French soldiers will be deployed Saturday to help guard public buildings, allowing police to focus on dealing with "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-must-probe-police-conduct-in-yellow-vest-protests-un-201620">yellow vest</a>" demonstrators in case of renewed violence in Paris and other cities, the government has said.

It was announced separately that Prime Minister Edouard Philippe had decided to put off a planned overseas trip to French Guiana at the weekend to be on hand at home. "Given the special situation concerning public order, the premier decided to postpone his visit," his office said.

Last Saturday, more than 5,000 police officers failed to stop hundreds of violent protesters from rampaging along the Champs-Elysees, burning and looting over 100 businesses in disturbances that lasted more than seven hours.

Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux Wednesday said the troops will be redeployed from the "Sentinelle" anti-terror operation, which patrols streets and protects airports, train stations, places of worship and other sites.

This will allow police forces to "concentrate on crowd control, along with maintaining law and order," he said.

After Saturday's rioting, the government sacked Paris police chief Michel Delpuech. Two other top police officials, including one of Delpuech's aides, will also be removed from their positions, government sources told AFP.

The deployment of troops is intended to allow riot police to engage more aggressively with the far-left and far-right groups as well as anarchists who have been blamed for much of the violence.

But some police unions have warned that maintaining law and order was not the role of a soldier. 
"I'm worried about how they'll respond in case of attack," said Philippe Capon of the Unsa-Police union.

Troops were originally deployed on the streets in January 2015 after the jihadist massacre at the Charlie Hebdo magazine, and their patrols have become a regular sight in Paris and other cities.

The government has also announced plans to outlaw protests along the famed Champs-Elysees and other key areas if hooligans once again infiltrate the "yellow vest" demonstrations, which have taken place every Saturday since mid-November.&nbsp;

French soldiers will be deployed Saturday to help guard public buildings, allowing police to focus on dealing with "yellow vest" demonstrators in case of renewed violence in Paris and other cities, the government has said.

French soldiers will be deployed Saturday to help guard public buildings, allowing police to focus on dealing with "yellow vest" demonstrators in case of renewed violence in Paris and other cities, the government has said. It was announced separately that Prime Minister Edouard Philippe had decided to put off a planned overseas trip to French Guiana at the weekend to be on hand at home. "Given the special situation concerning public order, the premier decided to postpone his visit," his office said. Last Saturday, more than 5,000 police officers failed to stop hundreds of violent protesters from rampaging along the Champs-Elysees, burning and looting over 100 businesses in disturbances that lasted more than seven hours. Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux Wednesday said the troops will be redeployed from the "Sentinelle" anti-terror operation, which patrols streets and protects airports, train stations, places of worship and other sites. This will allow police forces to "concentrate on crowd control, along with maintaining law and order," he said. After Saturday's rioting, the government sacked Paris police chief Michel Delpuech. Two other top police officials, including one of Delpuech's aides, will also be removed from their positions, government sources told AFP. The deployment of troops is intended to allow riot police to engage more aggressively with the far-left and far-right groups as well as anarchists who have been blamed for much of the violence. But some police unions have warned that maintaining law and order was not the role of a soldier. "I'm worried about how they'll respond in case of attack," said Philippe Capon of the Unsa-Police union. Troops were originally deployed on the streets in January 2015 after the jihadist massacre at the Charlie Hebdo magazine, and their patrols have become a regular sight in Paris and other cities. The government has also announced plans to outlaw protests along the famed Champs-Elysees and other key areas if hooligans once again infiltrate the "yellow vest" demonstrations, which have taken place every Saturday since mid-November.

France brings out army ahead of next 'yellow vest' protest

The Syrian army, aided by Russian warplanes, attacked rebel-held towns in northwestern Syria on Wednesday in the most extensive bombardment in months against the last remaining rebel bastion in the country, rebels, rescuers and residents said.

Rebels who have fought to topple President Bashar al-Assad for eight years are now largely confined to the enclave in the northwest near the Turkish border. Around four million people now live there, including hundreds of thousands of opponents of Assad who fled there from other parts of the country.

The enclave is protected by a "de-escalation zone" agreement brokered last year by Assad`s main international backers Russia and Iran, and Turkey which has supported the rebels in the past and has sent troops to monitor the truce.&nbsp;

Residents said Russian planes conducted at least 12 aerial strikes on residential areas in Idlib city, including a civilian prison on its outskirts, where they said dozens of prisoners escaped. At least 10 civilians were killed and forty-five injured.

Russia`s defence ministry confirmed it had hit Idlib in coordination with Turkey, targeting drones and weapons stores of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) jihadists it said were intended for use in an attack on a major Russian air base near the Mediterranean coast.

The jihadist group vowed to take revenge, saying they had recaptured most of the prisoners who escaped whom it said included members of a cell working for Russian intelligence it claimed were behind bombings in Idlib city last month that killed 17 civilians and injured dozens.

"There is no solution against the Russian occupier, Assad`s forces and the Iranian militias except confrontation and confrontation only," Hayat Tahir al Sham said in a statement.&nbsp;

The Syrian army has escalated its shelling of the enclave since early February. The attacks have killed dozens of civilians and injured hundreds, and led to tens of thousands of people fleeing frontline areas to camps and towns closer to the Turkish border, rescuers and aid agencies said.

The Syrian army denies targeting civilians and says the army is responding to stepped-up attacks staged by al Qaeda-inspired fighters who aim to wreck the truce and control the area.

Residents along the border area with Turkey could hear heavy overnight aerial strikes that covered a wide stretch of territory from rebel-held areas near government-held Latakia province on the Mediterranean to Idlib city towards the east and extending to adjoining opposition-held parts of northern Hama.

"They burnt the land ... The sounds were heard very clearly," said Ibrahim al Sheikh, a father of five in the border town of Atmeh. He quoted relatives as saying the shelling was the heaviest yet in the two weeks of escalation.

The escalation in the northwest is taking place as a US-backed Kurdish-led militia has launched a separate assault on the final bastion of Islamic State fighters on the opposite, eastern end of the country, creating turning points on both major fronts of Syria`s multi-sided civil war.

`WHOEVER DID THIS IS A BEAST`

In the northwest, residents said white phosphorous munitions were fired overnight on the town of al Tamana in northwestern Idlib countryside, where rescue workers on Wednesday said they put out several fires caused by more than 80 rocket strikes.&nbsp;

Among the targets of the aerial campaign was a makeshift tent camp in Kfr Amim, east of Idlib city, that shelters displaced families, where two women were killed and at least 10 children injured when bombs landed after midnight.&nbsp;

"Whoever did this is a beast, truly a beast. It`s a camp with only women and children. There is nothing we can say except that this Russian beast is coming to kill," said Laith al Abdullah, a civil defence worker in Sarqeb town who helped in the rescue effort, reached by mobile phone.

Rocket shelling from a major army base in Joreen, in Hama province, escalated a week-long bombardment of rural areas near the town of Jisr al Shaqour, said Ahmed Abdul Salam, a rebel commander in the Turkey-backed National Liberation Front.&nbsp;

A Russian army base, south of government-controlled Halafaya town, also targeted Kafr Zeita in northern Hama countryside while cluster bombs hit several rebel-held towns in southern Idlib, rebels said.

The stepped-up bombardment has depopulated opposition-held towns in the buffer zone that straddles parts of Idlib to northern Hama and parts of Latakia province.

The opposition-held city of Khan Sheikhon had become a ghost city with most of its more than 70,000 people fleeing, said Yousef al Idlibi, a former resident who moved to Idlib city.

Turkey, which began patrols in the buffer zone on Friday, has condemned what it said were increasing provocations to wreck the truce, and warned that a bombing campaign by the Russians and the Syrian army would cause a major humanitarian crisis.

Many residents are exasperated by the failure of Turkish forces to respond to the bombardments. The Syrian army has called for Turkish forces to withdraw.

The Syrian army, aided by Russian warplanes, attacked rebel-held towns in northwestern Syria on Wednesday in the most extensive bombardment in months against the last remaining rebel bastion in the country, rebels, rescuers and residents said.

The Syrian army, aided by Russian warplanes, attacked rebel-held towns in northwestern Syria on Wednesday in the most extensive bombardment in months against the last remaining rebel bastion in the country, rebels, rescuers and residents said. Rebels who have fought to topple President Bashar al-Assad for eight years are now largely confined to the enclave in the northwest near the Turkish border. Around four million people now live there, including hundreds of thousands of opponents of Assad who fled there from other parts of the country. The enclave is protected by a "de-escalation zone" agreement brokered last year by Assad`s main international backers Russia and Iran, and Turkey which has supported the rebels in the past and has sent troops to monitor the truce. Residents said Russian planes conducted at least 12 aerial strikes on residential areas in Idlib city, including a civilian prison on its outskirts, where they said dozens of prisoners escaped. At least 10 civilians were killed and forty-five injured. Russia`s defence ministry confirmed it had hit Idlib in coordination with Turkey, targeting drones and weapons stores of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) jihadists it said were intended for use in an attack on a major Russian air base near the Mediterranean coast. The jihadist group vowed to take revenge, saying they had recaptured most of the prisoners who escaped whom it said included members of a cell working for Russian intelligence it claimed were behind bombings in Idlib city last month that killed 17 civilians and injured dozens. "There is no solution against the Russian occupier, Assad`s forces and the Iranian militias except confrontation and confrontation only," Hayat Tahir al Sham said in a statement. The Syrian army has escalated its shelling of the enclave since early February. The attacks have killed dozens of civilians and injured hundreds, and led to tens of thousands of people fleeing frontline areas to camps and towns closer to the Turkish border, rescuers and aid agencies said. The Syrian army denies targeting civilians and says the army is responding to stepped-up attacks staged by al Qaeda-inspired fighters who aim to wreck the truce and control the area. Residents along the border area with Turkey could hear heavy overnight aerial strikes that covered a wide stretch of territory from rebel-held areas near government-held Latakia province on the Mediterranean to Idlib city towards the east and extending to adjoining opposition-held parts of northern Hama. "They burnt the land ... The sounds were heard very clearly," said Ibrahim al Sheikh, a father of five in the border town of Atmeh. He quoted relatives as saying the shelling was the heaviest yet in the two weeks of escalation. The escalation in the northwest is taking place as a US-backed Kurdish-led militia has launched a separate assault on the final bastion of Islamic State fighters on the opposite, eastern end of the country, creating turning points on both major fronts of Syria`s multi-sided civil war. `WHOEVER DID THIS IS A BEAST` In the northwest, residents said white phosphorous munitions were fired overnight on the town of al Tamana in northwestern Idlib countryside, where rescue workers on Wednesday said they put out several fires caused by more than 80 rocket strikes. Among the targets of the aerial campaign was a makeshift tent camp in Kfr Amim, east of Idlib city, that shelters displaced families, where two women were killed and at least 10 children injured when bombs landed after midnight. "Whoever did this is a beast, truly a beast. It`s a camp with only women and children. There is nothing we can say except that this Russian beast is coming to kill," said Laith al Abdullah, a civil defence worker in Sarqeb town who helped in the rescue effort, reached by mobile phone. Rocket shelling from a major army base in Joreen, in Hama province, escalated a week-long bombardment of rural areas near the town of Jisr al Shaqour, said Ahmed Abdul Salam, a rebel commander in the Turkey-backed National Liberation Front. A Russian army base, south of government-controlled Halafaya town, also targeted Kafr Zeita in northern Hama countryside while cluster bombs hit several rebel-held towns in southern Idlib, rebels said. The stepped-up bombardment has depopulated opposition-held towns in the buffer zone that straddles parts of Idlib to northern Hama and parts of Latakia province. The opposition-held city of Khan Sheikhon had become a ghost city with most of its more than 70,000 people fleeing, said Yousef al Idlibi, a former resident who moved to Idlib city. Turkey, which began patrols in the buffer zone on Friday, has condemned what it said were increasing provocations to wreck the truce, and warned that a bombing campaign by the Russians and the Syrian army would cause a major humanitarian crisis. Many residents are exasperated by the failure of Turkish forces to respond to the bombardments. The Syrian army has called for Turkish forces to withdraw.

Russian and Syrian air strikes intensify on last rebel bastion

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the&nbsp;Tral encounter earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said.&nbsp;Pakistani&nbsp;militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

"The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. 
Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC <a href="https://t.co/iqVrRhyZUE">pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105053122362294272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The officials added that in the&nbsp;first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated.&nbsp;

Based on a credible input about the presence of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">terrorists in Pinglish area of </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">Tral</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489"> Awantipora</a>, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area.&nbsp;

As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-mastermind-of-pulwama-attack-killed-in-encounter-4-soldiers-dead-too-198057">One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed</a> in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18.&nbsp;

A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area.

Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter. "The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said. Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan. Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated. Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area. As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway. One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18. A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area. Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.

14 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army

Pakistan once again violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati Sector of Poonch district early Sunday morning.

The ceasefire violation started around 4.30 am as Pakistan continued firing for approximately three hours, till 7.30 am.&nbsp;

Indian Army, however, retaliated befittingly to the violation.

Pakistan also resorted to shelling with mortars and firing of small arms.

Further details on the incident are awaited.

Earlier on Saturday, Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire at Indian border areas at three places along the Line of Control and International Border.

The violations had occurred at Rajouri, Poonch and Akhnoor sectors of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan once again violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati Sector of Poonch district early Sunday morning. The ceasefire violation started around 4.30 am as Pakistan continued firing for approximately three hours, till 7.

Pakistan once again violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati Sector of Poonch district early Sunday morning. The ceasefire violation started around 4.30 am as Pakistan continued firing for approximately three hours, till 7.30 am. Indian Army, however, retaliated befittingly to the violation. Pakistan also resorted to shelling with mortars and firing of small arms. Further details on the incident are awaited. Earlier on Saturday, Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire at Indian border areas at three places along the Line of Control and International Border. The violations had occurred at Rajouri, Poonch and Akhnoor sectors of Jammu and Kashmir.

Heavy firing by Pakistan along LoC in KG sector of Poonch, Army strongly retaliates

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Sunday after a rocket from the Palestinian enclave hit the Jewish state, the army said.

"Fighter jets and aircraft struck several military targets in a Hamas compound in the northern Gaza Strip in addition to two Hamas vessels," a statement from the army said.

The attacks were in response to a rocket fired from Gaza late Saturday that "in addition to the continued violence emanating from the Gaza Strip," the army said.

The rocket hit an open field in Israel's Eshkol region, causing no casualties or damages.

Gazans have been launching balloons carrying explosive devices at Israel and stepping up attempts to damage the border fence on a daily basis for more than 10 day, prompting Israeli retaliation.

Israeli forces said Saturday they had launched several strikes against Hamas sites in Gaza in response to a projectile launched from the coastal enclave the night before.

At least 253 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since March 2018, the majority shot during weekly border protests and others hit by tank fire or air strikes in response to violence from Gaza.

Two Israeli soldiers have been killed over the same period.

Israel and Hamas, which has controlled the blockaded Gaza Strip for over a decade, have fought three wars since 2008.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Sunday after a rocket from the Palestinian enclave hit the Jewish state, the army said. "Fighter jets and aircraft struck several military targets in a Hamas compound in the northern Gaza Strip in addition to two Hamas vessels," a statement from the army said.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Sunday after a rocket from the Palestinian enclave hit the Jewish state, the army said. "Fighter jets and aircraft struck several military targets in a Hamas compound in the northern Gaza Strip in addition to two Hamas vessels," a statement from the army said. The attacks were in response to a rocket fired from Gaza late Saturday that "in addition to the continued violence emanating from the Gaza Strip," the army said. The rocket hit an open field in Israel's Eshkol region, causing no casualties or damages. Gazans have been launching balloons carrying explosive devices at Israel and stepping up attempts to damage the border fence on a daily basis for more than 10 day, prompting Israeli retaliation. Israeli forces said Saturday they had launched several strikes against Hamas sites in Gaza in response to a projectile launched from the coastal enclave the night before. At least 253 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since March 2018, the majority shot during weekly border protests and others hit by tank fire or air strikes in response to violence from Gaza. Two Israeli soldiers have been killed over the same period. Israel and Hamas, which has controlled the blockaded Gaza Strip for over a decade, have fought three wars since 2008.

Israel strikes Hamas targets in Gaza over rocket: Army

A top Army officer Saturday appealed mothers in Kashmir to help the force bring back their sons who have joined militancy, assuring them of safety and security.&nbsp;

General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Army's Srinagar-based 15 Corps, Lt Gen K J S Dhillon also appealed the parents to stop their children from joining militant ranks.

"From the core of my heart, I personally request all the mothers in Kashmir to please stop your children from joining militancy or terrorism and bring back those who have gone astray. I guarantee you their safety, security and 100 per cent absorption in the mainstream," he said.

The Army officer was addressing a passing out parade of the newly-recruited cadets at Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) regiment at Rangreth in the outskirts of the city here.

The Corps Commander said life was God's most beautiful gift and meant to live happily with the family.

"Please get them back into mainstream. This one life is the most beautiful gift from God, live it well with your family and remain happy," he said.

A total of 152 cadets, including 26 from Kashmir valley, were recruited into the JAKLI regiment after completing six months rigorous training.&nbsp;

A top Army officer Saturday appealed mothers in Kashmir to help the force bring back their sons who have joined militancy, assuring them of safety and security. General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Army's Srinagar-based 15 Corps, Lt Gen K J S Dhillon also appealed the parents to stop their children from joining militant ranks.

A top Army officer Saturday appealed mothers in Kashmir to help the force bring back their sons who have joined militancy, assuring them of safety and security. General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Army's Srinagar-based 15 Corps, Lt Gen K J S Dhillon also appealed the parents to stop their children from joining militant ranks. "From the core of my heart, I personally request all the mothers in Kashmir to please stop your children from joining militancy or terrorism and bring back those who have gone astray. I guarantee you their safety, security and 100 per cent absorption in the mainstream," he said. The Army officer was addressing a passing out parade of the newly-recruited cadets at Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) regiment at Rangreth in the outskirts of the city here. The Corps Commander said life was God's most beautiful gift and meant to live happily with the family. "Please get them back into mainstream. This one life is the most beautiful gift from God, live it well with your family and remain happy," he said. A total of 152 cadets, including 26 from Kashmir valley, were recruited into the JAKLI regiment after completing six months rigorous training.

J&K: Army asks mothers to stop their sons from joining militancy

Nations still bar women in combat role but Canada serves as template

The Ministry of Defence Tuesday said it has taken steps to ensure implementation of permanent commissioning of women officers in the armed forces, in line with the announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15 last year, the PM had announced that women officers recruited under the short service commission in the armed forces will have the option of taking up a permanent commission, which he described as a "gift" to the "brave daughters".

"The Ministry of Defence has taken steps to ensure implementation of the announcement made by the Prime Minister on August 15, 2018, regarding grant of permanent commission to women officers in the armed forces," the ministry said in a statement.

In so far the Indian Air Force (IAF) is concerned, "all branches, including that of fighter pilots, are now open for women officers," it said.

"In Indian Navy, all non-sea going branches/cadre/specialisation have been opened for induction of women officers through Short Service Commission. In addition to education, law and naval constructor branch/cadre, women SSC officers have been made eligible for grant of permanent commission in the naval armament branch, at par with male officers," the statement said.

The proposal for induction of "three new training ships" for the Navy is underway, the ministry also said in the statement.

"This will provide the requisite infrastructure for training of both men and women officers. Indian Navy will start inducting women in all branches, once the training ships are in place," it said.

Women officers will be granted permanent commission in the Indian Army in "all the ten branches" where women are inducted for Short Service Commission, the statement said.

"So, besides the existing two streams of Judge Advocate General (JAG) and Army Education Corps, now permanent commission will be granted in Signals, Engineers, Army Aviation, Army Air Defence, Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, Army Service Corps, Army Ordinance Corps and Intelligence also to women officers.

"SSC women officers will give their option for permanent commission before completion of four years of Commissioned Service, and they will exercise the option for grant of permanent commission and their choice of specialisation," it added.

SSC women officers will be considered for grant of permanent commission "based on suitability, merit etc and will be employed in various staff appointment," the statement said.

Modi in his speech on the occasion of the 72nd Independence Day had said, "I want to give a good news to our brave daughters. Women officers who have been appointed through the short service commission in the armed forces will get a permanent commission through a transparent process. It is a gift for them."

Under SSC, officers are allowed tenures ranging from five to 14 years of services. Permanent commission allows them to serve till the age of retirement.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Defence Tuesday said it has taken steps to ensure implementation of permanent commissioning of women officers in the armed forces, in line with the announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech.

The Ministry of Defence Tuesday said it has taken steps to ensure implementation of permanent commissioning of women officers in the armed forces, in line with the announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15 last year, the PM had announced that women officers recruited under the short service commission in the armed forces will have the option of taking up a permanent commission, which he described as a "gift" to the "brave daughters". "The Ministry of Defence has taken steps to ensure implementation of the announcement made by the Prime Minister on August 15, 2018, regarding grant of permanent commission to women officers in the armed forces," the ministry said in a statement. In so far the Indian Air Force (IAF) is concerned, "all branches, including that of fighter pilots, are now open for women officers," it said. "In Indian Navy, all non-sea going branches/cadre/specialisation have been opened for induction of women officers through Short Service Commission. In addition to education, law and naval constructor branch/cadre, women SSC officers have been made eligible for grant of permanent commission in the naval armament branch, at par with male officers," the statement said. The proposal for induction of "three new training ships" for the Navy is underway, the ministry also said in the statement. "This will provide the requisite infrastructure for training of both men and women officers. Indian Navy will start inducting women in all branches, once the training ships are in place," it said. Women officers will be granted permanent commission in the Indian Army in "all the ten branches" where women are inducted for Short Service Commission, the statement said. "So, besides the existing two streams of Judge Advocate General (JAG) and Army Education Corps, now permanent commission will be granted in Signals, Engineers, Army Aviation, Army Air Defence, Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, Army Service Corps, Army Ordinance Corps and Intelligence also to women officers. "SSC women officers will give their option for permanent commission before completion of four years of Commissioned Service, and they will exercise the option for grant of permanent commission and their choice of specialisation," it added. SSC women officers will be considered for grant of permanent commission "based on suitability, merit etc and will be employed in various staff appointment," the statement said. Modi in his speech on the occasion of the 72nd Independence Day had said, "I want to give a good news to our brave daughters. Women officers who have been appointed through the short service commission in the armed forces will get a permanent commission through a transparent process. It is a gift for them." Under SSC, officers are allowed tenures ranging from five to 14 years of services. Permanent commission allows them to serve till the age of retirement.

Soon, permanent commissioning of women officers in 10 Army branches

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/army-chief-visits-white-knight-corps-in-jammu-reviews-operational-preparedness-of-forces-200806">Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat</a> visited forward locations of Samba and Ratnuchak in Jammu region amidst heightened tension along the LoC.

The Army Chief reviewed the operational deployment and preparedness of the formations.

He was briefed about the situation and preparedness by Lt Gen. JS Nain, General Officer Commanding, Rising Star Corps.

The Army Chief also interacted with troops in forward posts and praised their high state of moral and preparedness.

General Rawat also expressed complete confidence in the capabilities of his men to "thwart any nefarious design of enemies of our country and handle any situation."

The Army Chief had visited forward locations of White Knight Corps on Saturday along with Corps Commander and Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh.

Tensions on the LoC remain high as cross-border firing saw a spurt in the last few weeks.

Reportedly, Indian Army retaliated to Pakistan`s unprovoked ceasefire violations by heavy artillery firing and even used anti-tank missiles to pound Pakistani Army positions across the LoC.

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat visited forward locations of Samba and Ratnuchak in Jammu region amidst heightened tension along the LoC. The Army Chief reviewed the operational deployment and preparedness of the formations.

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat visited forward locations of Samba and Ratnuchak in Jammu region amidst heightened tension along the LoC. The Army Chief reviewed the operational deployment and preparedness of the formations. He was briefed about the situation and preparedness by Lt Gen. JS Nain, General Officer Commanding, Rising Star Corps. The Army Chief also interacted with troops in forward posts and praised their high state of moral and preparedness. General Rawat also expressed complete confidence in the capabilities of his men to "thwart any nefarious design of enemies of our country and handle any situation." The Army Chief had visited forward locations of White Knight Corps on Saturday along with Corps Commander and Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh. Tensions on the LoC remain high as cross-border firing saw a spurt in the last few weeks. Reportedly, Indian Army retaliated to Pakistan`s unprovoked ceasefire violations by heavy artillery firing and even used anti-tank missiles to pound Pakistani Army positions across the LoC.

J&K: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat visits forward positions amidst tensions along LoC

Thousands of people rallied in Myanmar`s commercial capital on Wednesday in support of constitutional reform, amid mounting tension between the ruling party and the military over changes to the charter that enshrines the army’s role in politics.

Protesters gathered in the center of Yangon to hear speeches by veteran democracy activists while singers led the crowd in chants of “take a rest, military dictatorship”, in the second demonstration in the city in a week.

Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party launched a surprise bid in January to change the charter, pushing through parliament a proposal to form a committee to devise amendments despite objections from military-aligned lawmakers.&nbsp;

The proposal was Suu Kyi’s biggest challenge to the army’s power in nearly three years, and sparked a protest in the legislature from green-clad military appointees, who stood in silence for several minutes to show their opposition.

It was later approved by parliament, where the ruling NLD commands a large majority.

“We are demonstrating to support the constitutional amendments committee,” Yin Htwe, one of the organizers of Wednesday’s protest, told Reuters. “We are on the side of the people.”

In a press conference on Saturday, a spokesman for the army accused the NLD of using the “wrong procedure” to amend the 2008 charter, which it drafted during military rule.

“Forming the joint committee to amend the constitution is not in line with the constitution,” said Major-General Tun Tun Nyi.

He added, however, that army lawmakers would participate in the exercise.

Under the charter, the military is guaranteed a quarter of seats in parliament and any change requires a vote of more than 75 percent of members, giving the army an effective veto.

It also blocks Suu Kyi from becoming president, with a prohibition on presidential candidates with foreign spouses or children. Suu Kyi had two sons with her late husband Michael Aris, a British academic.

For nearly three years, she has ruled from “above the president” by creating a new position of state counselor.&nbsp;

The charter also gives the military control of ministries responsible for security, including defense and home affairs.

The NLD has not said what provisions of the constitution it might seek to reform. In the past, some members of the party have called for change to Article 436, which gives the military an effective veto over constitutional reform.

“I want to change all the sections which disturb the current government`s work,” said Thein Tun, a 73-year-old man who stood among the crowd on Wednesday hand-in-hand with his wife, Khin Khin Win.&nbsp;

“It is important for the good of the country,” Khin Khin Win added.

Thousands of people rallied in Myanmar`s commercial capital on Wednesday in support of constitutional reform, amid mounting tension between the ruling party and the military over changes to the charter that enshrines the army’s role in politics.

Thousands of people rallied in Myanmar`s commercial capital on Wednesday in support of constitutional reform, amid mounting tension between the ruling party and the military over changes to the charter that enshrines the army’s role in politics. Protesters gathered in the center of Yangon to hear speeches by veteran democracy activists while singers led the crowd in chants of “take a rest, military dictatorship”, in the second demonstration in the city in a week. Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party launched a surprise bid in January to change the charter, pushing through parliament a proposal to form a committee to devise amendments despite objections from military-aligned lawmakers. The proposal was Suu Kyi’s biggest challenge to the army’s power in nearly three years, and sparked a protest in the legislature from green-clad military appointees, who stood in silence for several minutes to show their opposition. It was later approved by parliament, where the ruling NLD commands a large majority. “We are demonstrating to support the constitutional amendments committee,” Yin Htwe, one of the organizers of Wednesday’s protest, told Reuters. “We are on the side of the people.” In a press conference on Saturday, a spokesman for the army accused the NLD of using the “wrong procedure” to amend the 2008 charter, which it drafted during military rule. “Forming the joint committee to amend the constitution is not in line with the constitution,” said Major-General Tun Tun Nyi. He added, however, that army lawmakers would participate in the exercise. Under the charter, the military is guaranteed a quarter of seats in parliament and any change requires a vote of more than 75 percent of members, giving the army an effective veto. It also blocks Suu Kyi from becoming president, with a prohibition on presidential candidates with foreign spouses or children. Suu Kyi had two sons with her late husband Michael Aris, a British academic. For nearly three years, she has ruled from “above the president” by creating a new position of state counselor. The charter also gives the military control of ministries responsible for security, including defense and home affairs. The NLD has not said what provisions of the constitution it might seek to reform. In the past, some members of the party have called for change to Article 436, which gives the military an effective veto over constitutional reform. “I want to change all the sections which disturb the current government`s work,” said Thein Tun, a 73-year-old man who stood among the crowd on Wednesday hand-in-hand with his wife, Khin Khin Win. “It is important for the good of the country,” Khin Khin Win added.

Thousands rally in Myanmar's biggest city to change army-drafted constitution

The Army and BSF have been put on the highest degree of alertness along the border here after air space violations by the neighbouring country and the night-long heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops on forward and civilians areas across the LoC which stopped on Wednesday.

Authorities have ordered temporary closure of educational institutions in a 5-km radius along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch districts on Wednesday amid mounting tensions between the two countries, following the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 and an Indian air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed camp inside Pakistan on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fighter-planes-enter-indian-airspace-in-jk-pushed-back-by-indian-jets-199993">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan fighter planes enter Indian airspace in J&amp;K; one reportedly shot down, others drop bombs when pushed back</a>

All residents of the border areas have been asked to remain inside their homes and not venture outside.

"There was night long-heavy firing and mortar shelling along the LoC in most of areas in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts. However there was no firing and shelling from across the border on Wednesday," officials said.

"Army and BSF troops have been put on highest alert along the LoC and International Border (IB) in view of the high degree of tension in wake of air space violations," they said.

According to some reports, panic gripped the residents of border areas and some locals have left their homes and moved to safer areas.

Pakistan on Wednesday said that its jets crossed the Line of Control to undertake strikes in India for "self defence".

Indian officials said Pakistani fighter jets on Wednesday violated Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Nowshera sectors but were pushed back by Indian aircraft.

On Tuesday night, the Indian Army destroyed five Pakistani posts along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir in a befitting retaliation to firing from across the border, resulting in a "number of casualties" to Pak troops,&nbsp; 
a defence official had said.

"The Indian Army retaliated for effect and our focused fire resulted in severe destruction to five posts and number of casualties to Pak army (along LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts)," a defence PRO said.

From 6:30 pm Tuesday, the Pakistani Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by shelling with heavy calibre weaponry along the LoC out of frustration, he said.

The Pakistani troops were also seen firing mortars and missiles from civilian houses, using villagers as human shields.

However, the Indian Army targeted the Pakistani posts away from civilian areas, the PRO said, adding that this resulted in a "number of casualties" to Pak troopers.

In exchange of fire, five soldiers of the Indian Army suffered minor injuries, out of which two of them were shifted to a military hospital for medical treatment. They are stable.

The Army and BSF have been put on the highest degree of alertness along the border here after air space violations by the neighbouring country and the night-long heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops on forward and civilians areas across the LoC which stopped on Wednesday.

The Army and BSF have been put on the highest degree of alertness along the border here after air space violations by the neighbouring country and the night-long heavy firing and shelling by Pakistani troops on forward and civilians areas across the LoC which stopped on Wednesday. Authorities have ordered temporary closure of educational institutions in a 5-km radius along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch districts on Wednesday amid mounting tensions between the two countries, following the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 and an Indian air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed camp inside Pakistan on Tuesday. Also read: Pakistan fighter planes enter Indian airspace in J&K; one reportedly shot down, others drop bombs when pushed back All residents of the border areas have been asked to remain inside their homes and not venture outside. "There was night long-heavy firing and mortar shelling along the LoC in most of areas in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts. However there was no firing and shelling from across the border on Wednesday," officials said. "Army and BSF troops have been put on highest alert along the LoC and International Border (IB) in view of the high degree of tension in wake of air space violations," they said. According to some reports, panic gripped the residents of border areas and some locals have left their homes and moved to safer areas. Pakistan on Wednesday said that its jets crossed the Line of Control to undertake strikes in India for "self defence". Indian officials said Pakistani fighter jets on Wednesday violated Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Nowshera sectors but were pushed back by Indian aircraft. On Tuesday night, the Indian Army destroyed five Pakistani posts along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir in a befitting retaliation to firing from across the border, resulting in a "number of casualties" to Pak troops, a defence official had said. "The Indian Army retaliated for effect and our focused fire resulted in severe destruction to five posts and number of casualties to Pak army (along LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts)," a defence PRO said. From 6:30 pm Tuesday, the Pakistani Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by shelling with heavy calibre weaponry along the LoC out of frustration, he said. The Pakistani troops were also seen firing mortars and missiles from civilian houses, using villagers as human shields. However, the Indian Army targeted the Pakistani posts away from civilian areas, the PRO said, adding that this resulted in a "number of casualties" to Pak troopers. In exchange of fire, five soldiers of the Indian Army suffered minor injuries, out of which two of them were shifted to a military hospital for medical treatment. They are stable.

Army, Border Security Force troops along International border, LoC put on highest degree of alertness: Officials

A CRPF jawan who was transferred to Telangana from Jammu and Kashmir has gone missing from the train before arriving in Hyderabad to join duty.

A complaint in this regard has been filed by CRPF ASI Arjun Dubey, who was heading the team of personnel travelling to Telangana.

Ashok, the Superintendent of Police (SP)- Government Railway Police (GRP), Secunderabad District told ANI, “We have received the complaint. The 14 member team was transferred from Jammu and Kashmir to Telangana. On 19 February they took Telangana Express from Delhi and reached Secunderabad Railway Station on 20 February. 13 CRPF personnel got down but one Jawan by the name Saldeep Kumar a native of Jammu and Kashmir wasn’t found, all others waited for him for some time and left to Hakimpet CRPF quarters to report”

As per the police official, the missing CRPF official is not reachable over the phone and is yet to report for duty.

GRP has registered a missing case and has also issued a lookout notice for the missing Jawan.

Further investigation is the case is underway.&nbsp;

A CRPF jawan who was transferred to Telangana from Jammu and Kashmir has gone missing from the train before arriving in Hyderabad to join duty. A complaint in this regard has been filed by CRPF ASI Arjun Dubey, who was heading the team of personnel travelling to Telangana.

A CRPF jawan who was transferred to Telangana from Jammu and Kashmir has gone missing from the train before arriving in Hyderabad to join duty. A complaint in this regard has been filed by CRPF ASI Arjun Dubey, who was heading the team of personnel travelling to Telangana. Ashok, the Superintendent of Police (SP)- Government Railway Police (GRP), Secunderabad District told ANI, “We have received the complaint. The 14 member team was transferred from Jammu and Kashmir to Telangana. On 19 February they took Telangana Express from Delhi and reached Secunderabad Railway Station on 20 February. 13 CRPF personnel got down but one Jawan by the name Saldeep Kumar a native of Jammu and Kashmir wasn’t found, all others waited for him for some time and left to Hakimpet CRPF quarters to report” As per the police official, the missing CRPF official is not reachable over the phone and is yet to report for duty. GRP has registered a missing case and has also issued a lookout notice for the missing Jawan. Further investigation is the case is underway.

CRPF jawan goes missing while travelling from J&K to Telangana

Giving a strong message to terrorists and Pakistan, after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-mastermind-of-pulwama-attack-killed-in-encounter-4-soldiers-dead-too-198057">Pulwama attack</a>, top officials of the security forces on Tuesday said that anyone who picks up the gun will be killed.&nbsp;

The joint press conference was chaired by newly appointed Chinar Corps Commander, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-anyone-who-has-picked-up-a-gun-will-be-killed-says-indian-army-198231">Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon</a>, apart from IG Kashmir police, SM Pani and IG Operations CRPF, Zulfikar Hassan.&nbsp;

Dhillon said that since the attack on CRPF convoy, forces were tracking Jaish leadership in Kashmir adding that the attack was controlled by Pakistan army and Interservice intelligence.&nbsp;

On Pulwama attack:

After the attack on CRPF convoy which claimed 40 lives, Dhillon said that in less than 100 hours, they eliminated the top operational commander of JeM Kamran. "I'm happy to inform you that we have hit this module and eliminated them.&nbsp;

Sources had earlier told WION that since the attack, forces were on toes to hit the terrorists involved in the attack. This was the deadliest attack that was witnessed in Kashmir in more than two decades. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Giving details about the injuries and damage forces suffered, Corps Commander said that all officers who were injured yesterday are stable and out of danger. "All officers led from the front, the brigadier who is injured, had cut short his leave and joined the operations directly after flying back," he said adding that forces maintained calm to avoid civilian casualties.&nbsp;

He said that there was an excellent synergy between the police, CRPF and the Indian army which has yielded good results.&nbsp;

Appeal to local terrorists:

Asking mothers to ask their sons to leave the path of violence, Dhillon made an appeal to the terrorists to surrender or get killed. "I want to tell local youth who have picked guns and especially their mothers, to please request their sons to surrender and get back to the mainstream. Anyone who has picked the gun, he will be eliminated," he told media. He added that authorities have a good surrender policy.&nbsp;

The inspector general of police Kashmir range, SP Pani added that the youth have come back and joined the mainstream, however they wouldn't give details about them as they may face a backlash.&nbsp;

On investigation:

The officials, however, declined to diverge details about the investigation, saying that this was an ongoing process and details will be shared at right time. However, sources had told WION that the explosive used in the attack could have been locally purchased but needed a chemical expert to put it all together.&nbsp;

Remember, agencies suspect that an Afghan war veteran named Abdul Rashid Ghazi is another brain behind the attack, as the vehicle bound attacks are frequently witnessed in Afghanistan. Forces believe that he had entered Kashmir in December and was an IED expert.&nbsp;

Dhillon said that they are ready to deal with anything after the exit of U.S forces from Afghanistan as fear looms that Pakistan may send expert terrorists to the valley to inflict more harm, given their expertise.&nbsp;

"These types of car bombs happened in the past but this was different. We have seen such attacks in Syria and other counties. We are ready to deal with such attack," he added.&nbsp;

About Jaish-e-Mohammed:

Dhillon said that Jaish was the brainchild of Pakistan army and are being controlled by them including the ISI and there seems to be a clear involvement of Pakistan in the attack. "The attack was masterminded by Pakistan, JeM and ISI. We have leads but wouldn’t share details," Dhillon said.&nbsp;

There have been reports of attacks on Kashmiri students and residents who are living outside valley following the Pulwama attack, although MHA has issued advisories to states to prevent such attacks, IG CRPF Operations, Zulfiqar Hasan asked people to reach out to them at 14411 to help them if they feel unsafe.

Giving a strong message to terrorists and Pakistan, after the Pulwama attack, top officials of the security forces on Tuesday said that anyone who picks up the gun will be killed.

Giving a strong message to terrorists and Pakistan, after the Pulwama attack, top officials of the security forces on Tuesday said that anyone who picks up the gun will be killed. The joint press conference was chaired by newly appointed Chinar Corps Commander, Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, apart from IG Kashmir police, SM Pani and IG Operations CRPF, Zulfikar Hassan. Dhillon said that since the attack on CRPF convoy, forces were tracking Jaish leadership in Kashmir adding that the attack was controlled by Pakistan army and Interservice intelligence. On Pulwama attack: After the attack on CRPF convoy which claimed 40 lives, Dhillon said that in less than 100 hours, they eliminated the top operational commander of JeM Kamran. "I'm happy to inform you that we have hit this module and eliminated them. Sources had earlier told WION that since the attack, forces were on toes to hit the terrorists involved in the attack. This was the deadliest attack that was witnessed in Kashmir in more than two decades. Giving details about the injuries and damage forces suffered, Corps Commander said that all officers who were injured yesterday are stable and out of danger. "All officers led from the front, the brigadier who is injured, had cut short his leave and joined the operations directly after flying back," he said adding that forces maintained calm to avoid civilian casualties. He said that there was an excellent synergy between the police, CRPF and the Indian army which has yielded good results. Appeal to local terrorists: Asking mothers to ask their sons to leave the path of violence, Dhillon made an appeal to the terrorists to surrender or get killed. "I want to tell local youth who have picked guns and especially their mothers, to please request their sons to surrender and get back to the mainstream. Anyone who has picked the gun, he will be eliminated," he told media. He added that authorities have a good surrender policy. The inspector general of police Kashmir range, SP Pani added that the youth have come back and joined the mainstream, however they wouldn't give details about them as they may face a backlash. On investigation: The officials, however, declined to diverge details about the investigation, saying that this was an ongoing process and details will be shared at right time. However, sources had told WION that the explosive used in the attack could have been locally purchased but needed a chemical expert to put it all together. Remember, agencies suspect that an Afghan war veteran named Abdul Rashid Ghazi is another brain behind the attack, as the vehicle bound attacks are frequently witnessed in Afghanistan. Forces believe that he had entered Kashmir in December and was an IED expert. Dhillon said that they are ready to deal with anything after the exit of U.S forces from Afghanistan as fear looms that Pakistan may send expert terrorists to the valley to inflict more harm, given their expertise. "These types of car bombs happened in the past but this was different. We have seen such attacks in Syria and other counties. We are ready to deal with such attack," he added. About Jaish-e-Mohammed: Dhillon said that Jaish was the brainchild of Pakistan army and are being controlled by them including the ISI and there seems to be a clear involvement of Pakistan in the attack. "The attack was masterminded by Pakistan, JeM and ISI. We have leads but wouldn’t share details," Dhillon said. There have been reports of attacks on Kashmiri students and residents who are living outside valley following the Pulwama attack, although MHA has issued advisories to states to prevent such attacks, IG CRPF Operations, Zulfiqar Hasan asked people to reach out to them at 14411 to help them if they feel unsafe.

Army claims victory says eliminated JeM leadership in less than 100 hours after Pulwama attack

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-rajnath-singh-helped-carry-coffin-of-crpf-jawan-who-lost-life-in-pulwama-attack-197599">terror attack in Pulwama</a> in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said.

Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles.

"The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said.

Flag marches were conducted by the security columns, he said.

"The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said.

The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation.

Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said.

The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shut down of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men.

The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama in the Valley in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, officials said. Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles. "The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said. Flag marches were conducted by the security columns, he said. "The proactive approach of the state police, divisional commissioner, collector's office and the Army has ensured that the situation remains in control," he said. The officer said helicopters and utility armoured vehicles of the Army were also deployed to monitor the situation. Earlier in the day, incidents of stone pelting and clashes between different factions were reported. The police resorted to cane charge and teargas shelling to disperse crowds. Nine persons were injured in the clashes, officials said. The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) had called for a complete shut down of Jammu city on Friday, protesting the death of CRPF men. The bandh was marked by processions by various political parties, he said.

Army deploys 9 security columns in Jammu following massive protests over Pulwama terror attack

The&nbsp;security personnel of Army artillery unit at Jammu and Kashmir's Rajarwani in Uri detected suspicious movement around the military camp and opened fire on Sunday night.

The army cordoned off the area and launched a search operation jointly by the police.&nbsp;

Two people&nbsp;were examined in connection with the case, reports said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
J&amp;K: Last night the security personnel of Army Artillery unit at Rajarwani, Uri detected some suspicious movement around the camp and opened fire. The area has been cordoned off and is being searched jointly by Police &amp; Army. Two people are being examined. <a href="https://t.co/yL2e4l3h5Y">pic.twitter.com/yL2e4l3h5Y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094795592746889216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
J&amp;K: Visuals from Rajarwani, Uri where suspicious movement was detected around camp of Army Artillery unit last night following which a security personnel opened fire. Area cordoned off&amp;is being searched by Police&amp;Army. 2 ppl being examined.(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/S9oEgVnawZ">pic.twitter.com/S9oEgVnawZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094812539421147136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This is developing story. More details awaited.

The security personnel of Army artillery unit at Jammu and Kashmir's Rajarwani in Uri detected suspicious movement around the military camp and opened fire on Sunday night.

The security personnel of Army artillery unit at Jammu and Kashmir's Rajarwani in Uri detected suspicious movement around the military camp and opened fire on Sunday night. The army cordoned off the area and launched a search operation jointly by the police. Two people were examined in connection with the case, reports said. J&K: Last night the security personnel of Army Artillery unit at Rajarwani, Uri detected some suspicious movement around the camp and opened fire. The area has been cordoned off and is being searched jointly by Police & Army. Two people are being examined. pic.twitter.com/yL2e4l3h5Y — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × J&K: Visuals from Rajarwani, Uri where suspicious movement was detected around camp of Army Artillery unit last night following which a security personnel opened fire. Area cordoned off&is being searched by Police&Army. 2 ppl being examined.(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/S9oEgVnawZ — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × This is developing story. More details awaited.

J&K: Security personnel open fire after detecting suspicious activity near Uri army camp

A joint team of forces in the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) launched a search operation on Sunday night after the Indian army noticed "suspicious movement"&nbsp;near their camp at Uri.

"During night hours sentry (guard) of Army artillery unit at Rajarwani Uri detected some suspicious movement around the camp and opened fire. The area has been cordoned and is being searched jointly by the police and army," police officials said.&nbsp;

Army personal noticed movement near the wall of the camp at 3am at Mohra in Uri, which is near the Line of Control(LoC) between India and Pakistan.

Sources told WION that "forces suspect terrorists could be hiding nearby, so a combing operation has been launched", adding that army fired two under-barrel grenade launchers towards an area but there was no gunfire.

Security forces have been conducting searches in the area, the official said.

A joint team of forces in the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) launched a search operation on Sunday night after the Indian army noticed "suspicious movement" near their camp at Uri.

A joint team of forces in the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) launched a search operation on Sunday night after the Indian army noticed "suspicious movement" near their camp at Uri. "During night hours sentry (guard) of Army artillery unit at Rajarwani Uri detected some suspicious movement around the camp and opened fire. The area has been cordoned and is being searched jointly by the police and army," police officials said. Army personal noticed movement near the wall of the camp at 3am at Mohra in Uri, which is near the Line of Control(LoC) between India and Pakistan. Sources told WION that "forces suspect terrorists could be hiding nearby, so a combing operation has been launched", adding that army fired two under-barrel grenade launchers towards an area but there was no gunfire. Security forces have been conducting searches in the area, the official said.

J&K: Security personnel open fire after detecting 'suspicious activity' near Uri army camp

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

"A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup.

Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here.

The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012.

Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it."

Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army."

He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike.

The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India."

His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities.

Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations."

He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12. "A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup. Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here. The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012. Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it." Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army." He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike. The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India." His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities. Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations." He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Every Indian knows that our Army will never attempt a coup: PM Narendra Modi

Last week, the government announced its Interim Budget for 2019-20. Defence allocation was again a disappointment, particularly for those looking forward to covering up important deficiencies and introducing a degree of modernisation.

With a 3 per cent hike from the last Defence Budget, the current allocation will cover inflation, but very little beyond that.

In all civilisations, wise generations and statesmen have been keenly aware of the values of peace and war. Peace connotes development, progress and lives led in comfort and tranquillity. War denotes death, destruction and poor development.

Greek historian Herodotus noted in 484 BC: “No one is so foolish as to choose war over peace. In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons.” War and peace have been part of all civilisations; two sides of the same coin.

Most of us believe that in the mythological Sat Yug, our people lived a great life, peaceful, free from toil and grief. But they forget that even Sat Yug was not entirely peaceful. There was violence between Devalok and Asurlok. In fact, none of our mythological Yugs was peaceful. In Treta Yug, there was war between Ram and Ravan. In Dwapar Yug, the Pandavs fought with Kauravs.

On war and peace, there is another classical quote, ‘Si vis pacem, para bellum’ (Latin writer Flavious Vegetius). It means “If you want peace, prepare for war”.

This phrase is used to affirm that the effective means for ensuring peace for a people is always to be armed and ready to defend oneself. Chinese words Shi ji convey the same idea.

The historical truth is that peace cannot be had free. It accrues only to those nations which are strong and prepared for war. Strong nations seldom listen to weak nations when their own national interests are at stake. They indulge in coercive diplomacy backed by threats of war.

Hoping for peace can only be wishful thinking if a nation is not strong to deter/dissuade its foes.

Vegetius’ quote is also interpreted to mean that the time to prepare for war is not when the war is imminent, but when times are peaceful. A strong peacetime army would signal to would-be attackers that the battle may not be worth it.

To set the foundations on which to erect the outline of a general theory of war, Vice-Admiral JC Wylie (US Navy) had worked on several basic assumptions. One such assumption described by Wylie in his papers ‘Military Strategy: A General Theory of Power’ is “Despite whatever effort there may be to prevent it, there may be a war.”

Military history tells us that nations who neglect this historical determinism make themselves vulnerable to military surprise, defeat, and ignominy.

This assumption is a reminder to strategists to visualise security threats and to remain prepared for any eventuality. To those who may find this assumption irritable or doubtful, I would remind them of the Kargil War which broke out within two months of the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan signing the Lahore Declaration.

Another basic assumption for war planning, as mentioned by Wylie, was “We cannot predict with certainty the pattern of war for which we prepare ourselves.” It has seldom been possible to forecast the time, place, scope, intensity and the general tenor of a war.

India, since Independence, has never prepared itself adequately for wars. Only in 1971, did we manage to get time and prepare ourselves because Sam Manekshaw insisted on delaying the conflict and the circumstances were favourable.

In all other wars, our adversaries took the initiative because they considered us to be politically and militarily inadequately prepared.

Erosion of credible conventional deterrence often makes them audacious and challenge us. Before the Kargil war, Pakistan had perceived that due to prolonged involvement in anti-terrorist and anti-insurgency operations in Punjab, J&amp;K and North East India, our army was not in any shape to fight. Its weapons and equipment were obsolete, as no modernisation had taken place for more than a decade.

While addressing troops of the Pakistan Army on October 29, 1998, Musharraf had said, “Don’t be carried away by the rhetoric of the Indians, whose armed forces are totally exhausted and whose morale is at its lowest.” In March 1999, the intelligence adviser to Nawaz Sharif, Lt Gen Javed Nasir, wrote that “Indian Army was incapable of undertaking any conventional operation.”

Some of us want peace desperately. We refuse to learn from history and happenings on the ground. We get thrilled whenever a friendly statement is made by a Pakistani or a Chinese leader. That may be soothing. But to be intoxicated by over-optimism and neglect our defence preparedness would be naïve and dangerous.

To deter or dissuade potential challengers, our armed forces require strengthening of capabilities with a certain amount of specialisation.

There is an acute shortage of fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force and submarines in the Indian Navy. The Indian Army needs to replace its basic weapons for infantry.

Keeping in view the nature of conflicts in the foreseeable future, we need to raise more special forces, upgrade command, control, communications, computers, information, surveillance and reconnaissance, cyber and space war capabilities.

We also require better defence infrastructure along our northern borders. The next war, if we are forced to fight, will be quite different from any war that we have fought so far.

For peaceful development, security awareness, sagacity and rationality are needed in our political discourse to allow required build-up of military capability. India must aim for the cheaper, preparedness option. The other, more expensive option, is unthinkable.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-defence-allocation-too-small-2716953">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Last week, the government announced its Interim Budget for 2019-20. Defence allocation was again a disappointment, particularly for those looking forward to covering up important deficiencies and introducing a degree of modernisation.

Last week, the government announced its Interim Budget for 2019-20. Defence allocation was again a disappointment, particularly for those looking forward to covering up important deficiencies and introducing a degree of modernisation. With a 3 per cent hike from the last Defence Budget, the current allocation will cover inflation, but very little beyond that. In all civilisations, wise generations and statesmen have been keenly aware of the values of peace and war. Peace connotes development, progress and lives led in comfort and tranquillity. War denotes death, destruction and poor development. Greek historian Herodotus noted in 484 BC: “No one is so foolish as to choose war over peace. In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons.” War and peace have been part of all civilisations; two sides of the same coin. Most of us believe that in the mythological Sat Yug, our people lived a great life, peaceful, free from toil and grief. But they forget that even Sat Yug was not entirely peaceful. There was violence between Devalok and Asurlok. In fact, none of our mythological Yugs was peaceful. In Treta Yug, there was war between Ram and Ravan. In Dwapar Yug, the Pandavs fought with Kauravs. On war and peace, there is another classical quote, ‘Si vis pacem, para bellum’ (Latin writer Flavious Vegetius). It means “If you want peace, prepare for war”. This phrase is used to affirm that the effective means for ensuring peace for a people is always to be armed and ready to defend oneself. Chinese words Shi ji convey the same idea. The historical truth is that peace cannot be had free. It accrues only to those nations which are strong and prepared for war. Strong nations seldom listen to weak nations when their own national interests are at stake. They indulge in coercive diplomacy backed by threats of war. Hoping for peace can only be wishful thinking if a nation is not strong to deter/dissuade its foes. Vegetius’ quote is also interpreted to mean that the time to prepare for war is not when the war is imminent, but when times are peaceful. A strong peacetime army would signal to would-be attackers that the battle may not be worth it. To set the foundations on which to erect the outline of a general theory of war, Vice-Admiral JC Wylie (US Navy) had worked on several basic assumptions. One such assumption described by Wylie in his papers ‘Military Strategy: A General Theory of Power’ is “Despite whatever effort there may be to prevent it, there may be a war.” Military history tells us that nations who neglect this historical determinism make themselves vulnerable to military surprise, defeat, and ignominy. This assumption is a reminder to strategists to visualise security threats and to remain prepared for any eventuality. To those who may find this assumption irritable or doubtful, I would remind them of the Kargil War which broke out within two months of the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan signing the Lahore Declaration. Another basic assumption for war planning, as mentioned by Wylie, was “We cannot predict with certainty the pattern of war for which we prepare ourselves.” It has seldom been possible to forecast the time, place, scope, intensity and the general tenor of a war. India, since Independence, has never prepared itself adequately for wars. Only in 1971, did we manage to get time and prepare ourselves because Sam Manekshaw insisted on delaying the conflict and the circumstances were favourable. In all other wars, our adversaries took the initiative because they considered us to be politically and militarily inadequately prepared. Erosion of credible conventional deterrence often makes them audacious and challenge us. Before the Kargil war, Pakistan had perceived that due to prolonged involvement in anti-terrorist and anti-insurgency operations in Punjab, J&K and North East India, our army was not in any shape to fight. Its weapons and equipment were obsolete, as no modernisation had taken place for more than a decade. While addressing troops of the Pakistan Army on October 29, 1998, Musharraf had said, “Don’t be carried away by the rhetoric of the Indians, whose armed forces are totally exhausted and whose morale is at its lowest.” In March 1999, the intelligence adviser to Nawaz Sharif, Lt Gen Javed Nasir, wrote that “Indian Army was incapable of undertaking any conventional operation.” Some of us want peace desperately. We refuse to learn from history and happenings on the ground. We get thrilled whenever a friendly statement is made by a Pakistani or a Chinese leader. That may be soothing. But to be intoxicated by over-optimism and neglect our defence preparedness would be naïve and dangerous. To deter or dissuade potential challengers, our armed forces require strengthening of capabilities with a certain amount of specialisation. There is an acute shortage of fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force and submarines in the Indian Navy. The Indian Army needs to replace its basic weapons for infantry. Keeping in view the nature of conflicts in the foreseeable future, we need to raise more special forces, upgrade command, control, communications, computers, information, surveillance and reconnaissance, cyber and space war capabilities. We also require better defence infrastructure along our northern borders. The next war, if we are forced to fight, will be quite different from any war that we have fought so far. For peaceful development, security awareness, sagacity and rationality are needed in our political discourse to allow required build-up of military capability. India must aim for the cheaper, preparedness option. The other, more expensive option, is unthinkable. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Budget 2019: Defence allocation too small

Two days after the Indian Navy’s underwater remotely operated vehicle (UROV) spotted the body of a second miner at 280ft inside the rat hole mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, a platoon of the army was deployed in the search operations on Tuesday.

“The army is setting up a camp near the site to assist Navy in miners rescue operations. This is only administrative support to Navy for efficient, smooth and round the clock operations in case need be,” said an official involved in the search operations.

Sources reveal that Army will not be directly involved in conducting the search operations but will only provide logistical and administrative support to the Indian Navy, Odisha Fire Services Department officials and NDRF who are primarily conducting the search operations.

This decision comes in the wake of the Indian Navy’s ROV (remotely operated vehicle) spotting the body of a second miner on January 26, however, the body could not be retrieved despite efforts in the last two days.

Today, the Indian Navy and other agencies will begin search operations again with the help of Army at the site.&nbsp;

The first body of a miner was retrieved 42 days after they were trapped inside the mine.&nbsp;

On December 13, as many as 15 miners were trapped inside the 370-feet deep rat-hole mine after water from the nearby Lytein river flooded it.

Indian Navy, NDRF, Odisha Fire Services Department and Meghalaya government’s disaster management group were pressed into the rescue operations.&nbsp;

However, it took a month for the high powered pumps from Coal India and Kirloskar Brothers to arrive at the spot and engage in the rescue operations.

Two days after the Indian Navy’s underwater remotely operated vehicle (UROV) spotted the body of a second miner at 280ft inside the rat hole mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, a platoon of the army was deployed in the search operations on Tuesday.

Two days after the Indian Navy’s underwater remotely operated vehicle (UROV) spotted the body of a second miner at 280ft inside the rat hole mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, a platoon of the army was deployed in the search operations on Tuesday. “The army is setting up a camp near the site to assist Navy in miners rescue operations. This is only administrative support to Navy for efficient, smooth and round the clock operations in case need be,” said an official involved in the search operations. Sources reveal that Army will not be directly involved in conducting the search operations but will only provide logistical and administrative support to the Indian Navy, Odisha Fire Services Department officials and NDRF who are primarily conducting the search operations. This decision comes in the wake of the Indian Navy’s ROV (remotely operated vehicle) spotting the body of a second miner on January 26, however, the body could not be retrieved despite efforts in the last two days. Today, the Indian Navy and other agencies will begin search operations again with the help of Army at the site. The first body of a miner was retrieved 42 days after they were trapped inside the mine. On December 13, as many as 15 miners were trapped inside the 370-feet deep rat-hole mine after water from the nearby Lytein river flooded it. Indian Navy, NDRF, Odisha Fire Services Department and Meghalaya government’s disaster management group were pressed into the rescue operations. However, it took a month for the high powered pumps from Coal India and Kirloskar Brothers to arrive at the spot and engage in the rescue operations.

Meghalaya mine tragedy: Army joins search operations to find missing miners

This year's Republic Day will go down for many firsts -- from the participation of Indian National Army (INA) veterans, a female officer leading an all-men contingent to biofuel being used by aircraft during the 90-minute-long parade.&nbsp;

The Republic Day event will start at 10 am on January 26 and will have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-africa-president-cyril-ramaphosa-arrives-in-india-says-visit-will-consolidate-ties-192672">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa</a> as the chief guest. For the first time, 4 Indian Army veterans will be participating in the event.

Speaking to WION, Major General Rajpal Punia, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area and Deputy Parade Commander said, "4 INA soldiers are participating this year. These are - Lalti Ram, 98 years old living in Panchkula; Hira Singh, 97, living in Narnaul; Bhagmal, 100 years living in Manesar and Parmanand Yadav, 95 from Chandigarh. &nbsp;It is a matter of honour. It's a great honour for the country that we have veterans of INA participating."

Besides this, for the first time, biofuel extracted from Jatropha plant will be used as fuel in AN32 aircraft which will take part in the Republic Day celebration.&nbsp;

Major General Punia explained, "We are trying to extract oil for a number of years from it (Jatropha). We are even thinking that it will replace oil in the coming years. Jatropha oil (is) being used by AN32 to fly. You can imagine, if an aircraft can fly, then for the country it's self-sufficiency."

Sankhnaad: Indian classical music's martial tune&nbsp;

Sankhnaad, a martial tune created for the Indian Armed forces will be played for the first time during this year's Republic Day celebrations. This is the first original martial tune of independent India based on Indian classical music. The composition of the tune is a combination of three ragas- Raag Bilaskhani Todi, Raag Bhairavi and Raag Kirvani.&nbsp;

The tune is composed by Dr Tanuja Nafde, a professor, based on a poem written by Brig Vivek Sohal. It was accepted as the official martial tune in December 2017. &nbsp;It was played by 14 military bands together for the first time during the Army Day parade held on January 15 2019.&nbsp;

Woman power at Rajpath&nbsp;

In a first, women participation will be highest ever at Republic Day this year. Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, Army Service Corps will be the first-ever woman to lead an all-men army contingent.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Lt Bhavana Kasturi said, "It's a matter of great pride and honour to me and it's a glory for us. This will remain as a history of Army Service Corp that our contingent has been part of Rajpath at Republic Day 2019. Not just me, two of our JCOs and 144 jawans in the contingent are very privileged and it will be in history for us. We will be in the books of history forever."

Major Khushboo Kanwar of Assam Rifles will be the first woman to lead an all-women Army contingent. Captain Shikha Surabhi, a daredevil lady officer, would perform stunts during the display. Captain Bhavna Syal, Lt Ambika Sudhakaran will be other lady officers who will play an important role at the parade at Rajpath this Saturday.

As many as 22 tableaux of various states and departments, with the theme '150 years of Mahatma Gandhi', will add colour to this year's parade.

India will be displaying its military might with the display of its latest weapons like the M-77 A2 Ultra light Howitzer (ULH) procured from the United States, K9 Vajra T - a self-propelled artillery gun made under "make in India" programme, and two projects of Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) including medium range surface to air missile, Arjun armoured Rec and repair vehicle. 16 marching contingents from the Indian Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Delhi Police, NCC, NSS along with 16 bands will also participate.

The Indian Army will be represented by mounted columns of 61 Cavalry, 8 mechanised columns, 6 marching contingents and a flypast by Rudra and Dhruv advanced light helicopters of the Army.

This year's Republic Day will go down for many firsts -- from the participation of Indian National Army (INA) veterans, a female officer leading an all-men contingent to biofuel being used by aircraft during the 90-minute-long parade.

This year's Republic Day will go down for many firsts -- from the participation of Indian National Army (INA) veterans, a female officer leading an all-men contingent to biofuel being used by aircraft during the 90-minute-long parade. The Republic Day event will start at 10 am on January 26 and will have South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as the chief guest. For the first time, 4 Indian Army veterans will be participating in the event. Speaking to WION, Major General Rajpal Punia, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area and Deputy Parade Commander said, "4 INA soldiers are participating this year. These are - Lalti Ram, 98 years old living in Panchkula; Hira Singh, 97, living in Narnaul; Bhagmal, 100 years living in Manesar and Parmanand Yadav, 95 from Chandigarh. It is a matter of honour. It's a great honour for the country that we have veterans of INA participating." Besides this, for the first time, biofuel extracted from Jatropha plant will be used as fuel in AN32 aircraft which will take part in the Republic Day celebration. Major General Punia explained, "We are trying to extract oil for a number of years from it (Jatropha). We are even thinking that it will replace oil in the coming years. Jatropha oil (is) being used by AN32 to fly. You can imagine, if an aircraft can fly, then for the country it's self-sufficiency." Sankhnaad: Indian classical music's martial tune Sankhnaad, a martial tune created for the Indian Armed forces will be played for the first time during this year's Republic Day celebrations. This is the first original martial tune of independent India based on Indian classical music. The composition of the tune is a combination of three ragas- Raag Bilaskhani Todi, Raag Bhairavi and Raag Kirvani. The tune is composed by Dr Tanuja Nafde, a professor, based on a poem written by Brig Vivek Sohal. It was accepted as the official martial tune in December 2017. It was played by 14 military bands together for the first time during the Army Day parade held on January 15 2019. Woman power at Rajpath In a first, women participation will be highest ever at Republic Day this year. Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, Army Service Corps will be the first-ever woman to lead an all-men army contingent. Speaking to WION, Lt Bhavana Kasturi said, "It's a matter of great pride and honour to me and it's a glory for us. This will remain as a history of Army Service Corp that our contingent has been part of Rajpath at Republic Day 2019. Not just me, two of our JCOs and 144 jawans in the contingent are very privileged and it will be in history for us. We will be in the books of history forever." Major Khushboo Kanwar of Assam Rifles will be the first woman to lead an all-women Army contingent. Captain Shikha Surabhi, a daredevil lady officer, would perform stunts during the display. Captain Bhavna Syal, Lt Ambika Sudhakaran will be other lady officers who will play an important role at the parade at Rajpath this Saturday. As many as 22 tableaux of various states and departments, with the theme '150 years of Mahatma Gandhi', will add colour to this year's parade. India will be displaying its military might with the display of its latest weapons like the M-77 A2 Ultra light Howitzer (ULH) procured from the United States, K9 Vajra T - a self-propelled artillery gun made under "make in India" programme, and two projects of Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) including medium range surface to air missile, Arjun armoured Rec and repair vehicle. 16 marching contingents from the Indian Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Delhi Police, NCC, NSS along with 16 bands will also participate. The Indian Army will be represented by mounted columns of 61 Cavalry, 8 mechanised columns, 6 marching contingents and a flypast by Rudra and Dhruv advanced light helicopters of the Army.

Event of many firsts: Army veterans, biofuels and Indian classical martial tune to add sheen to Republic Day parade

In a bid to provide more firepower to its infantry units against enemy tank regiments, the Indian Army is planning to buy more than 3,000 Milan 2T anti-tank guided missiles from France in a deal likely to be worth over Rs 1,000 crore.

"An Army proposal in this regard would come up for discussion at a high-level meeting of the Defence Ministry for buying more than 3,000 of the second-generation Milan 2T ATGMs which are license-produced by the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in partnership with a French firm," sources in the Defence Ministry told ANI.&nbsp;

Indian Army has a requirement of around 70,000 anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM) of various types and around 850 launchers of different types even as it is looking for third-generation ATGMs with a longer range than that of its existing Milan-2T and Konkurs ATGMs.

Sources said the procurement of Milan 2T ATGMs is likely to be the stopgap arrangement before the Army gets its homegrown third-generation ATGM which is undergoing trials.Milan-2 is a French second-generation (ATGM which is produced in India by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) with a range of over 2 kilometres.&nbsp;

India had last year scrapped a programme to buy the Spike ATGM from Israel in view of the indigenous developments in this direction.&nbsp;

The DRDO has, so far, conducted two successful trials of the man-portable ATGMs.

During the NDA government tenure, several programmes for acquiring weapon systems from foreign vendors have been scrapped in favour of indigenous programmes.&nbsp;

In 2017, a Defence Acquisition Council meeting headed by the then Defence minister Arun Jaitley had favoured Akash surface to air missile over vendors from Israel and Sweden for supplying Short-Range Surface to Air Missile (SR-SAM) programme worth over Rs 18,000 crore.

In a bid to provide more firepower to its infantry units against enemy tank regiments, the Indian Army is planning to buy more than 3,000 Milan 2T anti-tank guided missiles from France in a deal likely to be worth over Rs 1,000 crore.

In a bid to provide more firepower to its infantry units against enemy tank regiments, the Indian Army is planning to buy more than 3,000 Milan 2T anti-tank guided missiles from France in a deal likely to be worth over Rs 1,000 crore. "An Army proposal in this regard would come up for discussion at a high-level meeting of the Defence Ministry for buying more than 3,000 of the second-generation Milan 2T ATGMs which are license-produced by the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in partnership with a French firm," sources in the Defence Ministry told ANI. Indian Army has a requirement of around 70,000 anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM) of various types and around 850 launchers of different types even as it is looking for third-generation ATGMs with a longer range than that of its existing Milan-2T and Konkurs ATGMs. Sources said the procurement of Milan 2T ATGMs is likely to be the stopgap arrangement before the Army gets its homegrown third-generation ATGM which is undergoing trials.Milan-2 is a French second-generation (ATGM which is produced in India by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) with a range of over 2 kilometres. India had last year scrapped a programme to buy the Spike ATGM from Israel in view of the indigenous developments in this direction. The DRDO has, so far, conducted two successful trials of the man-portable ATGMs. During the NDA government tenure, several programmes for acquiring weapon systems from foreign vendors have been scrapped in favour of indigenous programmes. In 2017, a Defence Acquisition Council meeting headed by the then Defence minister Arun Jaitley had favoured Akash surface to air missile over vendors from Israel and Sweden for supplying Short-Range Surface to Air Missile (SR-SAM) programme worth over Rs 18,000 crore.

Mega boost to India's firepower: Army plans to buy 3,000 anti-tank missiles from France

Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket at Israel late Saturday, Israel's army said, prompting retaliatory strikes on the territory's Islamist rulers Hamas as tensions rose after another day of violent border clashes.

"Earlier tonight, a rocket was launched from Gaza towards <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-further-hamas-strikes-after-gaza-rocket-fired-188761">Israeli territory</a>. In response, IDF fighter jets targeted two of Hamas' underground structures in the Gaza Strip," Israel Defense Forces tweeted.

"We will continue operating to defend Israeli civilians," it added.

Two targets in Gaza City were hit by the Israeli strikes and no one was harmed, security sources in Gaza said.

The clashes come a day after a Gaza woman was shot dead by Israeli forces during weekly protests and clashes along the Gaza border.

The health ministry named her as Amal al-Taramsi, 43, saying she was the third woman to die in months of clashes that have seen at least 241 Palestinians killed.

Another 25 Palestinians were wounded along the Israeli border in Friday's violence.

The Israeli army said that around 13,000 Palestinians had gathered in multiple sites along the border.

"The rioters have burned tyres and hurled blocks, explosive devices and grenades towards (Israeli) troops and at the Gaza Strip security fence," an army statement read.

The army also struck two positions belonging to Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas on Friday, it said.

At least once a week since March, Palestinians have taken part in often violent protests with backing from Hamas.

Most of the Palestinians killed were shot in weekly clashes, but others have been hit by tank fire or airstrikes.

Protests have calmed in recent months amid an informal truce between Israel and Hamas.

Under the unwritten agreement, Israel has allowed Qatar to provide money and fuel to Hamas's government in Gaza in exchange for relative calm.

Expected delivery of new funds by Qatar did not arrive this week, sparking speculation Israel was holding it up.

On Monday, a rocket fired from Gaza hit Israel, prompting the Jewish state to carry out a series of air strikes against Hamas targets in the Palestinian enclave.

Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket at Israel late Saturday, Israel's army said, prompting retaliatory strikes on the territory's Islamist rulers Hamas as tensions rose after another day of violent border clashes.

Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket at Israel late Saturday, Israel's army said, prompting retaliatory strikes on the territory's Islamist rulers Hamas as tensions rose after another day of violent border clashes. "Earlier tonight, a rocket was launched from Gaza towards Israeli territory. In response, IDF fighter jets targeted two of Hamas' underground structures in the Gaza Strip," Israel Defense Forces tweeted. "We will continue operating to defend Israeli civilians," it added. Two targets in Gaza City were hit by the Israeli strikes and no one was harmed, security sources in Gaza said. The clashes come a day after a Gaza woman was shot dead by Israeli forces during weekly protests and clashes along the Gaza border. The health ministry named her as Amal al-Taramsi, 43, saying she was the third woman to die in months of clashes that have seen at least 241 Palestinians killed. Another 25 Palestinians were wounded along the Israeli border in Friday's violence. The Israeli army said that around 13,000 Palestinians had gathered in multiple sites along the border. "The rioters have burned tyres and hurled blocks, explosive devices and grenades towards (Israeli) troops and at the Gaza Strip security fence," an army statement read. The army also struck two positions belonging to Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas on Friday, it said. At least once a week since March, Palestinians have taken part in often violent protests with backing from Hamas. Most of the Palestinians killed were shot in weekly clashes, but others have been hit by tank fire or airstrikes. Protests have calmed in recent months amid an informal truce between Israel and Hamas. Under the unwritten agreement, Israel has allowed Qatar to provide money and fuel to Hamas's government in Gaza in exchange for relative calm. Expected delivery of new funds by Qatar did not arrive this week, sparking speculation Israel was holding it up. On Monday, a rocket fired from Gaza hit Israel, prompting the Jewish state to carry out a series of air strikes against Hamas targets in the Palestinian enclave.

Israel retaliates after rocket fired into Gaza: Army

Pakistan Army on Thursday test-fired the recently inducted long-range air defence weapon system, LY-80.&nbsp;

The firing by the air defence weapon system was displayed during the concluding day of the two-week event of Exercise Al Bayza-2019, an army spokesman said.

Pakistani Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan witnessed the display by the army of its firepower capability at air defence firing ranges near Karachi.

"Hallmark of the event was first-ever fire by recently inducted Long Range Air Defence Weapon System LY-80. Induction of LY-80 has realized the concept of a comprehensive, layered and integrated air defence capability with enhanced lethality," the spokesman said.

Interacting with the officers and troops, Bajwa said LY 80 has greatly enhanced air defence capability of the Army's air defence, while strengthening it at the&nbsp;national level along with Pakistan Air Force, the overall custodian of the defence of country's air space.

Pakistan Army on Thursday test-fired the recently inducted long-range air defence weapon system, LY-80. The firing by the air defence weapon system was displayed during the concluding day of the two-week event of Exercise Al Bayza-2019, an army spokesman said.

Pakistan Army on Thursday test-fired the recently inducted long-range air defence weapon system, LY-80. The firing by the air defence weapon system was displayed during the concluding day of the two-week event of Exercise Al Bayza-2019, an army spokesman said. Pakistani Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan witnessed the display by the army of its firepower capability at air defence firing ranges near Karachi. "Hallmark of the event was first-ever fire by recently inducted Long Range Air Defence Weapon System LY-80. Induction of LY-80 has realized the concept of a comprehensive, layered and integrated air defence capability with enhanced lethality," the spokesman said. Interacting with the officers and troops, Bajwa said LY 80 has greatly enhanced air defence capability of the Army's air defence, while strengthening it at the national level along with Pakistan Air Force, the overall custodian of the defence of country's air space.

Pak Army test-fires long range air defence weapon system

When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, most of the world imagined that the end of an era of confrontation was upon us. That sentiment probably was also present when the Second World War ended in 1945. &nbsp;

However, each time, humanity was disappointed because these events led it from one era of turbulence to another. That is why nations pursue trends and ways they can maximise what is potentially available to their populations, in keeping with their value systems.&nbsp;

Obliquely, that is what national security is all about; the phenomenon by which nations retain their identity, values and the ability of their people to pursue a higher quality of life achieved through stability, security and prosperity.

Each year, we in India undertake this exercise to determine what would be the core concerns of national security. The current one is an effort to identify five such core areas and there is nothing sacrosanct about them.

First on the list is economics. Right from 1991, India has steadfastly pursued an economic policy for better growth, upliftment of a large segment of people from poverty, and improvement in the quality of life. It ensures better infrastructure, education and more equilibrium in society among many other pluses, which are indirect contributions to internal security.&nbsp;

The second domain of focus remains external security to include border security and the pursuance of such policies that it contributes to the stability of the borders and the neighbourhood.&nbsp;

The armed forces, in particular, also have to project deterrence and dissuasion. The foremost issue in this domain is the determination of threats, force structure to meet them and the optimum equipping and manning of the forces to ward off threats.&nbsp;

An allotment of 1.47 per cent of the GDP to defence in the current financial year, does not appear to be sync with the optimum needs of the armed forces and needs revision.&nbsp;

In addition, while there is a flurry of activity in the equipment domain with approvals by the Defence Acquisition Committee (DAC), their fructification appears tardy primarily due to antiquated procedures, which despite serious attempts by the government does not appear resolved.&nbsp;

The Make in India programme is conceptually the finest idea, but to make it happen is not easy in the absence of yielding of space to the private sector. With so much investment in DRDO, it’s a severe challenge to let go the strings from the public sector to enable an optimum entry by private players.&nbsp;

In external security, an area of concern remains insufficient resources available to the Indian Navy to meet its responsibilities for maritime security. With India’s expanded role in the Indo-Pacific, much more is required here. The Indian Air Force too is sub-optimally equipped and structured today, needing to expand and modernise.&nbsp;

The Indian Army is in a tenuous position, where its technological needs and manpower levels do not appear to be in conceptual sync. However, premature efforts at resource-based and budget-based restructuring are not going to pay a dividend. The domain of internal security comes next. As a large nation with a young population, India has the inherent disadvantage of being ethnically, regionally, socially and religiously diverse with far too many interest groups that compete for limited resources. &nbsp;

The resultant effect is turbulence in society, which has to be overcome through an efficient internal security system. Unfortunately, even with a large footprint of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the optimisation of internal security is insufficient, necessitating the deployment of the army to meet the demands of stabilisation of the environment. Unfortunately, with hybrid conflict now more the norm than the exception, the early involvement of the Army and the persistent need for it to remain deployed in internal security prevents the emergence of its true potential for conventional defence, deterrence and dissuasion. J&amp;K and the North Eastern states are classic examples.&nbsp;

However, it is also a truism that the presence of the Army in internal security of border states indirectly contributes to border security. In 2019, India’s concerns, besides J&amp;K and the North East, will need to also remain focused on Punjab where an attempt is being made by Pakistan to revive by proxy, elements of separatism.

The fourth domain is the field of active diplomacy. India has an outstanding diplomatic corps, which has dutifully delivered. Yet, the challenges in diplomacy are growing as India’s reach and influence expands and the size of the diplomatic corps needs to grow with that.&nbsp;

An element of prudence appears to dictate India’s foreign policy in that its ardent efforts towards engagement across the international strategic divide, have been of a multilateral nature. While collusive threats from China and Pakistan persist, the decision to engage with China through various forums and the maintenance of robust trade with it (although skewed in its favour) has contributed towards lowering the temperature on the border.&nbsp;

Lastly, unconventional threats appear to be growing. Cybersecurity, information and psychological domain, space and ideological threats are included in this ambit. These are threats, which need to be studied closely and suitable security structures against them created.&nbsp;

The threat from radical ideology has been real and it is only through better cultural awareness across society that such threats will be neutralised. Divisive trends within the nation promoted by interest groups can grow to become existential threats.&nbsp;

The ever-growing social media space, a domain for disinformation and fake news, needs to be optimally monitored with minimal invasiveness on norms of privacy. This last domain, which includes modern technological threats is likely to emerge to higher levels of prominence unless countermeasures are developed in the near term.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-five-security-threats-in-2019-2706078">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, most of the world imagined that the end of an era of confrontation was upon us. That sentiment probably was also present when the Second World War ended in 1945.

When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, most of the world imagined that the end of an era of confrontation was upon us. That sentiment probably was also present when the Second World War ended in 1945. However, each time, humanity was disappointed because these events led it from one era of turbulence to another. That is why nations pursue trends and ways they can maximise what is potentially available to their populations, in keeping with their value systems. Obliquely, that is what national security is all about; the phenomenon by which nations retain their identity, values and the ability of their people to pursue a higher quality of life achieved through stability, security and prosperity. Each year, we in India undertake this exercise to determine what would be the core concerns of national security. The current one is an effort to identify five such core areas and there is nothing sacrosanct about them. First on the list is economics. Right from 1991, India has steadfastly pursued an economic policy for better growth, upliftment of a large segment of people from poverty, and improvement in the quality of life. It ensures better infrastructure, education and more equilibrium in society among many other pluses, which are indirect contributions to internal security. The second domain of focus remains external security to include border security and the pursuance of such policies that it contributes to the stability of the borders and the neighbourhood. The armed forces, in particular, also have to project deterrence and dissuasion. The foremost issue in this domain is the determination of threats, force structure to meet them and the optimum equipping and manning of the forces to ward off threats. An allotment of 1.47 per cent of the GDP to defence in the current financial year, does not appear to be sync with the optimum needs of the armed forces and needs revision. In addition, while there is a flurry of activity in the equipment domain with approvals by the Defence Acquisition Committee (DAC), their fructification appears tardy primarily due to antiquated procedures, which despite serious attempts by the government does not appear resolved. The Make in India programme is conceptually the finest idea, but to make it happen is not easy in the absence of yielding of space to the private sector. With so much investment in DRDO, it’s a severe challenge to let go the strings from the public sector to enable an optimum entry by private players. In external security, an area of concern remains insufficient resources available to the Indian Navy to meet its responsibilities for maritime security. With India’s expanded role in the Indo-Pacific, much more is required here. The Indian Air Force too is sub-optimally equipped and structured today, needing to expand and modernise. The Indian Army is in a tenuous position, where its technological needs and manpower levels do not appear to be in conceptual sync. However, premature efforts at resource-based and budget-based restructuring are not going to pay a dividend. The domain of internal security comes next. As a large nation with a young population, India has the inherent disadvantage of being ethnically, regionally, socially and religiously diverse with far too many interest groups that compete for limited resources. The resultant effect is turbulence in society, which has to be overcome through an efficient internal security system. Unfortunately, even with a large footprint of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the optimisation of internal security is insufficient, necessitating the deployment of the army to meet the demands of stabilisation of the environment. Unfortunately, with hybrid conflict now more the norm than the exception, the early involvement of the Army and the persistent need for it to remain deployed in internal security prevents the emergence of its true potential for conventional defence, deterrence and dissuasion. J&K and the North Eastern states are classic examples. However, it is also a truism that the presence of the Army in internal security of border states indirectly contributes to border security. In 2019, India’s concerns, besides J&K and the North East, will need to also remain focused on Punjab where an attempt is being made by Pakistan to revive by proxy, elements of separatism. The fourth domain is the field of active diplomacy. India has an outstanding diplomatic corps, which has dutifully delivered. Yet, the challenges in diplomacy are growing as India’s reach and influence expands and the size of the diplomatic corps needs to grow with that. An element of prudence appears to dictate India’s foreign policy in that its ardent efforts towards engagement across the international strategic divide, have been of a multilateral nature. While collusive threats from China and Pakistan persist, the decision to engage with China through various forums and the maintenance of robust trade with it (although skewed in its favour) has contributed towards lowering the temperature on the border. Lastly, unconventional threats appear to be growing. Cybersecurity, information and psychological domain, space and ideological threats are included in this ambit. These are threats, which need to be studied closely and suitable security structures against them created. The threat from radical ideology has been real and it is only through better cultural awareness across society that such threats will be neutralised. Divisive trends within the nation promoted by interest groups can grow to become existential threats. The ever-growing social media space, a domain for disinformation and fake news, needs to be optimally monitored with minimal invasiveness on norms of privacy. This last domain, which includes modern technological threats is likely to emerge to higher levels of prominence unless countermeasures are developed in the near term. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Five security threats in 2019

The Army has managed the situation well along the borders with China and Pakistan and there should be no cause for concern, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Thursday.

Rawat, speaking at his annual press conference, also said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir needs to be improved further.

"We are only facilitators for peace in J&amp;K," he said.

"We have managed the situation well along the northern and western borders," Gen Rawat said, adding that there should be no cause for concern.

With the US and Russia reaching out to the Taliban in Afghanistan, Gen Rawat said, "We have interests in Afghanistan, we can't be out of bandwagon."&nbsp;

"The same analogy can't apply to Jammu and Kashmir. Talks in the state have to be on our terms," he asserted.

The Army chief said talks and terror cannot go together, and it applies to Jammu and Kashmir too.

The Army has managed the situation well along the borders with China and Pakistan and there should be no cause for concern, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Thursday.

The Army has managed the situation well along the borders with China and Pakistan and there should be no cause for concern, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Thursday. Rawat, speaking at his annual press conference, also said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir needs to be improved further. "We are only facilitators for peace in J&K," he said. "We have managed the situation well along the northern and western borders," Gen Rawat said, adding that there should be no cause for concern. With the US and Russia reaching out to the Taliban in Afghanistan, Gen Rawat said, "We have interests in Afghanistan, we can't be out of bandwagon." "The same analogy can't apply to Jammu and Kashmir. Talks in the state have to be on our terms," he asserted. The Army chief said talks and terror cannot go together, and it applies to Jammu and Kashmir too.

Army has managed situation well along China, Pakistan borders: General Bipin Rawat

The entire state of Nagaland has been declared "disturbed area" for six more months, till June-end, under the controversial AFSPA, which empowers security forces to conduct operations anywhere and arrest anyone without any prior notice.

In a notification, the Home Ministry said the central government is of the opinion that the area comprising the whole of state of Nagaland is in such a disturbed and dangerous condition that the use of armed forces in aid of civilian power is necessary.

"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (No. 28 of 1958), the central government hereby declares that whole of the said state to be a 'disturbed area' for a period of six months with effect from 30th December, 2018, for the purpose of that Act," the notification said.

A home ministry official said the decision to continue the declaration of Nagaland as "disturbed area" has been taken as killings, loot and extortion have been going on in various parts of the state which necessitated the action for the convenience of the security forces operating there.

There have been demands from various organisations in the Northeast as well as in Jammu and Kashmir for repealing the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which, they say, gives "sweeping powers" to security forces.

The AFSPA has been in force in Nagaland for several decades. It has not been withdrawn even after a framework agreement was signed on August 3, 2015 by Naga insurgent group NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and government interlocutor R N Ravi in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The framework agreement came after over 80 rounds of negotiations spanning 18 years with the first breakthrough in 1997 when the ceasefire agreement was sealed after decades of insurgency in Nagaland.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The entire state of Nagaland has been declared "disturbed area" for six more months, till June-end, under the controversial AFSPA, which empowers security forces to conduct operations anywhere and arrest anyone without any prior notice.

The entire state of Nagaland has been declared "disturbed area" for six more months, till June-end, under the controversial AFSPA, which empowers security forces to conduct operations anywhere and arrest anyone without any prior notice. In a notification, the Home Ministry said the central government is of the opinion that the area comprising the whole of state of Nagaland is in such a disturbed and dangerous condition that the use of armed forces in aid of civilian power is necessary. "Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (No. 28 of 1958), the central government hereby declares that whole of the said state to be a 'disturbed area' for a period of six months with effect from 30th December, 2018, for the purpose of that Act," the notification said. A home ministry official said the decision to continue the declaration of Nagaland as "disturbed area" has been taken as killings, loot and extortion have been going on in various parts of the state which necessitated the action for the convenience of the security forces operating there. There have been demands from various organisations in the Northeast as well as in Jammu and Kashmir for repealing the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which, they say, gives "sweeping powers" to security forces. The AFSPA has been in force in Nagaland for several decades. It has not been withdrawn even after a framework agreement was signed on August 3, 2015 by Naga insurgent group NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and government interlocutor R N Ravi in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The framework agreement came after over 80 rounds of negotiations spanning 18 years with the first breakthrough in 1997 when the ceasefire agreement was sealed after decades of insurgency in Nagaland.

Entire Nagaland declared 'disturbed' for six more months under AFSPA

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-ready-to-hold-assembly-polls-in-jammu-kashmir-rajnath-singh-186991">Jammu region this year</a> with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas.

The Army is reaching out to the civilian population under operation 'Sadhbavana' (goodwill) and it had helped the force to build a strong bond with the residents of remote pockets who are facing a lot of hardships due to lack of basic facilities, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/counting-of-votes-for-52-civic-bodies-to-be-held-across-jammu-and-kashmir-today-172430">Jammu-based</a> Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI.

He said the youth-oriented programmes has touched the hearts and minds of the people as the Army is organizing free coaching classes to help them in their studies, skill development courses, pre-recruitment training and counselling camps and also engaging them in sports activities.

"We have organised over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region comprising 10 districts this year, benefiting thousands of people."

"The major thrust is on poor population living in the hilly districts especially the youth besides the ex-servicemen who are being educated about the latest schemes being announced from time to time for their welfare and address their problems," the army officer said.

He said this was in addition to the rescue missions undertaken by the force to help accidents victims and those stranded in inaccessible areas during snowfall."Hundreds of people were rescued and some of them evacuated by choppers to save their lives in the recent past".

He said the Army has organised 104 medical and veterinary aid camps this year, providing free service to the needy at their doorsteps.

Thousands of villagers, mostly nomadic shepherds who live in hilly areas, were provided with solar lanterns, which brought smiles on their faces, the officer said.

He said the Army has organised dozens of tuition classes for both boys and girls to help them in their studies besides 123 lecture classes and 78 awareness drives were held for the benefit of the youth who were also engaged in sports activities like cricket, football, volleyball and chess competitions.

Last week, Lt Col Anand said Army started tuition classes for children of rural areas in mountainous Ramban district with a twin objective to help poor students and generate employment for the educated youth.

The three-month long tuition classes were started at different locations including Lower Gund, Cheril, Halemaidan, Batu, Karalchihal, Ukhral and Rajgarh areas, he said.

"The aim of these classes is to impart quality education to children from rural areas who cannot afford private coaching. These classes are being conducted during winter vacations to ensure maximum attendance," he said.

He said more than 250 students would be accruing the benefits of quality coaching through this project which also generated employment for educated youths who have been hired as teachers for these coaching classes.

The PRO said the Army gifted gymnasiums and other sports items and also constructed toilets at various educational institutions.

Experts were engaged to deliver lectures on various important issues like women empowerment, health and hygiene, ill effects of drugs, water conservation, road safety, global warming, first aid and the need to maintain communal harmony, he said.

He said various short-term courses in nursing, stitching and awareness drives on career opportunities for girls in armed forces were regularly held for the women.

Over two dozen motivational drives were also undertaken to attract youth to take Army as a profession while 37 communal harmony meetings were conducted to bring together various communities and maintain peace in the region, he added.

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region this year with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas.

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region this year with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas. The Army is reaching out to the civilian population under operation 'Sadhbavana' (goodwill) and it had helped the force to build a strong bond with the residents of remote pockets who are facing a lot of hardships due to lack of basic facilities, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI. He said the youth-oriented programmes has touched the hearts and minds of the people as the Army is organizing free coaching classes to help them in their studies, skill development courses, pre-recruitment training and counselling camps and also engaging them in sports activities. "We have organised over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region comprising 10 districts this year, benefiting thousands of people." "The major thrust is on poor population living in the hilly districts especially the youth besides the ex-servicemen who are being educated about the latest schemes being announced from time to time for their welfare and address their problems," the army officer said. He said this was in addition to the rescue missions undertaken by the force to help accidents victims and those stranded in inaccessible areas during snowfall."Hundreds of people were rescued and some of them evacuated by choppers to save their lives in the recent past". He said the Army has organised 104 medical and veterinary aid camps this year, providing free service to the needy at their doorsteps. Thousands of villagers, mostly nomadic shepherds who live in hilly areas, were provided with solar lanterns, which brought smiles on their faces, the officer said. He said the Army has organised dozens of tuition classes for both boys and girls to help them in their studies besides 123 lecture classes and 78 awareness drives were held for the benefit of the youth who were also engaged in sports activities like cricket, football, volleyball and chess competitions. Last week, Lt Col Anand said Army started tuition classes for children of rural areas in mountainous Ramban district with a twin objective to help poor students and generate employment for the educated youth. The three-month long tuition classes were started at different locations including Lower Gund, Cheril, Halemaidan, Batu, Karalchihal, Ukhral and Rajgarh areas, he said. "The aim of these classes is to impart quality education to children from rural areas who cannot afford private coaching. These classes are being conducted during winter vacations to ensure maximum attendance," he said. He said more than 250 students would be accruing the benefits of quality coaching through this project which also generated employment for educated youths who have been hired as teachers for these coaching classes. The PRO said the Army gifted gymnasiums and other sports items and also constructed toilets at various educational institutions. Experts were engaged to deliver lectures on various important issues like women empowerment, health and hygiene, ill effects of drugs, water conservation, road safety, global warming, first aid and the need to maintain communal harmony, he said. He said various short-term courses in nursing, stitching and awareness drives on career opportunities for girls in armed forces were regularly held for the women. Over two dozen motivational drives were also undertaken to attract youth to take Army as a profession while 37 communal harmony meetings were conducted to bring together various communities and maintain peace in the region, he added.

Over 900 civic action programmes conducted to benefit local population in Jammu: Army

The government has rejected a long-standing demand of the armed forces for higher Military Service Pay (MSP) for over 1.12 lakh military personnel including Junior Commissioned Officers of the Army, official sources said Tuesday.

They told PTI that the Army headquarters is "very anguished" over the decision by the Finance Ministry, and will seek its immediate review.

Around 1.12 lakh military personnel including 87,646 JCOs and 25,434 personnel of equivalent rank from the Navy and the Indian Air Force will be affected by the decision.

The demand was to increase the monthly MSP from Rs 5,500 to Rs 10,000 and the total annual financial outgo would have been Rs 610 crore if the government had accepted the demand, sources said.

The MSP for the military personnel was introduced recognising their unique service conditions and hardships.

"The proposal for higher MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank of the Navy and IAF has been rejected by the Finance Ministry," said a source.

At present, the MSP has two categories -- one for officers and another for JCOs and jawans.

The seventh Pay Commission had fixed Rs 5,200 as MSP per month for JCOs and jawans while putting it at Rs 15,500 for officers between Lieutenant-rank and Brigadier-rank.

The Army has been pressing for granting an higher MSP to the JCOs, arguing that they are gazetted officers (Group B) and play a very vital role in command and control structure of the force.

"Since JCOs are Group B gazetted officers and also have a considerable length of service, it is incorrect to grant them MSP on par with the jawans.&nbsp;

It is very unfair," said a military officer who wished not to be named.

The Army had taken up the issue strongly with the Defence Minister and the three services as well as the Defence Ministry were on the same page on the issue, the sources said.

The MSP was first introduced by the 6th Pay Commission, accounting for compensation for intangible aspects of military service.

It accounts for a range of "hardships and disadvantages" which cannot be evaluated while assessing pay comparability.

The concept of MSP for armed forces personnel is widely prevalent in European countries.

The armed forces were pressing for a separate slab of MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank.

In November last year, the Army clarified JCOs are gazetted officers and cancelled a seven-year-old note describing them as "non-gazetted" officers.

The decision by the Army came amid growing resentment among a large section of its officers over the controversial issue of rank-parity between them and their civilian counterparts in the service headquarters.

The government has rejected a long-standing demand of the armed forces for higher Military Service Pay (MSP) for over 1.12 lakh military personnel including Junior Commissioned Officers of the Army, official sources said Tuesday.

The government has rejected a long-standing demand of the armed forces for higher Military Service Pay (MSP) for over 1.12 lakh military personnel including Junior Commissioned Officers of the Army, official sources said Tuesday. They told PTI that the Army headquarters is "very anguished" over the decision by the Finance Ministry, and will seek its immediate review. Around 1.12 lakh military personnel including 87,646 JCOs and 25,434 personnel of equivalent rank from the Navy and the Indian Air Force will be affected by the decision. The demand was to increase the monthly MSP from Rs 5,500 to Rs 10,000 and the total annual financial outgo would have been Rs 610 crore if the government had accepted the demand, sources said. The MSP for the military personnel was introduced recognising their unique service conditions and hardships. "The proposal for higher MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank of the Navy and IAF has been rejected by the Finance Ministry," said a source. At present, the MSP has two categories -- one for officers and another for JCOs and jawans. The seventh Pay Commission had fixed Rs 5,200 as MSP per month for JCOs and jawans while putting it at Rs 15,500 for officers between Lieutenant-rank and Brigadier-rank. The Army has been pressing for granting an higher MSP to the JCOs, arguing that they are gazetted officers (Group B) and play a very vital role in command and control structure of the force. "Since JCOs are Group B gazetted officers and also have a considerable length of service, it is incorrect to grant them MSP on par with the jawans. It is very unfair," said a military officer who wished not to be named. The Army had taken up the issue strongly with the Defence Minister and the three services as well as the Defence Ministry were on the same page on the issue, the sources said. The MSP was first introduced by the 6th Pay Commission, accounting for compensation for intangible aspects of military service. It accounts for a range of "hardships and disadvantages" which cannot be evaluated while assessing pay comparability. The concept of MSP for armed forces personnel is widely prevalent in European countries. The armed forces were pressing for a separate slab of MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank. In November last year, the Army clarified JCOs are gazetted officers and cancelled a seven-year-old note describing them as "non-gazetted" officers. The decision by the Army came amid growing resentment among a large section of its officers over the controversial issue of rank-parity between them and their civilian counterparts in the service headquarters.

Army upset as government rejects demand for higher military service pay

After continuous and successful operations against terrorists in the state of Jammu and Kashmir - particularly in the terror hotbed south Kashmir, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hafiz-saeed-designated-global-terrorist-us-reminds-pakistan-24887">terror outfit </a>Ansar Ghazwat ul Hind (AGH), which is led by Zakir Musa, has issued 'security guidelines' for all terrorists operating in the valley.&nbsp;

In a poster released through its official Telegram channel, AGH has asked terrorists to stay away from the residential areas and not reveal their locations to anyone. The poster reads, "Mujahideen should make their hideouts themselves without the help of any civilian or workers and get all necessary things themselves."

Director General of Jammu and Kashmir police recently told WION that they are getting local support and that is why these operations are being conducted successfully in Kashmir.&nbsp;

Top terror commanders including Naveed Jatt and Ajaz Ahmad Makroo have been killed in a span of 15 days after several civilians, who the terrorists termed as 'informers', were abducted and later killed.&nbsp;

Titled 'Security guidelines for the Mujahideen in Kashmir', AGH has also stressed to the use of encrypted messaging apps and VPN which provide security to their messages. "Use the internet only for necessary communication and do not make any selective communication through it."

The poster could also be a result of the killing of its member Shakir Dar in Tral village of south Kashmir.

After continuous and successful operations against terrorists in the state of Jammu and Kashmir - particularly in the terror hotbed south Kashmir, terror outfit Ansar Ghazwat ul Hind (AGH), which is led by Zakir Musa, has issued 'security guidelines' for all terrorists operating in the valley.

After continuous and successful operations against terrorists in the state of Jammu and Kashmir - particularly in the terror hotbed south Kashmir, terror outfit Ansar Ghazwat ul Hind (AGH), which is led by Zakir Musa, has issued 'security guidelines' for all terrorists operating in the valley. In a poster released through its official Telegram channel, AGH has asked terrorists to stay away from the residential areas and not reveal their locations to anyone. The poster reads, "Mujahideen should make their hideouts themselves without the help of any civilian or workers and get all necessary things themselves." Director General of Jammu and Kashmir police recently told WION that they are getting local support and that is why these operations are being conducted successfully in Kashmir. Top terror commanders including Naveed Jatt and Ajaz Ahmad Makroo have been killed in a span of 15 days after several civilians, who the terrorists termed as 'informers', were abducted and later killed. Titled 'Security guidelines for the Mujahideen in Kashmir', AGH has also stressed to the use of encrypted messaging apps and VPN which provide security to their messages. "Use the internet only for necessary communication and do not make any selective communication through it." The poster could also be a result of the killing of its member Shakir Dar in Tral village of south Kashmir.

J&K: Scared by continuous Army operations, terror outfit releases 'security guidelines' for terrorists

The Indian Army inducted its first batch of artillery guns on November 9 in Deolali and it is expected that over the next two years, a total of 245 guns will be progressively acquired.&nbsp;

These guns are 145 in number M 777 (from the US) and 100 in number K 9 Vajra (with South Korean cooperation) and will cost a little under Rs 10,000 crores.

It may be recalled that after India acquired the Bofors artillery gun from Sweden in 1986, this is the first induction of fresh inventory and is an indicator of the many constraints that bedevil the military procurement process in India.

Both the Bofors gun and the HDW submarine acquired from then West Germany in the later 1980s have become synonymous with financial transgressions and corruption cum bribery charges were levelled against then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

It also merits note that after more than 30 years of investigation, the Bofors case has been more or less closed for extended delays by the CBI and lack of substantive evidence–though a window has been kept open on technical grounds.

However, it would be valid to infer that then PM Rajiv Gandhi and the Congress party were placed on the defensive by the opposition parties and the electoral defeat of the Congress party in late 1989 was shaped by the perception among the electorate that the government of the day was ‘corrupt’ and hence voted out.

These elements are indicative of the multi-layered significance of the induction in Deolali on Friday where the Defence Minister and the Army Chief were both present. &nbsp;

In her remarks, Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provided the political context when she noted: “These guns are being inducted almost 30 years after the Bofors guns were inducted” &nbsp;and added that though the process to acquire these guns began in 2006, there was no tangible progress.

In the pre-election phase that India is now in, the Minister further added: “In contrast, our government shrunk the process in the last four years and not only initiated the procurement process, but ensured its induction.”&nbsp;

While the M 777 is a case of a direct government to government (G2G) &nbsp;purchase from the USA, thereby avoiding the kind of Rafale fiasco, the Vajra has the potential for contributing to the Make In India initiative prioritized by the Modi government.

The Indian army has been in dire need of acquiring greater fire-power by way of the artillery and this was evidenced during the Kargil war of 1999. Yet, the higher defence decision-making apparatus in India during NDA-I led by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the UPA decade led by PM Manmohan Singh were unable to redress a major inventory gap for the army and these 15 years did not lead to any meaningful policy decision by way of direct import, &nbsp;technology transfer and assemble in India, as well as provide encouragement to the private sector. &nbsp;

Much the same paradigm applies to the Indian Air Force and the induction of a fighter aircraft now symbolized by the Rafale controversy.

Thus the policy cues from the Deolali induction of artillery guns can be reviewed along three tracks. The first is that the armed forces of India must not be denied critical equipment/ platform due to political mud-slinging between the major parties and the Bofors-HDW cross ought to be an internalised for lessons learnt and pitfalls to be avoided by the legislature and the PMO in an appropriate manner.

This is easier said than done given the current ethos in India, which is a relentless zero-sum approach towards national security and seeking political mileage for electoral benefit.

The second is that whether UPA or NDA, the military inventory procurement procedures in India have to be made more time and cost efficient. The submarine saga of India is one of precious time and resources – both fiscal and HR being squandered due to faulty policy making and an indifferent/impulsive higher defence management approach.&nbsp;

The Rafale fighter aircraft experience and the Scorpene submarine now being built in India as the new Kalveri class, are illustrative.

The third policy strand that merits some deep introspection is the Indian inability to nurture a national eco-system for encouraging Make in India in the defence sector in a meaningful manner.&nbsp;

The Vajra K 9 guns inducted in Deolali are the result of cooperation between a South Korean technology major and an &nbsp;Indian company — Larsen &amp; Toubro. &nbsp;This is a commendable initiative in relation to domestic manufacture of conventional military equipment for the army, which despite being the largest service in India, does not have a significant track-record in design and manufacture of equipment/platforms. &nbsp;&nbsp;

India needs to nurture the private sector –both major and medium - to become stakeholders in the path towards some degree of self-sufficiency.

Defence R&amp;D and manufacture in India has been zealously guarded by the DRDO and the defence PSUs, including the Ordnance factories.&nbsp;

While there have been notable successes in the strategic domain due to the perseverance of these institutions, for example, the missile and nuclear weapon programme– the conventional arms spectrum is disappointing.&nbsp;

While the DRDO has been accused of being a ‘dog-in-the-manger’, in certain instances the faith and trust placed in the private sector has been misplaced leading to bitter acrimony between the principal stakeholders.

India is planning a manned mission to the moon but is unable to design and manufacture a personal weapon for its one million-plus army and a para-military that is as large. Irrigating the defence design and manufacturing eco-system towards this end for the long term is a national imperative. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-acquisitions-long-overdue-2686109">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

The Indian Army inducted its first batch of artillery guns on November 9 in Deolali and it is expected that over the next two years, a total of 245 guns will be progressively acquired.

The Indian Army inducted its first batch of artillery guns on November 9 in Deolali and it is expected that over the next two years, a total of 245 guns will be progressively acquired. These guns are 145 in number M 777 (from the US) and 100 in number K 9 Vajra (with South Korean cooperation) and will cost a little under Rs 10,000 crores. It may be recalled that after India acquired the Bofors artillery gun from Sweden in 1986, this is the first induction of fresh inventory and is an indicator of the many constraints that bedevil the military procurement process in India. Both the Bofors gun and the HDW submarine acquired from then West Germany in the later 1980s have become synonymous with financial transgressions and corruption cum bribery charges were levelled against then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. It also merits note that after more than 30 years of investigation, the Bofors case has been more or less closed for extended delays by the CBI and lack of substantive evidence–though a window has been kept open on technical grounds. However, it would be valid to infer that then PM Rajiv Gandhi and the Congress party were placed on the defensive by the opposition parties and the electoral defeat of the Congress party in late 1989 was shaped by the perception among the electorate that the government of the day was ‘corrupt’ and hence voted out. These elements are indicative of the multi-layered significance of the induction in Deolali on Friday where the Defence Minister and the Army Chief were both present. In her remarks, Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provided the political context when she noted: “These guns are being inducted almost 30 years after the Bofors guns were inducted” and added that though the process to acquire these guns began in 2006, there was no tangible progress. In the pre-election phase that India is now in, the Minister further added: “In contrast, our government shrunk the process in the last four years and not only initiated the procurement process, but ensured its induction.” While the M 777 is a case of a direct government to government (G2G) purchase from the USA, thereby avoiding the kind of Rafale fiasco, the Vajra has the potential for contributing to the Make In India initiative prioritized by the Modi government. The Indian army has been in dire need of acquiring greater fire-power by way of the artillery and this was evidenced during the Kargil war of 1999. Yet, the higher defence decision-making apparatus in India during NDA-I led by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the UPA decade led by PM Manmohan Singh were unable to redress a major inventory gap for the army and these 15 years did not lead to any meaningful policy decision by way of direct import, technology transfer and assemble in India, as well as provide encouragement to the private sector. Much the same paradigm applies to the Indian Air Force and the induction of a fighter aircraft now symbolized by the Rafale controversy. Thus the policy cues from the Deolali induction of artillery guns can be reviewed along three tracks. The first is that the armed forces of India must not be denied critical equipment/ platform due to political mud-slinging between the major parties and the Bofors-HDW cross ought to be an internalised for lessons learnt and pitfalls to be avoided by the legislature and the PMO in an appropriate manner. This is easier said than done given the current ethos in India, which is a relentless zero-sum approach towards national security and seeking political mileage for electoral benefit. The second is that whether UPA or NDA, the military inventory procurement procedures in India have to be made more time and cost efficient. The submarine saga of India is one of precious time and resources – both fiscal and HR being squandered due to faulty policy making and an indifferent/impulsive higher defence management approach. The Rafale fighter aircraft experience and the Scorpene submarine now being built in India as the new Kalveri class, are illustrative. The third policy strand that merits some deep introspection is the Indian inability to nurture a national eco-system for encouraging Make in India in the defence sector in a meaningful manner. The Vajra K 9 guns inducted in Deolali are the result of cooperation between a South Korean technology major and an Indian company — Larsen & Toubro. This is a commendable initiative in relation to domestic manufacture of conventional military equipment for the army, which despite being the largest service in India, does not have a significant track-record in design and manufacture of equipment/platforms. India needs to nurture the private sector –both major and medium - to become stakeholders in the path towards some degree of self-sufficiency. Defence R&D and manufacture in India has been zealously guarded by the DRDO and the defence PSUs, including the Ordnance factories. While there have been notable successes in the strategic domain due to the perseverance of these institutions, for example, the missile and nuclear weapon programme– the conventional arms spectrum is disappointing. While the DRDO has been accused of being a ‘dog-in-the-manger’, in certain instances the faith and trust placed in the private sector has been misplaced leading to bitter acrimony between the principal stakeholders. India is planning a manned mission to the moon but is unable to design and manufacture a personal weapon for its one million-plus army and a para-military that is as large. Irrigating the defence design and manufacturing eco-system towards this end for the long term is a national imperative. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Acquisitions long overdue

We need to defend Europe against China, Russia, US: French president Macron

army

Army, News on Army, stories on Army, articles on Army, Army stories at Wion, Army news, Army latest news