and guardians were awarded the “Gaurav Padak”. - Gargi Malik Sinha
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 37 Veterans Day at Lucknow Cantonment
n interactive session with the Veterans (Retired AOfficers, Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks) of Uttar Pradesh was organised by Headquarter Central Command at Surya Auditorium, Lucknow Cantonment on March 28, 2016. The event was aimed at addressing issues of Welfare, Pension, ECHS Facilities and Second Career Opportunities for Veterans. The event was attended by over 500 Veterans including retired senior officers. Apart from resolving Veterans Welfare, Pensions and ECHS grievances, the participants were apprised of the improvements in services and facilities. A large number of senior officers of the Surya Command also interacted with the Veterans. The event was conducted in the spirit of the Indian Army attitude “We Care, We Share” towards the Veterans and concluded with a high tea. - Gargi Malik Sinha Golden Jubilee Celebrated by 5/3 Gorkha Rifles (Shingo)
/3 Gorkha Rifles was raised on also been awarded “GOC-in-C laying by Maj Gen Avinash Singh, 5October 1, 1963 at Dehradun Northern Command Appreciation YSM, COS 14 Corps and Colonel and the Battalion has been awarded Card” in 2005 for its successful stint of the Third Gorkha Rifles, serving Battle Honour “SHINGO RIVER in CI Ops. and veteran officers, JCO’s and VALLEY” and theater honour The Battalion celebrated its other ranks. After which Colonel of “Jammu & Kashmir” for capturing Golden Jubilee Raising Day at Jaipur the Regiment addressed the troops of the unit and released the First Day HATHIMATHA feature in Kargil Military Station on February 17, Cover. Speaking on the occasion, sector during 1971 war. It has 2016. The day began with wreath Colonel of the Regiment said that the Battalion since raising has excelled in operational, training and other fields carving a niche for itself. He exhort all Ranks of the Battalion to work hard and continue to build on the edifice of valour, honour and glory achieved by the Battalion so far and face new challenges in the fast changing security environment with fortitude and in true military traditions. Golden Jubilee Souvenir Book encompassing ethos and achievements of the Battalion was released by Lt Gen (Retd) M Puri. Veer Naris of the Battalion were also felicitated as a mark of tribute to the Martyrs. - Maj MS Biniwale
38 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Northern Command Investiture Ceremony
n the occasion of the Investiture OCeremony, gallantry and distinguished service awards were presented by Lt Gen DS Hooda, GOC-in-C (Army Commander), Northern Command to 38 officers and other ranks at Udhampur. In a glittering ceremony, the Army Commander presented 19 Sena Medal (Gallantry) including three Sena Medal (Posthumous), 10 Sena Medal (Distinguished Service) and nine Vishisht Seva Medals. The General officer also presented GOC- in-C Unit Appreciation to 29 Units and para-military dignitaries. Army. He congratulated those who were decorated to bravery and for their outstanding performance Speaking on the occasion, the in the year 2015. A total of 15 distinguished service. The General Army Commander commended all civilians were also felicitated for their Officer appreciated the civilians for outstanding assistance rendered to ranks of the Northern Command for displaying a close bonhomie with the Army. The Investiture Ceremony their dedication and devotion to duty the Army. was attended by senior civil, military in the highest traditions of the Indian - Col SD Goswami National Moot Court Competition
he sixth edition of Checkmate, the National Moot was won by Jamia Milia Islamia comprising Zahra Khan, TCourt Competition of the Army Institute of Law, Shreya Shukla and Rishika Jain whereas the cash award Mohali culminated April 11, 2016 with the Valedictory of Rs. 20,000 for runners up position was bagged by Ceremony presided over by Dr Jaspal Singh, Vice Amity Law School Delhi comprising Tanesha Sultan, Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala. The competition Utkarsh Maria and Himangi Kapoor. spread over three days, witnessed the enthusiastic The Best Memorial Award and cash of Rs. 15,000 participation of over 40 teams from National Law went to Damodaram Sanjiviya National Law University Colleges and Universities of India. Vishakhapatnam while cash prize of Rs. 10,000 for The winner’s trophy and cash prize of Rs. 30,000 Second Best Memorial Award went to University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS) Punjab University Chandigarh. The individual award carrying cash prize of Rs. 10,000 for Advocate of the year was won by Mayank Partap Singh of Faculty of Law, Rajasthan University and the cash award of Rs. 5,000 was bagged by Kunal Kapoor of UILS. The event was presided over by Dr Jaspal Singh, Vice-Chancellor Punjabi University Patiala. Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C, Western Command and Lt Gen Gurdeep Singh, Chief of Staff, HQ Western Command were the Guests of Honour. - Parvesh Sharma
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 39 Mountain Terrain Cycling Expedition
highly motivated team of twelve A soldiers from 11 GUARDS of Double Victory Fmn successfully completed their mountain terrain cycling expedition from Kingal to Losar on March 31, 2016. The team was led by Lieutenant Ashok Shukla & was flagged off by Brigadier Sandeep Singh, Commander Double Victory Formation on March 12, 2016. Expedition team in about 15 days covered approximate 400 KM of distance in the upper ridges of Himachal Pradesh with heights ranging from 6726 feet to 14931 feet. The team successfully overcame immediate environment. was highly appreciated by one and heavy snow, inclement weather Adventure activities of such all and team was complemented and difficult terrain. During the by Brigadier Sandeep Singh, extreme nature instill team spirit, expedition, team also visit the local Commander Double Victory Fmn villages and enhanced awareness physical and mental courage, high during the befitting ‘flagging-in’ about Indian Army and exhorted level of endurance, discipline and ceremony conducted on March 31, the locals to preserve the rich and spirit-de-corps in young soldiers. The 2016. diverse ecological system in their successful culmination of expedition - PK Sharma NC Shooting Team Wins Air Weapon Shooting Championship
welfth General JJ Singh Air team performed exceptionally well Silver and one Bronze medal in the TWeapon Shooting Championship in the competition and won the individual events. It is second time in was conducted from March 7 to Overall Championship Trophy and a row that the Northern Command 13, 2016 at Army Marksmanship Air Pistol Trophy of the team event. Firing Team has won the same Unit, Mhow. Northern Command The firers also won one Gold, one championship,previously being in the year 2015. Lieutenant Yuvraj P and Lieutenant Shikha Singh bagged Gold and Silver medals respectively in Air Rifle category while Lieutenant Gayathri U won Bronze medal in Air Pistol category. The Northern Command Team underwent trials, selection and training at Akhnoor under the Crossed Swords Division. The victorious team and support staff were felicitated by the Army Commander Lt Gen DS Hooda on March 19, 2016. - Lt Col Manish Mehta
40 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016 Medical Evacuation by Indian Coast Guard
ndian Coast Guard (ICG) undertook medical Ievacuation in the dark hours from an SCI ship MV Goa off Mumbai at 0300 hrs on April 7, 2016. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, MRCC Mumbai received a telephonic message at 1927 hrs on April 6, 2016 from the master of the SCI vessel MV Goa stating immediate medical evacuation of Mr Binood Kumar who was profusely bleeding from ear and hand with first degree burn on right wrist with blisters as he got struck in pantry bulkhead lift. The vessel was about 22 NM (Approximately 40 kms) North West of Mumbai. Considering the patient’s condition, the mission was required to be undertaken in shortest possible time. Indian Coast Guard Ship, Agrim, which was on patrol vessel. The patient was brought to Mumbai harbour and off Mumbai, was directed to provide assistance to the was handed over to the civil boat Arbas at about 0240 wounded person. ICGS Agrim, reached near MV Goa AM on April 7, 2016 for hospitalisation. in the dark hours and evacuated him from the merchant - Comdt IJ Singh Appointments
ir Marshal Pankaj Aneja took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance ACommand, Indian Air Force on March 31, 2016. After completing his BE in Mechanical Engineering from Delhi University in 1978, he joined Indian Air Force on January 19, 1980 and was commissioned in Aeronautical Engineering(Mechanical) Branch. He is also an alumnus of the prestigious Defence Services Staff College, Wellington wherein he earned a Masters degree in Defence Studies from Madras University. Prior to his present assignment, he was the Director General(Systems) at Air Headquarters. He has also held the appointments of Director Maintenance Inspection at Air Headquarters, Deputy Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at Headquarters Maintenance Command, Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at Headquarters Eastern Air Command, Assistant Chief of Air Staff(Maintenance Planning) and Assistant Chief of Air Staff(Engineering B) at Air Headquarters. In recognition of his distinguished services, Air Marshal Pankaj Aneja was conferred with the Vishisht Seva Medal. ir Marshal RKS Shera takes over as Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at HQ Maintenance ACommand, Nagpur on April 7, 2016. Air Marshal Shera was commissioned in Aeronautical Engineering Electronics Branch of Indian Air Force on January 5, 1981. He is a Post graduate from IIT Kanpur in Electrical Engineering. He is an alumnus of prestigious National Defence College (NDC) and Naval War College (NWC). The Air Officer was Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Eng A) at Air HQ before taking over as Dy SMSO and subsequently SMSO at HQ MC IAF, Nagpur. Prior to that, he has held several important command and staff assignments that include SMSO HQ WAC, Command Engineering Officer at HQ EAC, Station Commander TETTRA School, Director MiG-29 Weapon Cell at Air HQ, Chief of Aircraft Production at Base Repair Depot, Inspector in Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI), Chief Engineering Officer of Fighter Base and Instructor at Technical Training school, Botswana (Africa). For his distinguished service, the Air officer was awarded “Ati Vishisht Seva Medal” in 2014 and “Vishisht Seva Medal” in 1993 by the President of India. He is married to Mrs Jaspreet Shera and they are blessed with a son.
- Wg Cdr SS Gangakhedkar
April 16-30, 2016 Sainik Samachar 41 PHOTOCALL
Havaldar Gurucharan Besra of NAVMI brought laurels to 9th Battalion The Bihar Regiment, The Bihar Regiment and the Indian Army by winning 1 x Gold Medal in the Team Category (Recurve Event) by defeating Sri Lankan Team and 01 x Silver Medal in the Individual Category (Recurve Event) 12th SAG South Asian Games Archery Competition was held at Shillong recently.
A comprehensive coastal security exercise ‘Theera Veta’ involving multiple security agencies was conducted along the entire coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep and Minicoy islands and the Union Territory of Mahe from 6 to 8 April 2016.
Sub Maj & Hony Lt PK Moorthy, Sub Editor, Sainik Samachar has been awarded the rank of Honorary Captain on the eve of Republic Day 2016. He joined the Indian Army the Madras Regiment on August 17, 1983 and will be retiring on April 30, 2016.
Source: Lt Col BR Satish, Cdr Sridhar Warrier and Subedar Major Hari Shankhar
42 Sainik Samachar April 16-30, 2016