In This Issue Since 1909 BIRTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS President's Address to the Nation 4

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 64 q No 16 25 Shravana - 9 Bhadrapada, 1939 (Saka) 16-31 August 2017 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 Hasibur Rahman PM addresses Nation Defence Minister’s Senior Editor Ruby T Sharma from the Ramparts of… 8 message to the… 10 Editor Ehsan Khusro Sub Editor Sub Maj KC Sahu Coordination Kunal Kumar Business Manager Rajpal

Our Correspondents DELHI: Col Aman Anand; Capt DK Sharma; Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai; Ved Pal; Divyanshu Kumar; 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 7 President pays homage at… Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Col Chiranjeet Konwer; KOLKATA: 14 Gen Bipin Rawat Meets C-in-C… 75th Raising Day of Wg Cdr SS Birdi; Dipannita Dhar; LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: 12 15 Chief of the Air Staff felicitates… AFHQ Civilian … Cdr Rahul Sinha; Narendra Vispute; NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PALAM: Gp Capt SK Mehta; PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: 16 Maiden Participation of Indian… B Satheesh Kumar; SHILLONG; SRINAGAR: Col Rajesh Kalia; TEZPUR: Lt Col 18 'Maa Tujhe Pranam' team visits… Sombit Ghosh; Suresh Shreedharan; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: UDHAMPUR: 20 Bridges of Friendship –… Col NN Joshi; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju. 27 Army Recruitment Rally at Karu Published by: Nitin D Wakankar 28 Air Technical Officers Inducted… Addl DG (Media & Communication) 30 Veer Naris of Ex-Sailors of… Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 32 Independence Day Gallantry… Follow us on: Regulars 35 Armed Forces Panorama www.facebook.com/DefenceMinIndia

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http://sainiksamachar.nic.in On front cover: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, addressing the Nation from the Ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 71st Independence Day on August 15, 2017. President's Address to the Nation On the eve of India's 71st Independence Day, 2017

Dear Fellow Citizens engaged in the task of nation building My greetings to you as we complete 70 years of our Independence Our country will be celebrating its 71st Independence Day tomorrow. On the eve of this anniversary I extend my good wishes to all of you. On August 15, 1947, we became a free nation. Sovereignty and the responsibility for our destiny moved from the British crown to the people of India. Some have called this process a “transfer of power”. It was much more than that. It was the culmination of a dream for our country – a dream seen by our forefathers and freedom fighters. We were free to imagine and build our nation anew. Sardar Patel instilled in us the importance of national unity and integrity. And of a disciplined national It is crucial to understand that this dream for a free character. India was rooted in our ordinary villages, in the well- being of our poor and underprivileged, and in the all- Babasaheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar urged upon us the round development of our country. virtues of constitutional governance, of the rule of law – For this we owe so much to the countless freedom and of the vital need for education. fighters who made great sacrifices to bring us here. I have given only a few examples of illustrious Chennamma, the Rani of Kittur. Lakshmibai of leaders. I could give you many more. The generation Jhansi. Matangini Hazra, the heroine and martyr of the that brought us to freedom was diverse. They were men Quit India Movement. There are so many examples. and women who represented all parts of our country and Matangini Hazra was an elderly woman, into her a variety of political and social thought. 70s. She was shot by the colonial police in Tamluk, in We need to draw inspiration from such brave Bengal, while leading a peaceful protest march. She freedom fighters, many of whom sacrificed even their died with “Vande Mataram” on her lips and with the lives for the country. We need to invoke the same spirit hope of a free India in her heart. today in the task of nation building. Freedom fighters like Sardar Bhagat Singh, The stress on the moral basis of policy and action, Chandrashekhar Azad, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah belief in unity and discipline, faith in a synthesis of Khan, Birsa Munda and thousands of others gave their heritage and science, and promotion of the rule of law lives for us. We can never forget them. and of education – all of it was located in a partnership From the earliest days of our freedom struggle, we between citizen and government. were blessed with a galaxy of revolutionary leaders who That is how our nation has been built – by a guided our country. partnership between citizen and government, between They spoke of not just political freedom. Mahatma individual and society, between a family and the wider Gandhi emphasised the moral character of India and of community. Indian society. The principles that Gandhiji spoke about are relevant even today. Fellow Citizens Gandhiji was not alone in this nationwide struggle A tradition I remember from my childhood was for freedom and reform. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose that when there was a wedding in any one family, the exhorted our people, saying: “Give me blood and I entire village shared the responsibility and contributed. will give you freedom”. At his word, millions of Indians Regardless of the caste or community, the bride became joined the freedom movement under his leadership and the daughter of not just a single family but of the entire gave their all. village. Nehruji emphasised that India’s age-old heritage Neighbours and others living in the village looked and traditions – so dear to us – could co-exist with after guests, and took charge of different arrangements. technology and a quest to modernise our society. Contributions came from many families. One family

4 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 would send food-grains for the wedding, another would • The government is implementing GST to eliminate send vegetables, a third would arrive with some other multiple taxes and simplify transactions – but it is for item. each of us to make this an essential part of our everyday There was a sense of caring and of sharing, and of transactions and business culture interdependence. If you helped your neighbours in their I am happy that the transition to the GST system times of need, they instinctively helped you in turn. has been smooth. It should be a matter of pride for all Today, in big cities we may not even know our of us that the taxes we pay are used for nation building – to help the poor and the marginalised, to build rural neighbours. Whether in cities or villages, it is important and urban infrastructure, and to strengthen our border to renew that sense of caring and sharing. This will make defences. us a gentler and happier society and help us understand each other with greater empathy. Fellow Citizens Fellow Citizens In the year 2022, our country will complete 75 years of Independence. It is our national resolve to attain This spirit of empathy and of social service and certain desired milestones for a New India by then. volunteerism is very much alive in India. There are so many people and organisations that work quietly and When we speak of a New India, what do we mean? diligently for the poor and the disadvantaged. There are some obvious parameters – like a house for every family, power on demand, better roads and They could be running schools for street children, telecom, a modern railway network, rapid and sustained caring for stray animals and birds, and providing water growth. to hard-to-reach tribal communities in remote areas. Or And yet there is more. New India must include that cleaning rivers and public places. They are nation builders integral humanist component that is in our DNA, and in action, and we need to draw inspiration from them. which has defined our country and our civilisation. New We should also work with unity and purpose to India must be a society rushing towards the future, but ensure that the benefits of government policies reach also a compassionate society. all sections of society. For this, the partnership between • A compassionate society where the traditionally citizens and government remains essential: disadvantaged, whether SCs, STs or OBCs, are part of • The government has started the Swachchh Bharat our national developmental process campaign – but it is for each of us to ensure a Swachchh • A compassionate society where populations in Bharat our frontier areas and states, who may sometimes feel a • The government is building toilets or helping sense of alienation, are embraced as our brothers and build toilets – but it is for each of us to use those toilets sisters and make India open-defecation free • A compassionate society where the deprived • The government is enabling communication child, the aged and the ailing senior citizen, and the infrastructure – but it is for each of us to use the Internet poor and the under-privileged are always in our thought – not an afterthought. And where we take special care for the right purposes: to bridge knowledge gaps, create to ensure that our divyang brothers and sisters get equal opportunities, and enhance educational and information opportunities in all walks of life access • A compassionate and egalitarian society that does • The government is promoting the idea of Beti not discriminate on gender or religious background Bachao–Beti Padhao – but it is for each of us to ensure that our daughters are not discriminated against and get • A compassionate society that enriches our human capital and equips our young people by promoting the best education accessible, affordable and world-class educational • The government can frame laws and strengthen institutions. And where quality health-care and nutrition law enforcement – but it is for each of us to be a law- are not a challenge abiding citizen. And to build a law-abiding society It is only with all this that we will build the New India • The government is pushing transparency and we can cherish – where every Indian is equipped to fulfil eliminating corruption in public recruitment and his or her potential and do so in a manner that leaves procurement – but it is for each of us to answer to our each one of us content and happy. And helps each of us inner conscience in everyday life contribute to society and our country.

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 5 I am confident that a strong partnership between they have never met, and who live in the other corner of citizens and the government will allow us to meet the the country, are not just doing a job. They are displaying goals of New India. an extra degree of selflessness Your immense patience and understanding in the • After natural disasters, so many motivated people, days following demonetisation – and your whole-hearted civil society groups and public agencies work day-and- support in the battle against corruption and black money night in rescue and relief operations. They display an – reflected a responsible and enlightened society. extra degree of selflessness Demonetisation has boosted our efforts to build Can each of us not imbibe this spirit of selflessness? an honest society. We must sustain this spirit and this We can and we have. momentum. On an appeal from the Prime Minister, more Fellow Citizens than one crore families voluntarily gave up their LPG There is also need to adopt technology. We must fuel subsidy – so that a gas cylinder could reach the use technology to empower our people and achieve kitchen of a poorer family of fellow Indians. And so that the goal of poverty elimination in a single generation. members of that family, particularly women, were saved Poverty and New India are simply not compatible. from smoke from chulhas that damaged their eyes and Today, the world is looking at India with admiration. lungs. Our country is seen as a responsible global citizen, a I salute those families that gave up their subsidy. No growing economy, and a solution provider to various law or government order made them do what they did. international challenges – such as climate change, Their response came from within. disasters, conflicts, humanitarian crises, radicalism and We should draw inspiration from these families. terrorism. Each of us must find a way to give back to society. Each The Tokyo Olympics of 2020 offer another of us must choose one thing we can do to help another, opportunity for us to raise our standing in the world’s less-fortunate Indian. eyes. Over the coming three years, we should absorb ourselves in this national mission. Government agencies, The single most critical factor for building our sports bodies and business enterprises need to join nation is to equip our coming generation. We need to hands to identify and support our talented sportspersons ensure that not one child is left behind. As such I would and provide them world-class training facilities – so that urge you, as fellow nation builders, to help educate less- they can be even more successful in Tokyo. privileged children in our society. Help teach a child other than your own. Enrol and pay the school fees or As citizens and children of India – whether we live at home or abroad – we must ask ourselves how we can buy the books of at least one child other than your own. Just one! add to our country’s pride. Our India is at the door of great achievements. Fellow Citizens In a few years, we will become a fully literate society. It is natural for us to think of our families, but we We must set the bar higher, and aim to become a fully must also think of society. We must heed the call for educated society. that extra degree of selflessness, that extra something We are all stake-holders in this mission. If we beyond just duty. A mother who nurtures and brings up achieve it, our country will change before our eyes. And her child is not just doing a duty. She is displaying a we will become agents of this defining change. unique selflessness. Two thousand five hundred years ago Gautam • Our soldiers who guard our borders, on a hot Buddha said, “vIinhiksHko ... Be a lamp unto yourself …” If day in the desert or high up on a cold mountain, are not we follow his teachings, acting together, with the passion just doing their duty. They are displaying an extra degree of our freedom movement, we can collectively be the of selflessness 125 crore lamps that light up the path to a New India. • Our police and paramilitary forces that brave Once more, I wish all of you the very best on the death to combat terrorism or crime and keep us safe are eve of our 71st Independence Day. not just doing their duty. They are displaying an extra degree of selflessness Jai Hind • Our farmers who labour under extremely tough Vande Matram conditions to grow food to feed fellow Indians whom - PIB

6 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 President pays homage at Amar Jawan Jyoti

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind being received by the Union Minister for Defence Shri Arun Jaitley on his arrival at the Amar The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind laying wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate. Jawan Jyoti, India Gate, on the occasion of The three Service Chiefs: Admiral Sunil Lanba, General Bipin Rawat and Air Chief Marshal 71st Independence Day, in New Delhi B.S. Dhanoa are also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind paying homage at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate, signing the visitors’ book at the Amar Jawan on the occasion of 71st Independence Day, in New Delhi on August 15, 2017. The three Jyoti, India Gate, on the occasion of 71st Service Chiefs: Admiral Sunil Lanba, General Bipin Rawat and Air Chief Marshal B.S. Independence Day, in New Delhi on August Dhanoa are also seen. 15, 2017. Website for Gallantry Awardees since Independence launched An online portal dedicated to the gallantry award winners, bestowed since Independence was launched on August 15, 2017. The domain name of the portal is http://gallantryawards.gov.in. The website gives details of the Chakra Series awardees i.e., Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra. The portal contains information such as name, unit, year, citations and photographs of awardees till date. The Ministry of Defence welcomes any feedback or suggestion for further improvement. Nitin Wakankar Photos by DPR Defence

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 7 PM addresses Nation from the Ramparts of the Red Fort on 71st Independence Day

he Prime Minister, Shri Narendra TModi, addressed the Nation from the Ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 71st Independence Day on August 15, 2017. The Prime Minister recalled the great women and men who worked hard for India's freedom. He said the people of India stand shoulder to shoulder with those affected due to natural disasters, and the tragedy in Gorakhpur. The Prime Minister noted that the current year is special, because it marks the 75th anniversary of the Quit India Movement; the 100th anniversary of Champaran Satyagraha; and the 125th anniversary of the celebration of ‘Saarvjanik Ganesh Utsav’ – inspired by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The Prime Minister said that the Nation had shown its collective strength between 1942 and 1947, culminating in India’s Independence. He said that we must show the same to create a New India by 2022. equal in our nation, and together collective determination and resolve He emphasized that everyone is we can bring about a qualitative

8 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 and not job-seekers. Mentioning women who have to suffer due to Triple Talaq, the Prime Minister said that he admires the courage of those who have stood up against this practice, and added that the nation stands with them in their struggle. The Prime Minister said India stands for peace, unity, and harmony. He said casteism and communalism will not help us. He strongly condemned the use of violence in the name of faith, and said this will not be accepted in India. He said the call of the Quit India Movement was “Bharat Chhodo,” but the call today is “Bharat Jodo.” The Prime Minister said transformation. initiatives of financial inclusion. He significant attention is being paid The Prime Minister called for an emphasized that good governance to the development of eastern and is about speed and simplification of end to the “chalta hai” attitude of north-eastern India. He said the processes. On Jammu and Kashmir, complacency, and its replacement Government has taken India on the Prime Minister emphasized that with an attitude of “badal sakta hai” new tracks of development, without neither abuses, nor bullets, but only for positive change. slackening pace. embracing, can solve the problems Shri Narendra Modi said that in the State. (Na gaali se, na goli se, Quoting from scriptures, the India’s security is our priority, and parivartan hoga gale lagaane se). Prime Minister said that if we do not the surgical strike had underscored take the right step at the right time, Describing his vision for New this. He added that India’s stature we do not achieve desired results. He India, the Prime Minister said that in the world is rising, and several said this is the right time for ‘Team people would be the driving force countries are cooperating with India’ to resolve for ‘New India.’ India in fighting the menace of behind the establishment, rather terrorism. On demonetization, he than the other way around – Tantra He called for a New India said that those who have looted the se Lok nahin, Lok se tantra chalega. where the poor would have houses, nation, and the poor, are not able The Prime Minister appreciated and access to water and electricity; to sleep peacefully, and honesty is the farmers and the agriculture where farmers would be free from being celebrated today. He asserted scientists for record crop production worry, and would earn twice of what that the fight against black money this year. He said the Government they earn today; youth and women will continue, and technology will had procured 16 lakh tonnes of would get ample opportunities to help bring about transparency. pulses this year, far in excess of the fulfil their dreams; an India free from He encouraged people to further procurement of previous years. terrorism, communalism, casteism, corruption and nepotism; and an promote digital transactions. The Prime Minister said the India which is clean and healthy. The Prime Minister described changing nature of technology the implementation of GST as is resulting in the requirement of The Prime Minister announced a key illustration of cooperative different skill-sets for employment. the launch of a website to honour federalism. He said the poor are He also added that the youth is being gallantry award winners. joining the mainstream through nurtured to become job-creators, - PIB

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 9 Defence Minister’s message to the Armed Forces

ollowing is the text of Defence Minister Shri Arun Jaitley broadcast to the Armed Forces personnel Fover All India Radio on the eve of the 71st Independence Day:

My Dear Jawans, of whom are deployed far from their your morale high and to meet your The country will be celebrating homes in not only tough terrain but functional requirements. also in deep seas. our 71st Independence Day Despite our repeated requests tomorrow. On this momentous On this auspicious occasion, to our Western neighbour not to occasion, I extend my heartiest my thoughts and gratitude are with use our territory occupied by it not greetings and best wishes to each one the near and dear ones of all those only to train terrorists but also use of you serving in the Armed Forces. who laid down their lives protecting it as launch pad for pushing these I extend my greetings to all serving our nation. We are forever indebted militants into India, such nefarious personnel as well as ex-servicemen to them for their supreme sacrifice. activities continued. We ran out of of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Since the Armed Forces are at the patience as these terrorists were not the Coast Guard. I also extend my forefront of our nation’s defence, only targeting our Armed Forces but best wishes to the family members of I assure you that the Government also civilians. Based on specific and our Armed Forces personnel, many will do all that is necessary to keep credible inputs about some terrorist

10 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 teams having positioned themselves Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme launched a campaign to have a ‘Wall at launch pads along Line of Control started reaching the accounts of Ex- of Valour’ in 1,000 educational to carry out infiltration and conduct Servicemen and families since last institutions across the country in the terrorist strikes in Jammu and Kashmir year. Till July 10 this year, a sum Month of May. Portraits of Param Vir and in various metros in other of Rs 4,156 crores and Rs 2,385 Chakra decorated soldiers will be States, the Indian Army conducted crores have been paid towards first displayed at designated places on surgical strikes on 29 September last and second instalments of OROP educational campuses to instil sense year at several of these launch pads arrears to around 20,40,000 Ex- of nationalism among the students. to pre-empt infiltration by terrorists. Servicemen/family pensioners The operations were focussed on and 15,93,000 Ex-Servicemen I had privilege to inaugurate the ensuring that these terrorists did not respectively. Further, a sum of Rs Sainik Rest House at Naraina in New succeed in their design to cause 2,250 crores has also been paid to Delhi last month. It is built at a cost destruction and endanger the lives 15,13,000 Ex-Servicemen as third of around Rs 8 crore. I hope that this of our citizens. During these counter instalments of OROP arrears. The is the beginning of an initiative and terrorist operations significant Government is also sympathetically the KSB will be able to expand on casualties were caused to terrorists considering the report of the one- these in the years to come so that and those providing support to them. man judicial committee headed such facilities become an integral Even now our jawans continue by Justice L Narasimha Reddy on part of facilities for Ex-Servicemen. to be vigilant on the Line of OROP to look into the anomalies, if The facilities which have been Control, defending the nation, as any, arising out of implementation of created are extremely hygienic and our adversary continues with its OROP and will take decision soon. very liveable. The Armed Forces abhorrent acts. Some of our soldiers The government has enhanced have a tradition of maintaining their continue to make the supreme penury grant to non-pensioner Ex- properties and preserving them well. sacrifice while defending our Servicemen/Widows to Rs 4,000/- And I am sure that the kind of modest motherland. The nation is indebted per month from the existing rate of charges which have been fixed will to their martyrdom. Rs 1,000/- per month. We have be of a great assistance and value to The Government is committed approved the enhancement of the all serving and Ex-Servicemen. for the welfare of our jawans. The penury grant following the demands With these words, I once again Government has taken decision on by different stake holders, including extend my greetings to all of you recommendations of the 7th Central Ex-servicemen Associations, Rajya and your family members on the Pay Commission on Allowances, Sainik Boards, Ex-servicemen/ eve of 71st Independence Day. We widows. The grant is provided to non- which will benefit 14 lakh Defence fought long for our Independence pensioner Ex-servicemen/widows, Forces personnel. Some of these and became Independent nation in who are above 65 years of age by include, rates of Siachen Allowance which countless patriots immersed the Department of Ex-Servicemen for extreme risk and hardship themselves in the struggle so that the increased from Rs 14,000 per month Welfare through Kendriya Sainik new generation could live in a free to Rs 30,000 per month; Counter Board. It will benefit a large number India. The nation now looks to you to Insurgency Operations Allowance of non-pensioner Ex-servicemen and defend its borders with all your might increased from between Rs 3,000 widows who are virtually in a state and to the best of your strength & and 11,700 per month to between of penury. abilities so that all our people sleep Rs 6,000 and 16,900 per month. With the inspiration of Prime Territorial Army Allowance increased in peace tonight so that we all see a Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to new dawn together, tomorrow and from between Rs 175 and 450 per help create a spirit of respect for our month to Rs 1,000 and 2,000 per to take our country to new heights real heroes, my esteemed cabinet of peace and prosperity for all our month. colleague, Minister of Human people. The welfare of Ex-Servicemen Resource Development Shri Prakash has been paramount for the Javadekar and Minister of State for Jai Hind! government. The benefits of One Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre jointly - Nitin Wakankar

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 11 75th Raising Day of AFHQ Civilian Services

inister of State for Defence, Dr MSubhash Bhamre inaugurated the 75th raising day function of the Armed Forces Headquarters (AFHQ) Civilian Services on August 1, 2017. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Bhamre said that AFHQ civilian personnel have been standing firmly with the Armed Forces, providing them with the essential support and working for the safety of the nation with dedication and commitment, both in times of peace and war. He appreciated the administrative acumen and work culture of the cadre who have been working shoulder to shoulder with Service Personnel and providing them with the logistical support in manpower, quartering, material management, administration and Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre addressing the gathering at the inauguration human resources development. of the 75th Raising Day function of the Armed Forces Headquarters Civilian Services

Minister of State for Defence Dr Subhash Bhamre giving award to Smt Gauri Devi on the occasion of the 75th Raising Day function of the Armed Forces Headquarters Civilian Services

12 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre at the inauguration ceremony of the 75th Raising Day function of the AFHQ Civilian Services. Also seen in the picture (from left) are Director (HR) Shri Abhinavjeet Ojha, Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra and Joint Secretary & CAO Shri V Anandarajan. The service cadre came to existence when the office of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) was constituted in the Ministry of Defence on August 1, 1942 and all the civilians were brought under one Cadre Controlling Authority. Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra also addressed the function, which was organised at Mavalankar Hall in the Constitution Club of India. The Minister of State for Defence also gave away sports and cultural awards to outstanding personnel. Joint Secretary & CAO Shri V Anandarajan presented the Annual Report on the occasion. Minister of State for Defence giving award to Mr Rajnish on the occasion of the 75th - Nampibou Marinmai Raising Day function of AFHQ Civilian Services pix: GD Mehra

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 13 Gen Bipin Rawat Meets C-in-C Land Forces, Kazakhstan

en Bipin Rawat on a six Gday visit to Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan met Commander-in- Chief Land Forces of Kazakhstan and discussed with him various aspects of cooperation among the two armies. Both sides mutually agreed to take forward the joint exercise which is to be held at Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh this year in November 2017. Gen Rawat conveyed Indian support for deployment of Kazakhstan in UN Gen Bipin Rawat meeting the Commander-in-Chief of Land Forces of Kazakhstan on peacekeeping operations. August 3, 2017 Kazakhstan further sought assistance for capacity enhancement in the areas of counter insurgency operations, military education and training of cadets in India. COAS assured them of whole hearted support. He complimented the Kazakh Army for their professionalism as witnessed during the demonstration while visiting the 36 Air Assault Brigade. Gen Rawat later visited Turkmenistan.

- Col Aman Anand Gen Bipin Rawat at the Aselsan Engineering Defence Industrial Base.

Gen Bipin Rawat visits 36 Air Assault Brigade

14 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Chief of the Air Staff felicitates Flt Lt Shikha Pandey

hief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa Cfelicitated Flt Lt Shikha Pandey, a member of Indian Women's Cricket team in the recently concluded ICC Women’s World Cup. ICC Women's World Cup was held at England from June 24- July 23, 2017. Flt Lt Shikha Pandey played a pivotal role in the tournament for the Indian team to reach the final after a gap of 12 years. She took 3 wickets against South Africa and 2 wickets against England in the league matches. In the Semi Final against Australia, she took 2 wickets for 17 runs. Flt Lt Shikha Pandey was commissioned in IAF on June 30, 2012 as an Air Traffic Control Officer. She made her international debut in ICC T-20 World Cup which was conducted at Bangladesh in 2014. Since her debut, she has been a regular member of Indian Women's Cricket team. She is the first lady officer from the Services to represent the Indian Cricket team. Flt Lt Shikha Pandey was awarded Chief of the Air Staff Commendation by the Chief of the Air Staff who appreciated her performance and wished her success for future endeavours. - Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee pix: Vijay Kumar

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 15 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Maiden Participation of Indian Navy Band

he Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tis an international event of military music performance undertaken by the Armed Forces. In fact, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is the largest tattoo performed in the world in the majestic, sprawling stretch of Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, Scotland. The invitation to the Indian Navy Band to participate and perform in this prestigious event from August 1–26, 2017 is indeed a matter of pride and befitting recognition of the professional prowess of the Naval band. The participation of the Naval Band further cements the ties between the two countries, more so, when the Government of India and UK have announced 2017 as the India-UK Year of Culture to celebrate cultural ties and the 70th year of Indian Independence. The Indian Navy Band had been practicing hard from the last few months to further hone their skills to capture the hearts and minds of the music enthusiasts in this international event. The band comprising of one officer and 65 musician sailors performed under the leadership of Commander Vijay Charles D’Cruz, Director of Music (Navy) who is the Principal Conductor. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a well renowned event with over 50 bands participating, and nearly 8500 visitors attending the daily performances. Apart from India, bands from countries like Australia, France, Germany, Japan, etc, are also performing at the Tattoo this year. - Capt DK Sharma

16 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 17 'Maa Tujhe Pranam' team visits Naval Base Kochi

team of 65 students from A Madhya Pradesh accompanied by seven staff members visited Naval Base, Kochi on July 28, 2017. The visit was organised as part of 'Maa Tujhe Pranam' programme of the Department of Youth and Sports, Madhya Pradesh. The 'Maa Tujhe Pranam' programme is being organised by the Government of Madhya Pradesh since 2013-14 with a view to create awareness on security of our national borders and Armed Forces as well as to inculcate sense of patriotism and adventure amongst the youth. Naval Base, Kochi has been regularly hosting the youth from Madhya Pradesh since inception of

18 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 the programme. officers onboard about the nuances an opportunity to understand about The students visited INS Sharda of naval operations. Thereafter they various aircrafts used in the navy based at Kochi to understand the role visited the Seamanship School to operating from INS Garuda, the naval air station. The Maritime of a warship where they witnessed the be acquainted about sailboats and Museum at INS Dronacharya, Fort weaponry, equipment and systems seamanship activities. onboard. They were briefed by the Kochi was also part of the visit. The youth were also provided - Cdr Sridhar Warrier

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 19 Bridges of Friendship – Bangladesh Navy Officers visit INA

delegation of three midshipmen A and two officer cadets led by Lieutenant Commander Mirza Rashadul and Lieutenant M Merazul Islam Saimon of the Bangladesh Naval Academy visited Indian Naval Academy on July 26, 2017 for a period of four days. During this period the Officers, Midshipmen and cadets of Bangladesh Naval Academy were acquainted with training at the INA. A delegation of three midshipmen and two officer cadets led by Lieutenant Commander The aim of the visit was to Mirza Rashadul and Lieutenant M Merazul Islam Saimon of the Bangladesh Naval build bridges of friendship between Academy with Flag officers of Indian Naval Academy. the two navies and exchange best practices. The visit also gave INA staff an opportunity to learn and understand the training processes and philosophy that the Bangladesh Naval Academy follows. The BN Cadets were given ample opportunities to not only understand the functionality of INA, but to form bonds of friendship with INA Cadets. Towards this end, they were accommodated in the Cadets Squadrons, dined and played with Bangladesh Naval Academy delegation interacting with Flag officers of Indian Naval Academy the INA Cadets and also attended classes in the company of their INA counterparts. They were also exposed to God’s Own Country, Kerala through visits to places of historical and cultural interest in and around INA. It was a mutually satisfying and enriching experience for the young officers of both Navies and reaffirmed the universal truth that Oceans unite all Nations. - Lt Cdr RG Ajith Bangladesh Naval Academy delegation were acquainted with training at the INA.

20 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Bangladesh Naval Academy delegation were acquainted with Bangladesh Naval Academy delegation visit places of historical and training at the INA cultural interest in and around INA.

BN Cadets were given ample opportunities to not only understand the functionality of INA, but to form bonds of friendship with INA Cadets. Towards this end, they were accommodated in the Cadets Squadron, dined and played with the INA Cadets and also attended Bangladesh Naval Academy delegation pose for a group classes in the company of their INA counterparts. photograph at INA.

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 21 Independence Day Celebrations at Red Fort

n August 15, 2017 the Prime OMinister Shri Narendra Modi unfurled the National Flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 71st Independence Day. After unfurling the Tricolour, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Nation. On arrival at Lahori Gate of Red Fort, the Prime Minister was received by the Defence Minister Shri Arun Jaitley, Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre and Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi being received by the Union Minister for Defence, Shri Arun Jaitley, on his arrival at Red Fort, on the occasion of 71st Independence Day, in The Defence Secretary Delhi on August 15, 2017. The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre introduced the General Officer and the Defence Secretary, Shri Sanjay Mitra are also seen. Commanding, Delhi Area, Lt. Force and Delhi Police. The Guard Police contingent by ACP Ankit General Manoj Mukund Naravane of Honour was positioned directly in Chauhan. to the Prime Minister. The GOC front of the National Flag across the The Army contingent for the Delhi Area then conducted the Prime moat below the ramparts. Prime Minister's Guard was drawn Minister to the Saluting Base where a This year, the Army being the from the 8th Jammu & Kashmir Light combined Inter-Services and Police Coordinating Service, the Guard of Infantry (Siachen). The battalion was Guard presented general salute to Honour was commanded by Lt Col raised as the First Battalion Border the Prime Minister. Thereafter, Shri Dheeraj Singh of the Indian Army. Scouts by volunteers who took up Narendra Modi inspected the Guard The Army Contingent in the Prime arms in the aftermath of communal of Honour. Minister’s Guard was commanded passion and the smouldering embers The Guard of Honour by Major Sourav Goswami, the Navy of Partition to check the multitude of contingent for the Prime Minister contingent by Lt Cdr VV Krishnan, Kabailies intruding into Poonch on consisted of one officer and 24 while Sqn Ldr Salil Sharma led the December 18, 1947. ‘Born in Battle men each from the Army, Navy, Air Air Force contingent and the Delhi and Purified in Blood’, the battalion

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour at Red Fort, on the occasion of 71st Independence Day, in Delhi on August 15, 2017.

22 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 the Ashok Chakra (Posthumous). With this, the battalion joined the elite group of ‘Bravest of the Brave’ battalions. Apart from this, the battalion was once again conferred with the Chief of the Army Staff Unit Citation in 2009 for its splendid performance on the Line of Control in Jammu & Kashmir. The Battalion is presently one of the most decorated battalions of the Indian Army with Naib The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi walking towards the dais to address the Nation at Subedar Chuni Lal, Ashok Chakra the Red Fort, on the occasion of 71st Independence Day. (Posthumous), Vir Chakra, Sena was re-designated as eight Jammu Naib Subedar Chuni Lal, Vir Chakra, Medal as one of the most decorated & Kashmir Militia on April 15, 1948. Sena Medal, who laid down his soldiers. Presently, the Battalion is performing the prestigious duty In the 1971 War, the battalion life following the highest traditions of Ceremonial Army Guard to the was out numbered but never of the Indian Army while fighting President of India. outclassed in valour and fought the terrorists, was bestowed with the defensive battle successfully despite highest peacetime gallantry award, After inspecting the Guard the enemy’s passion for Chhamb. For this the battalion was awarded the Battle Honour – Laleali and Picquet 707. The Regiment was rechristened Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry on April 27, 1976. During the Siachen tenure in June 1987, the battalion created history by capturing ‘Quaid Post’ at an altitude of 21,153 feet, the highest battlefield in the world. The post was renamed as ‘Bana Top’ in honour of Naib Subedar Bana Singh, Param Vir Chakra. The battalion was awarded the Chief of the Army Staff Unit Citation in 2001 for its sterling performance in Jammu & Kashmir, Poonch Sector. The Battalion established the United Nations Mission in Sudan 2006 and was conferred with the United Nations Unit Citation in the year 2007 for handling the bloodiest of clashes ever in the history of Sudan. The battalion yet again proved its mettle during its 2008 tenure at The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi unfurling the Tricolour flag at the ramparts of Red Kupwara in Jammu & Kashmir when Fort, on the occasion of 71st Independence Day.

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 23 the Prime Minister. Lt Col Saket Bharadwaj from the Indian Army was in command of this Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard. The Naval Contingent for the National Flag Guard was commanded by Lt Cdr MYV Tejas, the Army contingent by Major Gerry Mathew, the Air Force contingent by Sqn Ldr Ravi Tomar and the Delhi Police contingent by Additional DCP Shri Rajiv Ranjan. The Army Band played the National Anthem when the National Guard presented the ‘Rashtriya Salute’ while unfurling the National Flag by the Prime Minister. All Service The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing the Nation on the occasion of 71st Independence Day from the ramparts of Red Fort. personnel in uniform stood and saluted. The Band was commanded of Honour, the Prime Minister Salute fired by the valiant gunners by Sub Maj Bhaskar Singh Rawat of proceeded to the ramparts of the of the elite 2281 Field Regiment the Military Band of the Garhwal Red Fort where he was greeted (Ceremonial). The ceremonial Rifles Regimental Centre. by the Defence Minister Shri Arun battery was commanded by Lt. Col Jaitley, the Minister of State for Aditya Kumar Devrani, Shaurya Two Army Officers, Capt Md Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre, the Chakra, Sena Medal and the Gun Hasseb Khan and Lt Vinay Budhwar Chief of the Army Staff General Position Officer Regimental Havildar were positioned on either side of the Bipin Rawat, the Chief of the Air Staff Major (Assistant Inspector, Gunnary) saluting dais for the Prime Minister Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa and Kolate Rajesh Shripati. for ADC duties. Lt Col Kanchan the Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral The National Flag Guard Kulhari assisted the Prime Minister in Sunil Lanba. The GoC Delhi area comprising 32 men and one officer unfurling the National Flag. conducted the Prime Minister to the each from the Army, Navy, Air The Army Contingent for the dais to unfurl the National Flag. Force and Delhi Police presented National Flag Guard was drawn The unfurling of the tri-colour the Rashtriya Salute at the time of from the 25th Battalion of the Rajput synchronized with the 21 Gun unfurling of the National Flag by Regiment.

24 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 The 25th Battalion of the Rajput Regiment was raised by IC-15798K Late Lieutenant Colonel JV Abraham on January 1, 1981 at Fatehgarh (Uttar Pradesh). The Rajput tricolor flew for the first time in the unit’s Quarter Guard on April 6, 1981 and the unit was presented with Colours on November 1, 1987. On completion of its raising on June 30, 1981; the battalion joined the 20 Infantry Brigade (18 Infantry Division) at Alwar on July 24, 1981. Since raising, the Battalion has participated in all operations of the Indian Army viz Operation Faulad, Operation Trident, Operation of Army Staff Commendation Card- 7 ready to RAM on REGARDLESS. Pawan, Operation Rhino, Operation and General Officer Commanding- The War Cry of the unit is “Bol Rakshak, Operation Vijay, in-Chief Commendation Card-41. Operation Parakaram, Operation Bajrang Bali Ki Jai, Hanuman Ke Aman, Operation Northern Borders The Battalion was awarded Hun Pyare.” & Operation Meghdoot with elan, the General Officer Commanding- After unfurling the National strong determination and earned in-Chief Southern Command and Flag, the Prime Minister addressed Northern Command Citations in the following awards in consecutive the Nation. After the Prime Minister's 2015 and 2017 for its sterling tenures for performing exceedingly address, school children and NCC performance in Alwar and Siachen well; these were Param Vishisht Seva Cadets sang the National Anthem. Medal- 1, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal- 3, Glacier respectively. Seven hundred cadets of Vishisht Seva Medal- 1, Yudh Seva The Battalion came on the orbat the National Cadet Corps drawn Medal- 2, Sena Medal- 7, Mention- of the “CHARGING RAM” Division from various schools of the in Despatches- 1, Chief of Army Staff on July 15, 2016 and since then, as Commendation Card-47 , Vice Chief part of offensive formations-always Delhi Directorate comprising the Army, Navy and Air Force wings participated in the flag hoisting ceremony this year. The cadets took part in the singing of patriotic songs and the National Anthem along with the school children. In total, 3,500 girl students and 5,000 boy students from 37 schools of Directorate of Education, Government of Delhi sung the National Anthem. They also sang patriotic songs in different regional languages during the celebrations. On the occasion these school children displayed the formation of ‘Bharat’. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi interacting with the school children after addressing the Nation, on the occasion of 71st Independence Day from the ramparts of Red Fort, in - Nitin Wakankar Delhi on August 15, 2017. Photos by DPR Defence

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 25 Raksha Bandhan celebrated at Command Hospital, Central Command Lucknow

he Command Hospital, Central Command Tcelebrated the festival of Raksha Bandhan in Lucknow Cantonment. To mark this occasion an event was organized at Command Hospital in collaboration with Delhi Public School, Shaheed Path, Lucknow. Teachers and students from school visited the Acute Medical Ward of the hospital where they celebrated the festival of Raksha Bandhan by tying Rakhis to soldiers of Indian Armed Forces and their relatives who are admitted in Young students of DPS, Shaheed Path celebrating Raksha Bandhan the hospital. by tying Rakhi to the patients of medical ward of Command On this memorable occasion students prayed for Hospital the well being of patients and offered them sweets. Many patients were so overwhelmed by emotions that they could not control their tears. Patients and their relatives

Children of DPS, tying Rakhi to the patients of male oncology ward of Command Hospital took a pledge to protect the children from bad elements of society. At the end of event, Commandant of the Young girls of DPS, Shaheed Path gifting Rakhi Card to a patient in hospital, Maj Gen Vibha Dutta, thanked the teachers the medical ward of Command Hospital, on the occasion of Raksha and blessed the children for their nice gesture. Bandhan - Gargi Malik Sinha

Girl students of DPS, along with the teachers and staff of Command Hospital, celebrating Raksha Bandhan at male oncology ward

26 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Army Recruitment Rally at Karu

n Army Recruitment Rally was Aorganised from July 19-23, 2017 at Karu for Soldier (General Duty), Soldier (Clerk/SKT), Soldier (Tradesmen) and Soldier (Tech) categories. A record 375 candidates registered online for this rally. Candidates were also allowed to report direct on D-Day so as to allow maximum participation of youth in the Rally. Candidates from Leh & Kargil district of Jammu & Kashmir appeared for selection in the Rally. The main thrust throughout was to achieve 100% transparency in the selection process. Media played an important role in their continued support in disseminating information about the Rally to the youth of Leh and Kargil districts who turned up in record number. Brig PS Bhatti, Commander, Trishul Gunners, flagged off the Rally on behalf of Trishul Division. 330 Field Regiment was responsible for the conduct of the Rally. Colonel Arunashish Sanyal, Commanding Officer, 330 Field Regiment and his team were assisted by Leh district administration and other station units of Trishul Division. The overwhelming turnout of the local youth is manifestation of the contribution of the Ladakhi youth towards national military might. - Maj Amit Kumar Choubey

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 27 Air Technical Officers Inducted into Navy & Coast Guard

5 ‘Engineer’ officers from the Navy and three from 1the Coast Guard joined the “Aviation Arm” of the respective service on successful completion of the 55th Air Engineering and Air Electrical Officers Specialisation Course at Naval Base, Kochi. A ceremonial Passing Out Parade was held on the occasion at Naval Institute of Aeronautical Technology (NIAT), Naval Base, Kochi on July 27, 2017 which was reviewed by Rear Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, the Chief Staff Officer (Training) of Southern Naval Command. Lieutenant Deepak Bamola and Sub Lieutenant Aditya Verma were awarded trophies for standing first in the overall order of merit amongst Air Engineer and Air Electrical Officers respectively. The Director General

Coast Guard trophy for best all round officer of the First in overall order of merit- Best Air Engineer Officer Trophy- course was awarded to Lieutenant Arun R Pisharody, being awarded to Lieutenant Deepak Bamola whereas the Venduruthy Shield for Best Air Technical Project was awarded to Asst Comdt Prasanjeet Nath and The officers have been appointed to frontline Lieutenant Saril T Babu. squadrons at air stations, wherein, on completion of On Rear Admiral Swaminathan, while congratulating Job Training (OJT) they would be eligible for award of award winner of the passing out course, highlighted M Tech degree under the aegis of Cochin University of the pivotal role to be played by the young Air Technical Science and Technology (CUSAT). Officers in ensuring high standards of maintenance and Captain Yogesh C Pandey, Director NIAT, optimum exploitability of state-of-the art flying machines conducted the parade. presently in service viz. MiG29K, P8I & AJT Hawk. - Cdr Sridhar Warrier

Rear Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, CSO (Training) of SNC reviewing Passing Out Parade

28 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Workshop on expressive arts therapy at Army Public Schools

s Chandni Sharma, an MExpressive Arts therapist conducted workshop for the students of Army Public Schools, RK Puram and Bolarum, Secunderabad. Expressive Arts therapy is the use of visual art, music, dance/movement, drama, poetry/expressive writing, play and sand tray within the context of psychotherapy, counselling, rehabilitation or health care. The therapist and client move freely between these varied arts modalities during the sessions. Students wholeheartedly participated in the wokshop which on the process of creation rather final year Psychology Honors student will better equip them to deal with than the aesthetic appeal of the at LSR College, New Delhi and life challenges. The Principals and final product, unlike in traditional hopes to complete her doctorate in the management are attempting at art forms. It is about reclaiming our Clinical Psychology. enhancing the mental discipline and innate capacity as human beings for Major General N Srinivas Rao, happiness quotient of the children. creative expression of our individual General Officer Commanding This form of therapy is based and collective human experience in (GOC), Telangana and Andhra on the premise that people can an artistic form. Sub Area (TASA) complimented the heal and ensure their well-being Ms Chandni Sharma is an management, staff and Principals of through the use of imagination Expressive Arts Therapist licensed by both the Schools for their continued and the various forms of creative Conseil International de la Danse efforts at achieving excellence. expression. Ms Chandni emphasises CID-UNESCO (France), and is a - B Satheesh Kumar

Ms Chandni Sharma conducts a workshop on “Expressive Arts therapy” for the students of Army Public Schools, RK Puram and Bolarum in Sucunderabad on August 5, 2017

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 29 Veteran Sailor's Forum Meet at Indian Naval Academy Veer Naris of Ex-Sailors of 1946 Naval Uprising felicitated

ix Widows of the erstwhile Royal SIndian Navy (RIN) sailors who took part in the RIN Mutiny of 1946 were honoured by Indian Navy on July 29, 2017 at a grand felicitation function held at Indian Naval Academy. The felicitation function was held to recognise the services of the RIN sailors who were dismissed from service by the erstwhile British Empire for their involvement in the rebellion. On behalf of Indian Navy, Vice Admiral SV Bhokare, Commandant, INA presented an honorarium of Rs One lakh to each Veteran sailor’s widow during the function conducted under the aegis of INS Zamorin.

Members of Veteran Sailor’s Members of Veteran Sailor’s Forum (VSF) and Veer Naaries of the erstwhile Royal Indian Forum (VSF) were also present in Navy (RIN) sailors who took part in the RIN Mutiny of 1946 being welcomed at INA large number during the felicitation function. VSF, founded on 10 April venture for charitable, social and Indian Navy decided to provide 2008 is registered under Societies philanthropic causes. The Chief of financial assistance of Rs One Lakh Registration Act XXI 1860 aims Naval Staff is the Patron-in-Chief of to each of the participants. A total of to provide focused attention to the VSF. 18 widows of erstwhile Royal Indian ex-sailors, their dependents and During the 6th and 7th Annual Navy (RIN) sailors have been paid widows on welfare related issues. General Meeting of the VSF, a need an honorarium of Rs One lakh each. They also strive to assist them in their to financially support the widows of The Naval Uprising, which re-settlement and provide assistance RIN Sailors who participated in the lasted five days, began at the to the needy and help them in their 1946 Naval Uprising was felt and Bombay harbour on 18 February

Veer Naaries and Next of Kin of the erstwhile Royal Indian Navy (RIN) sailors who took part in the RIN Mutiny of 1946 with Members of Veteran Sailor’s Forum (VSF) and Officers of INA during the felicitation function

30 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Widows and Next of Kin (NOK) of the erstwhile Royal Indian Navy (RIN) sailors who took part in the RIN Mutiny of 1946 were honoured by Indian Navy. On behalf of Indian Navy, Vice Admiral SV Bhokare, Commandant, INA presented an honorarium of Rs One lakh to each Veteran sailor’s widows and their NOK during the function conducted under the aegis of INS Zamorin 1946, and soon spread to the then Calcutta and Madras before it was suppressed. Hundreds of sailors were discharged from service. Many of the communication branch RIN Sailors belonging to the state of Kerala played a major role in the uprising. This mutiny by Indian sailors of the RIN convinced the British that they would find it extremely difficult to control India should armed forces personnel also start to rebel against their rule and hence became a critical event to convince the British

Officers and sailors of INA and INS Zamorin interacting with the veteran sailors and Veer to grant Independence to India. Naaries during the felicitation function conducted under the aegis of INS Zamorin at INA. - Lt Cdr RG Ajith

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 31 Independence Day Gallantry Awards and other Decorations

he President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces has approved 112 Gallantry Awards Tto Armed Forces Personnel and members of Paramilitary Forces which include five Kirti Chakras, 17 Shaurya Chakras, 85 Sena Medals (Gallantry), three Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry) and two Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry). KIRTI CHAKRA 1. IC-73531A MAJOR PREETAM SINGH KUNWAR, 4TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLE, ARMY 2. 5047602N HAVILDAR GIRIS GURUNG, FOURTH BATTALION THE FIRST GORKHA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS), ARMY 3. SS-43887Y MAJOR DAVID MANLUN, THE NAGA REGIMENT, 164 INFANTRY BATTALION (TERRITORIAL ARMY) (HOME & HEARTH), NAGA (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 4. SHRI PRAMOD KUMAR, COMMANDANT, 49 BN, CRPF (POSTHUMOUS) MHA 5. CHETAN KUMAR CHEETA, COMMANDANT, CRPF MHA SHAURYA CHAKRA 1. IC-71967M MAJ SATISH DAHIYA, ASC, 30 RR (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 2. SS-42717H MAJ GOSAVI KUNAL MUNNAGIR, ARTY, 166 MED REGT (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 3. JC-580725N SUB SHABIR AHMED, 17 JAK RIF ARMY 4. JC-414170P NB SUB SURENDRA SINGH, 4 PARA (SF) ARMY 5. 4188533W NK CHANDRA SINGH, KUMAON SCOUTS, 13 RR (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 6. 4578033Y L/NK RAGHUBEER SINGH, MAHAR, 1 RR (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 7. 13767992A L/NK KASHMIR SINGH, JAK RIF ARMY 8. 15687392W L/NK BHANDORIYA GOPALSINH MUNIMSINH, SIGS, 1 RR (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 9. 2616368W SEP VENKATARAO ABOTULA, 8 MADRAS ARMY 10. 2708834A SEP ARIF KHAN, GREN, 55 RR ARMY 11. PID-036364 CONST MANZOOR AHMAD NAIK, J&K POLICE, 42 RR (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 12. 5250886X LANCE NAIK DEEPAK ALE, FIRST BATTALION THE THIRD GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 13. 15225911X GUNNER RISHI KUMAR RAY, REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY/155 FIELD REGIMENT ARMY 14. SHRI CHANDAN KUMAR, ASSISTANT COMMANDANT (IRLA : 9056), CRPF MHA 15. SHRI AMAR NATH MISHRA, CONSTABLE MHA 16. SHRI P. TRINADHA RAO, ASSISTANT ASSAULT COMMANDER, ANDHRA PRADESH MHA 17. CH. G.V. RAMACHANDRA RAO, SENIOR COMMANDO (5966), ANDHRA PRADESH MHA SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. IC-61402N COLONEL SAMARJIT RAY, 4TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLE ARMY 2. IC-64544W MAJ AMIT CHAMOLI, KUMAON, 50 RR ARMY 3. IC-65751P LT COL ARUNKUMAR M, 21 SIKH REGT ARMY 4. IC-66326W MAJ, BHRAGU RAJ JANI, GARH RIF, 14 RR ARMY 5. IC-68500W MAJ VARUN MAANDI, PUNJAB, 22 RR ARMY 6. IC-68757F MAJ SAURABH CHAUDHURY, 2/5 GR ARMY 7. IC-69813F MAJ SUNIL SINGH, KUMAON, 13 RR ARMY 8. IC-70536N MAJ ABHIJIT DEORI, 20 DOGRA ARMY 9. IC-70597L MAJ PARINAY BANSAL, SIKH LI, 19 RR ARMY 10. IC-71085L MAJ ANOGH KUMAR CHANDA, ASSAM, 35 RR ARMY 11. IC-71390X MAJ SEKHAR KUMAR, EME, 5 RR ARMY 12. IC-71459W MAJ MOHIT GREWAL, ASC, 18 RR ARMY 13. IC-71508N MAJ ADITYA VIKRAM SINGH, MECH INF, 13 AR ARMY

32 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 14. IC-71834W MAJ DEEPAK KUMAR UPADHYAY, SC, 9 PARA (SF) ARMY 15. IC-72543H MAJ S ARUN, JAK RIF, 3 RR ARMY 16. IC-72692W MAJ RISHI R, MECH INF, 42 RR ARMY 17. IC-73258W MAJ MALAY BAIDYA, KUMAON, 13 RR ARMY 18. IC-73515H MAJ BISHAL SINGH THAPA, KUMAON, 13 RR ARMY 19. IC-74906A MAJ PRADEEP KUMAR NIGAM, MAHAR, 1 RR ARMY 20. IC-75642W MAJ MANISH KUMAR YADAV, ENGRS, 3 RR ARMY 21. IC-75660Y MAJ ANKIT HARJAI, ARMD, 22 RR ARMY 22. SC-00640K MAJ JASBIR SINGH, ARMD, 38 AR ARMY 23. SS-42867Y MAJ SUMEER SINGH, 9 PARA (SF) ARMY 24. SS-45482M MAJ PEEYOOSH PANDEY, ENGRS, 1 RR ARMY 25. IC-77334P CAPT PRASOON SHARMA, 9 PARA (SF) ARMY 26. IC-78348F CAPT SARANGTHEM SHYAM, 2 PARA (SF) ARMY 27. IC-78817Y CAPT MITENDER YADAV, 21 MAHAR ARMY 28. IC-79353Y CAPT JAIDEEP RAWAT, 20 DOGRA ARMY 29. IC-80787L CAPT JASDEEP SINGH, 1/1 GR ARMY 30. SS-44873L CAPT MANOJ MALIK, AAD, 107 AD REGT ARMY 31. SS-44990W CAPT RAKESH NAIR, ARMD, 22 RR ARMY 32. SS-45306P CAPT UMESH LAMBA, 1 PARA (SF) ARMY 33. SS-47626H CAPT AJIT LIMBU, 1/5 GR (FF) ARMY 34. JC-603041M SUB SHITAL PRASAD PUNN, 1/1 GR ARMY 35. JC-501049L NB SUB BALWINDER SINGH, 22 SIKH ARMY 36. JC-608107F NAIB SUBEDAR RAVIN KHANDAL, FIRST BATTALION THE THIRD GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 37. 2486816L HAV PRADEEP KUMAR, 21 PUNJAB ARMY 38. 4000066P HAV MADAN LAL, 20 DOGRA (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 39. 4076879Y HAVILDAR BRIJENDRA LAL, 4TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLE ARMY 40. 4368172L HAV L PONGCHAI KONYAK, ASSAM, 35 RR ARMY 41. 5046806N HAVILDAR DAMAR BAHADUR PUN , FOURTH BATTALION THE FIRST GORKHA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 42. 13760447N HAV MOHD HUSSAIN, 17 JAK RIF ARMY 43. 13760972K HAV ISHWAR SINGH, JAK RIF, 3 RR ARMY 44. 13764171A HAV ASHOK KUMAR, 9 PARA (SF) ARMY 45. 3396369F L/HAV DAVINDER SINGH, 17 SIKH (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 46. 13623331L L/HAV RAM KUMAR, 20 DOGRA ARMY 47. 13764330M L/HAV RAISHAM SINGH, JAK RIF, 52 RR ARMY 48. 2804152M NK TUPARE RAJENDRA NARAYAN, 22 MLI (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 49. 3197436K NK KULDEEP SINGH, 18 JAT ARMY 50. 3999686L NK RADHA KRISHAN, DOGRA, 62 RR ARMY 51. 4084852W LANCE NAIK SUKHPAL SINGH, 4TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLE ARMY 52. 4192682F NK BHAGWAN SINGH RAUTELA, KUMAON, 50 RR ARMY 53. 4192720M NK PRAMOD KUMAR KANYAL, KUMAON, 13 RR ARMY 54. 4195610H NK HARISH SINGH CHUPHAL, KUMAON, 13 RR ARMY 55. 4573939A NK REVAT SINGH, MAHAR, 1 RR ARMY

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 33 56. 4574373K NK RAMBEER SINGH RAJPUT, MAHAR, 30 RR ARMY 57. 9108390L NK JAWEED AHMAD BHAT, 9 PARA (SF) ARMY 58. 12984405N NK NASEER AHMAD MIR, TA, 163 INF BN (TA) (H&H) ARMY 59. 13625978X NK NANDA PRASAD, 4 PARA (SF) ARMY 60. 14932294Y NK DILEEP KUMAR SINGH, MECH INF, 5 RR ARMY 61. 15337560P NK CHITTARANJAN DEBBARMA, 51 ENGR REGT (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 62. 2497303W L/NK PANJAB SINGH, 21 PUNJAB ARMY 63. 3004193L L/NK HANS RAM, 3 RAJPUT ARMY 64. 4005617Y L/NK RAKESH KUMAR, 20 DOGRA ARMY 65. 5049793M L/NK LAL BAHADUR THAPA, 4/1 GR (ATT WITH 35 RR) ARMY 66. 5456130X L/NK RAJU CHETRY, 1/5 GR (FF) ARMY 67. 15169808X L/NK SAIKHEDE SAGAR ASHOK, ARTY, 13 RR ARMY 68. 2503753M SEP PARAMJEET, PUNJAB, 54 RR ARMY 69. 3007786H SEP BHAG SINGH, 3 RAJPUT ARMY 70. 3010595Y SEP PANKAJ SINGH, RAJPUT, 44 RR ARMY 71. 3200871M SEP VISHAL CHAUDHARI, 18 JAT (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 72. 3202262F SEP BABALOO SINGH, 18 JAT (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 73. 3209481L SEP VICKY, 18 JAT ARMY 74. 14848055Y SEP AJOY SARKAR, ASC, 30 RR ARMY 75. 14937791M SEP NEERAJ KUMAR, MECH INF, 35 RR ARMY 76. 5050884H LATE RIFLEMAN RABIN SHARMA, FOURTH BATTALION THE FIRST GORKHA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 77. 5251505X RIFLEMAN BED SINGH RANA, FIRST BATTALION THE THIRD GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 78. 13770563K RFN ANGRAZ SINGH, JAK RIF, 52 RR ARMY 79. 13770572L RFN RAVI KUMAR, JAK RIF, 31 RR (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 80. 13777554L RFN ABHINASH RAI, 17 JAK RIF ARMY 81. G/5006436W RFN RUHITESWAR CHANGMAI, 16 ASSAM RIFLE ARMY 82. G/5013646Y RFN KHAMPAI WANGSU, 13 ASSAM RIFLE (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 83. G/5016453K RFN AMARNATH S, 28 ASSAM RIFLE ARMY 84. 13776342N PTR VIKRANT PARIHAR, 1 PARA (SF) ARMY 85. 4092134P PTR JAYVEER SINGH, 9 PARA (SF) ARMY NAO SENA MEDAL(GALLANTRY) 1. LT PUSHPINDER TYAGI (07452-K) NAVY 2. JASKARAN SINGH, CH MECH (122343-B) NAVY 3. AZHAR AZHARUDDIN, SEA II CD III (237737-N) NAVY VAYU SENA MEDAL(GALLANTRY) 1. WING COMMANDER SUBHASH SINGH RAO (25827) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 2. WING COMMANDER RAVINDER AHLAWAT (26300) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE

The President has also awarded 40 Mention-in-Despatches to Army/Air Personnel for their significant contributions in different military operations which include two for ‘Operation Meghdoot’, 32 for ‘Operation Rakshak’, four for ‘Operation Orchid and one each for Army Headquarters and Air Force. - Nitin Wakankar

34 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Capacity Building Tour for farmers

ieutenant General PJS Pannu LGeneral Officer Commanding, Fire and Fury Corps flagged off a delegation of 25 farmers of Durbuk block area on a 10 day Capacity Building Tour to Dharamsala under “Operation Sadbhavana”. The delegation embarked on the tour on August 1, 2017 and visited Agricultural University, Palampur, Dharamsala amongst other places of interest in the area. In a grand send off ceremony held at Leh, the GOC expressed Army and the people of Ladakh. empower the locals of this enchanted his happiness on the tour and said Under the stewardship of Lt Gen PJS that this tour will further strengthen land. Pannu, a large number of programs the strong relationship between the have been launched to facilitate and - Col Rajesh Kalia Indian Air Force conducted band concert to commemorate Independence Day

ndian Air Force conducted a Band Concert at create awareness about the IAF, through the sound of IForum Sujana Mall in Hyderabad to commemorate music. The AF Band symbolizes teamwork, harmony, Independence Day. The concert was organised under ethos and dedication of an air warrior to his profession. the aegis of Air Force Station Begumpet with the co- Air Warrior Musicians of No. 3 Air Force Band operation by Department of Tourism, Government of have performed across the world in countries like United Telangana. Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, The No 3 Air Force Band performing the concert, Thailand, Sri-Lanka and Bangladesh. They have also is housed at Air Force Academy, Dundigal since 1971. participated in International Military Music Festival in It has 22 musicians who play brass, wood-wind, reed Finland, France, Italy and recently at Malaysia. The IAF string, electronic and percussion instruments. The Band, with its scintillating performance has enchanted objective of AF Band is to interact with the people and the audience at home and abroad. The band is equally capable of playing the military music and also the patriotic and popular tunes of Hindi songs. Music has been soul-stirring accompaniment to men in arms, acting as a means of exciting passion for advancing soldiers. Military bands enliven the spirit, strengthen the mood and help in promoting pride and camaraderie. The Indian Air Force has a strong tradition of its own when it comes to Military Music and Musicians. - B Satheesh Kumar

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 35 Squash, Badminton and Tennis Championship at INA

he finals of open Squash, TBadminton and Tennis Championship for Autumn Term 2017 were conducted at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala from July 20–22, 2017. A total of 65 cadets from all six squadrons of the Academy competed in knockout round matches for the coveted Championship Medals. Cadet Mayank Kumar of Cheetah Squadron won the Gold medal in finals of Open Squash Championship match. Cadet Shubhangi Swaroop of Braveheart Squadron won the Gold medal Head of Faculty (Basic Science and Badminton Championship in finals of Open Badminton and Humanities), INA, Captain respectively. They congratulated the Championship match and Cadet Arjun Dev Nair, PD (Training), INA winning cadets and emphasised the Irfan Husain of Fighter Squadron and Captain Sumantra Hazarika, importance of actively pursuing a won the Gold medal in finals Training Captain (Design), INA sport of choice to remain fighting fit of Open Tennis Championship presented the individual medals to throughout their Naval Career. match. Commodore Arul Selvam, the proud winners of Squash, Tennis - Lt Cdr RG Ajith Kargil Vijay Diwas Celebrations at Military Station Kanpur

argil Vijay Diwas was celebrated Kwith high fervor and enthusiasm at Kanpur Military Station on July 26, 2017 to pay tribute to the Martyrs and Commemorate the 19th Anniversary of 1999 Indo-Pak Kargil War. The ceremony organised at Heritage Park, Kanpur Brigade started with the wreath laying at the memorial followed by a felicitation of Veer Naris and Ex-Servicemen along with tea and informal interaction. Brigadier VM Sharma, Station Commander, Military Station Kanpur along with all Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Jawans posted in Kanpur Station and NCC Cadets were present on the occasion. - Gargi Malik Sinha

36 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Plantation Drive in CAD Pulgaon

entral Ammunition Depot, CPulgaon organised a mega plantation drive at Nachangaon area, on defence land, where fifteen thousand saplings were planted on July 22, 2017. Approximately 800 combatant and civilian employees of the Depot participated in the mega plantation drive . 24500 pits were dug in various pockets of the military station, and trees were planted in a phased manner in these pits. The saplings Brigadier Sanjay Sethi, Commandant, CAD Pulgaon along with military officers of CAD, were planted along the Deep Pulgaon at Mega Tree Plantation drive Continuous Contour Trench (CCT) Brigadier Sanjay Sethi, departments were also present on dug in the area, thus ensuring high Commandant, CAD Pulgaon the occasion. The drive was a part of survivability of the plants. CCT were along with all military officers of multiple ecological initiatives taken dug for a length of 108000 meter in CAD Pulgaon led the plantation up by the Depot administration in an area of 407 hectares with the aim drive. District collector Mr Shailesh the recent past. of improving ground water recharge. Nawal and officials of agricultural - Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar Army Red Team, Champions of 67th Inter Services Water Polo Championship

he ASC Training Centre (South), Red, Army Green, Indian Air Force the National tournaments was also Bengaluru conducted the and Indian Navy teams participated T declared during the ceremony. The 67th Inter-Services Water Polo in the prestigious Championship. Championship-2017 from July 18, Lieutenant General Vipan Gupta, closing ceremony included a Best 2017. Army Red team emerged Commandant ASC Centre & College Physique show. winners defeating the Air Force was the Chief Guest. The Services team by 9 – 7 goals. The Army team which will now participate in - Shivaram Pailoor

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 37 Baling Plant for protection of environment by Red Shield Division

Tetra Pak compacting plant was A inaugurated on July 15, 2017 at Leimakhong Military station by Brigadier SKS Chauhan, Deputy General Officer Commanding, Red Shield Division. The ceremony was attended by Army officials and Mr Pravin Mallick, Environment Director, Tetra Pak South Asia Markets. With setting up of this Baling machine plant, Red Shield Division has taken another step towards its efforts to promote conservation and environment protection and recycle the cartons, the plant can also be used to compress other subsequent recycling waste materials like Mallick, Environment Director, Tetra system for used cartons across the plastic bottles, cardboard cartons, Pak South Asia Markets said that country. The company has provided newspapers etc, with support from Tetra Pak cartons are fully recyclable the compacting machine for this and can be recycled into various Tetra Pak India Pvt Ltd, said Deputy plant and will continue to provide General Officer Commanding, Red useful products like desks, benches, technical expertise and support to Shield Division. Milk in Tetra Pak roof sheets and notebooks. Tetra Pak cartons is supplied to troops as part Ltd has invested ahead of the curve the project. of their entitled ration. Mr Pravin to build a sustainable recycling eco- - Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma Tree Plantation Drive: 2017

Q Purva UP & MP Sub Area complexes, in residential areas GOC Purva UP & MP Sub Area, Major Horganized a tree plantation drive and public places, wherein army General SK Singh said this drive is Go Green in Allahabad Station. personnel, school children, residents aimed to protect the environment for This plantation drive was organized of cantonment along with their the future generations and increase simultaneously in the school, office families took part in large numbers. the greenery in the cantonment. He further added that “it is even more important to ensure the maintenance and care of these plants as part of our solemn duty to conserve the flora”. Mrs Bala Singh, Chairperson, Family Welfare Organization, Allahabad Sub Area also participated in the event. It was very heartening to see the active participation by the Army and civil defence employees for the noble cause. - Gp Capt BB Pande

38 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Convocation Ceremony of NCC Cadets

convocation ceremony for all NCC cadets who A have successfully completed three years of rigorous training and have qualified for the ‘C’ certificate was held on July 21, 2017. The convocation ceremony, a first of its kind in the state, was solemnised at Seminar Hall No. 4, Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar on July 21,. A total of 775 cadets were felicitated ‘C’ certificate by Major General Subhash Sharan Addl Director General NCC Gujarat, Dadra Nagar Haveli & Diu. Outstanding Associate NCC Officers and NCC Instructors including Girls Cadet Instructors were also awarded prizes on the occasion. The award winning cadets in various categories had been selected based on their overall performance during the course of their training. The programme was attended by Vice Chancellors The NCC convocation ceremony was a great of universities to whom the Cadets belonged, Heads source of inspiration to all the present and aspiring NCC of Institutes of National and International repute, NCC Cadets. officers, ANOs, and proud Parents of the cadets. - Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman Managing Director of ECHS calls on GOC, TASA

ajor General Ashok Kumar, MManaging Director, Ex- Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) visited regional centre, Hyderabad and Polyclinics in Secunderabad and Hyderabad from July 28-31, 2017. The General Officer called on Major General N Srinivas Rao, General Officer Commanding (GOC) at Headquarters, Telangana & Andhra Sub Area (TASA) where aspects related to Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme were discussed with an aim to enhance its reach and for the benefit of the Ex- Servicemen in Telangana & Andhra Pradesh. The Managing Director assured of his full commitment and support to resolve the issues. - B Satheesh Kumar

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 39 Raising of Infantry Batallion (Territorial Army)Ecological For Marathwada Region

n “In Principle Approval” has Abeen accorded for raising an Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Ecological under the aegis of Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army) at Aurangabad for carrying out afforestation and allied activities in consultation with Forest Department, Government of Maharashtra, for the Marathwada region. The foundation stone laying ceremony was carried out Speaker of Legislative Assembly Integrated Headquarters of Ministry at Khultabad (approximate 20 Government of Maharashtra, Dr of Defence (Army). Kilometers from Aurangabad) by Purushottam Bhapkar (IAS) Divisional Later in the day, a large number Forest Minister of Maharashtra, Commissioner Aurangabad, Mr PK of Army personnel, National Cadet Mr Sudhir Mungantiwar on July 4, Mahajan (IFS) Chief Conservator Corps cadets, representatives of 2017. of Forest Department, Colonel Cantonment Board and State Forest The event was followed by Rameshwar Sharma, Station department joined hands in carrying plantation of 3000 saplings jointly Headquarters Aurangabad, Colonel by Army personnel, State Forest Venkatesh P, Deputy Commander, out plantation of saplings in the Department and others present at Territorial Army Group Headquarters reclaimed area in Aurangabad the site. The event was witnessed Southern Command and one Cantonment. by Mr Hari Bhau Bagade (IAS) Staff Officer from TA Directorate, - Mahesh Iyengar Raising of 27th Battalion the Mechanised Infantry Regiment

n July 17, 2017, a new chapter Chief, Southern Command and Centre and Brig Anurag Vij, Ohas been added after 23 years Colonel of the Regiment Mechanised Station Commander, Aurangabad in the history of Mechanised Infantry Infantry, Lieutenant General alongwith a number of veterans and with the raising of the 27th Battalion Vishwambhar Singh, General civil dignitaries. at Bhusaval (Maharashtra). This Officer Commanding, Maharashtra 27 Mechanised Infantry momentous occasion was graced Gujarat and Goa Area, Brigadier Battalion has been raised under by Lieutenant General PM Hariz, Subramaniam, Commandant, the able leadership of Colonel Ajay General Officer Commanding-in- Mechanised Infantry Regimental Singh Rathore and equipped with the formidable Anti-tank platform, the BMP-II. The missile fired from this platform is known to have one of the highest Single Shot Kill Probability. The Battalion will soon be joining the ranks of the already deployed battalions astutely devoted to the defence of the Nation. The Nation and the Indian Army wishes success to the unit in all their endeavours. - Mahesh Iyengar

40 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017 Appointments

ieutenant General Cherish Mathson took over as Army Commander of South Western Army Lon August 1,2017. The General is an alumnus of Sainik School, Trivandrum (Kerala). He was commissioned into the Infantry-The Garhwal Rifles in June 1980. He is a graduate from the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. The General Officer has considerable experience in varied operational assignments across India. He has fought in rural and urban insurgency/ terrorism situations in Mizoram against Mizo National Front (MNF) and in Operation Bluestar in Amritsar. He has commanded his Battalion on the Line of Control with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir, during Operation Parakram. He has served two tenures on the Siachen Glacier, the World’s Highest Battlefield. He has commanded the Trivandrum Brigade which he transformed to an Amphibious Role (akin to US Marines). Later he commanded the Infantry Division in Hyderabad. He has also headed the Special Frontier Force (an Airborne Force which is directly under the PMO) operationally deployed on the Eastern & Northern borders of India against China. His last assignment was to command the Sudarshan Chakra Strike Corps as part of the Southern Command. ieutenant General Abhay Krishna, took over the reins of Eastern Command on August 1, L2017. A Graduate of the 56th course at the National Defence Academy and 66th course at Indian Military Academy, was commissioned into the Rajputana Rifles on June 7, 1980. He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Army War College (Higher Command Course), Mhow and the National Defence College, New Delhi. During his 37 years of distinguished Army Career, he has gained varied experience of commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion in Counter Insurgency Operations in Manipur as well in Kargil conflict and and Infantry Battalion in High Altitude Area. He spearheaded a Brigade as part of strike formation in deserts. The General Officer commanded Striking Lion Division in Sikkim and later Spear Corps in the North East, which gives him an unparalleled understanding of the dynamics of the North Eastern region. Lieutenant General Abhay Krishna has been an ambassador of Indian Army in various United Nations missions as a Military Observer in United Nation Peace Keeping Force in Mozambique (UNUMOZ) and Rwanda (UNAMIR). He also has the distinction of donning the appointment of Chief of Staff of United Nation Force at Burundi (ONUB). The General officer has a multifaceted persona, is well read and has a nuanced approach to dealing with challenges. ir Marshal Hemant Narayan Bhagwat took over as Air Officer-in-Charge Administration Aof Indian Air Force at Air Headquarters, New Delhi on August 1, 2017. Air Marshal HN Bhagwat was commissioned in the Administrative branch of the IAF in June 1981. After serving for seven years as an Air Traffic Control Officer in three different operational bases, the Air Officer served as Parachute Jump Instructor for fifteen years. The officer has undertaken over 2400 live parachute jumps in combat as well as sport profile from twenty different types of aircraft. He has also served as Chief Instructor of Paratroopers’ Training School, Agra for five years and was leader of prestigious IAF Sky Diving Team, Akashganga for several years. Besides para jumps he has also participated in several international para exercises including in USA, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Seychelles. The Air Officer is an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Higher Air Command Course at College of Air Warfare, Hyderabad and Senior Defence Management Course at College of Defence Management, Secunderabad. The officer has completed his M Sc in Strategic Studies from Madras University & M Phil from Osmania University. The Air Officer was awarded Vayu Sena Medal by the President of India in 2005 for his contributions to paratrooping field. He has been awarded the Ati Vishist Seva Medal by President of India for distinguished service of a very high order. Cdr Sridhar Warrier, Wg Cdr SS Birdi and Wg Cdr Anupam Banerjee

August 16-31, 2017 Sainik Samachar 41 PHOTOCALL

Shri BHVS Narayana Murthy, OS & Director, Research Centre Imarat (RCI) handing over memento to Smt Veena Prasad, CGDA during her visit to RCI, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad on July 26, 2017

Additional Director General with officers of South Western Command during South Western Command Annual Flight Safety Conference, July 2017

Shri Fulchand Kitadikar, Photographer of the DPR, MoD, receiving the Award from Smt. Gitali Tare, IA & AS, Financial Adviser of NDMC for securing third position in the competition organised by NDMC, New Delhi on the theme of "Third International Day of Yoga in NDMC Area" on August 9, 2017 at Palika Kendra, NDMC, New Delhi.

Sources: K Ramesh, Lt Col Amit Kumar Kaushik and VK Singh

42 Sainik Samachar August 16-31, 2017