Contact Us:

Email: Editorial/ Subscriptions/Advertisements/  Postal address

Download subscription form

FRIENDS IN NEED

Indian Air Force team which returned from France after taking part in a joint air exercise, Garuda-II at Istress Air Base

Dr K Rajgopal, Vice Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad presenting the DGEME gold medal to Lt Henry Pasrija who stood first in the order of merit in the Technical Entry Scheme-03 at the convocation ceremony held at Military College of Electronics and Mechnical Engineering (MCEME), Secunderabad

Lt Gen MC Bhandari, Director General, NCC, flagging in the 55th NCC Boys Mountaineering Expedition to Sudarshan Parvat (6507 mtrs) in New Delhi

Editor-in-Chief Mohan Chandak Editor Prasanna Kumar Pattanayak Assistant Editors Shahid Anwar Suprasanthi Devi Sub-Editor Sanjeev K Sharma Senior Artist Daulat Ram Assistance Sekhar Babu Madduri Our Correspondents: DELHI: Col SK Sakhuja, Sqn Ldr Mahesh Upasani, Cdr Vinay Garg: ALLAHABAD: Sqn Ldr SM Sharma; BANGALORE: MN Shankar; CHENNAI: C Muthuvelu; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr TK Singha; GUWAHATI: Lt Col SK Gautam; IMPHAL: Lt Col SD Goswami; JALANDHAR: Naresh Vijay Vig; JAMMU: Lt Col RK Chhibber; JODHPUR: Lt Col RK Palta; KOCHI: Cdr M Nambiar; KOHIMA: Lt Col MK Pal; KOLKATA: Wg Cdr SN Mukherjee; LUCKNOW: Dhirendra Ojha; MUMBAI: Cdr AK Lambhate; NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Anil Ingley; PALAM: Wg Cdr Sanjeev Sharma; PUNE: VK Abdulla; SECUNDERABAD: Surekha Rao; SHILLONG: Wg Cdr Binoy Chongtham; SRINAGAR: Lt Col VK Batra; TEZPUR: Maj Narendra Singh; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: PK Pillai; UDHAMPUR: Col RK Sen; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cpt LN Prasad. Office L-1, Block, Church Road, New Delhi-110001, Telefax : 23094668   Telephone: 23092768 E-in-C: E-2078.    einc-ss@nic.in Visit us at: http://www.sainiksamachar.org.in http://www.mod.nic.in/csamachar/welcome.html Editorial : edit-ss@nic.in Published by : Umakant Mishra, Addl PIO Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi - 110011 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.) Please send your subscriptions to Business Manager. Money Order, IPO or Bank Draft should be drawn in favour of Editor-in-Chief, Sainik Samachar. ♦♦♦ All old subscribers must write their subscription no. while corresponding with Sainik Samachar. ♦♦♦ For advertisement and subscriptions contact: Laxman Jatav, Business Manager. email: bm-ss@nic.in (Right to accept or reject advertisement is reserved) on front cover : Armed Forces participating in rescue and relief operations in the floow-affected areas in Gujrat

In this Issue Good Samaritans Strategic Steps Guts and Glory at Kargil Heights • A Ready Reckoner • Blue Water Bonds • Full of Flights • Call of the Tide • Beyond Battles • Captain's Knock Regulars • North-East File • From the File/Readers Write • Armed Forces Panorama Maratha Maestros Polo Pleasure

Good Samaritans

The monsoon played havoc in many parts of the Northern India during the last week of June and continued unabated. Himachal Pradesh received unprecedented rainfall and all the rivers were inundated. Badly affected by flood was Kinnaur District. Flash floods rocked the river Sutlej and the tourists were stranded in the region. Indian Air Force’s help was requisitioned for relief operations. Three Mi-17 and Two Cheetah helicopters were used to evacuate the stranded tourists. IAF helicopters had carried sorties in extreme climate and over hostile terrain. More than 300 blankets, tents and food packets were distributed.

Meanwhile Gujarat had also unprecedented floods. Torrential rains lashed unabated worsened the situation. The State Government sought armed forces help to assist relief operations. Central and South Gujarat were worst affected. IAF sprung into action and pressed two MI-17s from Jamnagar and other MI-17 and MI-8 Squadrons in south western Air Command were kept alert. Flood waters on July 1, deteriorated and the express way and NH-8 and other routes leading to the affected areas were cut off. The Army column however continued with their efforts to reach the marooned public and wherever they were unable to make a headway the columns halted and commenced relief efforts on the spot. Boats were also air lifted into Baroda airfield to cater for the increased requirement. On July 2nd Army continued its operations in Baroda City, Partapur, Karjan, Padra, Anand, Kheda, Nadiad, Ranpur and Ahmedabad. Around 400 Civilians including 60 children who were stranded on roof tops of the Gurukul in Kheda District were rescued. In and around Karjan food packets were droped by IAF Helicopter. In Dakor, rail routes were inundated and nearly 400 passengers of Indore-Gandhinagar Shanti Express were stranded midway. IAF Helicopter provided water and food to the passengers. Sapper MN Yadav lost his life while making an attempt to move to Dakor Railway Station to evacuate the marooned train passengers.

Incessant rain and bad visibility affected the relief operations but IAF continued its relief operations from Ahmedabad to Nadiad, Dakor, Anand and Kheda. Similarly from Baroda it flew missions over Karjan, Padra and Dakor area. The Army has committed 11 columns in the disaster areas with seven medical teams. About 20,000 packets of food have been distributed and over 4000 people were rescued. A total of 70 boats have been used for relief operations. Boats were given to CRPF to assist in relief operations. IAF flew number of sorties to the affected areas. A total of 22 tons of food items were dropped. A rescue sortie had rescued two British nationals and two media persons from the highway near Nadiad. IAF helicopter pilot saw some trucks being washed away by the floods. A vigilant pilot noticed few persons atop each marooned trucks. The nearest land mass was more than a kilometer away. On a closer survey it was revealed that the truck was gradually sinking and the personnel were in great danger of being washed away. Despite many odds the pilot saved the personnel by winching them up from each of the trucks. A total of nine persons were rescued from these trucks. United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Mrs Sonia Gandhi accompanied by the Defence Minister Mr Pranab Mukherjee conducted an aerial survey of the flood hit areas and consoled the affected people.

In Jammu and Kashmir flood waters washed away two vital bridges, and four persons were killed. Air Force and Army and Civil officials rescued around 162 people. Most of them were Gujjar Nomads who were moving from one place to another. Air Force pressed into service its helicopters and rescued about 100 people from the Ujh river in Kathua district and 27 from Tawi river in Jammu district. Army used steamers in Hansuchak area of RS Pura thesil of Jammu district and rescued 25 people whose houses were submerged in the flood waters. In Udhampur district two schoolgirls were swept away by Atlyan stream.

In Punjab, heavy rains brought unprecedented water in the rivers flooding areas along the Indo-Pak border. 13 border villages were cut off from the rest of the Gurdaspur district. Army and BSF personnel rescued a family of Gujjars who were caught surrounded by swirling flood water.

Heavy rains in Madhya Pradesh claimed 23 lives. Eight district of the state had been hit hard. State government had sought the help of Army and requisitioned two helicopters and a number of boats to carry out relief operations. Atleast 4000 persons had sought shelter in various relief camps. Army has already started rescue and relief operations in Panna, Sagar and Damoh districts.

Be it flood or any other natural calamity Armed Forces are always sought after for rescue and relief operations. The armed forces had always performed their duties without caring for their personal safety, whenever their help and assistance were sought and it continues to do so, as for them it is the Nation that comes in the forefront than any thing else.

input: R Chidambaranathan
with Wg Cdr TK Singha

Strategic Steps

-Air Cmde Prashant Dikshit (Retd)

The hallmark of the visit of Defence Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee to the United States in June was the formalisation of the Defence Framework between India and the United States. It was a major milestone on a path charted by the Agreed Minutes of Defence Relations mutually arrived at between the two democracies in January 1995.

Although, members of the US armed forces, several thousands in number are known to have served in India at one stage during the British Raj , India had to face a turbulent relationship with the US in its formative years as an independent democracy. It was to witness a radical change in the American attitude towards India only after the Cold War ceased. These years were traumatic for the Indian state which was in the process of building a nation. Many in the government and military establishments, during the 1962 war with China , would recall with a tinge of regret that the India’s request for military help did not receive due attention from the American administration. The Indian government asked for aircraft and air defence systems but had to be contented with small arms and communication sets only. Historians have recorded that the Indian Air Force was discouraged from using air power to deal with the threat posed by the Chinese invasion. However,the two air forces flew together during exercise Shiksha and flights of the U2 spy plane were permitted from Indian Air Force bases.

Similarly, the memories of the intimidation from the ships of the US sixth fleet sailing into the Bay of Bengal during the 1971 war with Pakistan remained vivid. There is a strong belief amongst defence analysts that the American indifference persuaded the Indian regime to enter into a treaty with the USSR for its protection. In such a backdrop of perceived antipathy towards the Indian state, the Indo-US Memorandum of Understanding on defence matters, signed in1984, remained virtually unnoticed.

The role played by General Claude Kickleighter, a former Commander of US Army in the Pacific,will be acknowledged by history for being the messenger of change. It was he who, in 1991, brought proposals of the US government for setting up a suitable architecture for promoting defence relations through joint discussions and training. The scheme envisaged establishment of steering committees for each of India’s three services among other proposals.This advancing relationship ran into rough weather once again immediately after India’s nuclear tests in 1998 as the US administration reacted with sanctions against India. It took a few years to remove the cobwebs of grey areas between the two nations. The year 2002 is considered to be a watershed in this direction from where the two countries have not looked back.

The last three years have been remarkably vibrant. The navies of both countries conducted several joint exercises under the banners of Ex-Malabar in which complex manoeuvres involving war ships, aircraft, submarines and P-3 Orion maritime aircraft were undertaken. The objective was to practise interception of suspect vessels in high seas. In yet another example of visible cooperation, ships of the Indian Navy escorted a flotilla of US ships through the Malacca Straits on their way to participate in the operation Enduring Freedom. The American and Indian soldiers got together on several occasions to participate in joint para-trooping exercises in India and US including high altitude descents in the mountains of the Himalayan range. A US army contingent spent several days in the Jungle Warfare School in Mizoram examining counter-insurgency procedures.The two air forces took part in several joint aerial combat exercises in which frontline aircraft of both the countries participated. The cooperative spirit was quite evident in moving a contingent of Jaguar aircraft of the Indian Air Force, through continents and oceans, to arrive at a base in Alaska after numerous mid-air refuelling manoeuvres.

At a deeper policy level, the relationship matured with the setting up of integrated institutional forums and structures between the two countries in matters relating to cooperation in defence research and development,intelligence exchanges etc. The US government showed great sagacity in lifting sanctions on nearly one thousand items which were to be imported for progress of work in on-going projects of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.There is definitely, therefore, a deepening strategic partnership in “moving beyond the next steps in strategic partnership to a strategic dialogue”. The American administration acknowledges the capacity of the Indian State in shouldering the burdens of addressing the global and regional security concerns with a shared understanding of human problems and values. In this sense, India and US are opening the doors to each other in an intense engagement and cooperation in high technology trade and space.The depth of Indian thought and the strength of its civilization found an echo in Mr Mukherjee’s address to the thinkers and intellectuals at the Carnegie Endowment as he reminded the assembly of India’s desire to sustain its relationships with friends,old and new both.

(The writer is an acclaimed security analyst)

Guts and Glory at Kargil Heights

Indian Army’s operation Vijay at Kargil heights exemplified how the tough and highly motivated Indian troops could chase away the enemy even in a remote and high-altitude terrain. The entire world watched in awe the televised images of Indian soldiers reaching the steep cliffs and icy peaks without any thought to their personal safety. The troops, led by dashing young officers in their early twenties, epitomised the military motto : Follow Me. The operation added a new crop of heroes to the chronicle of valour and sacrifice. Names like Tiger Hill, Tololing and Jubar entered into national folklore. Col Anil Shorey (Retd)recalls the fine moments of this operation as the nation celebrates the Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26.

Happenings in the Kargil sector burst upon the scene rather abruptly. Pakistani intruders in Batalik were sighted on May 3, 1999. Intensified patrolling over the next few weeks revealed many other intrusions in the Mushkoh, Drass, Kaksar, Kargil and Batalik areas. On May 24, the Cabinet Committee on Security decided to use air power and air operations with certain restrictions, like not crossing the LoC into Pakistan.

The Kargil operations can be divided into two phases. The first phase was from the first week of May to June 1. In this phase, the intrusions were detected and action was taken to launch probing attacks to determine the extent of the intrusions. The Pakistanis had cleverly used a large number of mujahideens to infiltrate into India. Through them they infiltrated regular troops belonging to the Northern Light Infantry and the Special Service Group (SSG) to occupy strategic heights dominating the vital Leh-Srinagar highway.

Initial probing attacks revealed a well-entrenched and determined enemy. Once the intruders had been fixed and contained, troops were inducted to launch well-planned attacks to eject the intruders. This was the second phase. A heavy preponderance of artillery was also used to destroy the intruder’s sangars or pickets made of rocks and boulders. Direct firing from Bofors guns left enemy troops in disarray. The multi-barrel, combined might of Grad rocket launchers, mortars and fighter-bombers rained death and destruction on enemy concentrations. In the end, however, it was the humble foot soldier who evicted the enemy at the point of his bayonet. This phase lasted till early July.

The capture of Tololing peak by 2 Rajputana Rifles heralded a string of successes. Points 5140 complex, close to Tololing, was another formidable objective comprising sheer rock faces. Two earlier attempts to capture it had met with only partial success. It was finally captured on June 18 by 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, 18 Garhwal Rifles and 1 Naga through deliberate attacks.

Tiger Hill, a 16,500-ft rocky peak, is the most dominating objective in Drass area that overlooks long stretches of the Leh road. Towards the end of May, 8 Sikh isolated the feature from two sides and kept the enemy aggressively engaged. The 18 Grenadiers were thereafter ordered to capture it. However, the enemy was holding a number of adjoining features as well. The attack led by 18 Grenadiers commenced on the night of July 3 and the initial objectives were soon taken. Next day, Gdr Yogender Singh Yadav led the unit in capturing this peak. Despite being seriously hit in enemy fire, he climbed to the peak and lobbed a grenade which killed all of four intruders manning the machine gun-post. As two of his comrades climbed up, he charged with them to kill all three enemy soldiers in the second bunker. Tiger Hill top was captured by next morning. The 18 Grenadiers along with 8 Sikh renewed attacks on July 8, and after four nights of fierce fighting they captured the entire complex. For his indomitable spirit and brave action, Gdr Yogender Singh Yadav was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest award for bravery in battle.

Meanwhile, Rfn Sanjay Kumar and Capt Vikram Batra of 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles gave stiff fight to capture 4875 Point, now renamed as Gun Hill. This peak, located west of Tiger Hill, not only dominates the road to Leh but also the Mushkoh valley. On July 4, 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles was tasked to capture this height. A special mission group was tasked to capture ‘Flat Top’. By July 10, this formidable feature was completely captured by 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, 17 Jat and 2 Naga. For their exemplary action in chasing away the intruders from this peak, Rfn Sanjay Kumar and Capt Vikram Batra were honoured with PVC. Incidentally, 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles became the first unit to win two PVC during a conflict.

In the Batalik sector, the Pakistani intruders had occupied three ridges. It was imperative to prevent further infiltrations. This was achieved by the first week of June when a company of Ladakh Scouts and a 10 Para team (Special Forces) established a wedge between enemy dispositions. In a multi-pronged attack, 12 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry captured Point 4812 on July 1 and gained a foothold on the formidable Khalubar Ridge. The 1/11 Gorkha Rifles then took on. On night of 2 /3 July, when its attack was held up due to accurate enemy fire, Lt Manoj Kumar Pandey surged ahead with his men to attack the enemy through a hail of bullets. Though wounded, he killed two enemy soldiers and cleared the bunker before he succumbed to his wounds. For his extraordinary valour he was also awarded PVC posthumously. After one more night of fierce fighting and an audacious daylight attack, the Gurkhas captured Khalubar Ridge.

Eviction of the enemy from the Batalik area entailed capture of Jubar as well. However, the enemy quickly reinforced his main defences but these were subjected to sustained Indian artillery pounding for four days. Jubar complex fell to 1 Bihar on July 7, and the enemy was finally evicted from all sectors by July 26. The day was ablaze with the rays of victory.

South - Western Command : A Ready Reckoner

The retired officers present on the occasion included Admiral VS Shekhawat, Lt Gen K Surinder Singh, and Brig Bhawani Singh. The command insignia depicts a silver streak symbolizing offensive strike action, communication and information warfare. It is superimposed with a seven-point star, heralding the seventh.

input: Col Mohinder Singh

Maratha Maestros

The band members with the President

President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam greeting Sub Major Shrikant Killekar

The Silver Band of Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre is one of the oldest bands of the Indian Army. The musicians comprising this band hail mostly from Maharashtra and the neighbouring states and have natural inclination towards band music. The band has performed at several prestigious functions in the country and abroad. It performed at Rashtrapati Bhawan, Republic Day Parades, Amar Jawan Jyoti, Rajasthan Day, for United Nations Emergency Forces in Gaza and birthday celebrations of Bhutan King in November last year. At present, the band is detailed for ceremonial duties at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The band won Inter Regimental Army Band Competition in 1979 and coveted trophies in Republic Day Brass Band competitions. It also has the honour of winning the Best Band Trophy instituted by the Chief of the Army Staff during Republic Day Parade in 1981 and 1995.

The band is presently conducted by Sub Maj Shrikant Killekar who is a versatile conductor and accomplished player of B Flat clarinet. President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam appreciated the band’s performance and presented a commendation letter.

input:
Gp Capt AP Kuduskar

Blue Water Bonds

Tarangini on her voyage

Indian naval ship Mumbai and sail training ship Tarangini represented India at the International Fleet Review and International Festival of the Sea at Portsmouth, UK from June 27 to July 4. While INS Tarangini forms part of the first training squadron based at Kochi, INS Mumbai is the third of the Delhi class of guided missile destroyers.

INS Tarangini was the first ship of the Indian Navy to undertake circumnavigation of the globe. During her present deployment, the ship participated in Tall ship events in Europe including the races organised by Sail Training International, UK, International Windjammer Festival, Bremerhaven, Sail Amsterdam and Mediterraneo e Velieri, Cagliari in addition to calling at various ports in the region. As during the circumnavigation voyage, this time too, Tarangini carried foreign cadets and officers from about fifteen countries building bridges of friendship on blue waters.

Enroute her voyage, INS Mumbai visited Safaga in Egypt, Toulon in France and Taranto in Italy. The ship exercised with various navies in the region for enhanced professional interaction and interoperability. The advantage of such interactions is that it promotes friendship and goodwill amongst all while showcasing technological and industrial advancements of Indian defence industry.

Mumbai is powered by four gas turbines and has a top speed in excess of 32 knots. The ship has the ability for sustained operations for over 10 days. The ship has a formidable array of weapons including 16 anti-ship missiles, medium range SAM, a 100 mm gun, torpedo and anti-submarine rockets and is backed by state-of-the-art sensors. She, thus, has the ability to neutralise threats in all three dimensions concurrently. Two integral multi-role Sea King helicopters are carried onboard and provide flexibility of operations and stand-of capability.

Tarangini, on the other hand, carries 20 sails with a complement of six officers and twentyseven men with accommodation for over 30 cadets. The ship also has motoring ability and is fitted with state-of-the-art communication and navigation systems for safe passage throughout her extended deployment.

INS Mumbai is scheduled to return to base port by the middle of next month while Tarangini would be back to Kochi in November this year.

-Cdr V Garg

Full of Flights

Naval Chief, Admiral Arun Prakash presenting the Chief of Air Staff Sword of Honour to Flg Offr Naishad Purohit. Air Vice Marshal YR Rane is also seen in the picture

An aerobatic display by Sarang

Air power plays a vital role in both offensive and defensive operations and here comes the role of Air Warriors. While addressing the newly commissioned officers at the passing-out parade held at Air Force Academy, Dundigal in Hyderabad, Admiral Arun Prakash, Chief of Naval Staff said that the nation looks towards the Indian Air Force not just to defend its skies and airspace against all threats but also to carry the war into the enemy’s territory should the need arise. As the Indian Air Force today deploys some of the most sophisticated aircraft, weapons and sensors in the world, the Admiral called upon the newly commissioned officers to make vital contribution to the nation’s security.

Altogether, 158 cadets including 32 women were commissioned as Flying Officers after successful completion of their training. Flg Offr Naishad Purohit was awarded President Plaque and Chief of Air Staff Sword of Honour for standing first in overall order of merit. Flg Offr Shahul Hameed was awarded President’s Plaque for standing first in the order of merit in Ground Duty Officers’ Course while Flg Offr Vipul Kumar was presented the President’s Trophy for standing first in Navigation Course.

On the occasion, Chetak helicopters and Kiran, HPT-32, AN-32 and Dornier performed a traditional fly-past. The scintillating and breath-taking aerobatic teams kept the audience spell-bound. Air Marshal S Bhojwani, AOC, Training Command and Air Vice Marshal YR Rane, Commandant, Air Force Academy, were also present at the parade. Ex-Army Chief, Gen KV Krishna Rao (Retd), ex-Air Chief, Air Chief Marshal LH Latiff (Retd) and a large number of retired and serving defence officers and civilian dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

-A Surekha Rao
pix: K Ramesh

Call of the Tide

Lohit, Dibang and Anjaw districts of Arunachal Pradesh present nature in its pristine form with their sprawling mountains, rugged forests and gentle streams. To reach these areas, one has to cross the mighty Lohit river which creates havoc during heavy rains causing untold loss of life and property.

It is only after crossing the Lohit river that one manages to reach an Army Mountain Brigade which is located on the country’s borders with China and Myanmar. The river originates in Eastern Tibet Autonomous Region and enters India at Kibitu which is the last Indian village on the India – China border. In ancient Indian literature, Lohit river is called Lauhitya, a name that is associated with the legends of Parasuram, referred to in Mahabharata. To reach Lohitpur and Tezu where an Army Mountain Brigade Headquarters and the District Administration Headquarters are located respectively one has to drive from Tinsukia (the last rail-head) and cross Lohit river.

The most interesting and nerve-racking experience is crossings the river. Various kinds of country-made boats are available for this journey. Your trip to Lohitpur or Tezu is decided by the weather gods, so they say. If the weather is foul and it is raining continuously, the water level in the river increases resulting in high waves and currents. On such occasions, it is safe to use engine-propelled boat rather than a country boat.

Barring a few who can afford air travel with Arunachal Pradesh Helicopter Service or Pawan Hans Helicopter Service, most of the commuters including local tribesmen use motor and country boats. Tezu, on the Northern bank of the Lohit river, is connected by the Pawan Hans Helicopter Service which operates flights twice a week from Itanagar, the state capital, and Dibrugarh airport in Assam.

Supplies including vehicles of Indian Army and civil administration are ferried across the river either in engine boats or in country boats which are joined together using planks on which smaller vehicles are mounted. It requires good skills to load and unload a vehicle and even the smallest error can result into toppling of a vehicle. One can well afford to enjoy the Lohit crossing even if there are some risks during monsoon season from March to October.

During the winter months, the water level of the Lohit, Kamlang and Berang rivers falls drastically due to snow in the higher reaches. During such instances, Army engineers lay pontoon bridges on the rivers which help in a faster crossing of the water channels. These pontoon bridges need constant monitoring as any flash flood can wash away them into the mighty Brahmaputra. In February last, Army engineers saved a pontoon bridge and the personnel on it as the bridge was about to be washed away downstream.

Another awesome crossing is at the Paya Nala if one is coming to Tezu and Lohitpur from the Dhola – Sadiya axis. If the water current is fast while crossing Paya Nala you may instead depend on elephants. Recovery of vehicles stranded on the Paya and Pagal rivers has to be done quickly or there are chances that flash floods can make the vehicle topsy- turvy. Army has the wherewithal to rescue the stranded vehicles including those of civilians.

Rightly says Brig Ajai Prakash, Commander of a forward Mountain Brigade, “Come and serve the country in the magnificent Lohit valley to refresh yourself and enjoy each crossing of Lohit to the hilt as every crossing is a new experience”.

-Maj VN Dhaila

Assam Regiment : Raised to Roar

A view of the raising day celebrations

Assam Regiment personnel paying homage to martyrs

Assam Regiment celebrated 65th raising day on June 15, last. It was on this day in 1941 that the first battalion of the regiment was raised by Lt Col Ross Howman at Elephant Falls in Shillong. To mark the occasion, a variety of programmes was organised at Assam Regimental Centre in Shillong which included a get-together of all retired and serving officers, JCOs and their families, the regimental barakhana and cultural items.

It may be mentioned here that the first battalion of the Assam Regiment was raised to meet the challenge of the Japanese invasion during the second World War. In a span of three years (1942-45), the regiment was awarded six battle honours and the theatre honour of Burma inspite of having only two battalions at that time. The strength of the regiment increased after Independence and, today, the Assam Regiment has grown into a family of 13 battalions, 3 Rashtriya Rifles and an Infantry Territorial Army battalion. In its six decade-and-half of martial history, the regiment has served with distinction in all wars and in all types of operational areas of the country including the highest battlefield of the world, Siachen. The regiment today has to its credit seven battle honours and three theatre honours, two Mahavir Chakra, five Kirti Chakra, five Vir Chakra and one hundred-and-two Sena Medals besides a large number of Chief of the Army Staff and GOC-in-C Commendation Cards.

In the field of sports, the regiment has excelled in gymnastics, football, hockey and boxing. The Assam Regiment has been the winner of the Army Football Championship for four years consecutively.

-Wg Cdr Binoy Chongtham

Cadet Craft

Ninth battalion of the Rajputana Rifles was entrusted with the responsibility of conducting an attachment camp for NCC Cadets. The aim of the camp was to acquaint girl cadets with the rigours of military life through a plethora of training activities. It was attended by one Associate NCC Officer and 20 cadets from 1 and 5 Rajasthan Girls Battalions of NCC. The cadets were given hands-on experience on small arms like INSAS rifle, LMG and carbine including firing practice on Drona simulator.

A weapon and equipment display was organised to provide knowledge about the operational capabilities of the infantry battalion. The cadets were also taken on familiarisation visits to armoured and mechanised units and also to a Border Outpost (BOP). During the training, cadets were made aware of prospects in Armed Forces. The camp culminated with a colourful cultural programme presented by the cadets. The cadets departed with greater enthusiasm to don ‘olive green’.

input: Capt C Ashok

North-East File

‘Seeds of Peace’

The participants of the ‘Seeds of Peace’ tour with Maj Gen PS Rana

Indian Army’s 82 Mountain Brigade, deployed in North-East, organised an educational tour for youth belonging to the remote areas of Dhola, Sunpura and Chapakhowa of Tinsukia district in Assam. This tour was in pursuance of the policy of the Indian Army of ‘winning the hearts and minds’ of the people of Assam. To this end, 82 Mountain Brigade took a lead by sowing the seeds of peace and tolerance in the hearts of students providing them an opportunity to visit Delhi, Agra and Jaipur under operation Samaritan.

In Delhi, the group met Lt Gen BS Thakur, Vice Chief of the Army Staff. The participants were extremely satisfied with their experience and urged that such events be organised more often as it made them know about the rich heritage and culture of the country.

The tour was flagged off by Maj Gen PS Rana, GOC, 2 Mountain Division and Brig Ajai Prakash, formation Commander. A large number of civilian and military dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Young Lions Adventure Camps

Brig HPS Dhillon giving away the trophy to the Best House of the camp

Two Army adventure camps were conducted at Pedong. The “Young Lions Adventure Camps-2005” were open to children of all ranks serving in the Eastern Command.

Conducted by 17 Jat under the aegis of Brig HPS Dhillon, Commander, 164 Mountain Brigade, the camps provided an ideal gateway for the participants to a world of fun, adventure and learning.

The camps included activities such as trekking, nature study, rock climbing, mountain biking, visits to places of historical interest, games, painting, jungle survival, tent pitching, rappelling, archery, firing etc.Both camps saw a participation of 70 children. A camp fire with a cultural programme was organised at the end of each camp. Prizes and certificates were also presented to the participants on the occasion.

Seminar on Anti-Drug Abuse

Mrs Neerja Nanda addressing the participants of the seminar

Military Hospital, Shillong along with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) organised a two-day seminar on ‘Anti Drug Abuse’ under the aegis of Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA), 101 Area. The seminar was inaugurated by Mrs Neerja Nanda, President, AWWA (Area) at the Rhino Auditorium.

In her address, Mrs Nanda expressed concern over the rising trend of drug abuse amongst the youth particularly in the North Eastern states. Brig YV Sharma, DDMS 101 Area delivered the welcome address.

Fast Track Selection

In view of low representation of people from the North-Eastern states in different cadres of the Indian Air Force a fast track selection to induct more youth from the region in the officers cadre was conducted by the IAF in all the state capitals. Though, it was for the first time that a special drive of this nature was launched in the region, there was an overwhelming response.

Approximately, 600 youth from all the seven states attended the fast track selection. Altogether, 300 candidates were found qualified during the screening. These candidates were issued call letters for appearing at the Services Selection Board test. Amongst all the states, Assam registered the highest number with 119 candidates qualifying for the SSB test. From Meghalaya, 13 candidates were selected for the test out of 45 youth who attended the screening. The rest belonged to Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur, Tripura and Nagaland.

The IAF will launch more such drives in future to induct more youth from the region in both officer and airmen cadres.

inputs: Wg Cdr Binoy
Chongtham, Lt Nitigya Thakur
and Lt Col SS Bakshi

Northern Command: Beyond Battles

Lt Gen Hari Prasad laying wreath at Dhruva War Memorial

Prior to Independence, Headquarters, Northern Command was located at Rawalpindi and was responsible for the defence of Northwest India. After Partition, the Command Headquarters was allocated to Pakistan. In India, a new headquarters designated as Western Command was located at Shimla to look after the Northern borders with Pakistan and some portions of Tibet.

The need for a separate Army Headquarters to look after Northern India was felt during the 1948 war. The cumulative experience of 1962, 1965 and 1971 wars reinforced the conviction that geo-strategically the Northern theatre is too important to be effectively commanded by a Headquarters based at Shimla. It was decided in June 1972 to raise Headquarters Northern Command at Udhampur with two corps to look after the defence of this region. This strength has now increased to three corps. The first GOC-in-C of this command was Lt Gen PS Bhagat. Lt Gen Hari Prasad, the present Northern Army Commander, has been at the helm since June 2003. Northern Command now controls the most sensitive region of the country which covers the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir as well as the contiguous portions of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.

The Northern Command has been in the operational mode since its very inception. It has seen a number of high and low intensity operations. Today, Northern Command counters terrorism and the vicious proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir. Whether officially at peace or in hostilities, troops of this command have “forever been in action”. Troops of the Northern Command man the highest battlefield in the world – Siachen. The average altitude of the posts varies from 15,000 to 23,000 ft. Operation Vijay was possibly Northern Command’s finest hour.

During the last decade and a half, the command has been fighting a proxy war across the border. This war involves fighting a barbaric and invisible enemy in the area. The proxy war has now reached a terminal stage due to the courage, commitment and resolve of the soldiers working in complete synergy with the local population. A new era of peace and prosperity is emerging in Jammu and Kashmir. This has been made possible by the steadfastness of soldiers in the war against terrorism.

The construction of LC fence in record time, relentless pressure on terrorists operating in the hinterland and development activities undertaken through people-friendly projects in operation Sadbhavna have contributed significantly in bringing about this positive situation.

The command celebrated its 34th raising day recently with enthusiasm. In a solem wreath-laying ceremony at the Command War Memorial wreaths were laid by Lt Gen Hari Prasad, Lt Gen ML Naidu, GOC, 14 Corps, Lt Gen Sudhir Sharma, GOC, 16 Corps and other officials.

A number of events were conducted for all ranks on the occasion. A motorcycle rider display and a free-fall paradrop were organised at Bikram Park. This function was witnessed by a large number of people who were enthralled by the daring actions of the brave participants. This event was a great motivation for children who are looking forward to join Army. A ceremonial lunch was organised for all ranks at the Command Headquarters.

-Col RK Sen

EME : Tech Strides

Windy-505

Lt Gen VK Dhir

With a vision to enhance Army’s combat potential by exploring the power of technology and innovation, the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering (EME) has been taking proactive steps to provide effective engineering support to the troops in the battlefield. “As technology has become more advanced and complicated, EME has enhanced its role from equipment management to technology management”, says Lt Gen VK Dhir, Director General, EME.

After taking over as Director General, EME, Lt Gen Dhir took a number of steps to facilitate technology transition from Army Headquarters to Field Army. Under his guidance, the corps established Army Technology Centre (ATC) at HQ Technical Group, Delhi Cantt and online Equipment Line. In addition, a Dreamer’s Club has also been established to encourage innovative ideas from down the line. “As technology and innovation are the buzzwords today, these initiatives will enable the men-in-uniform face the technological challenges of the day”, the DG opines.

Fast attack vehicle, Windy, developed by EME’s Army Base Workshop-505 has received good response from one and all. This vehicle, with its successful trials in deserts and mountains, received patent, the first ever patent to be received by Army. The success of Windy gave fillip to the innovative innings of the corps which went ahead with the development of some more devices. Noteworthy among them are Hunky and Tuffy, two splinter-proof vehicles being developed for troops deployed in the forward areas and counter-insurgency environment. Both vehicles are being developed by 505 Army Base Workshop. These two vehicles are also poised to cater to the needs of troops in tough terrain. Many more such devices are under development at EME workshops. In recognition of its efforts for in-house research and development (R&D), EME

“In the present scenario where emphasis is on network-centric warfare, the future will certainly be technology driven”, feels Lt Gen Dhir. In this connection, the DG, under whose leadership the corps received Golden Peacock Innovation Award-2004, opines that the participation of private sector in defence production would pay rich dividends.

Destination Bhagirathi

Army Chief, Gen JJ Singh felicitated the young cadets of Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) who scaled Bhagirathi-II (6512 mtrs) on June 15 this year.

The expedition team consisting of 11 cadets, two masters, an administrative officer and a doctor left for Mt Bhagirathi-II expedition on June 1 last. Thereafter, there was no looking back. The team exploited every possible opportunity and kept on progressing well ahead of its schedule. The team leader and three cadets made to the peak on June 15, exactly one week ahead of schedule, making use of perhaps the only day available to attempt the final climb as the meteorological reports forewarned of bad weather.

After their return from the summit, team members along with RIMC Commandant, Col Prem Prakash, called on Chief of the Army Staff, Gen JJ Singh and Lt Gen Bhopender Singh, Director General, Military Training. The Army Chief, himself a mountaineer, congratulated the cadets and urged them to reach greater heights in the years to come.

-PIB (DW)

Polo Pleasure

Lt Gen AS Bahia giving away the 8-feet high Inter-city Trophy to the winners

Tournament in progress

Like every year, this year too, the city of Bangalore was struck with polo fever. Once the dates were given by the Indian Polo Association, Agram Riding and Polo Academy of ASC Centre and College conducted Inter City Polo-2005. The tournament was keenly contested by Eastern Command, Army Service Corps, Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) and 61st Cavalry. The tournament was the brainchild of Lt Gen Jagdish Chander. It was played in a such a way that the participating teams represented the cities where their clubs or units are located. While ASC and 61st Cavalry represented Bangalore and Jaipur respectively, RVC represented Delhi and Eastern Command, Kolkata.

The tournament commenced with a warm welcome by Lt Gen SK Dahiya, Patron-in-Chief, Agram Riding and Polo Academy and Commandant, ASC Centre and College. The tournament was held in different categories. The ‘4-goal handicap’ category saw a participation of four teams. The final was played between Bangalore and Jaipur which was finally won by Bangalore. The Bangalore team also stood first in ‘6-goal’ category. The chief guest Maj Gen PK Mehta, Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor, ASC Centre and College gave away the trophies to the winners.

The ‘10-goal handicap’ saw three teams participating from Bangalore, Jaipur and Delhi. All the teams pitched in their best players in this game. The Jaipur team gave a tough fight to the host team which had won the earlier two categories. The game, played over a knock out-cum-league basis, evoked warm response from polo buffs. The stands were all jam-packed with the spectators who drove in large numbers to cheer up the players. The keenly-contested match saw the spectators on the edge of their seats with finally the game going in favour of the Bangalore team. The 8-ft high Inter-city Trophy, one of the tallest trophies in the world, was given away by Lt Gen AS Bahia, Chief Army Steward, Indian Polo Association and Quarter Master General.

As a part of the tournament, an exhibition game was also organised to give opportunity to all the budding players. The game was a booster for them. The last game of the tournament was a ‘8-goal handicap’ which truly depicted regimental spirit with ASC, 61 Cavalry and RVC in fray. The final for this game was between 61 Cavalry and ASC. The ASC team, not leaving anything to a chance, did not let 61 Cavalry closing towards their goal and thereby not letting them get a lead. Although 61 Cavalry team appeared to have an edge here, the ASC stole the show by narrowly winning the game. With this curtains were down to the Bangalore polo season.

-MN Shankar

Wheeled to Goa

Captain’s Knock

Capt Albert

His day is incomplete without a three-km walk and yoga. At 83, Capt Albert sets an example of having a fit body and alert mind. His brush with water-colour painting started 30 years ago. since then, many paintings took birth in his creative mind. His paintings evoke admiration from one and all. Who would believe that this soft-spoken gentleman was commissioned in the British Indian army during the second World War and fought in Burma against the Japanese?

“I was a part of the cavalry armoured corps (tanks) which was the toughest arm of the Army leading from the forefront and the last to retreat. Operating with infantry during war, we were known as IT Corps (‘I’ for infantry and ‘T’ for tanks). The axis forces comprising Germany and Japan were fighting the Allies which included the British Empire, France, USA and China”, recalls the captain. At 21 and charged with a sense of adventure, the captain got through the selection exam including the physical fitness test. After selection, he was sent for a nine-month armed training after which Capt Albert was posted to Burma as an armoured corps officer. Four years in the war and seeing his friends blown up into pieces hardened the captain, who adopted a philosophical attitude towards death. However, towards the end of the war he himself was injured in an explosion of a canon which left him deaf.

“As a result I was medically boarded out of the British Indian Army. In spite of my academic qualifications, I couldn’t get a job due to my hearing disability. At that time the hearing aids were also ineffective. So I left India and went to USA where I did freelance copywriting for some time. Later, I found solace in forests and nature. This sparked off and nurtured my creative urge towards sketching and painting,” says the captain who visited Europe, USA, Canada, Burma, Egypt, Peru, Argentina and many other places.

It was in 1966 that Capt Albert underwent a surgery that restored his hearing. “Never give up. Whatever you do, give it your best shot without looking for excuses,” advises Capt Albert. Coming from someone who has faced, lived and overcome life’s ups and down since young age, the advice is sound.

-Khursheed Dinshaw

From the File

July 15 & 22, 1956

Armed Forces
Panorama

INS Venduruthy Celebrates Anniversary

Rear Admiral Rajender Singh along with Cmde AT Lucose
and Sudha B Barman cutting the anniversary cake

INS Venduruthy is the parent establishment imparting training to executive officers and seaman sailors of Indian Navy and several friendly foreign Navies. This establishment caters to the logistic needs of service, civilian personnel and naval units not only at Kochi but also of naval units based at Ezhimala, Wellington, Bangalore and Lakshadweep Island.

On the occasion of 62nd anniversary of INS Venduruthy, Rear Admiral Rajender Singh, Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command, lit the traditional lamp and participated in the cake-cutting ceremony. Sudha B Barman, the youngest sailor of INS Venduruthy along with Cmde AT Lucose, Commanding Officer, cut the anniversary cake. Over 400 personnel representing various organisations attended the celebration.

-Cdr M Nambiar
from Kochi

Passing-out Parade at Jalahalli

Air Vice Marshal Ambrish Kumar reviewing the parade

A passing-out parade of 555 Airmen trainees was held at 410 Air Force station, Jalahalli, Bangalore. On the occasion, the Reviewing Officer of the parade, Air Vice Marshal Ambrish Kumar, Senior Maintenance Staff Officer, Training Command, IAF gave away the trophies to LAC Charan NPS for being the best all-rounder and AC Bhatia P for being the best in general service training.

input : Wg Cdr VM Raghunath

Terrorists Nabbed

Army Headquarters Liaison Unit has been actively undertaking numerous intelligence operatinos in the National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi to counter the attempts of enemy agents.

The unit assisted Delhi Police to apprehend five terrorists/ISI agents and anti-national elements and motivated three ULFA/NDFB insurgents to surrender. In the process, seven weapons and one kg of explosive have been recovered.

In a joint operation with Delhi Police, the Liaison Unit arrested Aslam Ansari of Ranchi with two weapons and a large quantity of ammunition. The individual was in nexus with Naxals and involved in gun running and supply of explosives in NCR.

In another incident, based on specific inputs provided by Army HQ Liaison Unit, a joint operation was conducted with Special Cell, Delhi Police which resulted in apprehension of Ali Mohammad of Baramula, a Pak trained terrorist of Hizbul Mujahideen at the inter-state bus terminal.

input : VN Shukla

Fast Attack Craft Launched

A view of the launch of Batti Malv

Third Fast Attack Craft (Batti Malv), in the series construction of four FACs at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited, Kolkata for Indian Navy, has been launched by Mrs Nirupama Jaitly, wife of Vice Admiral P Jaitly, Chief of Material. These ships are follow-on ships of Trinkat class built at GRSE in 2002-02 and presently based at Port Blair. These craft are planned for commissioning in batches of two in November this year and February next year respectively.

These warships displace 260 tonnes, have an overall length of 46 mtrs and are designed to attain speeds in excess of 28 knots. With a large indigenous content, these craft are poised to give yet another boost to the Indian Navy’s drive towards indigenisation and self-reliance.

Fast Attack Crafts are meant for interdiction duties in and around coastal waters and island territories. The ships also perform anti-poaching and anti-smuggling duties, besides providing protection to fisheries and sea installations. They are equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and equipment along with the latest communication sets. The marinised version of CRN-91 gun with stabilised optronic pedestal is one of the most advanced guns installed onboard these vessels. This gun and pedestal have been indigenously developed by Ordnance Factory, Medak and BEL, Chennai.

-Cdr Vinay Garg

Orders for ‘Dhruv’

Dhruv in flight

The excellence of Advanced Light Helicopter, Dhruv, has been once again acknowledged, now in civil role, as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation of India (ONGC) has placed an order for three Dhruv helicopters worth over Rs 100 cores which will be delivered by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) shortly. Earlier, HAL had received order for two Dhruv in civil version from Government of Jharkhand. The Government of Karnataka has also entered into an agreement with HAL for lease of one Dhruv helicopter for VIP communication. These major orders prove the excellent capability, reliability as well as maintainability of Dhruv in civil role.

-PIB (DW)

Passing-out Parade at Tambaram

Air Cmde MS Ahluwalia reviewing the parade

Over 500 Airmen were inducted into the Indian Air Force at a colourful passing-out parade at the Air Force base, Tambaram. The Airmen belonged to Mechanical Training Institute, Workshop Training Institute and Administrative Training Institute. They included five trainees from Sri Lanka.

Air Cmde MS Ahluwalia, AOC, Tambaram base reviewed the parade. He also presented trophies to meritorious Airmen.

Addressing the newly inducted Air Warriors, Air Cmde Ahluwalia urged them to strive hard to achieve greater heights in service.

-V Sankaran

Silver Jubilee of Artillery Regiments

Lt Gen R Subramanyam during silver jubilee felicitation

Two Artillery regiments, 106 Medium Regiment and 1880 Light Regiment, were felicitated on the occasion of their silver jubilee. Lt Gen R Subramanyam, GOC-in-C, Central Command, presented mementoes to Commanding Officers and Subedar Majors of these regiments at Headquarters Central Command in Lucknow Cantonment.

The 106 Medium Regiment was raised on July 1, 1980 at Babina Cantonment. It participated in operations Blue Star, Rakshak and Parakram.

On the other hand, 1880 Light Regiment was raised at Agartala. Besides serving in difficult areas, it also served in counter insurgency areas in Manipur. It has participated in operations Vijay and Parakram.

-Dhirendra Ojha
from Lucknow

COAS Launches Web Portal

Chief of the Army Staff, Gen JJ Singh and Mr Vineet Jain at the launch of website

In a unique endeavour, Army launched an interactive website of its own for the welfare of ex-servicemen adding yet another chapter to the vast array of its welfare activities. The Army Placement Agency (APA), which looks after the post retirement placement of ex-servicemen seeking second career options in private sector, went on the internet with this launch.

Chief of the Army Staff, Gen JJ Singh, launched the APA interactive website at an impressive ceremony at Army HQ. Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that he was confident that the APA portal, which has an all-India identity and access, would benefit all the ex-servicemen on the lookout for jobs. He also complimented the efforts of Times Group in developing and launching the website. With the launch of APA website, the ex-servicemen would have the facilities of on-line registration and acknowledgement, uploading of their resumes and of selecting jobs of their own choice. Likewise, interested employers will also be able to register, post job vacancies and search suitable candidates.

The launching ceremony was attended by Lt Gen BS Thakur, VCOAS, Mr Vineet Jain, Managing Director, Times Group and a large number of Army and civil dignitaries. The website can be directly accessed on www.apajobs.co.in

-Sub Maj DBS Rawat
from New Delhi

IJT Completes 100 Flights

Intermediate Jet Trainer

The second prototype of indigenously designed and developed Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) scripted a perfect century at the Paris Air Show in the form of its 100th flight. IJT’s landmark achievement not only gave a visual treat to the aviation enthusiasts but also nailed Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) supremacy in major aircraft development programme. This was IJT’s maiden participation in any international air show.

The 100th flight also dished out a double delight to the Indian contingent after French President, Mr Jacques Chirac visited the HAL stall admiring India’s advancement in aviation. HAL Chairman, Mr Ashok K Baweja met the industry giants like EADS, Airbus, Boeing, Dassuault Aviation and Sukhoi to discuss emerging business opportunities in the aviation sector.

The Paris Air Show has given HAL an ideal platform to identity innovative business models and explore joint ventures to promote global business possibilities. Mr Baweja also briefed the international media on HAL’s high-profile projects and the production of Light Combat Aircraft among others.

-PIB (DW)

Army Commander Visits Forward Areas

Lt Gen Hari Prasad, Army Commander, Northern Command, undertook an extensive tour of forward areas in the Valley. The objective of the tour was to carry out a first-hand assessment of the situation along the LoC, to personally survey the development work being undertaken by the Army under operation Sadbhavana and to review the security arrangements for Amarnath yatra.

The Army Commander expressed deep satisfaction over the condition of the fence and its efficacy in curbing infiltration. He expressed complete satisfaction over Army’s contribution to the development of the region.

Lt Gen Hari Prasad accompanied by his wife visited the Amarnath shrine. He was briefed by Army personnel on security arrangements.

-Col RK Sen
from Udhamupr

TA Group HQ Visited

Lt Gen S Pattabhiraman with Brig GS Dhillon and other officers at TA Group HQ

Lt Gen S Pattabhiraman, GOC-in-C, Western command visited the Territorial Army (TA) Group Headquarters, Chandigarh. On his arrival, he was received by Brig GS Dhillon, Commander, TA Group HQ, Western Command.

Brig GS Dhillon briefed GOC-in-C on various tasks and projects entrusted to the Territorial Army in the Western Command Zone. He also apprised him of the progress in the raising of an Ecological Infantry Company for the National Highway Authority of India in Delhi and the proposed raising of an Ecological Infantry Battalion for Himachal Pradesh.

-DS Rawat
from Chandigarh

CME on Infections and Complications

Lt Gen Ashok Vasudeva inaugurating the CME

A two-day Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on “Infections and Complications: A Surgical Update” was inaugurated at AMC Centre and School Auditorium in Lucknow Cantonment.

Organised under the aegis of Central Command Hospital, the CME was inaugurated by Lt Gen Ashok Vasudeva, Chief of Staff, Central Command. Speaking at the inaugural function, he said that update and conferences are essential to enable one to keep abreast with recent advances in the field of surgery.

Delivering the key-note address, Prof M Bhandari expressed confidence that the update would prove to be a goldmine of professional information to young surgeons and help them in the day-to-day practice of their craft.

Earlier, Maj Gen Sujan Singh, Commandant, Command Hospital welcomed the august gathering. Maj Gen JS Kulkarni, officiating Commandant of AMC Centre and School released a souvenir at the inaugural session.

The inaugural session began with a panel discussion followed by a symposium on ‘AIDS and the Surgeon’, gastrointestinal surgery and urology.

-B Satheesh Kumar
from Lucknow

Defence Financial Management Course

The five-day Financial Management Course 2005 for senior Army officers was organised by the Regional Training Centre (RTC) of PCDA, Central Command.

At the closing session, Principal Controller Defence Accounts, Central Command, Mr J Natarajan presented certificates to the participants of the course. The participating officers, twentyone in number, gave a very positive feedback on the course.

Mr SK Singh, Director RTC, Mr RK Choudhary, Joint Controller, PCDA and other senior officers of Headquarters Central Command were present on the occasion.

-B Satheesh Kumar
from Lucknow

Mountaineering Expedition

Lt Gen S Pattabhiraman handing over the expedition flag to Lt Col SS Yadav

The Third Battalion of the Fifth Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) launched a mountaineering expedition to Leo Pargial, the highest Himalayan peak in Himachal Pradesh. The expedition was flagged off by Lt Gen S Pattabhiraman, GOC-in-C, Western Command from somewhere in the Western Sector.

Gen Pattabhiraman expressed the hope that the unit would add one more feather to its cap by scaling the 6673-mtr high Leo Pargial-II. Handing over the expedition flag to the team leader, Lt Col SS Yadav, he urged the team members to propagate the message of patriotism, harmony and brotherhood. The expedition team comprised 25 members.

-DS Rawat
from Chandigarh

Flight Safety Conference

The annual Command Flight Safety Conference organised by Aviation Branch was held at Central Command Headquarters in Lucknow Cantonment.

The conference was presided over by Lt Gen Ashok Vasudeva, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Central Command. He also presented Army Commander’s Flight Safety Trophy to Lt Col Sanjay Solenkey, officiating Commanding Officer, 23 Independent, R&O Flight.

The conference reviewed the flight safety aspects of previous year in order to institute remedial measures to enhance operational worthiness of Army Aviation.

-B Satheesh Kumar
from Lucknow

Para Sailing Camp

Maj Gen PC Kharbanda giving away certificate to a participant

Keeping up with the spirit of adventure in the Armed Forces, a Parasailing Summer Camp was organised at Mamun Cantt. Brig GS Randhawa, Commander, Gurj Artillery Brigade inaugurated the camp organised by 59 Field Regiment under the aegis of Gurj Division. Participation was open to ladies and children of the serving personnel above 12 years.

Right from the beginning, the response was overwhelming. Launches were conducted daily from 7 am to 9 am ensuring favourable wind direction and surface temperature. After a familiarisation with the equipment, the participants were imparted the basic training. A total of 149 launches were conducted during the course of the camp.

Maj Gen PC Kharbanda, GOC, Gurj Division was the chief guest at the grand closing ceremony of the camp and gave away the certificates of participation. In the final jump, the Tricolour was unfurled in air giving a befitting touch of patriotism.

-PIB (DW)

Cycle Expedition by CTW Cadets

The expedition team members with Lt Gen Dhaliwal at Pune

The Gentleman Cadets of the Cadet Training Wing (CTW) of the College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune undertook a cycle expedition from Pune-Goa-Pune. The nine-member team returned home after a grueling cycling for seven days to cover 650 kms. The team, under Capt Vijay Rane, was flagged in by Lt Gen BS Dhaliwal, Commandant, CME.

The team travelled through the hinterland of Maharashtra and Goa to get acquainted with the culture, lifestyle and habits of the local population. Enroute, the team planted saplings and motivated youth to join Indian Army by conducting lectures at various schools and colleges.

-VK Abdulla
from Pune

Inter Unit Football Championship

The winner team of football championship

Ten Corps, Artillery Brigade Football Championship 2004-2005 was held at Bathinda, Punjab. The 214 Rocket Regiment lifted the trophy beating 220 Medium Regiment by 1-0. The 1871 Medium Regiment stood third in the final team tally.

Brig JK Gagneja, Commander, 10 Corps Artillery Brigade, gave away the trophy and felicitated the 214 Rocket Regiment on the occasion.

input : Col JS Dhaliwal

Aquatics Championship

Brig K Babayya, Commandant, BEG giving away the trophy

The host, Southern Command, proved its supremacy at the recently concluded Army Inter-Command Aquatics Championship 2005 scoring a whooping 252 points. Eastern Command followed with 118 points while the Central Command finished third.

The event, organised at the Pune-based Bombay Engineering Group (BEG) and Centre, saw more than 200 swimmers from five commands of Army. Immediately after the event, the winners were pitted against the swimmers of the Army Swimming Node. The best swimmers would be selected for the Army Red and Army Green teams which would participate in the Services Championship in September this year.

-VK Abdulla
from Pune

Appointments

Lt Gen Harinder Kumar Maini

Lt Gen Harinder Kumar Maini has assumed the appoinment of Commandant, AMC Centre and School and OIC Records, AMC in Lucknow Cantonment. A graduate from the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, he was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in 1968. He is MD (Anaesthesiology) from Pune University.

Lt Gen HK Maini has a vast experience in staff, administrative and instructional appointments at all levels. For his distinguished services, he has been awarded Vishisht Seva Medal and GOC-in-C Commendation Card.

•

Maj Gen GS Grewal

Maj Gen GS Grewal took over the reigns of the Pine Division. An alumnus of Military School, Ajmer, he was commissioned into Elite Para Regiment in 1971.

The General has seen active insurgency in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, Nagaland, Mizoram and J&K. He commanded 5 Para in Nagaland during insurgency. On his promotion to the rank of Brigadier, he was assigned the coveted task of commanding a Sector of Rashtriya Rifles in Jammu and Kashmir. He is a highly decorated para-trooper, who has been awarded Vishisht Seva Medal twice in Nagaland and Jammu and Kashmir for his distinguished services.

•

Lt Gen Sarabjit Singh Dhillon took over as GOC of the Chinar Corps. He is an alumnus of National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and was commissioned into Grenadiers Regiment in 1968.

Colonel of the Grenadiers Regiment since 2003, Lt Gen Dhillon has a vast and varied operational experience. He is a veteran of 1971 war and, till recently, he was the Commandant, IMTRAT, Bhutan. For his distinguished services of highest order, Lt Gen SS Dhillon has been awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal.

inputs : Dhirendra Ojha, Lt Col NK
Shukla and PIB (DW)

Photocall

source : Lt Col SR Pillay, Dhirendra Ojha, MN
Shankar, Naresh Vig and RL Sharma