Happy New Year Since 1909 to all Sainiks and Readers PresidentBIRTH ANNIVERSARY calls CELEBRATIONS upon young doctors ... 4

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 64 q No 1 11-25 Pausha, 1938 (Saka) 1-15 January 2017

The journal of ’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 Hasibur Rahman General Senior Editor Editor Air Chief Marshal BS takes over ... 6 Ruby T Sharma Ehsan Khusro Dhanoa takes over ... 8 Coordination Business Manager Sekhar Babu Madduri Dharam Pal Goswami Our Correspondents DELHI: Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee; Dhananjay Mohanty; Capt DK Sharma; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva; Col Rohan Anand; Ved Pal; Photo Editor: K Ramesh; ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Shivaram Pailoor; CHANDIGARH: Pradip Dasgupta; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JODHPUR: Lt Col Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Col 10 Minister of State for Defence visits ... Chiranjeet Konwer; KOLKATA: Wg Cdr SS Birdi; Dipannita Dhar; LUCKNOW: 11 Raksha Rajya Mantri inaugurates COAS Visits Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; : Cdr Rahul Sinha; Narendra Vispute; NAGPUR: DRDO Mahila Kalyan Manch ... Command HQs 14 Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PALAM: Gp Capt SK Mehta; PUNE: Mahesh 12 MoS Defence inaugurates Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: B Satheesh Kumar; SHILLONG: Gp Capt Amit Married Accommodation... Mahajan; SRINAGAR: Col Rajesh Kalia; TEZPUR: Lt Col Sombith Ghosh; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suresh Shreedharan; UDHAMPUR: Col NN Joshi; 16 Training of Gentleman ... VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju. 18 14 Women among 110 Flight ... 20 National Level Pollution ... Published by: Nitin D Wakankar 22 Helicopter Pilots Graduate at INS ... Addl DG (Media & Communication) 24 Passing out Parade at Sainik School... Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, -110011 26 Awadh Polo Cup 2016 28 Indo-Russian Bilateral Naval... Follow us on: 30 Swachh Ability Run www.facebook.com/DefenceMinIndia 31 Engineer Officers Degree... 32 Golden Jubilee celebrations... https://twitter.com/spokespersonMoD 34 Chakravyuh Editorial Office: Regulars L-1 Block, Church Road, New Delhi-110001, 35 Armed Forces Panorama Telefax : 23094668 Telephone : 23092768 Email : [email protected] Passing out Parade at OTA Gya E-in-C: ASCON-32078 [email protected] 24 For subscriptions contact : Business Manager, Sainik Samachar, Telephone : 23092768 Subscription Rates: Inland (Ordinary): One Year Rs 100.00, Overseas (Surface Mail): Rs 450.00 Concessional (per year): Rs 20.00 (Applicable for dependants of service personnel & ex-Servicemen.) For all correspondence subscribers must quote their subscription number For more details visit our website:

http://sainiksamachar.nic.in On front cover: The Union Minister for Defence, Mr Manohar Parrikar along with the Chief of Army Staff, General Dalbir Singh, the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal paying homage to the Martyrs of 1971 War, at Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate, to mark the ‘Vijay Diwas’ in New Delhi on December 16, 2016. President calls upon young doctors to Play a Pivotal Role in Nation Building

The President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee presenting the ‘Best The President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee addressing the Outgoing Student in Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)’ award to gathering Kumari Archana Chauhan

he President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee presided Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Tover the Convocation Ceremony of Army College Governor of Telangana, Mr ESL Narasimhan; of Dental Sciences in Secunderabad. Degrees were Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana, Mr Mohammad conferred upon 38 graduating students and 9 post Mahmood Ali; Lieutenant General Rakesh Sharma graduates from 6 specialities of Dental Surgery. The Adjutant General, ADC; Lieutenant General RK Anand, President presented the ‘Best Outgoing Student in General Officer Commanding (GOC), Dakshin Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)’ award to Kumari Bharath Area; Sharabh Pachory, GOC, Archana Chauhan and the ‘Best Outgoing Student in Telangana and Andhra Sub Area; Dr B Karunakar Master of Dental Surgery (MDS)’ award to Dr Sagar Reddy, Vice chancellor of Kaloji Narayana Rao Health Dahiya. In addition, he also presented awards to the University; Dr Dibyendu Mazumder, President of Dental students who secured first, second and third place in Council of India; Dr KV Ramana Reddy, Principal of

The Honourable President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee with the Graduates Graduates and Post Graduates of Dental and Post Graduates of Dental Surgery Surgery taking oath

4 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 The President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee presenting the ‘Best Outgoing Student in Master of Dental Surgery (MDS)’ award to Dr Sagar Dahiya

Army College of Dental Sciences and a host of civil and and social responsibility. The President also added that military dignitaries graced the occasion. health is an important indicator of country’s progress. In his Ceremonial Address, the President Only a healthy population possess a greater capacity congratulated the graduating students and reminded to access education, knowledge and employment them that their foremost duty in their new role as Doctors, opportunities, he said. is to live up to the good faith and trust reposed in them. The ceremony was conducted with military dignity He urged them to use their knowledge and technical and élan. Parents of graduating students were present in expertise for the welfare of the common man. On the large numbers and revelled in the achievement of their occasion, he also called upon the young doctors of the wards. nation to build in their minds a strong sense of patriotism - B Satheesh Kumar

Graduates of Dental Surgery in a jubilant mood after the 11th Convocation Ceremony

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 5 General Bipin Rawat takes over as the 27th Chief of the Army Staff

eneral Dalbir Singh, the Chief Gof Army Staff, after an illustrious career spanning over four decades, handed over the baton to General Bipin Rawat in a ceremony held at South Block on December 31, 2016. General Bipin Rawat took over as the 27th Chief of the Army Staff. The General Officer was tenanting the appointment of the Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) of the from September 1, 2016. General Bipin Rawat was commissioned in the Fifth Battalion of the Eleven Gorkha Rifles in An alumni of Defence Services has been awarded for gallantry and December 1978, from , Dehradun, where he was Staff College, Wellington, the distinguished service with the UYSM, awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’. The Higher Command & National AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, COAS General Officer has vast experience Defence College Courses, the Commendation on two occasions in high altitude warfare and General Officer, during the span and the Army Commander’s counter insurgency operations. He of over 38 years service in uniform, Commendation. The General commanded an Infantry battalion, along the Line of Actual Control in the Eastern Sector; a Rashtriya Rifles Sector and an Infantry Division in the Kashmir Valley, a Corps in the Eastern theatre and the Southern Command. He has tenanted instructional appointments at Indian Military Academy, Dehradun and at Army War College, Mhow. General Bipin Rawat has held important staff appointments at Directorate General of Military Operations and Military Secretary’s Branch at Army HQ. He has also been Major General General Staff (MGGS) at HQ Eastern Command. The General Officer commanded a Multinational Brigade, in a Chapter VII mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC). Whilst serving with the United Nations, he was twice awarded the Force Commander’s Commendation.

6 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Gen Dalbir Singh handing over the baton to Gen Bipin Rawat in the office of COAS on December 31, 2016.

Officer also attended the Command Academically inclined, he has Studies. General Bipin Rawat has and General Staff College (CGSC) authored numerous articles on also completed his research on course at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, ‘National Security’ and ‘Leadership’, military media strategic studies USA. which have been published in and was awarded Doctorate of

various journals and publications. Philosophy (Ph.D) from Chaudhary He was awarded M. Phil in Defence Charan Singh University, Meerut in Studies from Madras University. 2011. He has a Diploma in Management – Col Rohan Anand pix: Fulchand Kitadikar, Vijay Kumar and another Diploma in Computer and Gurudutt Mehra

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 7 Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa takes over as the 25th Chief of the Air Staff

ir Chief Marshal Birender Singh ADhanoa, PVSM AVSM YSM VM ADC took over as the 25th Chief of the Air Staff at a ceremony held at Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan) on December 31, 2016. In his address to the IAF, Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa said “I feel honoured and privileged to have been entrusted with the responsibility to lead one of the finest Air Forces in the world. I will certainly be inspired by the exceptional achievements and the leadership of so many of my illustrious predecessors. IAF is on a trajectory of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS modernisation and is transforming Dhanoa after taking over the Command Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, outgoing into a strategic aerospace power of Indian Air Force at his office at Air Chief of the Air Staff paying homage at with full-spectrum capability. Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan) Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate Accretion through new acquisitions, replacement of obsolete equipment his pride at the way India's image career as a field commander. with state-of-the-art inductions and worldwide has been showcased upgrade of the vintage weapon He is an alumnus of Rashtriya through the IAF's strategic reach. platforms would bolster our Indian Military College, the National He commended IAF’s role as first capabilities. Forthcoming inductions Defence Academy and the Defence responders in HADR situations and of the Rafale aircraft, Attack Heptrs, Services Staff College, Wellington. aid to civil authority in rendering Heavy Lift Heptrs, Force Enhancers, SAGW and Air Defence Radars hold stability to volatile situations on great promise for the future. Also, it many occasions, besides bringing has been a matter of great national succour to people in distress. pride, to usher in the first ‘Tejas’ He stressed the requirement squadron of the IAF. Simultaneously, of training and equipping IAF to our Airfield Infrastructure deter the subconvetional threats. Modernisation programme and He reiterated need for focused upgradations in Communications approach to enhance aerospace Network have strengthened the safety and IAF’s commitment for support structure for effective better standard of living for its air operations. While undertaking its warriors. He thanked the outgoing modernisation, the IAF has taken CAS for steering IAF on a growth an active and sustained role in the trajectory and urged all air warriors "Make in India" plan, to take forward to follow the fine traditions of IAF. indigenous production of combat Commissioned into the Flying aircraft, helicopters, weapon sensors Branch of IAF as a fighter pilot in Jun and systems, besides other aviation 1978, Air Chief Marshal Birender equipment. A vibrant and flourishing Singh Dhanoa is a qualified Cat ‘A' domestic capability would be an Flying Instructor and has more than essential ingredient for the Nation to 3000 hours of fighter flying under his continue its glorious evolution.” belt with an immaculate flight safety New Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS In his address, he also expressed record all along his distinguished Dhanoa being presented Guard of Honour

8 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa taking over the Command of Indian Air Force from outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha at Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan) The Air Chief has many laurels to his credit. As Commanding Officer conflict, he was awarded Yudh Seva of a frontline ground attack fighter Medal (YSM). squadron, equipped with MiG-21 The Air Chief Marshal has aircraft, he led the IAF punch during held a number of significant staff the ‘limited war’ against Pakistan in appointments at operational 1999 to evict the enemy from their Commands, Joint Training ‘dug in’ defences in the icy heights Establishments and Air of Kargil region. For his outstanding Headquarters. He has been Director bravery and leadership during the Targeting Cell and Director Fighter Operations, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Intelligence) at Air HQ and Senior Air Staff Officer of Eastern and Western Air Commands. The of the Air Staff, he has been the Vice Air Chief has commanded the Chief of the Air Staff since June 1, South Western Air Command. For 2015. his experience and professional In recognition of his meritorious excellence, he was handpicked to services, he was awarded Yudh establish an 'IAF Training Team' Seva Medal (YSM) and Vayusena abroad. Medal (VM) in 1999 and Ati Vishisht The Air Chief Marshal is Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2015 by also instrumental in developing the President of India. He was also the aerial targeting philosophy appointed as Honorary ADC on against the potential adversaries August 1, 2015 and awarded Param and transformed the concept of Air Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) in 2016 operations of the Indian Air Force to by the President of India. contemporary war fighting practices He is married to Mrs Kamalpreet of Air Power. He is an avid reader and they have one son Jasman who and writer of issues pertaining to air is a law graduate. power and joint operations. - Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee pix: Gurudutt Mehra, Naresh Kumar, Before taking over as the Chief Rakesh Mangraj and Sushil Kumar

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 9 Minister of State for Defence visits DRDO Labs

he Minister of State for Defence TDr Subhash Bhamre on December 19, 2016 visited four city establishments of Defence Research & Development Organization. This was the first visit of the Minister to DRDO labs in Bengaluru after he took over as the Minister of State for Defence. The Minister visited the prestigious labs of DRDO like Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Electronic & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), Centre of Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR) and Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE). Dr CP Ramanarayanan, Director General (Aeronautical system) and Ms J Manjula, engine run and other demos of He was pleased with the percentage Director General (Electronics & radars, robots and other artificial of indigenization by the DRDO Communication system) were present intelligence products and avionics labs and reiterated the necessity of during the visits. The Directors of the development related products. making it hundred percent thereby respective labs briefed the minister The Minister of State for Defence fulfilling the dream of “Make in about their projects and the on- appreciated the achievements and India” concept. going projects. He was shown the project developments by the labs. Inputs: NM Kaverappa

10 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Raksha Rajya Mantri inaugurates DRDO Mahila Kalyan Manch medical screening camp

he Minister of State for Defence TDr Subhash Bhamre inaugurated a health screening camp on December 19, 2016 organised by the DRDO - Mahila Kalyan Manch (MKM) Bengaluru Chapter. Several dignitaries were present including Dr Rita Christopher, HOD, Neurochemistry, NIMHANS, and all India President of the DRDO- MKM; Dr Rajendra P Joshi, Senior Chief Medical Officer, and in- charge, Koramangala Wellness Centre, Central Health Service; Dr CP Ramanarayanan, Distinguished Scientist & DG (Aero), DRDO; Ms Manjula, Distinguished Scientist & DG (ECS), DRDO. During the inauguration Dr Rita Christopher and on the importance of creation of with its President, Mrs Lakshmi presented several statistics and awareness all around. The Minister Ramanarayanan along with the team emphasised on the need for brought out the importance of consisting of many DRDO/Service preventive measures to be taken incorporating discipline, exercise, Officers wives and Lady Officers early enough right from the stage yoga and meditation in daily life. is an able body proactively taking of conception. Dr Joshi gave a talk He also talked on issues related to action in steadily promoting welfare on ‘Pre-hospital Management of cancer, misconception associated activities not only within the DRDO Medical Emergencies’. The Minister around it and on it being a curable community but towards betterment himself being from the medical field disease if diagnosed at an early of society as a whole. appreciated the conduct of the camp stage. The MKM Bengaluru Branch, - NM Kaverappa

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 11 MoS Defence inaugurates Married Accommodation Project in Meerut

he Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre Tinaugurated the Married Accommodation Project (MAP) at Meerut Military Station on December 21, 2016 and dedicated 623 dwelling units to Officers, JCOs and Other Ranks of the Indian Army. In his address to a gathering of serving and ex-servicemen, the Minister said that the government is committed to the welfare of soldiers and will do everything to alleviate

Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre addressing the gathering

their hardships. Non-availability and poor standards of married accommodation for soldiers has been a cause of concern and steps have been taken by the government to address this deficiency. The Married Accommodation Project (MAP) was announced by former Prime Minister Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2001, wherein approximately Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre being received by Director General Married Accommodation Project (DGMAP) two lakh dwelling units are being constructed for Army, Maj General Sanjeev Jain at the inaugural function of Married Navy and Air Force over three phases. Accommodation Project (MAP)

Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre unveiling the plaque while inaugurating MAP at Meerut Military Station. To his right are Member of Parliament, Meerut Mr Rajendra Agrawal and Director General Married Accommodation Project (DGMAP) Maj General Sanjeev Jain

12 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre going around a photo-exhibition on Married Accommodation Project (MAP) Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre signing the Visitors’ Book after the inauguration of Married Accommodation Project 90,000 houses have so far been constructed in two phases and this figure will increase to 1.25 lakh houses by the end of next year. Planning for Phase III has been completed in which 71,000 houses have been planned and construction will commence soon. The scales and specifications of married accommodation were improved in 2009 by the government which has resulted in improved quality of houses much to the appreciation of soldiers. The MAP housing is being constructed by DG MAP organisation under supervision of local military commanders. DG MAP organisation was raised

Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre addressing the gathering of serving and ex-servicemen

in 2002-03 and has emerged as one of the finest government housing construction agency in just thirteen years of its raising. The organisation has reached a turnover of Rs 2700 crore in FY 2015-16 which could be possible through hard work and dedication of its limited work force. Green building norms like rain water harvesting, sewage treatment plant and solar water heating system have been incorporated in this project. Rich specifications like grit finish, tiled flooring, aluminium windows, flush doors, geysers, fans, concealed plumbing, copper Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre and Member of wiring, green marble platform for kitchen and wooden Parliament, Meerut Mr Rajendra Agrawal cutting the ribbon at the cupboards for kitchen and bed rooms have been inaugural function of Married Accommodation Project (MAP). Also incorporated in the project. seen in the picture is Director General Married Accommodation - Nitin D Wakankar Project (DGMAP) Maj General Sanjeev Jain pic: Rakesh Mangraj

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 13 COAS Visits Command HQs

Gen Dalbir Singh, COAS relinquished his appointment on December 31, 2016 (AN). During the past two and a half years, under his able leadership, many major initiatives were undertaken which have enhanced operational efficiency of the Army. The General has also contributed significantly towards addressing issues of concern and welfare with respect to serving soldiers, veterans, Veer Naris and their families. The General officer visited various Command HQs and formations prior to the end of his illustrious tenure as COAS. During his visit to South Western Command at Jaipur on December of operational readiness and overall had earned recognition in the global 19, 2016, he complimented All Ranks military capability. He reiterated that arena and respect domestically. on their excellent professionalism, collectively, we must continue to not only along the borders but also During his visit to Southern attain pinnacles of excellence with during various exercises and during Command on December 22, 2016, various humanitarian assistance and multi pronged efforts and continue he stressed the need to continue to disaster relief operations. Giving to adhere to the time tested values build capability against adversaries out an overview of the external and and principles, which are the very and also be operationally prepared internal security environment, the bedrock of the Indian Army. to meet any kind of security COAS emphasised that continued The COAS visited Central challenge. He exhorted them to vigil and efforts are required to face Command and interacted with maintain high level of alertness and nation’s security challenges. The officers, JCOs and men on take all security measures to thwart COAS stated that transformation December 20, 2016. He in his any nefarious activity by inimical or and modernization of the Armed farewell address said that the Indian anti- national elements. Forces, including modernization and Army has the capability, will and On visit to Eastern Command induction of state of art equipment, resolve to meet any challenge. He on December 25, 2016, the COAS is in progress to enhance the level further added that the Indian military highlighted the multi pronged

14 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 challenges faced by the Indian Army starting from low intensity conflict, disaster management, infrastructure development and fast track mordernisation to preparedness for conventional warfare. General Dalbir Singh stated that the Indian Army was fully prepared for any eventuality. COAS visited 14 Corps, 15 Corps and HQ Northern Command on December 26, 2016. He interacted with troops serving in Siachin, counter insurgency and counter infiltration roles. Gen Dalbir Singh visited HQ ARTRAC on December 27, 2016. During the visit, he addressed all Officers of the station, highlighting the existing and emerging security and management challenges. He also gave an insight into the numerous steps being taken by the Army in all spheres, for its continued development and growth. While interacting with the troops, he urged them to dedicate themselves to the nation and maintain the highest tradition of the Indian Army. Known as the ‘Soldiers General’ for his connect with the rank and file of the Army, the COAS was accorded a warm farewell and good wishes for his future assignments by the Army fraternity. - Col Rohan Anand

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 15 Training of Gentleman Cadets culminates with scintillating Parade at OTA Gaya

he Drill Square of Officers TTraining Academy, Gaya wore a spectacular look with traditional military regalia and splendour on the occasion of the tenth Passing out Parade on December 11, 2016. 119 Gentleman Cadets of the Technical Entry Course Serial - 28 who completed their basic military training from this Academy in December 2013 along with 30 Special Commission Officers of Course Serial – 37 got commissioned into the Indian Army. 97 Gentleman Cadets of Technical Entry Scheme Serial-34 proceeded to various engineering colleges of the Army was received at the venue by Lt respectively. The Silver Medal for to pursue their engineering degrees Gen Vinod Vashisht, Commandant, standing first in the Order of Merit from Military Engineering Colleges Officers Training Academy, Gaya. among the Passing out SCO course at Secunderabad, Mhow and Pune. The Reviewing Officer was accorded was awarded to ACA Arun Kumar. The Gentleman Cadets mesmerised a salute by the parade followed by Kalidhar Company was awarded a large gathering of military and an impressive March Past. the Chief of Army Staff Banner civilian dignitaries and family The Reviewing Officer also Autumn Term 2016 for best overall members of the trainees with their gave away various awards to performance as a company. suave and graceful drill movements the Gentleman Cadets who had Later, addressing the parade, Lt in an impressive parade. Lt Gen excelled in training. The prestigious Gen Satish Dua, Chief of Integrated Satish Dua, Chief of Integrated Sword of Honour for best in overall Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs Defence Staff to the Chairman, performance among TES - 28 of Staff Committee congratulated Chiefs of Staff Committee was the Course was awarded to BUO B the Gentleman Cadets for their Reviewing Officer of the parade. Prabhu Devan. Gold, Silver and excellent standard of turnout and The Reviewing Officer arrived Bronze medals as per Order of drill. He urged the future officers to at the venue in a majestic Horse Merit were awarded to BUO B make their Nation and their Alma Drawn Carriage escorted by smartly Prabhu Devan, BCQM Pushpendra Mater proud by rendering selfless dressed mounted horse riders. He Choudhary and BUO Girish A Masti and honourable service. He also

16 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 stressed on the virtues of military feelings and said that they were very ethos and soldierly qualities which proud of their sons. Congratulating they should imbibe. the parents, the Reviewing officer The parade culminated with said that they were lucky parents the Passing out Course stepping on whose sons will get the opportunity the shimmering stone of the ‘Antim to serve in one of the noblest Pag’ (the ‘Final Step’) who were then professions the Indian Army. administered the oath by the Adjutant OTA, Gaya was raised on of the Academy in presence of the 18 July 2011 with the motto of Chief Guest and other dignitaries. ‘Shaurya, Gyan, Sankalp’ (Courage, The badges of officers’ rank were Knowledge & Resolve). Presently, then placed on the shoulders of the the Acad+nical Entry Scheme newly commissioned officers by their and Special Commission Officer parents and close relatives. entries, popularly known as the TES It was an experience of a and SCO respectively. The Cadets lifetime for the parents of the newly belonging to the former category commissioned officers. All of them join the Academy after completing were overwhelmed with emotional the 10+2 schooling. The latter are selected from the rank and files of the Armed Forces. The TES entry undergo one year of Basic Military Training before proceeding to various Military Technical Institutions for engineering studies. They get commissioned on completion of three years of their technical training. Gentleman Cadets from friendly foreign countries also undergo the course. Two Foreign Gentleman Cadets of TES-34 have also successfully completed the training. - Hasibur Rahamn with Lt Col Mitali Madhumita

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 17 14 Women among 110 Flight Cadets Commissioned into Indian Air Force

he amber sky dawned sagely Tover Air Force Academy (AFA) to witness the grand Combined Graduation Parade, which marked the momentous occasion of the passing out of 110 Flight Cadets as Flying Officers of the Indian Air Force in Hyderabad on December 17, 2016. This solemn event was graced by Air Marshal KVB Jayampathy, Commander, Sri Lanka Air Force. As the Reviewing Officer of the parade, he conferred the ‘President’s Indian Air Force “Sarang” helicopter display team performing at the Combined Graduation Commission’ to the graduating Flight Parade Cadets who successfully completed and Flying Officer A Varadharajan decisions which may not be popular their basic and professional training. were awarded President’s Plaque or it may even a hurt few, but we These young officers, which include for being first in overall merit in should be guided by the larger 14 women officers, will join the Navigation and Ground Duty interest of the Force and the Nation. elite cadre of Air Force Officers, to branches respectively. He advised the young officers to carry forward the espoused legacy While addressing the Parade, balance the sense of idealism with and the core values of Indian Air realistic ground situation. Force namely ‘Mission, Integrity, the Reviewing Officer complimented Excellence’. the newly Commissioned ‘Flying Earlier, the Reviewing Officer Officers’ for the exceptional was received at the venue by Air Air Marshal KVB Jayampathy, standard of parade. Congratulating Marshal SRK Nair, Air Officer the Reviewing Officer gave away the passing-out cadets, the Sri Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C), various awards to the Flying Officers Lankan Air Chief said, “It is a Training Command and Air Marshal who had excelled in training. Flying matter of great honour to review the Amit Tiwari, Commandant, Air Force Officer Ankit Agarwal from the Flying Combined Graduation Parade of Academy. branch was awarded the President’s flight cadets and witness these fine The Combined Graduation Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff men and women joining the Indian Sword of Honour for standing First in Parade marks the culmination Air Force as future Military leaders of rigorous training schedule of Overall Merit in the Pilots’ Course. and Aviators”. He cautioned that Flying Officer Chayan Agarwal one year and heralds the entry of at times one may have to take hard another generation of officers in the Indian Air Force. The Flight Cadets undergo professional and advanced training at various institutions besides Air Force Academy, viz., Air Force Stations Hakimpet, Begumpet, Yelahanka, and Air Force Administrative College (Coimbatore) as per their specialisation and finally pass-out together from the portals of the majestic “Sekhon” Block of Air Force Academy. The Parade, in its full grandeur marked with impeccably turned-out cadets and their perfectly synchronised Air Marshal KVB Jayampathy, Commander, Sri Lanka Air Force reviewing the Combined drill movements demonstrating Graduation Parade held at Air Force Academy, Dundigal near Hyderabad

18 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Air Warriors demonstrating synchronised rifle drill movements at the Combined Graduation Parade conviction and commitment, was II (the aircraft currently used in Air during their training at AFA, into witnessed by a large gathering of Force Academy to train greenhorn elite cadre of officers for Indian Air military and civil dignitaries along pilots) and breathtaking aerobatics Force. The Air Force Academy as with the family members and friends by the Suryakiran Formation the ‘Cradle of Inspired Leadership’, of the graduating Flight Cadets. aerobatic team, Hawk formation imparts specialist training to the The spectators were left spellbound team, Sarang Helicopter team and new entrants who are selected after throughout the impressive parade. the Su-30 MK-I aircraft enthralled a rigorous selection process at the The astounding display by the the audience. Services Selection Boards (SSBs) to enable them to acquire the Indian Air Force Sky Diving team The Air Force Academy, requisite knowledge and skills in ‘Akash Ganga’ dotting the skyline Dundigal is the premier training various aspects of aerospace power with colourful parachutes, the fiery establishment which transforms the and its application in each of their aerobatic displays by the PC-7 MK raw recruits, known as flight cadets respective streams – that is Flying, Navigation, Engineering and other Ground duty branches. An intensive training regimen is followed at Air Force Academy to instil qualities of military leadership and the core values of the Indian Air Force. Truly exemplifying the Academy motto, ‘Shram Se Siddhi’ meaning ‘Achievement through Diligence’, the young men and women, transform into worthy Air Warriors of the highest professional, intellectual, physical and moral calibre dedicated to a lifetime of service to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the Nation. Newly commissioned officers in a jubilant mood after the Combined Graduation Parade Text and pix: B Satheesh Kumar

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 19 National Level Pollution Response Exercise

ndian’s energy requirements (approx I70%) are met by oil resource that is being imported into the country by ships. The transportation of oil through sea route is fraught with inherent risks and requires preventive measures to be taken both by the ship owners and the oil receiving facilities inside port. The Indian Coast Guard is the Central Coordinating Authority for oil spill response and has put into place a robust pollution response system to check the preparedness levels of oil handling agencies at regular intervals. The Gulf of Kachchh houses ecologically sensitive mangroves and coral reefs, which are fraught with danger in was conducted by the Indian Coast State Governments, Ports, Oil case of oil spill. To address issues Guard on December 20-21, 2016, Handling Agencies and other stake relating to an oil spill, the sixth off Mundra in Gulf of Kachchh. holders participated in the exercise. edition of National Level Pollution Representatives of various Ministries In addition, representatives of Oil Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-VI) and Departments of Central and Industry Safety Directorate and

20 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Observers from three foreign nations also witnessed the NATPOLREX-VI exercise. 125 personnel from various agencies/stakeholders participated in the exercise. Nine Coast Guard ships, two CG helicopters, two Dornier aircraft, one Indian Naval Ship, one Air Force Aircraft (C-130J Super Herculeus), three tugs from KPT/ Mundra Port, one tanker of Shipping Corporation of India, two MSV/OSV from other resource agencies and teams for beach cleaning from State Government also participated in the exercise. The highlight of the exercise protecting marine environment in Chennai and Port Blair and has the was participation of ICG Pollution her maritime zones on March 1, capability to respond to oil spills up Control Vessels (PCV) and 1986, when these responsibilities to 10,000 tones with assistance of integration of Air Force into the Oil were transferred from Ministry of various agencies. Spill Disaster Management System Shipping. Subsequently, the Coast Mr Vijaybhai R Rupani, Chief for aerial assessment/delivery of oil Guard prepared the National Oil Minister of Gujarat reviewed the spill dispersant (OSD) for mitigation Spill Disaster Contingency Plan preparedness of all agencies during of the spilled oil. The NATPOLREX- (NOSDCP) for combating oil spill the exercise on December 21, 2016 VI was precluded by a Table Top disaster at sea, which was approved from onboard Coast Guard Ship exercise on December 20, 2016 for by the committee of secretaries in Sarathi along with Director General simulation of the situation. the 1993. The Indian Coast Guard Rajendra Singh, the Director General The Indian Coast Guard has also established three Pollution Indian Coast Guard. assumed responsibility of Response Centres at Mumbai, - Comdt VK Vijay Kumar

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 21 Helicopter Pilots Graduate at INS Rajali, Arakkonam

n impressive Passing out Parade A(PoP) was held at the Naval Air Station Rajali, Arakkonam in Chennai on December 16, 2016 to mark the graduation of the 87th Helicopter Conversion Course wherein 11 Navy and five Coast Guard Pilots were awarded “Wings”. Rear Admiral Surendra Ahuja, Assistant Controller Carrier Project and Assistant Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The pilots underwent rigorous training for 21 weeks in flying and aviation subjects at Indian Naval Air Squadron 561, the Rear Admiral Surendra Ahuja, Assistant Controller Carrier Project and Assistant Controller Helicopter Training School (HTS) Warship Production & Acquisition, Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Navy) which graduated 666 pilots for the reviewing the Passing out Parade held at the Naval Air Station Rajali, Arakkonam Indian Navy and Coast Guard till date and is commanded by Captain September 15, 1971 and in 1992 the largest operational air base of Rajan Kapoor. The school was shifted to the present location at the Indian Navy commanded by initially commissioned at Kochi on INS Rajali at Arakkonam which is Commodore VK Pisharody.

22 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Rear Admiral Surendra Ahuja, Assistant Controller Carrier Project and Assistant Controller Warship Production & Acquisition, Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Navy) awarded the Governor of Kerala Rolling Trophy to Lieutenant Rishab Dutta at Passing out Parade held at the Naval Air Station Rajali, Arakkonam.

After the ceremonial review, the in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command The graduated pilots will Chief Guest awarded the Governor Rolling Trophy to Lieutenant Kiran subsequently join operational flights of Kerala Rolling Trophy to Lieutenant P for standing first in order of merit. at Daman, Goa, Kochi, Mumbai, Rishab Dutta for being adjudged A book prize was also awarded to Port Blair and Vizag. as the best All Round Trainee Pilot Lieutenant Rishab Dutta for standing - T Shanmugam and the Flag Officer Commanding- first in ground subjects.

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 23 Passing out Parade at Sainik School Kazhakootam

he Passing out Parade of Tthe class XII cadets of Sainik School, Kazhakootam was held on December 10, 2016 at the School Parade Ground at Trivandrum. Seventy cadets of the outgoing batch passed out of the portals of their alma–mater after seven years of Academic and Military oriented training at the school, in a colourful and impressive Passing out Parade. Air Marshal S Neelakantan, Air Air Marshal S Neelakantan received the salute given by the outgoing cadets of Sainik School Officer Commanding-in-Chief, HQ Southern Air Command, Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram reviewed the parade in which ten contingents including two passing out contingents constituted the parade formation. The School Cadet Captain Jeevan AC commanded the parade and the School Cadet Adjutant Bibin Raj RB was the parade Second in Command. The School Band accompanied the march past and added melody and colour to the ceremonial parade. "The lessons you learnt and the type of training you were put through here will stand you in good Air Marshal S Neelakantan, AOC-in-C, SAC awarded the best All Round Cadet to School Captain Jeevan AC during the passing out ceremony at Sainik School, Kazhakootam stead when you face the challenges

Air Marshal S Neelakantan, AOC-in-C, SAC reviewing the parade. Principal Col A Rajiv is also seen in the picture

24 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 of life" said the Air Marshal while man. During the last 56 years of its Himanshu Kumar bagged the medal addressing the cadets. Further, the existence the Sainik Schools have for the Best Sportsman. A large Reviewing Officer complimented the produced hundreds of illustrious men number of invitees, parents, old boys cadets for their immaculate turn out who have rendered yeoman service and students from other schools and excellent standard of parade. to the Nation in various capacities. witnessed the colourful parade. A The concept of Sainik School Medals for the outstanding large number of Serving Officers originated in the visionary mind cadets who excelled in various including Brigadiers, Dignitaries of Late V K Krishna Menon, who fields were also awarded by the from the State Government also was the Defence Minister in the Chief Guest. The Medal for the best witnessed the parade. early sixties. Sainik Schools were All Round Cadet was awarded to Principal Col A Rajiv thanked conceived to function as feeder School Cadet Captain Jeevan AC the Reviewing Officer, parents institutions to the National Defence and best cadet in academics was and invitees for their benign and Academy and making public school awarded to the House Captain motivating presence. education accessible to the common Athul V Pramod. House Captain - Suresh Sreedharan

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 25 Awadh Polo Cup 2016

an exceptional game of polo and displayed their extraordinary skills. 61 61 Cavalry won the match with a score of 4 - 6½ goals. Everyone present applauded the players for an excellent game of polo. Lieutenant General Rajan Ravindran gave away the prizes to the umpires, referee, Runners Up and Winners Team as also felicitated other players who participated in the said tournament. Other senior Army officers including their families were present on the occasion. The citizens of Lucknow were presented with an excellent opportunity to witness deft horse riding skills displaying unmatchable

‘ wadh Polo Cup-2016’ was Aorganized under the aegis of Central Command at Surya Khel Parisar from 12 to 16 December 2016 in Lucknow Cantonment. The opening match of the Awadh Polo Cup was played on 12 December 2016 and league matches as well as Exhibition Matches were played daily in the afternoon from 03.00 pm at Surya Khel Parisar till 16 December 2016. Eight teams of Indian Polo Association participated in the historic event. The teams included Rajan Ravindran, Chief of Staff the Army Service Corps team from (COS), Central Command. The Bangalore, Remount Veterinary event commenced with the colorful Centre team from Meerut, Indian Band Display in which four Pipe Military Academy (IMA) team from and Drum Bands and three Military Dehradun, 61 Cavalry team from Bands participated. Other major Jaipur, Two teams from Manipur attractions of the evening were fly and Two teams of Ladakh Scouts past by two para motors from Army from the frozen desert of Ladakh in Adventure Para Motor Node, Horse Jammu & Kashmir. show/jump and spectacular tent Awadh Polo Cup-2016 came pegging display. to an end with an exciting polo finals Awadh Polo Cup-2016 finals played between 61 Cavalry and were played between 61 Cavalry Remount Veterinary Centre on 16 and Remount Veterinary Centre. December 2016. A full game of four chukkers with The Chief Guest on this each chukker of 7 ½ minutes was occasion was Lieutenant General played. Both the teams played

26 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 coordination between the horse and its rider. To bring this event to Lucknow, Central Command had taken the initiative in 2012 when it got prepared a brand new Polo ground for the event with multiple objectives of bringing the game to the city; inspiring youth to take on adventure activities; promoting sports and to make Lucknow a Centre for Polo and Equestrian Excellence.

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 27 Indra Navy- 16 Indo-Russian Bilateral Naval Exercise

he 9th edition of INDRA NAVY, Tan annual bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy was held in the Bay of Bengal from December 14-21, 2016. Initiated in 2003, INDRA NAVY epitomises the strong long term strategic relationship between the two countries. The exercise has matured over the years with increase in scope, complexity of operations and level of participation. The primary aim of exercise INDRA NAVY-16 is to increase inter-operability amongst the two navies and develop common Guard of Honour being presented to Rear Adm B Dasgupta by Russian Federation Navy understanding and procedures for Ship Admiral Tributs maritime security operations. The NAVY-16, the Indian Navy was Short Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, scope of the exercise includes wide- represented by INS Ranvir, a guided Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer and ranging professional interactions missile destroyer, INS Satpura, an other integral rotary wing helicopters in harbour and a diverse canvas indigenous frigate, and INS Kamorta, participated in the bilateral exercise. of operational activities across a an indigenous Anti Submarine The Russian Federation spectrum of maritime operations at Warfare (ASW) corvette. In addition, Navy (RFN) was represented sea. an IN submarine, P8I Long Range by ships from the Pacific Fleet, During exercise INDRA Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Dornier based at Vladivostok. RFN ships

28 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Admiral Tributs (cruiser) and Boris Butoma (fleet tanker) arrived at Visakhapatnam on December 14, 2016 to participate in INDRA NAVY- 16. The exercise progressed in two phases viz; the Harbour Phase (December 14-18, 2016) at Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase (December 19-21, 2016) off Visakhapatnam. The Harbour Phase encompassed table-top exercises, conferences, and professional interaction prior to progressing to sea. The Sea Phase included various facets of fleet operations such as air Rear Admiral B Dasgupta Fleet Commander welcoming Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov defence drills, boarding operations, Deputy Chief of Flo 304470 anti-surface and anti-air gun firings,

Russian Federation Navy Ship Admiral Tributs entering Visakhapatnam to participate in INDRA NAVY anti-submarine exercises with ASW rocket firing. Exercise INDRA NAVY-16 helped to further strengthen mutual confidence and inter-operability, and also enable sharing of best practices between both Navies. The exercise is another milestone in strengthening maritime security cooperation between the two Navies and reinforce the long standing bond of friendship between the two Russian Federation Navy Ship Admiral Tributs entering Visakhapatnam to participate in countries. INDRA NAVY - Cdr CG Raju

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 29 Swachh Ability Run

‘Swachh-Ability Run 2016’ was A organised in seven cities, over seven days to commemorate the ‘International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PwD)’. ‘Veer Naris’ (War Widows) and senior army officers were invited as guest of honour to flag off the run in each city. This unique concept was conceived by Maj DP Singh, the Indian Blade Marathon Runner a To celebrate the culmination of Kargil war veteran and was supported Swachh Ability Run, a grand finale by the Indian Army. The run aimed to function was conducted at Ayur give confidence to differently-abled Vigyan Auditorium, RR Hospital, people and was held in cities of Delhi on 04 Dec. Defence Secretary Chandigarh, Ambala, Kurukshetra, was the chief guest on the occasion Karnal, Panipat, Sonipat, and who wholeheartedly commended National Capital Region (NCR) the initiative spearheaded by Maj along the historic Grand Trunk road. DP Singh and wished them well for future endeavors. He along with the ‘Swachh Ability Run 2016’ is Adjutant General of the Army and a unique event highlighting two Commandant Army Hospital (R&R) important social causes, firstly, to felicitated the Divyang achievers, the showcase the abilities of persons silent heroes, for their contribution with disability and bring inclusion towards the society despite of their and secondly, conduct a ‘Swachh own disability. Drive’ led by ‘Divyangs’ to convey a - Col Rohan Anand strong message to public to create awareness and social responsibility towards cleanliness. Towards this goal people with disabilities challenged their physical capacities through a run and further led the Swachh drive. A total of 10,000 Divyangs, veterans and school children have participated in this mission

30 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 SCROLL PRESENTATION CEREMONY Engineer Officers Degree Engineering – 113 (C) and Technical Entry Scheme – 26 (C) Courses

n a splendid convocation ceremony at the ISarvatra Hall of the College of Military Engineering, Pune, 26 officers of Engineer Officers Degree Engineering Course (EODE- 113) and 52 officers of Technical Entry Scheme (TES-26) Course were awarded B Tech degrees in Civil Engineering under the aegis of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi on 17th Dec 2016. Lt Gen Rana SK Kapur, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM (Retd) graced the occasion as Chief Guest and presented the Scroll to the 78 officers. In a packed auditorium the solemn ceremony was witnessed by officers, ladies, Captain Sahil Sharma receiving the Gold Medal in Civil Engineering by Chief parents and relatives of the graduating officers. Guest Lt Gen Rana SK Kapur, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM (Retd) Lt Gen V Menon, SM, VSM, Commandant, College of Military Engineering addressed the graduating officers and advised them to continuously hone their professional skills by keeping abreast with the latest development in the field of engineering. He stressed upon the important of high morals and impeccable integrity and advised the graduating officers to be sincere and relevant. He also gave a brief historical background of the prestigious College of Military Engineering. Lt Gen Rana SK Kapur, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM (Retd) in his Valedictory address, emphasized that as engineers in uniform, the graduating officers would face greater Lieutenant Abhishek receiving the Gold Medal for standing first in Civil Engineering challenges in view of the increasing by Chief Guest Lt Gen Rana SK Kapur, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM (Retd) complexities in the infrastructural requirements of the Defence forces, especially in inhospitable terrain and on our mountainous borders. In order to meet these challenges, he urged the young officers to keep themselves updated with the advancements in the technology. The prestigious Gold Medals in Civil Engineering Discipline was awarded to Captain Sahil Sharma of 113 EODE and Lieutenant Abhishek of TES-26 for standing first in order of merit in their respective courses. The student officers also displayed the knowledge acquired by them through the projects undertaken by them. These projects were appreciated by the Chief Guest for their Graduation Ceremony of Engineer Officers Degree Engineering Course quality of work and innovative thinking by the (EODE) 113 & Technical Entry Scheme (TES) 26 being conducted at CME, officers. Pune on 17 Dec 16.

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 31 Golden Jubilee celebrations: 201 Engineer Regiment

Colonel ADS Bedi, CO 201 Engineer Regiment laying the wreath at the War Memorial

01 Engineer Regiment celebrated 2the completion of its 50 Glorious years of service to the nation. The Regiment was raised in 1966 at Phulbari as 201 Army Engineer Regiment. Since its inception, the Regiment has been deployed in all the active theatres during Operations and has won many laurels over the decades. In the 1947-48 Operations, 433 Field Company of the Regiment constructed a road to the treacherous Zojila pass to facilitate induction of troops to ward off the entrenched enemy. The arduous task against heavy odds was recognized by Battle Honour Zojila. Later in the 1971 Indo-Pak war the Regiment was conferred with Theatre Honour Punjab for its Group Photo of all veterans of Erunootru Onne distinguished service during the war.

32 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Operations Rooms for Strike Corps Operations, for which the Regiment was awarded GOC-in-C Unit Appreciation in 2012. To commemorate the Unit’s Golden Jubilee, a number of events were organised at Ahmedabad Cantonment between 12th and 14th November 2016. These were attended by Veterans, Senior Officers, Ex Commanding Officers and serving personnel and their Cultural Show organised at Barakhana for all troops and families families. Families of martyrs including Capt P Juyal, Nayab Subedar Anthony Cruz Shaurya Chakra, Subedar G Annamalai, Nayab Subedar David S also graced the functions. The celebrations commenced on 12 November with a Special Mandir parade followed by Wreath Laying Ceremony, Special Sainik Sammelan & Tea with troops. A Pagal Gymkhana and Bara Khana was also organised for the troops and families to mark the occasion in Major General Anil Puri presenting memento to the Regiment on behalf of the Colonel addition to the social evening at the Commandant, Madras Sapers Unit Officers’ Mess. Living up to its name, the Regiment Unit Coffee Table Book and a under Sudarshan Chakra Corps First Day Cover was also released conceptualised & implemented on the occasion. the provision of Container based - Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman

Major Gneral SK Prashar, GOC Golden Katar Division presenting the memento to CO 201 Engineer Regiment

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 33 Chakravyuh

This quiz is dedicated to Indian Army Day Q 1. Name one of the biggest millitary exercise among the three services during Republic Day of Indian Army in Rajasthan that took place 2016? (PIC-2) in 1986 which involved numbers of infantry, Q 6. Daksh is an electrically powered and remotely mechanized, air assault divisions, and a huge controlled robot used by Indian Army for number of army personnel. locating, handling and destroying hazardous Q 2. Name the first and only actor to have been objects safely. Which agency developed conferred the rank of Lt Colonel in Territorial Daksh? (Pic – 3) Army. His role in two films, Kirti Chakra and Q 7. Identify this Flag shown in Pic - 4? (Pic – 4) Kurukshetra, as an army member, led to his interest in the army and he voluntarily joined Q 8. Indian Army celebrates its 69th Army Day on the Territorial Army in 2009. January 15, 2017. What is the significance of this date? Q 3. What important event occurred with 1st Battalion of Somerset Light Infantry on 28 Q 9. Which Corps is known as ‘White Knight’ Corps February 1948. and was recently in news? Q 4. Who was the first army officer with a physical Q 10. Identify this Tank. (PIC-5) disability to command an infantry battalion and Q 11. The Indian Army has launched a mobile App a brigade? He is known to have physical fitness in a bid to reach out to its ex-servicemen. It is tests with better performance as compared to dedicated to Army Veterans and Veer Naris. many ‘able’ officers. (Pic – 1) What is the name of the App? Q 5. Which was the best marching contingent Q 12. What is the Twitter handle of Indian Army?

Pic-1 Pic-2 Pic-3 Pic-4

Pic-5 Answers 1 Operation Brasstacks. 2 Mohanlal Viswanathan Nair. 3 It was the last British Army Unit which left India. 4 Major General Ian Cardozo – Major Cardozo During the 1971 war, stepped on a landmine and severely injured his leg. When even the doctor could not cut his leg, Cardozo asked for a khukri (the Gorkha knife) and cut his own leg off, saying, “Now go and bury it!”. 5 Assam Regiment. 6 DRDO. 7 Northern Command, Indian Army. 8 On 15 Jan 1949, Lieutenant General K. M. Cariappa took over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from General Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in-Chief of India. 9 16 Corps, Nagrota (Jammu). 10 Arjun Mk II. 11 Veterans Outreach App. 12 @adgpi. - Wg Cdr Samir Gangakhedkar

34 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 COAS rechristened Army Parade Ground as ‘Cariappa Parade Ground’

en Dalbir Singh, Chief of the Army Staff, Gdedicated a statue of Field Marshal K M Cariappa at the Army Parade Ground, Delhi Cantonment and rechristened the parade ground as “Cariappa Parade Ground” on December 29, 2016. It is customary in the Indian Army that parade grounds are named after eminent military personalities and war heroes. Army Parade Ground at Delhi Cantonment has been rechristened as Cariappa Parade Ground in the memory of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. The Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment is one of the largest and most prominent parade grounds of the country. - Col Rohan Anand pic: Fulchand Kitadikar

JAG Department Celebrates Its Corps Day

he Judge Advocate General (JAG) Department, the Tjudicial and legal wing of the Army, dealing with dispensation of justice to all ranks celebrated its 33rd Corps Day on December 21, 2016. It was this day when in 1949, the Bill for the Army Act was introduced in the Parliament. On this occasion, Gen Dalbir Singh, the Chief of Army Staff, lauded their contribution to the cause of justice and extended his good wishes. The Corps day celebrations commenced with wreath laying at the India Gate Memorial by Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma, the Adjutant General & Colonel Commandant Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma, Adjutant General paying homage at Amar of JAG's Department, and the Judge Advocate General, Jawan Jyoti on JAG Corps Day on December 21, 2016 Maj Gen Rajinder Kumar. The JAG Department officers professional commitment towards the rule of law and were addressed by the JAG exhorting them to strive for justice delivery system. The Chief Justice of India exhorted continued professional excellence in delivering Military Justice to the rank and file. the Department to rededicate themselves to their motto On this momentous occasion Chief Justice of "Nyaya Eva Dharma", (Justice alone is Supreme Duty). India, TS Thakur commended the Department on its - Col Rohan Anand

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 35 SMSOs’ Conclave

enior Maintenance Staff Officers’ The Conclave was inaugurated Staff Officers of all Operational SConclave was held at Air Force by Air Mshl NJS Dhillon, Senior Air Commands, Training Command Station Hindon under the aegis of Staff Officer, Western Air Command & Maintenance Command of and was chaired by Air Mshl PP IAF attended the Conclave. The Western Air Command, Subroto Khandekar, Air Officer-in-charge Conclave took stock of the current Park, New Delhi on December Maintenance Command of Indian maintenance support related 23-24, 2016. Air Force. Senior Maintenance challenges with focus on optimal operations, enhanced quality of the preventive maintenance, indigenisation and innovation efforts. The need to continuously improve the skill/ knowledge level of Maintenance personnel along with improvement in Supply Chain Management were also deliberated. In the closing address the AOM exhorted all maintenance personnel to be proactive, innovative and self Air Mshl PP Khandekar, Air Officer-in-charge Maintenance Command addressing reliant in meeting the challenges Senior Maintenance Staff Officers of all Operational Commands, Training Command & towards excellent support for all Maintenance Command Air Officers during SMSO's conclave operational tasks of Indian Air Force. - Gp Capt SK Mehta IML celebrates 33rd Corps Day of JAG’S Department

ML, Kamptee celebrated 33rd rededicate themselves to the JAG officers of the Indian Army, Navy ICorps Day of JAG’s Department motto Nyaya Evam Dharma i.e., and Air Force in the field of Military on 21st Dec 2016 with gaiety and Justice alone is the supreme duty. and allied laws. He conveyed his aplomb. The ceremonies lasted over In his address to the gathering, compliments to the Officers of the st nd two days 21 and 22 December Justice BR Gavai praised the efforts JAG’s Department on this solemn 2016. On December 21, 2016 a of IML Kamptee for the yeoman occasion. ceremonial cake was cut and a Bara service that it is doing in training the - Wg Cdr SS Gangakhedkar Khana attended by all ranks of IML and their families was held at the IML premises. Messages from the 1st Indian JAG Brig Justice DM Sen, the COAS, the Adjutant General, the Judge Advocate General, the Chief of Staff, ARTRAC were read. The families and children of IML presented a cultural programme. On this occasion Brig Vijay Kumar, Commandant, IML exhorted the officers and all ranks of IML to

36 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 School Children Visit Naval Warships

wo of the Indian Naval Warships TINS Gharial and INS Khanjar of Eastern Fleet were open for visit to the school children on December 16, 2016. The Ships were in Kolkata as part of Navy Day Celebrations which is celebrated each year on December 4. About 1000 children from 17 schools located in Kolkata formed part of the visitors which also included NCC children from Army, Navy and Air force wings. The children took this opportunity to get an insight into the operational capabilities and technical advancement of the Navy. While INS Gharial is a landing ship tank (Large), that can carry vehicles, tanks and happy to interact with the Naval upfront in utilizing the opportunity troops onto an un-prepared beach personnel onboard. Commodore throughout the year to showcase and used in amphibious operations, Suprobho K De, the Naval Officer- its achievements to motivate young INS Khukri is a missile corvette. The in Charge (West Bengal) said that minds to join the service. young minds were very excited and the Navy at Kolkata is always at the - Wg Cdr SS Birdi Foundation Stone laid for ECHS Polyclinic Painavu, Idukki

ice Admiral AR Karve, Flag enable the functioning of a Polyclinic who presided over the function VOfficer Commanding-in- for the Ex Servicemen of Idukki unveiled the plan and design of Chief, Southern Naval Command district, under the Ex- Servicemen the building. The formal meeting (SNC) laid the foundation stone Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) was attended by a large number for a building to be constructed of ex- servicemen as well as their for the armed forces. at Paremavu, in Idukki district of dependents, officials of the district Kerala on December 15, 2016 to Mr Roshy Augustine MLA Idukki administration and officers from SNC, Kochi. A type ‘D’ ECHS Polyclinic was sanctioned by the Ministry of Defence for Idukki District. Since October 2013, this polyclinic has been functioning in a temporary building at Painavu, Idukki. The Ministry of Defence has sanctioned rupees one crore fifteen lakhs for the construction of new building. The building will be built on land at Paremavu made available by the Kerala Government. - Cdr Sridhar Warrier

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 37 Commissioning Ceremony of 47th Batch of nursing graduates

hirty eight nursing graduates were commissioned Tinto the Military Nursing Service at a Commissioning Ceremony held at Armed Forces Medical College, Pune on December 16, 2016. Maj Gen AK Das, Dean and Officiating Commandant, AFMC was the chief Guest on the occasion. Addressing the newly commissioned graduates, he exhorted them to uphold the finest traditions of the Military Nursing Service. According to Brig Mala Singh, Principal, College of Nursing, AFMC, the foundation of professional nursing was laid during the Crimean war by Florence Nightingale. College of Nursing (CON), Armed Forces Medical 47th batch of nursing graduates of CON, AFMC being College, was established in 1964 with 15 students. commissioned by Maj Gen AK Das, Dean & Dy Commandant of AFMC It has now blossomed into a facility with close to 250 students, encompassing undergraduate, postgraduate have graduated from CON, till date. and specialty nursing training programmes. At present, On the occasion, the “Nurses Pledge” was CON conducts Basic BSc, Post Basic BSc and MSc administered to the newly commissioned nursing officers. Nursing courses and five Diploma courses in Operation The ceremony was attended by their parents, relatives Theatre nursing, Orthopedic and Rehabilitation nursing, and a large number of their teachers and Nursing Oncology Nursing, Cardio thoracic nursing and Cadets of CON, AFMC. Neonatology nursing. A total of 1240 nursing students - Mahesh Iyengar RAPPS celebrates Annual Sports Day

hino Army Pre Primary School (RAPPS) Jorhat sight to see the tiny tots of Nursery, LKG and UKG of Rcelebrated their sports day amidst great fervour and RAPPS partcipate with so much of passion and delight. joy on December 12, 2016. The toddlers’ event was The highlights of the event were the newly introduced graced by Maj Gen Rajiv Mishra, GOC 41 Sub Area skating and gymnastic performances by the little ones accompanied by his wife Mrs Aparna Mishra. About 500 which enthralled the audience. The parents were also parents of the children studying in RAPPS witnessed their not left behind as there were events for them too. The little ones participating in the various sports activities event ended with prize distribution and speech by the that included display of colourful drills, hurdle race chief guest. and 'Rabbit and carrot Race'. It was indeed a great - Lt Col Sombit Ghosh

38 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Inauguration of Horse Riding and Polo Club at Sainik School Imphal

n an effort to improve the riding Istandards and to promote the traditional sport of Manipur Red Shield Division has established a Horse Riding and Polo Club Sainik School Imphal for the cadets in association with Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, Maj Gen SS Mishra, GOC, Red Shield Division inaugurated the Horse Riding and Polo Club in Sainik School, Imphal on December 19, 2016 in presence of Mr S Buddhachandra Singh, President Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association who was the guest of honour. The Horse Riding and Polo Club will help to hone the skill of young riders and prepare them for by cutting the ribbon. The ceremony of the Horse Riding and Polo Club national as well as international also witnessed an impressive March marks the beginning of developing arena. The events started off with unveiling of the foundation stone by Past by the ponies and a spectacular young riders of Sainik School Imphal Mrs Rudrani Mishra, wife of Maj Gen tent-pegging event which saw a which will soon bear fruits for the SS Mishra. Mr S Buddhachandra participation of six students of Sainik State as well as the Nation. Singh inaugurated the Riding Arena School Imphal. The inauguration - Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma Skill certification ceremony at ASTC

rmy Skill Training Centre (ASTC), Delhi Cantt the skill courses are conducted under the overall guidelines Aiconic skill centre, was inaugurated by Mrs Namita of Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship that Suhag, President Army Wives Welfare Association are promulgated through National Skill Development (AWWA) recently. ASTC runs aspiration based skilling Corporation (NSDC). Skill courses at ASTC are courses for army spouses and wards in four job roles conducted as per curriculum issued by NSDC aligned to namely, Data Entry Operator, Assistant Beauty Therapist, a given NSQF level with a defined Qualification Pack. Sewing Machine Operator and Block-printing. These Pilot batches of three of these job roles, Assistant Beauty Therapist, Sewing Machine Operator and Block-printing have completed their training. ASTC Skill Certification Ceremony is also the Country’s First skill certification ceremony under PMKVY scheme. The successful trainees were awarded Skill Certificates and start up kit by Mrs Namita Suhag, President AWWA. Addressing the trainees President AWWA urged them to put the acquired skills to good use by working and contributing to their household, thus enhancing their self worth and become an inherent part of Make in India. - Col Rohan Anand

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 39 Army infuses new life to a six year old child

rmy alongwith “Gift of Life”, an NGO, facilitated Aheart surgery of Wasim Akram, a young boy of six years. Wasim Akram, is a resident of Bachianwali, Tehsil Surankote of Poonch District. Army initially coordinated the preliminary medical tests like echo-cardiography and pathology. Once the diagnosis was confirmed, the Army facilitated liaison with “Gift of Life”, NGO, which took on the responsibility for bearing the expenditure of the expensive heart surgery. Wasim's visit to Delhi for treatment alongwith his father was facilitated by the Army through liaison and co-ordination with the NGO representatives and the hospital on October 17, 2016. He was admitted to Max Super-Specialty Hospital, New Delhi and was operated upon by Dr Dinesh Kumar Mani, a renowned Pediatrics heart surgeon. Wasim has reached home healthy and safe, to the cheers and immense joy of his parents and villagers. The locals have expressed appreciation of Army's effort in providing the child a new lease of life. - Lt Col Manish Mehta Army Flags in National Integration Tour for Ramban Students

hite Knight Corps flagged in buoyant students and expressed students from far flung villages of W'Sair-e-Watan', an educational hope that the tour would inspire Ramban district. The students visited cum national integration tour on them to exploit the educational places of historical interest in Delhi, December 14, 2016 at Nagrota. avenues existing outside the state of Vadodara and Ahmedabad during During an impressive flagging in J&K. their ten days tour from December 5 to December 14, 2016. The visit The tour, conducted by the ceremony at Nagrota, Lt Gen AK provided the children an insight Army, comprised of 22 members Sharma, GOC White Knight Corps, into historical significance of these including two teachers and twenty interacted with the young and heritage cities and provided them an opportunity to experience modernisation which is driving the modern day world. The students were also fortunate to interact with eminent personalities like Nobel laureate Mr Kailash Satyarthi, Governor of Gujarat, Mr OP Kohli and the blade runner, Major DP Singh. During the tour, the students also visited apex educational institute of the national capital, St Stephens College, New Delhi wherein open interaction with students & faculty was organised. - Lt Col Manish Mehta

40 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017 Lt Gen Vinod Vashisht takes over as DG, NCC

t Gen Vinod Vashisht took over the reins of National Cadet Corps as its LDirector General on December 23, 2016. An alumnus of National Defence Academy, the General was commissioned in to the Regiment of Artillery on 09 June 1979. A graduate from Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, the General has attended the Higher Command Course, National Defence College, IAS Professional Course and Emergency Management Course at Melbourne, Australia. He has held the appointment of Commandant, Officers Training Academy, Gaya prior to the current assignment.

- Lt Col Umang Kohli

Udhampur Sub Area Conducts Cycling Expedition

n keeping with the spirit of over six days traversing through veterans spreading the message of Iadventure and to spread awareness border villages and remote areas Swatch Bharat and motivating the of Swachhta Pakhwada, a cycling of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and youth to join Army. The expedition expedition was organised from Himachal Pradesh. was flagged in by Major General KJS Udhampur under the aegis of Udhampur based Sub Area. The The participants spread Gill, General Officer Commanding, expedition culminated after covering awareness about Army in the border Udhampur Sub Area. a distance of over 450 kilometres areas and also interacted with - Col NN Joshi

January 1-15, 2017 Sainik Samachar 41 PHOTOCALL

Air Marshal SB Deo, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command pays homage to gallant martyrs on the occasion of Vijay Diwas at Shaheed Smarak Noida on December 28, 2016

Students and NCC cadets from various schools and colleges in and around Chennai on board Naval ships from Eastern Fleet which was at Chennai as part of Navy Week celebrations to promote greater understanding about the role of the Indian Navy in safeguarding maritime interests of the country.

A warm send off was given to Mr. M. Sekhar Babu, ASO who worked as Coordinator for the English edition of Sainik Samachar on his transfer to DQA (R&S), Secunderabad. The Staff remembered him fondly for his 26 years of dedicated service.

Sources: Lt Col Rohan Anand, T Shanmugam and Devendra Singh

42 Sainik Samachar January 1-15, 2017