Around 350 terrorists were killed in Machil in recent years. Now, Indian soldiers are keeping a hawk-eye on Kashmir border at Machil sector after 200 terrorists reported near LoC. For more details, watch this report by Idrees Lone.

Indian army ramps up vigil at LoC, high risk of infiltration across Kashmir

Indian air force delivered food supplies on the terrace of flooded houses in northeastern Assam state. Around 5.5 million people have been displaced due to the floods.

Indian air force airdrops aid to flood-hit Assam

Indian air force airdrops aid to flood-hit State

<p>Amid a rise in protests against the 'Agneepath scheme', the chiefs of the army, navy, and air force are likely to meet and brief Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the row today.</p>

<p>Apprising PM Modi about the various aspects of the implementation of the scheme, the chiefs of three armed forces will also discuss the plan of action.</p>

<p>It comes after Modi spoke in favour of Agneepath, or "path of fire", and said a few decisions "may seem bitter at first" but will bear fruits in the coming days.</p>

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<p>Indian authorities have cancelled over 500 train services on Monday due to protests by young men angry with the military recruitment plan, which they say will rob them of the opportunity of a stable and secure career in the armed forces.</p>

<p>With a provision to retain 25 per cent of them for 15 more years, the Agneepath scheme provides for the recruitment of youths between the age bracket of 17-and-half years to 21, but for only four years.</p>

<p>Aimed at bringing more people into the military on short, four-year contracts to lower the average age of India's 1.38 million-strong armed forces, the scheme will also help cut burgeoning pension costs.</p>

<p>Seeking the withdrawal of the scheme, leaders of the opposition Congress party met Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and said, "Given the situation on our borders, it is imperative that we have soldiers in our armed forces who are young, well-trained, motivated, happy, satisfied and assured of their future."</p>

<p>Nitin Pai, director of the Takshashila Institution centre for research on public policy, defended the initiative and said "The Agneepath scheme will reduce the lifetime cost of manpower by several crore (tens of millions) rupees per head."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Amid a rise in protests against the 'Agneepath scheme', the chiefs of the army, navy, and air force are likely to meet and brief Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the row today.

Amid a rise in protests against the 'Agneepath scheme', the chiefs of the army, navy, and air force are likely to meet and brief Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the row today. Apprising PM Modi about the various aspects of the implementation of the scheme, the chiefs of three armed forces will also discuss the plan of action. It comes after Modi spoke in favour of Agneepath, or "path of fire", and said a few decisions "may seem bitter at first" but will bear fruits in the coming days. × Indian authorities have cancelled over 500 train services on Monday due to protests by young men angry with the military recruitment plan, which they say will rob them of the opportunity of a stable and secure career in the armed forces. With a provision to retain 25 per cent of them for 15 more years, the Agneepath scheme provides for the recruitment of youths between the age bracket of 17-and-half years to 21, but for only four years. Aimed at bringing more people into the military on short, four-year contracts to lower the average age of India's 1.38 million-strong armed forces, the scheme will also help cut burgeoning pension costs. Seeking the withdrawal of the scheme, leaders of the opposition Congress party met Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and said, "Given the situation on our borders, it is imperative that we have soldiers in our armed forces who are young, well-trained, motivated, happy, satisfied and assured of their future." Nitin Pai, director of the Takshashila Institution centre for research on public policy, defended the initiative and said "The Agneepath scheme will reduce the lifetime cost of manpower by several crore (tens of millions) rupees per head." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Agneepath scheme: Service chiefs likely to meet and brief PM Narendra Modi today

<p>Amid nationwide violent protests, the Indian Army issued a notification on Monday (June 20) regarding the government's Agneepath scheme. The notification is related to the first round of recruitment through the scheme. The registration for the same will start in July.</p>

<p>The newly-released notification basically outlines terms and conditions of service, eligibility, discharge and other crucial details of the scheme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Army notification read: "The registrations will be opened from July onwards by the respective Army Recruitment Offices (ARO) for Agniveer General Duty, Agniveer Technical, Agniveer Technical (aviation/ammunition examiner), Agniveer clerk/store keeper technical, Agniveer tradesman (10th pass) and Agniveer Tradesman (8th pass) as per the ARO rally schedule."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, "Agniveers enrolled under the scheme will not be eligible for any kind of Pension and Gratuity."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The notification further added that the service of the 'Agniveers' will commence from the date of enrolment. They would form a distinct rank in the Army, different from other existing ranks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Those who are enrolled under this scheme will be required to undergo periodical medical checkups. Physical/written/field tests will also be there as per orders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Protests erupted in various parts of the country after some aspirants for the armed forces are unhappy with the changes introduced under the new recruitment scheme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns were raised over the length of service, no pension provisions for those released early and the previously said 17.5 to 21-year age restriction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Army said based on organisational requirements and policies, 'Agniveers', on completion of their engagement period in each batch, will be offered an opportunity to apply for enrolment in the regular cadre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These applications will be considered in a centralised manner by the Army based on objective criteria, including performance during their engagement period and not more than 25 per cent of each specific batch of Agniveers will be enrolled in regular cadre post completion of their four-year engagement period," according to the document released by the Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Agniveers so enrolled as regular cadre would be required to serve for a further engagement period of 15 years and will be governed by terms and conditions of service (of Junior Commissioned Officer/ Other Ranks) currently in vogue," it said.</p>

<p>The Army said the Agniveers will not have any right to be selected after completion of their four-year tenure.</p>

<p>According to the document. each 'Agniveer' will be required to formally accept all terms and conditions of the 'Agnipath' scheme as part of the enrolment process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For personnel below the age of 18 years, the enrolment form will be required to be signed by the parents or guardians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 'Agniveers' will be eligible for 30 days leave in a year as against 90 days for those in regular service. Medical leave will be granted based on medical advice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Army said 30 per cent of the monthly salary of the Agniveers will be compulsorily deposited in a corpus and an equal amount will be contributed by the government.&nbsp;</p>

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Amid nationwide violent protests, the Indian Army issued a notification on Monday (June 20) regarding the government's Agneepath scheme. The notification is related to the first round of recruitment through the scheme.

Amid nationwide violent protests, the Indian Army issued a notification on Monday (June 20) regarding the government's Agneepath scheme. The notification is related to the first round of recruitment through the scheme. The registration for the same will start in July. The newly-released notification basically outlines terms and conditions of service, eligibility, discharge and other crucial details of the scheme. The Army notification read: "The registrations will be opened from July onwards by the respective Army Recruitment Offices (ARO) for Agniveer General Duty, Agniveer Technical, Agniveer Technical (aviation/ammunition examiner), Agniveer clerk/store keeper technical, Agniveer tradesman (10th pass) and Agniveer Tradesman (8th pass) as per the ARO rally schedule." It added, "Agniveers enrolled under the scheme will not be eligible for any kind of Pension and Gratuity." The notification further added that the service of the 'Agniveers' will commence from the date of enrolment. They would form a distinct rank in the Army, different from other existing ranks. Those who are enrolled under this scheme will be required to undergo periodical medical checkups. Physical/written/field tests will also be there as per orders. Protests erupted in various parts of the country after some aspirants for the armed forces are unhappy with the changes introduced under the new recruitment scheme. Concerns were raised over the length of service, no pension provisions for those released early and the previously said 17.5 to 21-year age restriction. The Army said based on organisational requirements and policies, 'Agniveers', on completion of their engagement period in each batch, will be offered an opportunity to apply for enrolment in the regular cadre. "These applications will be considered in a centralised manner by the Army based on objective criteria, including performance during their engagement period and not more than 25 per cent of each specific batch of Agniveers will be enrolled in regular cadre post completion of their four-year engagement period," according to the document released by the Army. "Agniveers so enrolled as regular cadre would be required to serve for a further engagement period of 15 years and will be governed by terms and conditions of service (of Junior Commissioned Officer/ Other Ranks) currently in vogue," it said. The Army said the Agniveers will not have any right to be selected after completion of their four-year tenure. According to the document. each 'Agniveer' will be required to formally accept all terms and conditions of the 'Agnipath' scheme as part of the enrolment process. For personnel below the age of 18 years, the enrolment form will be required to be signed by the parents or guardians. The 'Agniveers' will be eligible for 30 days leave in a year as against 90 days for those in regular service. Medical leave will be granted based on medical advice. The Army said 30 per cent of the monthly salary of the Agniveers will be compulsorily deposited in a corpus and an equal amount will be contributed by the government. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Agneepath scheme: As stir continues, Indian Army issues notification for Agniveer recruitments

<p>Two encounters are ongoing in the Kashmir Valley. One terrorist has been killed in North Kashmir's Kupwara district. Jammu and Kashmir Police has identified the terrorist as a Pakistani, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT.</p>

<p>According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, a Cordon and Search operation was carried out after security forces got a tip off from an arrested terrorist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-60-killed-over-6-million-marooned-as-monsoon-triggered-rain-wreaks-havoc-in-india-bangladesh-489517" hreflang="en">60 killed, over 6mn marooned as monsoon rain lashes India, Bangladesh</a></p>

<p>''During search of hideouts, hiding terrorists fired upon joint search parties and our team also retaliated, in which one terrorist got killed. The arrested terrorist also got trapped. Encounter in progress. Killed terrorist has been identified as a Pakistani, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT. 2-3 more terrorists along with arrested terrorist trapped in ongoing encounter,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Security forces had earlier said that that Kupwara police launched an anti-terror operation after disclosure of an arrested terrorist Showket Ahmed Sheikh in Lolab area of Kupwara.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/isis-k-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-gurdwara-attack-cites-retaliation-for-insulting-prophet-489563">ISIS-K claims responsibility for Kabul gurudwara attack</a></p>

<p>Another operation is underway in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. ''Encounter has started at D.H Pora area of Kulgam. Police and Army on job. Further details shall follow.,'' said IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier Police had arrested three Over the Ground Workers of terror outfit AL-Badr in Kralgund area on National Highway. One pistol along with magazines and two hand grenades were recovered from them.&nbsp;</p>

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Two encounters are ongoing in the Kashmir Valley. One terrorist has been killed in North Kashmir's Kupwara district. Jammu and Kashmir Police has identified the terrorist as a Pakistani, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT.

Two encounters are ongoing in the Kashmir Valley. One terrorist has been killed in North Kashmir's Kupwara district. Jammu and Kashmir Police has identified the terrorist as a Pakistani, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT. According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, a Cordon and Search operation was carried out after security forces got a tip off from an arrested terrorist. Also read | 60 killed, over 6mn marooned as monsoon rain lashes India, Bangladesh ''During search of hideouts, hiding terrorists fired upon joint search parties and our team also retaliated, in which one terrorist got killed. The arrested terrorist also got trapped. Encounter in progress. Killed terrorist has been identified as a Pakistani, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT. 2-3 more terrorists along with arrested terrorist trapped in ongoing encounter,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir. Security forces had earlier said that that Kupwara police launched an anti-terror operation after disclosure of an arrested terrorist Showket Ahmed Sheikh in Lolab area of Kupwara. Also read | ISIS-K claims responsibility for Kabul gurudwara attack Another operation is underway in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. ''Encounter has started at D.H Pora area of Kulgam. Police and Army on job. Further details shall follow.,'' said IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar. Earlier Police had arrested three Over the Ground Workers of terror outfit AL-Badr in Kralgund area on National Highway. One pistol along with magazines and two hand grenades were recovered from them. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two encounters in Kashmir Valley, Pakistani terrorist killed

<p>Amid the ongoing violence triggered by the announcement of “Agnipath” Scheme for recruitment of youth in the Armed Forces, the government has increased the upper age limit to 23 from the initial 21, in an apparent bid to give more impetus to the project. The violence, starting with the State of Bihar, and subsequently spreading to Haryana, UP and other parts of the Hindi belt belies the rationale of the scheme, primarily meant to generate employment and cut down expenses on pensions.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Union Cabinet had approved the recruitment scheme for the Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces. The scheme called Agnipath and the youth selected under this scheme would be known as Agniveers. Agnipath allows the youth to serve in the armed forces for a period of four years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This scheme has been designed to enable a youthful profile of the armed forces. It is expected to essentially provide an opportunity to the youth who are keen to wear the uniform by attracting young talent from the society who are more in sync with latest technological trends.</p>

<p>As for the armed forces, it is expected to enhance the youthful profile and provide a fresh lease of blood and at the same time bring about a transformational shift towards more tech-savvy armed forces. The dividends of short military service to the nation, society and the youth of the nation are immense. This includes inculcation of patriotism, team work, enhancement of physical fitness, ingrained loyalty for the country and availability of trained personnel to boost national security in times of external and internal threats.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agnipath-heres-why-students-are-protesting-against-indias-controversial-military-recruitment-scheme-489089">Agnipath row: Why are youngsters protesting against India's controversial military recruitment scheme?</a></strong></p>

<p>The policy coming into immediate effect, is thought to be a major defence policy reform introduced by the government to usher in a new era in the human resource policy of the three arms of the three Services.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Agniveers will be given an attractive customised monthly package along with risk and hardship allowances as applicable in the three services. On completion of the engagement period of four years, Agniveers will be paid one time ‘Seva Nidhi’ package which shall comprise their contribution including accrued interest thereon and matching contribution from the government equal to the accumulated amount of their contribution including interest and the arithmetic of the same has already been worked out.</p>

<p>The ‘Seva Nidhi’ will be exempt from Income Tax. Agniveers will also be provided non-contributory life insurance Cover of Rs 48 lakhs for the duration of their engagement period.</p>

<p>Further, during this period of service, the Agniveers will be imparted various military-linked professional skills. Post this stint of four years, the Agniveers will be infused into the civil society where they can contribute adequately towards the nation-building process.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The individuals, selected for enrolment in the armed forces as regular cadre, would be required to serve for a further period of minimum 15 years and would be governed by the existing terms and conditions of service of Junior Commissioned Officers/other ranks in Indian Army and their equivalent in Indian Navy and Indian Air Force and that of Non-Combatant enrolled in the Indian Air Force, as amended from time to time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Significantly, on a positive note, the scheme is expected to lead to much more youthful and technically adept war fighting force by ensuring a fine balance between youthful and experienced personnel in the armed forces. Advantages include inter alia a transformative reform of recruitment policy of the Armed Forces. A unique opportunity to the youth to serve the country and contribute to nation-building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the terms and conditions, the enrolment will be undertaken through an online centralized system for all three services with specialized rallies and campus interviews from recognized technical institutes such as Industrial Training Institutes and National Skills Qualifications Framework etc.</p>

<p>All segments of the government are on board to launch this scheme. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah described Agnipath plan as a visionary and welcome decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the bright future of the youth. In this regard, on June 16, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) decided to give priority to Agniveers who complete 4 years under this scheme for recruitment in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. This brightens the prospects of this inductees as their absorption chances would deem better for those who are released after serving for a short period. &nbsp;</p>

<p>While the government in all it’s earnest, has introduced this scheme factoring all possible consequences, a section of the armed forces’ veterans have raised questions about the feasibility of the scheme. Some are apprehensive that it might compromise the combative efficacy of the Indian military rendering it not so effective to face the Chinese or Pakistani armed onslaught. Some have also raised fears that those after the military training might be allured by the unscrupulous elements to abuse them for undesirable activities.</p>

<p>Experts, however, feel that all such apprehensions have been adequately confabulated by the concerned much before it’s launch. Any attempt by the vested quarters to derail this plan may sabotage the very idea of generating employment or addressing the country’s economic concerns. More worryingly, our hostile neighbors will embark upon highlighting this project with all negativity giving malicious propaganda. This is certainly not desirable at this juncture and we should not give this luxury to our ill-wishers particularly in these challenging times. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>

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Amid the ongoing violence triggered by the announcement of “Agnipath” Scheme for recruitment of youth in the Armed Forces, the government has increased the upper age limit to 23 from the initial 21, in an apparent bid to give more impetus to the project.

Amid the ongoing violence triggered by the announcement of “Agnipath” Scheme for recruitment of youth in the Armed Forces, the government has increased the upper age limit to 23 from the initial 21, in an apparent bid to give more impetus to the project. The violence, starting with the State of Bihar, and subsequently spreading to Haryana, UP and other parts of the Hindi belt belies the rationale of the scheme, primarily meant to generate employment and cut down expenses on pensions. Earlier, the Union Cabinet had approved the recruitment scheme for the Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces. The scheme called Agnipath and the youth selected under this scheme would be known as Agniveers. Agnipath allows the youth to serve in the armed forces for a period of four years. This scheme has been designed to enable a youthful profile of the armed forces. It is expected to essentially provide an opportunity to the youth who are keen to wear the uniform by attracting young talent from the society who are more in sync with latest technological trends. As for the armed forces, it is expected to enhance the youthful profile and provide a fresh lease of blood and at the same time bring about a transformational shift towards more tech-savvy armed forces. The dividends of short military service to the nation, society and the youth of the nation are immense. This includes inculcation of patriotism, team work, enhancement of physical fitness, ingrained loyalty for the country and availability of trained personnel to boost national security in times of external and internal threats. Watch | Agnipath row: Why are youngsters protesting against India's controversial military recruitment scheme? The policy coming into immediate effect, is thought to be a major defence policy reform introduced by the government to usher in a new era in the human resource policy of the three arms of the three Services. Agniveers will be given an attractive customised monthly package along with risk and hardship allowances as applicable in the three services. On completion of the engagement period of four years, Agniveers will be paid one time ‘Seva Nidhi’ package which shall comprise their contribution including accrued interest thereon and matching contribution from the government equal to the accumulated amount of their contribution including interest and the arithmetic of the same has already been worked out. The ‘Seva Nidhi’ will be exempt from Income Tax. Agniveers will also be provided non-contributory life insurance Cover of Rs 48 lakhs for the duration of their engagement period. Further, during this period of service, the Agniveers will be imparted various military-linked professional skills. Post this stint of four years, the Agniveers will be infused into the civil society where they can contribute adequately towards the nation-building process. The individuals, selected for enrolment in the armed forces as regular cadre, would be required to serve for a further period of minimum 15 years and would be governed by the existing terms and conditions of service of Junior Commissioned Officers/other ranks in Indian Army and their equivalent in Indian Navy and Indian Air Force and that of Non-Combatant enrolled in the Indian Air Force, as amended from time to time. Significantly, on a positive note, the scheme is expected to lead to much more youthful and technically adept war fighting force by ensuring a fine balance between youthful and experienced personnel in the armed forces. Advantages include inter alia a transformative reform of recruitment policy of the Armed Forces. A unique opportunity to the youth to serve the country and contribute to nation-building. Among the terms and conditions, the enrolment will be undertaken through an online centralized system for all three services with specialized rallies and campus interviews from recognized technical institutes such as Industrial Training Institutes and National Skills Qualifications Framework etc. All segments of the government are on board to launch this scheme. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah described Agnipath plan as a visionary and welcome decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the bright future of the youth. In this regard, on June 16, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) decided to give priority to Agniveers who complete 4 years under this scheme for recruitment in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. This brightens the prospects of this inductees as their absorption chances would deem better for those who are released after serving for a short period. While the government in all it’s earnest, has introduced this scheme factoring all possible consequences, a section of the armed forces’ veterans have raised questions about the feasibility of the scheme. Some are apprehensive that it might compromise the combative efficacy of the Indian military rendering it not so effective to face the Chinese or Pakistani armed onslaught. Some have also raised fears that those after the military training might be allured by the unscrupulous elements to abuse them for undesirable activities. Experts, however, feel that all such apprehensions have been adequately confabulated by the concerned much before it’s launch. Any attempt by the vested quarters to derail this plan may sabotage the very idea of generating employment or addressing the country’s economic concerns. More worryingly, our hostile neighbors will embark upon highlighting this project with all negativity giving malicious propaganda. This is certainly not desirable at this juncture and we should not give this luxury to our ill-wishers particularly in these challenging times. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Opinion | Project 'Agnipath': Worth a try!

<p>The Indian government revealed the Agnipath scheme today, a radical recruitment plan for the armed forces aimed at reducing wage and pension costs while also freeing up funding for critical weapon procurement. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called the action "historic" when announcing it.The chiefs of the three services announced the plan.</p>

<p>Under the new Agnipath programme, which will take effect immediately, personnel from all three services will be recruited in a significantly different way. Agniveers will be the name given to soldiers enlisted under the scheme.</p>

<p>Recruitment will begin within 90 days, under the scheme.</p>

<p>"This is a major defence policy reform introduced by the government to usher in a new era in the human resource policy of the three services. The policy, which comes into immediate effect, will hereafter govern the enrolment for the three services, "the government said in a statement.</p>

<p>On Tuesday morning, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the idea. It will make the permanent force levels for the country's nearly 13-lakh strong armed forces substantially thinner in the future.</p>

<p>After completing a tour of duty, most Indian troops will be able to exit the service in just four years. Only 25% of the 45,000 to 50,000 recruits each year will be allowed to continue under permanent commission for another 15 years. The decision will significantly reduce defence pension costs, which have long been a source of concern for governments.</p>

<p><strong>What is the Agnipath programme?</strong></p>

<p>Around 45,000 people between the ages of 17.5 and 21 will be recruited into the military and will serve for four years under the new programme.</p>

<p>A six-month training period will be included in this four-year contract. They will be paid a monthly salary of Rs 30,000-40,000 plus allowances throughout this time. They will be eligible for medical and insurance benefits as well.</p>

<p>Only 25% of these troops will be retained after four years, and they will enter the regular cadre, where they will serve for a total of 15 years in non-officer positions.</p>

<p>The remaining employees will receive a package of between Rs 1.1 million and Rs 1.2 million when they leave the service, but they will not be eligible for pension benefits.</p>

<p>If successful, the idea will dramatically reduce the annual revenue and pension bill, which account for half of the Rs 5.2 trillion annual defence budget.<br />
<br />
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The Indian government revealed the Agnipath scheme today, a radical recruitment plan for the armed forces aimed at reducing wage and pension costs while also freeing up funding for critical weapon procurement.

The Indian government revealed the Agnipath scheme today, a radical recruitment plan for the armed forces aimed at reducing wage and pension costs while also freeing up funding for critical weapon procurement. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called the action "historic" when announcing it.The chiefs of the three services announced the plan. Under the new Agnipath programme, which will take effect immediately, personnel from all three services will be recruited in a significantly different way. Agniveers will be the name given to soldiers enlisted under the scheme. Recruitment will begin within 90 days, under the scheme. "This is a major defence policy reform introduced by the government to usher in a new era in the human resource policy of the three services. The policy, which comes into immediate effect, will hereafter govern the enrolment for the three services, "the government said in a statement. On Tuesday morning, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the idea. It will make the permanent force levels for the country's nearly 13-lakh strong armed forces substantially thinner in the future. After completing a tour of duty, most Indian troops will be able to exit the service in just four years. Only 25% of the 45,000 to 50,000 recruits each year will be allowed to continue under permanent commission for another 15 years. The decision will significantly reduce defence pension costs, which have long been a source of concern for governments. What is the Agnipath programme? Around 45,000 people between the ages of 17.5 and 21 will be recruited into the military and will serve for four years under the new programme. A six-month training period will be included in this four-year contract. They will be paid a monthly salary of Rs 30,000-40,000 plus allowances throughout this time. They will be eligible for medical and insurance benefits as well. Only 25% of these troops will be retained after four years, and they will enter the regular cadre, where they will serve for a total of 15 years in non-officer positions. The remaining employees will receive a package of between Rs 1.1 million and Rs 1.2 million when they leave the service, but they will not be eligible for pension benefits. If successful, the idea will dramatically reduce the annual revenue and pension bill, which account for half of the Rs 5.2 trillion annual defence budget. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Agnipath Recruitment Scheme: India to overhaul soldier recruitment with new 'Agnipath' programme

<p>A first of its kind model, the Indian Army has come up with a new recruitment model; it is called the Tour of Duty in which civilians can be recruited into three services of the armed forces for four years.</p>

<p>Unlike short service commission officers where an officer serves in the Indian army for 10 years, the latest model of Tour of Duty offers a comparatively low duration of service.</p>

<p>The eligibility criteria however remain the same debarring the length of the service. Meanwhile, 25 per cent&nbsp;of the soldiers who will be recruited under the new scheme will be re-enlisted for full service after a month.</p>

<p>The four-year stint will include six months of training and three and a half years of service. In the past few months there have been various discussions circling the new recruitment scheme and the nuances it brings to the table.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-army-braves-tough-winter-weather-along-the-line-of-control-447467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The scheme attracts those who seek to join the armed forces without adopting it as a full-time career. However since no proposal gets traction just like that, the proposal was pushed by several drivers.</p>

<p>And in the next few minutes of this article, we will decode the pro and cons of the Indian Army’s Tour of Duty process.</p>

<p><strong>How will the Tour of Duty be beneficial for the Indian Army?</strong></p>

<p>The basic thought process behind the proposal is to reduce expenditure on military pensions. India’s budget for the financial year 2022-23 allocated is Rs 5.25 lakh crore for defence which includes the defence pension component of about Rs 1.2 lakh crore and a reduced pension component will lead to a larger capital outlay.</p>

<p>With this, in view, the proposal is believed to envisage recruiting personnel into the army for short tenures on a volunteer basis. It will further help in producing a better and large number of soldiers in less time and with fewer investments.</p>

<p>The money saved by this process could be used to focus more on the advancement of technology and military modernisation.</p>

<p>Secondly, the tour of duty will serve as a golden opportunity for India’s youth to experience military life without having to join the armed forces on a long-term basis. It will eventually produce better disciplined and experienced youth who could venture out into other fields after the tenure of their service.</p>

<p><strong>Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indias-astra-missile-on-iafs-su-30-can-change-air-dynamics-in-indian-ocean-region-485091" hreflang="en">How India's Astra missile on IAF's Su-30 can change air dynamics in Indian Ocean Region</a></strong></p>

<p>Anchored on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s major reform of reducing expenditure and age profile of defence forces, the best among the chosen lot of soldiers will have the opportunity to continue their service in case vacancies are available.</p>

<p>While those who leave the forces after a period of four years will have a plethora of options on their table. Several corporations will show interest in reserving jobs for trained and disciplined youth who have served their nation.</p>

<p>The Tour of duty soldiers will ensure that a large quantum of the workforce is dedicated and skilled thus enhancing the output of the government and the private sector.</p>

<p><strong>Possible disadvantages of TOD</strong></p>

<p>While there is a clarion call for the tour of duty scheme to be implemented, there are also voices that are vehemently against it.</p>

<p>Veteran army officers have the opinion that the step will not be successful owing to the short duration of the service, they believe that instead of devoting fully to the army, there are high chances that these intern soldiers could be focusing on just building their resume.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, there are also apprehensions about how the duration of the tenure is too less. TOD soldiers will not have the opportunity to attend professional courses where a soldier is groomed through several training courses like the YO’s course, Platoon Weapons course and various other courses where the actual grooming takes place. A TOD soldier will never get the time or the bandwidth to be trained or learn the ethos of the ‘paltan’ and the army.</p>

<p>In the end, the new ‘Agneepath’ scheme is structured in a very business-like feeling where a message that a potential youth gets is number one that you can serve in the Indian Army without any shackles of commitment.</p>

<p>Secondly apart from getting the prestigious stamp of military duty, you can earn more than double the pay as compared to a fresher in the corporate world.</p>


A first of its kind model, the Indian Army has come up with a new recruitment model; it is called the Tour of Duty in which civilians can be recruited into three services of the armed forces for four years.

A first of its kind model, the Indian Army has come up with a new recruitment model; it is called the Tour of Duty in which civilians can be recruited into three services of the armed forces for four years. Unlike short service commission officers where an officer serves in the Indian army for 10 years, the latest model of Tour of Duty offers a comparatively low duration of service. The eligibility criteria however remain the same debarring the length of the service. Meanwhile, 25 per cent of the soldiers who will be recruited under the new scheme will be re-enlisted for full service after a month. The four-year stint will include six months of training and three and a half years of service. In the past few months there have been various discussions circling the new recruitment scheme and the nuances it brings to the table. The scheme attracts those who seek to join the armed forces without adopting it as a full-time career. However since no proposal gets traction just like that, the proposal was pushed by several drivers. And in the next few minutes of this article, we will decode the pro and cons of the Indian Army’s Tour of Duty process. How will the Tour of Duty be beneficial for the Indian Army? The basic thought process behind the proposal is to reduce expenditure on military pensions. India’s budget for the financial year 2022-23 allocated is Rs 5.25 lakh crore for defence which includes the defence pension component of about Rs 1.2 lakh crore and a reduced pension component will lead to a larger capital outlay. With this, in view, the proposal is believed to envisage recruiting personnel into the army for short tenures on a volunteer basis. It will further help in producing a better and large number of soldiers in less time and with fewer investments. The money saved by this process could be used to focus more on the advancement of technology and military modernisation. Secondly, the tour of duty will serve as a golden opportunity for India’s youth to experience military life without having to join the armed forces on a long-term basis. It will eventually produce better disciplined and experienced youth who could venture out into other fields after the tenure of their service. Also see | How India's Astra missile on IAF's Su-30 can change air dynamics in Indian Ocean Region Anchored on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s major reform of reducing expenditure and age profile of defence forces, the best among the chosen lot of soldiers will have the opportunity to continue their service in case vacancies are available. While those who leave the forces after a period of four years will have a plethora of options on their table. Several corporations will show interest in reserving jobs for trained and disciplined youth who have served their nation. The Tour of duty soldiers will ensure that a large quantum of the workforce is dedicated and skilled thus enhancing the output of the government and the private sector. Possible disadvantages of TOD While there is a clarion call for the tour of duty scheme to be implemented, there are also voices that are vehemently against it. Veteran army officers have the opinion that the step will not be successful owing to the short duration of the service, they believe that instead of devoting fully to the army, there are high chances that these intern soldiers could be focusing on just building their resume. Meanwhile, there are also apprehensions about how the duration of the tenure is too less. TOD soldiers will not have the opportunity to attend professional courses where a soldier is groomed through several training courses like the YO’s course, Platoon Weapons course and various other courses where the actual grooming takes place. A TOD soldier will never get the time or the bandwidth to be trained or learn the ethos of the ‘paltan’ and the army. In the end, the new ‘Agneepath’ scheme is structured in a very business-like feeling where a message that a potential youth gets is number one that you can serve in the Indian Army without any shackles of commitment. Secondly apart from getting the prestigious stamp of military duty, you can earn more than double the pay as compared to a fresher in the corporate world.

Indian Army’s Tour of Duty: An analysis

S-400 missile: China, Pak threat and Pentagon's take on India's defence

<p>The Indian Army on Friday foiled an infiltration and narcotics smuggling bid in North Kashmir’s Tangdhar sector, where a terrorist was killed while another was injured.</p>

<p>The forces recovered arms and ammunition from the operation site. The two terrorists were trying to infiltrate the Indian territory into the forward area close to the Line of Control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The two intruding terrorists were fired upon, leading to the elimination of one terrorist, while grievously injuring the other. However, the injured terrorist managed to flee to the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, taking advantage of the darkness. A thorough search operation launched in the morning resulted in the recovery of the dead terrorist, two AK series rifles, two pistols, two grenades along with 10 packets of narcotics.” said the Indian Army’s Defence PRO, Srinagar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Indian army has repeatedly foiled Pakistan’s attempts to disrupt peace and harmony in Kashmir. Pakistan and Pakistan sponsored OGW nexus uses narco-terrorism to ruin the future of our youth while at the same time channelling funds collected from narco-trade to further their nefarious activities in Kashmir valley,” the statement added.</p>


The Indian Army on Friday foiled an infiltration and narcotics smuggling bid in North Kashmir’s Tangdhar sector, where a terrorist was killed while another was injured.

The Indian Army on Friday foiled an infiltration and narcotics smuggling bid in North Kashmir’s Tangdhar sector, where a terrorist was killed while another was injured. The forces recovered arms and ammunition from the operation site. The two terrorists were trying to infiltrate the Indian territory into the forward area close to the Line of Control. “The two intruding terrorists were fired upon, leading to the elimination of one terrorist, while grievously injuring the other. However, the injured terrorist managed to flee to the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, taking advantage of the darkness. A thorough search operation launched in the morning resulted in the recovery of the dead terrorist, two AK series rifles, two pistols, two grenades along with 10 packets of narcotics.” said the Indian Army’s Defence PRO, Srinagar. “Indian army has repeatedly foiled Pakistan’s attempts to disrupt peace and harmony in Kashmir. Pakistan and Pakistan sponsored OGW nexus uses narco-terrorism to ruin the future of our youth while at the same time channelling funds collected from narco-trade to further their nefarious activities in Kashmir valley,” the statement added.

Indian Army guns down a terrorist, foils infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir

<p>Jammu and Kashmir Police has started the arrangements&nbsp;for the security of Amarnath Yatra. A team of High-ranking officials including SSP Ganderbal inspects Yatra route from Baltal to Shri Amarnath Holy Cave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Secuirty forces had earlier said that there is a threat to the Amarnath Yatra, but all the security arrangements are in place to secure both the routes. SSP Ganderbal Nikhil Borkar along with other senior officers visited Baltal Base camp, Domail and Holy Cave to review the security related arrangements enroute Amar Nath Cave.SSP Ganderbal was accompanied by SDPO Kangan Yasir Qadri-JKPS, SHO PS Sonamarg and other police officers of the district.</p>

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<p>''During the visit to Holy Cave SSP Ganderbal inspected all the routes leading to the Holy Cave for a smooth Yatra. Moreover, all other security arrangements were reviewed for the safety of the Pilgrims. Also took stock of enroute deployment and other security measures to be put in place during the upcoming Yatra.'' said SSP Ganderbal Nikhil Borkar&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Police also took a detailed security review of Base camps at Baltal and Domail, besides other strategic locations and camping sites along the Yatra route.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-global-summit-2022-trade-wars-create-problems-in-long-term-says-former-ireland-minister-479529" hreflang="en">Trade wars create problems in long term: Pat Breen</a></p>

<p>The Police also reviewed traffic management for smooth passage of Yatra convoys and availability of parking places. They also directed all the officers to maintain the highest level of alertness, ensure proper access control and check/frisking of all vehicles before and during the Yatra.</p>


Jammu and Kashmir Police has started the arrangements for the security of Amarnath Yatra. A team of High-ranking officials including SSP Ganderbal inspects Yatra route from Baltal to Shri Amarnath Holy Cave.

Jammu and Kashmir Police has started the arrangements for the security of Amarnath Yatra. A team of High-ranking officials including SSP Ganderbal inspects Yatra route from Baltal to Shri Amarnath Holy Cave. Secuirty forces had earlier said that there is a threat to the Amarnath Yatra, but all the security arrangements are in place to secure both the routes. SSP Ganderbal Nikhil Borkar along with other senior officers visited Baltal Base camp, Domail and Holy Cave to review the security related arrangements enroute Amar Nath Cave.SSP Ganderbal was accompanied by SDPO Kangan Yasir Qadri-JKPS, SHO PS Sonamarg and other police officers of the district. Also read | Russian invasion will have grave consequences, says Ukrainian minister Senik ''During the visit to Holy Cave SSP Ganderbal inspected all the routes leading to the Holy Cave for a smooth Yatra. Moreover, all other security arrangements were reviewed for the safety of the Pilgrims. Also took stock of enroute deployment and other security measures to be put in place during the upcoming Yatra.'' said SSP Ganderbal Nikhil Borkar The Police also took a detailed security review of Base camps at Baltal and Domail, besides other strategic locations and camping sites along the Yatra route. Also read | Trade wars create problems in long term: Pat Breen The Police also reviewed traffic management for smooth passage of Yatra convoys and availability of parking places. They also directed all the officers to maintain the highest level of alertness, ensure proper access control and check/frisking of all vehicles before and during the Yatra.

Police inspect Amarnath Yatra route as security arrangements continue

<p>Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday gave a nod to the revised ‘scales of accommodation 2022’ (SoA) for defence services to ensure better standards of living for the personnel of the armed forces.</p>

<p>The defence ministry in a statement said that the implementation of ‘scales of accommodation’ would be a tremendous improvement&nbsp;to inbuilt facilities&nbsp;and infrastructure for the stay of personnel.</p>

<p>“Optimisation of Defence land usage by using multi-storeyed construction and austerity measures by combining of common facilities have been emphasized. These would ensure better working and living conditions for the defence personnel including Defence civilians,” it said.</p>

<p>“Amenities in all public buildings for persons with disabilities have been introduced and gender commonality in all specifications has been ensured,” it added.</p>

<p>The ministry has highlighted that this revision will enhance infrastructure development, enable usage of modern technology, give more flexibility to the executives and cater to&nbsp;users’ aspirations.</p>

<p>The enhanced scales will also be in line with the government vision and programmes like Swatch Bharat, Sugamya Bharat, Digital India, Green Buildings, Sustainable Development, Renewable Energy and reduction of Carbon Footprint, the defence ministry said.</p>

<p>It said that these scales are applicable for all three defence services and the Indian Coast Guard.</p>

<p>The previous SoA was approved by the government in October 2009.</p>

<p>“With the induction of new units, technological facilities and equipment profile, requirements of operational readiness, increased threat perception, the concept of sustainable development including contemporary industry standards and enhanced aspirations of users for improved living standards, there was an inescapable necessity for revision of the SoA 2009,” the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday gave a nod to the revised ‘scales of accommodation 2022’ (SoA) for defence services to ensure better standards of living for the personnel of the armed forces.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday gave a nod to the revised ‘scales of accommodation 2022’ (SoA) for defence services to ensure better standards of living for the personnel of the armed forces. The defence ministry in a statement said that the implementation of ‘scales of accommodation’ would be a tremendous improvement to inbuilt facilities and infrastructure for the stay of personnel. “Optimisation of Defence land usage by using multi-storeyed construction and austerity measures by combining of common facilities have been emphasized. These would ensure better working and living conditions for the defence personnel including Defence civilians,” it said. “Amenities in all public buildings for persons with disabilities have been introduced and gender commonality in all specifications has been ensured,” it added. The ministry has highlighted that this revision will enhance infrastructure development, enable usage of modern technology, give more flexibility to the executives and cater to users’ aspirations. The enhanced scales will also be in line with the government vision and programmes like Swatch Bharat, Sugamya Bharat, Digital India, Green Buildings, Sustainable Development, Renewable Energy and reduction of Carbon Footprint, the defence ministry said. It said that these scales are applicable for all three defence services and the Indian Coast Guard. The previous SoA was approved by the government in October 2009. “With the induction of new units, technological facilities and equipment profile, requirements of operational readiness, increased threat perception, the concept of sustainable development including contemporary industry standards and enhanced aspirations of users for improved living standards, there was an inescapable necessity for revision of the SoA 2009,” the ministry said.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gives nod to revised scales of accommodation for armed forces

<p>Expressing confidence about the strategic vision of the Government of India, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi said that there has been a clarity and determination in the manner in which India has been dealing with the country's internal and external threats.</p>

<p>However, he also raised alarm over the emergence of new adversaries and the future threat of civil unrest that could be fomented by extremist Islamic Organisations such as the Popular Front of India. "Using violence as a political resource is an act of Terrorism. PFI's whole aim is to destabilize this country" RN Ravi, the former Senior Intelligence Official, who now serves as Tamil Nadu Governor, said. He was speaking during the launch of a book "The Lurking Hydra: South Asia's Terror Travail" authored by Indian Army Lt General (Late) Subroto Mitra.</p>

<p>Specifically referring to the Popular front of India, Governor Ravi said that the organisation was behind the Indian nationals who had joined terrorist movements in Syria(Islamic State) and in Afghanistan. "PFI is a hydra-headed monster with many fronts and it masquerades its operations under the cover of student groups, human rights, political parties etc." he said, condemning the political parties that were backing PFI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-armys-outgoing-goc-says-not-a-kashmir-problem-but-a-problem-in-kashmir-wrong-terminology-maligns-476521" hreflang="en">Indian army's outgoing GOC says 'not a Kashmir problem, but a problem in Kashmir', wrong terminology maligns</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recalling the use of extremist religious movements and rampant religious conversions in order to foment unrest, Ravi made a mention of how American and British intelligence agencies spread Christianity and radical Islam in South Asia, to meet their political and strategic objectives. Elaborating on this, he spoke about India's post-independence period, when India's world-view was not viewed favourably by America and Britain. He touched upon how Britishers and Americans had fomented trouble in India's North East and instigated the Naga people, by using the American Baptist Church and Anglican Church, evangelical efforts.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-amarnath-yatra-terror-plot-busted-476686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"To contain spread of revolutionary Communism(Chinese influence) in India's North East and upwards of Burma(now Myanmar), Western powers wanted to create a Christian territory. On the Western Front(Afghanistan), they tried the same with radical Islam, to counter Russian Communism" Ravi recalled. He also acknowledged that Terrorism in India has been inspired, instigated and abetted by Foreign sources. Many countries have played this bloody game on India, he added.</p>

<p>Lauding Lt Gen (Late) Subroto Mitra, the Governor said that the former's book is a valuable addition to the scholarly work on terrorism and counter-terrorism. "Gen Mitra was more than a soldier who defended the country from enemies within and outside, he was intellectually sharp and had an inquisitive mind that allowed him to get to the depths of an issue" he added.</p>

<p>Lt General A. Arun, who serves as General Officer Commanding Dakshin Bharat Area said that Lt Gen(Late) Subroto Mitra had submitted his thesis and research work before the Madras University in Chennai. However, he had passed away before he could defend his work. It is that research work of his, which has been put together and released as a book, Arun said. "For the first time in the history of the Madras University, a PhD is being awarded Posthumously. His book examines terror and terrorism in the South Asian context and traces the path to its logical conclusion" he added. Speaking on the occasion of the Book launch, the Late General's family expressed happiness over the Governor and Indian Army officials being present during the launch and called it a very memorable occasion.</p>

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<p><strong>Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.</strong></p>


Expressing confidence about the strategic vision of the Government of India, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi said that there has been a clarity and determination in the manner in which India has been dealing with the country's internal and external threats.

Expressing confidence about the strategic vision of the Government of India, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi said that there has been a clarity and determination in the manner in which India has been dealing with the country's internal and external threats. However, he also raised alarm over the emergence of new adversaries and the future threat of civil unrest that could be fomented by extremist Islamic Organisations such as the Popular Front of India. "Using violence as a political resource is an act of Terrorism. PFI's whole aim is to destabilize this country" RN Ravi, the former Senior Intelligence Official, who now serves as Tamil Nadu Governor, said. He was speaking during the launch of a book "The Lurking Hydra: South Asia's Terror Travail" authored by Indian Army Lt General (Late) Subroto Mitra. Specifically referring to the Popular front of India, Governor Ravi said that the organisation was behind the Indian nationals who had joined terrorist movements in Syria(Islamic State) and in Afghanistan. "PFI is a hydra-headed monster with many fronts and it masquerades its operations under the cover of student groups, human rights, political parties etc." he said, condemning the political parties that were backing PFI. Also read | Indian army's outgoing GOC says 'not a Kashmir problem, but a problem in Kashmir', wrong terminology maligns Recalling the use of extremist religious movements and rampant religious conversions in order to foment unrest, Ravi made a mention of how American and British intelligence agencies spread Christianity and radical Islam in South Asia, to meet their political and strategic objectives. Elaborating on this, he spoke about India's post-independence period, when India's world-view was not viewed favourably by America and Britain. He touched upon how Britishers and Americans had fomented trouble in India's North East and instigated the Naga people, by using the American Baptist Church and Anglican Church, evangelical efforts. "To contain spread of revolutionary Communism(Chinese influence) in India's North East and upwards of Burma(now Myanmar), Western powers wanted to create a Christian territory. On the Western Front(Afghanistan), they tried the same with radical Islam, to counter Russian Communism" Ravi recalled. He also acknowledged that Terrorism in India has been inspired, instigated and abetted by Foreign sources. Many countries have played this bloody game on India, he added. Lauding Lt Gen (Late) Subroto Mitra, the Governor said that the former's book is a valuable addition to the scholarly work on terrorism and counter-terrorism. "Gen Mitra was more than a soldier who defended the country from enemies within and outside, he was intellectually sharp and had an inquisitive mind that allowed him to get to the depths of an issue" he added. Lt General A. Arun, who serves as General Officer Commanding Dakshin Bharat Area said that Lt Gen(Late) Subroto Mitra had submitted his thesis and research work before the Madras University in Chennai. However, he had passed away before he could defend his work. It is that research work of his, which has been put together and released as a book, Arun said. "For the first time in the history of the Madras University, a PhD is being awarded Posthumously. His book examines terror and terrorism in the South Asian context and traces the path to its logical conclusion" he added. Speaking on the occasion of the Book launch, the Late General's family expressed happiness over the Governor and Indian Army officials being present during the launch and called it a very memorable occasion. Watch WION's live TV here: Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

Using violence as a political resource is an act of terrorism, says Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi

<p>The Indian army recently said that there has been a rise in the recovery of military equipment from Afghanistan in the Kashmir&nbsp;region. General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, today said that the equipment weapon system which is used across the world had made its way into the Kashmir region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that it's definitely&nbsp;a challenge, but the Indian Army is all ready to tackle any such issue. According to the Indian army, equipments from Afghanistan have&nbsp;been recovered near the Line of Control and in a few encounters as well. The Indian army had found&nbsp;some night vision devices and satellite&nbsp;phones.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Sources in security said that traces of satellite&nbsp;phones being used by terror groups have been found in the Kashmir region and are&nbsp;sent to the National Technical Research Organisation for analysis.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"There are equipment and weapon systems that are used around the world that have found a way inside. It's definitely a challenge, but we have also changed our rules of engagement and procedures to contest that point. They have been found. They are not in large numbers, but there are signatures and we have recovered them in some encounters and some on the Line of Control, so it's not a big challenge.&nbsp;We have been able to work around that system. "&nbsp;said&nbsp;General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Indian army also says a lot of foreign terrorists in the valley were on the quiet and they were putting up local terrorists in the forefront. And as local terrorist numbers start coming down, the foreign terrorists are getting slowly exposed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"These terrorists were quiet. They were putting the local terrorists as the face of terrorist activities." As the numbers of local terrorists started coming down, they are getting exposed and are compelled to come out of hiding to carry out terror activities against the locals and no locals of the valley. ''Said&nbsp;General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian army says there has been only one infiltration attempt made by terrorists from across the border, but it was foiled. The security grid on the LoC has been made full proof.&nbsp;</p>


The Indian army recently said that there has been a rise in the recovery of military equipment from Afghanistan in the Kashmir region. General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, today said that the equipment weapon system which is used across the world had made its way into the Kashmir region.

The Indian army recently said that there has been a rise in the recovery of military equipment from Afghanistan in the Kashmir region. General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, today said that the equipment weapon system which is used across the world had made its way into the Kashmir region. He said that it's definitely a challenge, but the Indian Army is all ready to tackle any such issue. According to the Indian army, equipments from Afghanistan have been recovered near the Line of Control and in a few encounters as well. The Indian army had found some night vision devices and satellite phones. Also read | Indian Coast Guard saves all six crew members of sinking ship off India's west coast Sources in security said that traces of satellite phones being used by terror groups have been found in the Kashmir region and are sent to the National Technical Research Organisation for analysis. Watch | Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani "There are equipment and weapon systems that are used around the world that have found a way inside. It's definitely a challenge, but we have also changed our rules of engagement and procedures to contest that point. They have been found. They are not in large numbers, but there are signatures and we have recovered them in some encounters and some on the Line of Control, so it's not a big challenge. We have been able to work around that system. " said General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Indian army also says a lot of foreign terrorists in the valley were on the quiet and they were putting up local terrorists in the forefront. And as local terrorist numbers start coming down, the foreign terrorists are getting slowly exposed. Also read | Family of 5 Lankan Tamils arrive on Indian shores, flee island nation carrying infant "These terrorists were quiet. They were putting the local terrorists as the face of terrorist activities." As the numbers of local terrorists started coming down, they are getting exposed and are compelled to come out of hiding to carry out terror activities against the locals and no locals of the valley. ''Said General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey. The Indian army says there has been only one infiltration attempt made by terrorists from across the border, but it was foiled. The security grid on the LoC has been made full proof.

Indian Army recovers military equipment sent from Afghanistan in Kashmir

<p>General Manoj Pande took charge as the 29th Chief of the Army Staff on Saturday after incumbent Gen MM Naravane retired from service.</p>

<p>Gen Pande, who was serving as vice chief at the time, became the force's first officer from the Corps of Engineers.</p>

<p>Gen Pande was the Chief of the Eastern Army Command, which was entrusted with protecting the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh sectors until taking over as deputy chief of the Army on February 1.</p>

<p>Gen Pande assumed command of the Army at a time when India is grappling with a slew of security issues, notably along its borders with China and Pakistan.</p>

<p>He would have to collaborate with the Navy and the Indian Air Force on the government's plan to roll out theatre commands as Army chief.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">General Manoj Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC takes over as the 29th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a> of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> from General MM Naravane.<br />
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जनरल मनोज पांडे, परम विशिष्ट सेवा मेडल, अति विशिष्ट सेवा मेडल, विशिष्ट सेवा मेडल, ऐड डि कैंप ने जनरल एम एम नरवणे से <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AD%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#भारतीयसेना</a> के 29वें <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#सेनाध्यक्ष</a> का पदभार संभाला। <a href="https://t.co/Mphsz1pvrP">pic.twitter.com/Mphsz1pvrP</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1520306104063827968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Bipin Rawat, who died in a helicopter crash in December last year, was in charge of the theaterization plan. Gen Rawat's successor has yet to be named by the government.</p>

<p>Gen Pande also served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), India's only tri-services command, during his remarkable career.</p>

<p>An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, he was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers (The Bombay Sappers) in December 1982.</p>

<p>Gen Pande has held a number of notable command and staff positions in both conventional and counter-insurgency operations in a variety of environments.</p>

<p>During Operation Parakram in Jammu and Kashmir, he led an engineer regiment along the Line of Control, an engineer brigade in the western sector, an infantry brigade along the LoC, a mountain division in the high-altitude territory of western Ladakh, and a corps in the northeast.</p>

<p>Brigade Major of a Mountain Brigade in the Northeast, Assistant Military Secretary (AMS) in the Military Secretary's Branch, and Brigadier General Staff (Operations) in the Eastern Command headquarters are among his staff positions.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


General Manoj Pande took charge as the 29th Chief of the Army Staff on Saturday after incumbent Gen MM Naravane retired from service. Gen Pande, who was serving as vice chief at the time, became the force's first officer from the Corps of Engineers.

General Manoj Pande took charge as the 29th Chief of the Army Staff on Saturday after incumbent Gen MM Naravane retired from service. Gen Pande, who was serving as vice chief at the time, became the force's first officer from the Corps of Engineers. Gen Pande was the Chief of the Eastern Army Command, which was entrusted with protecting the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh sectors until taking over as deputy chief of the Army on February 1. Gen Pande assumed command of the Army at a time when India is grappling with a slew of security issues, notably along its borders with China and Pakistan. He would have to collaborate with the Navy and the Indian Air Force on the government's plan to roll out theatre commands as Army chief. General Manoj Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC takes over as the 29th #COAS of #IndianArmy from General MM Naravane. जनरल मनोज पांडे, परम विशिष्ट सेवा मेडल, अति विशिष्ट सेवा मेडल, विशिष्ट सेवा मेडल, ऐड डि कैंप ने जनरल एम एम नरवणे से #भारतीयसेना के 29वें #सेनाध्यक्ष का पदभार संभाला। pic.twitter.com/Mphsz1pvrP — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) April 30, 2022 × India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Bipin Rawat, who died in a helicopter crash in December last year, was in charge of the theaterization plan. Gen Rawat's successor has yet to be named by the government. Gen Pande also served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), India's only tri-services command, during his remarkable career. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, he was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers (The Bombay Sappers) in December 1982. Gen Pande has held a number of notable command and staff positions in both conventional and counter-insurgency operations in a variety of environments. During Operation Parakram in Jammu and Kashmir, he led an engineer regiment along the Line of Control, an engineer brigade in the western sector, an infantry brigade along the LoC, a mountain division in the high-altitude territory of western Ladakh, and a corps in the northeast. Brigade Major of a Mountain Brigade in the Northeast, Assistant Military Secretary (AMS) in the Military Secretary's Branch, and Brigadier General Staff (Operations) in the Eastern Command headquarters are among his staff positions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

General Manoj Pande takes charge as Army chief, first engineer to helm force

<p>With the change of guard in Pakistan, sources in Intelligence say that five to six terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control. As the snow melts on these higher reaches, the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to Infiltrate into Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Security forces have dual challenges at hand as the infiltration routes have cleared of the snow, especially in the Neelam Valley of PoK. Sources say that there are three launch pads in the Neelam area and in each launch pad there are 100-150 terrorists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The whole Line of Control has been put on high alert and forces have increased the vigil along the border. The vigil has been increased in the hills as well as the forest area of the border. &nbsp;The Indian army says that every year the vigil is increased during this period.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-non-local-civilians-killed-in-jammu-and-kashmir-today-421399/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"The challenges increase after the snow melts. Because with the melting of the snow, the infiltration attempts increase, but we will respond to their nefarious designs accordingly. We increase our readiness. We increase the fence patrolling as well as the night patrolling. Whoever tries to infiltrate, we make sure to foil those bids." said Havildar Amit Kumar, an Army jawan posted along the Line of Control in Keran Sector<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
Security forces say that Lashkar and Jaish terror outfits have been asked to intensify and carry out attacks. One of the reasons being increase in the anti-terrorist operations of the security forces in the Kashmir valley. Security forces say that these operations have weakened their roots and that's why Pakistan will push more terrorists into the Valley. However, the Indian Army has completely sealed the borders leaving no scope for Infiltration.</p>

<p><strong>Watch WION's live TV&nbsp;here:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>The counter-infiltration grid is prepared by the Indian Army. Apart from physical surveillance, latest equipment is also used to keep track of the LoC. These include thermal imagers, P2G cameras, night vision devices, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''We are using the latest technology and equipment to keep a vigil on the LoC. The vigil is kept day and night. Patrolling keeps happening all through the border and we make sure no intruder succeeds in crossing the LoC. We want to tell everyone in the country to not worry about the borders, as long as we are guarding these borders, people can sleep peacefully. '' said Havildar Umesh, Indian Army.</p>

<p>According to the latest data, Kashmir valley witnessed the lowest number of active terrorists in the last 30 years. The number was recorded below 200. In 2021, Security forces killed 184 terrorists. And since January this year, the forces have killed 59 terrorists in 40 encounters. Around 30 terrorists have been arrested while 169 OGW's have been apprehended as well.&nbsp;</p>


With the change of guard in Pakistan, sources in Intelligence say that five to six terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control. As the snow melts on these higher reaches, the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to Infiltrate into Kashmir Valley.

With the change of guard in Pakistan, sources in Intelligence say that five to six terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control. As the snow melts on these higher reaches, the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to Infiltrate into Kashmir Valley. Security forces have dual challenges at hand as the infiltration routes have cleared of the snow, especially in the Neelam Valley of PoK. Sources say that there are three launch pads in the Neelam area and in each launch pad there are 100-150 terrorists. The whole Line of Control has been put on high alert and forces have increased the vigil along the border. The vigil has been increased in the hills as well as the forest area of the border. The Indian army says that every year the vigil is increased during this period. "The challenges increase after the snow melts. Because with the melting of the snow, the infiltration attempts increase, but we will respond to their nefarious designs accordingly. We increase our readiness. We increase the fence patrolling as well as the night patrolling. Whoever tries to infiltrate, we make sure to foil those bids." said Havildar Amit Kumar, an Army jawan posted along the Line of Control in Keran Sector Security forces say that Lashkar and Jaish terror outfits have been asked to intensify and carry out attacks. One of the reasons being increase in the anti-terrorist operations of the security forces in the Kashmir valley. Security forces say that these operations have weakened their roots and that's why Pakistan will push more terrorists into the Valley. However, the Indian Army has completely sealed the borders leaving no scope for Infiltration. Watch WION's live TV here: The counter-infiltration grid is prepared by the Indian Army. Apart from physical surveillance, latest equipment is also used to keep track of the LoC. These include thermal imagers, P2G cameras, night vision devices, etc. ''We are using the latest technology and equipment to keep a vigil on the LoC. The vigil is kept day and night. Patrolling keeps happening all through the border and we make sure no intruder succeeds in crossing the LoC. We want to tell everyone in the country to not worry about the borders, as long as we are guarding these borders, people can sleep peacefully. '' said Havildar Umesh, Indian Army. According to the latest data, Kashmir valley witnessed the lowest number of active terrorists in the last 30 years. The number was recorded below 200. In 2021, Security forces killed 184 terrorists. And since January this year, the forces have killed 59 terrorists in 40 encounters. Around 30 terrorists have been arrested while 169 OGW's have been apprehended as well.

Terrorist launch pads have become active in PoK near the Line of Control

<p>The Indian Army on Saturday organised a cricket tournament in Srinagar's Army Headquarters. Around 16 teams participated in the tournament from all the districts of Kashmir Valley. The Indian army has been continuously taking initiatives to engage youth in the valley in different sports and cultural activities.</p>

<p>Students from various schools participated in the tournament and thanked the Indian army for providing a platform to showcase their talent. The Indian army says that this tournament is the start of many such events. They will also be starting a female cricket tournament soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''We have 16 teams in total and have been organised by Chinar Corps Indian Army. All the matches, in the beginning, would be played in army headquarters, and later we will be playing in TRC grounds. We are continuously being approached by youngsters and schools to organise such cricket tournaments. A lot of schools and colleges are approaching us to organise these tournaments. IPL has many Kashmiris but they lack the platform, and we are trying our best to give them that platform. We will plan a football tournament and a special tournament with girls too. There is no positive engagement here with the youth, so many are involved in drug addiction, and we want them to stay away from drugs and play sports. We will also be organising a lot of cultural programmes too. A girl cricket tournament is in pipeline,'' said Abhishek Sahu, Major, Indian Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/nia-chief-visits-jammu-encounter-site-security-forces-on-high-alert-ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-473156" hreflang="en">NIA chief visits Jammu encounter site; high alert ahead of PM Modi's visit</a></strong></p>

<p>The local cricket coaches in the Valley have appreciated the initiative taken by the Indian army. The local coaches say that it will put the Kashmiri youngsters in the right direction.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-forces-beef-up-security-in-the-kashmir-valley-after-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-470003/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>''It's a great initiative by the Indian army to provide a platform for the youth to play sports. There are 16 teams and sports are as important as studies, there are so many youths involved in drugs these days and to keep them away, Sports plays a very important role. We should promote sports. '' said Zahid Hussain, Cricket Coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are few such opportunities for the Kashmiri Youth. Although Kashmir has a lot of talent but lacks the platforms where the youth can showcase it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Sports are extremely important for the youngsters and we stay fit if we play sports. This is a great platform, and we can learn a lot and achieve great heights. We have come with a purpose to win this tournament,'' said Reyan A, Student.</p>

<p>These Initiatives by the Indian army are to provide a platform for the youngsters so that they can represent the state and country at National and International levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Army on Saturday organised a cricket tournament in Srinagar's Army Headquarters. Around 16 teams participated in the tournament from all the districts of Kashmir Valley.

The Indian Army on Saturday organised a cricket tournament in Srinagar's Army Headquarters. Around 16 teams participated in the tournament from all the districts of Kashmir Valley. The Indian army has been continuously taking initiatives to engage youth in the valley in different sports and cultural activities. Students from various schools participated in the tournament and thanked the Indian army for providing a platform to showcase their talent. The Indian army says that this tournament is the start of many such events. They will also be starting a female cricket tournament soon. ''We have 16 teams in total and have been organised by Chinar Corps Indian Army. All the matches, in the beginning, would be played in army headquarters, and later we will be playing in TRC grounds. We are continuously being approached by youngsters and schools to organise such cricket tournaments. A lot of schools and colleges are approaching us to organise these tournaments. IPL has many Kashmiris but they lack the platform, and we are trying our best to give them that platform. We will plan a football tournament and a special tournament with girls too. There is no positive engagement here with the youth, so many are involved in drug addiction, and we want them to stay away from drugs and play sports. We will also be organising a lot of cultural programmes too. A girl cricket tournament is in pipeline,'' said Abhishek Sahu, Major, Indian Army. Also read | NIA chief visits Jammu encounter site; high alert ahead of PM Modi's visit The local cricket coaches in the Valley have appreciated the initiative taken by the Indian army. The local coaches say that it will put the Kashmiri youngsters in the right direction. ''It's a great initiative by the Indian army to provide a platform for the youth to play sports. There are 16 teams and sports are as important as studies, there are so many youths involved in drugs these days and to keep them away, Sports plays a very important role. We should promote sports. '' said Zahid Hussain, Cricket Coach. There are few such opportunities for the Kashmiri Youth. Although Kashmir has a lot of talent but lacks the platforms where the youth can showcase it. ''Sports are extremely important for the youngsters and we stay fit if we play sports. This is a great platform, and we can learn a lot and achieve great heights. We have come with a purpose to win this tournament,'' said Reyan A, Student. These Initiatives by the Indian army are to provide a platform for the youngsters so that they can represent the state and country at National and International levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Army organises cricket tournament in Srinagar to increase youth engagement in activities

India has appointed the next Chief of Army Staff. Lt. General Manoj Pande will take charge of the Indian Army from General MM Naravane.

India appoints a new Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Manoj Pande

<p>A 19-year-old Indian Army aspirant has become the darling of the nation after a video of him running on the streets of Noida went viral on social media on Monday (March 21). In the video shared by Indian filmmaker&nbsp;Vinod Kapri, the young man can be seen running towards his home after work.</p>

<p>There are no shorts cuts to success. The hard work put in by an individual and the determination towards achieving the goal is what often separates them from others and helps them realise their dreams. The 19-year-old Pradeep Mehra, who aspires to join the Indian Army one day, is ensuring he is putting the hard yards to in order to fulfil his dream.</p>

<p>In the video shared by Kapri, Pradeep can be seen running relentlessly as he hopes to reach his home soon and cook a meal for himself and his brother. The video was shot by the filmmaker after Pradeep ran past his car. Kapri offered to drop Pradeep home but the young man, who works at a McDonald's in Noida, politely refused his offer to ensure his training routine is not compromised.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-mcdonalds-employee-19-runs-10-km-each-night-in-hopes-of-joining-indian-army-464351">Watch: McDonald's employee, 19, runs 10 km each night in hopes of joining Indian Army</a></p>

<p>When asked why did he have to run ten kilometres every day from his workplace to home, Pradeep said he was preparing to join the Indian Army. The 19-year-old's dedication and unwavering resolve has left many in awe on social media, including former England cricket team captain Kevin Pietersen and former India spinner Harbhajan Singh.</p>

<p>Lauding Pradeep for his hard work and dedication towards his dreams, Pietersen took to Twitter to share his video and wrote - "This will make your Monday morning! What A Guy."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This will make your Monday morning! What A Guy! <a href="https://t.co/RLknfAsCKE">https://t.co/RLknfAsCKE</a></p>
— Kevin Pietersen(@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1505791422485733377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Harbhajan called Pradeep a winner and termed the video 'pure gold'. "Champions are made like this .. whether on sports field or anything they do in life .. He will be a winner thank you vinod for sharing this .. yes PURE GOLD," Harbhajan wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">champions are made like this .. whether on sports field or anything they do in life .. He will be a winner thank you vinod for sharing this .. yes PURE GOLD <a href="https://t.co/2tzc28nbNu">https://t.co/2tzc28nbNu</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1505617663023673345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-no-longer-the-finisher-he-once-was-has-to-bat-up-the-order-for-csk-says-ex-india-cricketer-464474">MS Dhoni no longer the finisher he once was, has to bat up the order for CSK, says ex-India cricketer</a></p>

<p>Pradeep's sheer determination towards his goals and his relentless pursuit of the same has managed to floor millions across the nation. Celebrities from all walks of life have hailed the 19-year-old as an inspiration after coming across the video shared by Kapri.</p>

<p>When asked about the reason for him to run during the night, Pradeep can be heard telling Kapri that he has to cook food in the morning before leaving for work which leaves him with little or no time to complete his training.&nbsp; Pradeep has won the hearts of many on social media and his video is likely to inspire people to follow their dreams no matter what life throws at them.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A 19-year-old Indian Army aspirant has become the darling of the nation after a video of him running on the streets of Noida went viral on social media on Monday (March 21).

A 19-year-old Indian Army aspirant has become the darling of the nation after a video of him running on the streets of Noida went viral on social media on Monday (March 21). In the video shared by Indian filmmaker Vinod Kapri, the young man can be seen running towards his home after work. There are no shorts cuts to success. The hard work put in by an individual and the determination towards achieving the goal is what often separates them from others and helps them realise their dreams. The 19-year-old Pradeep Mehra, who aspires to join the Indian Army one day, is ensuring he is putting the hard yards to in order to fulfil his dream. In the video shared by Kapri, Pradeep can be seen running relentlessly as he hopes to reach his home soon and cook a meal for himself and his brother. The video was shot by the filmmaker after Pradeep ran past his car. Kapri offered to drop Pradeep home but the young man, who works at a McDonald's in Noida, politely refused his offer to ensure his training routine is not compromised. Also Read: Watch: McDonald's employee, 19, runs 10 km each night in hopes of joining Indian Army When asked why did he have to run ten kilometres every day from his workplace to home, Pradeep said he was preparing to join the Indian Army. The 19-year-old's dedication and unwavering resolve has left many in awe on social media, including former England cricket team captain Kevin Pietersen and former India spinner Harbhajan Singh. Lauding Pradeep for his hard work and dedication towards his dreams, Pietersen took to Twitter to share his video and wrote - "This will make your Monday morning! What A Guy." This will make your Monday morning! What A Guy! https://t.co/RLknfAsCKE — Kevin Pietersen(@KP24) March 21, 2022 × Harbhajan called Pradeep a winner and termed the video 'pure gold'. "Champions are made like this .. whether on sports field or anything they do in life .. He will be a winner thank you vinod for sharing this .. yes PURE GOLD," Harbhajan wrote. champions are made like this .. whether on sports field or anything they do in life .. He will be a winner thank you vinod for sharing this .. yes PURE GOLD https://t.co/2tzc28nbNu — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) March 20, 2022 × Also Read: MS Dhoni no longer the finisher he once was, has to bat up the order for CSK, says ex-India cricketer Pradeep's sheer determination towards his goals and his relentless pursuit of the same has managed to floor millions across the nation. Celebrities from all walks of life have hailed the 19-year-old as an inspiration after coming across the video shared by Kapri. When asked about the reason for him to run during the night, Pradeep can be heard telling Kapri that he has to cook food in the morning before leaving for work which leaves him with little or no time to complete his training. Pradeep has won the hearts of many on social media and his video is likely to inspire people to follow their dreams no matter what life throws at them.

'What a guy': Kevin Pietersen lauds 19-year-old Indian Army aspirant after his midnight run video goes viral

<p>A video shot by Indian filmmaker Vinod Kapri has gone viral online and has garnered millions of views. It is not because of glitzy tricks that nowadays are commonly used to make a video viral. The video is being loved&nbsp;due to the sheer indomitable spirit of a young man who is the sole star shining bright in this clip.</p>

<p>In this video, he is running and running, crossing more distance than most of us can cross in a single sprint. The 19-year-old is Pradeep Mehra who works at a McDonald's in Noida Sector 16 near Indian capital New Delhi.</p>

<p>When Kapri saw this boy running in the dead of the night with a bag on his back, he thought the boy was in trouble and offered to give him lift in a car he was driving.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the boy refused repeated offers, all the while running a steady clip. The reason? It's in the video below which was shared on Twitter&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">This is PURE GOLD❤️❤️<br />
<br />
नोएडा की सड़क पर कल रात 12 बजे मुझे ये लड़का कंधे पर बैग टांगें बहुत तेज़ दौड़ता नज़र आया<br />
<br />
मैंने सोचा<br />
किसी परेशानी में होगा , लिफ़्ट देनी चाहिए<br />
<br />
बार बार लिफ़्ट का ऑफ़र किया पर इसने मना कर दिया<br />
<br />
वजह सुनेंगे तो आपको इस बच्चे से प्यार हो जाएगा ❤️😊 <a href="https://t.co/kjBcLS5CQu">pic.twitter.com/kjBcLS5CQu</a></p>
— Vinod Kapri (@vinodkapri) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinodkapri/status/1505535421589377025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The sheer tenacity of the boy and ease with which he downplays the huge effort he is taking to achieve his life goals have&nbsp;struck a chord with millions who have watched the video, perhaps again and again.</p>

<p>Pradeep Mehra, the 19-year-old, is receiving praise from film stars, political leaders, armymen and more. Something in his tenacious but at the same time dreamy run is perhaps making everyone reach for that passionate youthful spark which perhaps most of us forget that we have, well beyond the age of 19.</p>

<p>"I can watch this countless times and not be content. He has purity in his heart at a tender age of 19. Perhaps political leaders, officials in highest echelons of power may feel dwarfed before the tenacity of this young boy. I pray all his dreams come true," tweeted Manish Sisodia, Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi. His tweet was in Hindi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">अनगिनत बार देख कर भी मन नही भर रहा है<br />
इतनी साफ़गोई और ख़ुद्दारी महज़ 19 साल की उम्र में<br />
मेरी तो बिसात ही क्या, बड़े बड़े IAS, राजनेता भी शायद छोटा महसूस करे इस बच्चे के जज़्बे ओर लगन के आगे<br />
जियो मेरे चीते<br />
बस यही दुआ है ऊपर वाले से आपके सारे सपने पूरे हो<a href="https://t.co/cCRnPrKYIv">https://t.co/cCRnPrKYIv</a></p>
— Manish Sisodiya (@manish_sisodiya) <a href="https://twitter.com/manish_sisodiya/status/1505628663676833792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wow!! Inspiration," tweeted actor Rakul Singh</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wow !! Inspiration ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/NJLP64bYf8">https://t.co/NJLP64bYf8</a></p>
— Rakul Singh (@Rakulpreet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rakulpreet/status/1505758831670075394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Countless helping hands have come ahead offering training to the boy so he can crack the arduous selection process of the Indian Army. People are even ready to help his mother who according to Mehra is hospitaised.</p>

<p>Youthful spark and tenacity have the potential to move the world indeed!<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A video shot by Indian filmmaker Vinod Kapri has gone viral online and has garnered millions of views. It is not because of glitzy tricks that nowadays are commonly used to make a video viral.

A video shot by Indian filmmaker Vinod Kapri has gone viral online and has garnered millions of views. It is not because of glitzy tricks that nowadays are commonly used to make a video viral. The video is being loved due to the sheer indomitable spirit of a young man who is the sole star shining bright in this clip. In this video, he is running and running, crossing more distance than most of us can cross in a single sprint. The 19-year-old is Pradeep Mehra who works at a McDonald's in Noida Sector 16 near Indian capital New Delhi. When Kapri saw this boy running in the dead of the night with a bag on his back, he thought the boy was in trouble and offered to give him lift in a car he was driving. But the boy refused repeated offers, all the while running a steady clip. The reason? It's in the video below which was shared on Twitter This is PURE GOLD❤️❤️ नोएडा की सड़क पर कल रात 12 बजे मुझे ये लड़का कंधे पर बैग टांगें बहुत तेज़ दौड़ता नज़र आया मैंने सोचा किसी परेशानी में होगा , लिफ़्ट देनी चाहिए बार बार लिफ़्ट का ऑफ़र किया पर इसने मना कर दिया वजह सुनेंगे तो आपको इस बच्चे से प्यार हो जाएगा ❤️😊 pic.twitter.com/kjBcLS5CQu — Vinod Kapri (@vinodkapri) March 20, 2022 × The sheer tenacity of the boy and ease with which he downplays the huge effort he is taking to achieve his life goals have struck a chord with millions who have watched the video, perhaps again and again. Pradeep Mehra, the 19-year-old, is receiving praise from film stars, political leaders, armymen and more. Something in his tenacious but at the same time dreamy run is perhaps making everyone reach for that passionate youthful spark which perhaps most of us forget that we have, well beyond the age of 19. "I can watch this countless times and not be content. He has purity in his heart at a tender age of 19. Perhaps political leaders, officials in highest echelons of power may feel dwarfed before the tenacity of this young boy. I pray all his dreams come true," tweeted Manish Sisodia, Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi. His tweet was in Hindi. अनगिनत बार देख कर भी मन नही भर रहा है इतनी साफ़गोई और ख़ुद्दारी महज़ 19 साल की उम्र में मेरी तो बिसात ही क्या, बड़े बड़े IAS, राजनेता भी शायद छोटा महसूस करे इस बच्चे के जज़्बे ओर लगन के आगे जियो मेरे चीते बस यही दुआ है ऊपर वाले से आपके सारे सपने पूरे होhttps://t.co/cCRnPrKYIv — Manish Sisodiya (@manish_sisodiya) March 20, 2022 × "Wow!! Inspiration," tweeted actor Rakul Singh Wow !! Inspiration ❤️ https://t.co/NJLP64bYf8 — Rakul Singh (@Rakulpreet) March 21, 2022 × Countless helping hands have come ahead offering training to the boy so he can crack the arduous selection process of the Indian Army. People are even ready to help his mother who according to Mehra is hospitaised. Youthful spark and tenacity have the potential to move the world indeed!

Watch: McDonald's employee, 19, runs 10 km each night in hopes of joining Indian Army

<p>While the whole country is celebrating Holi, soldiers of Indian army, Para Military forces deputed in Kashmir Valley far from their&nbsp;homes celebrated it with each other. The soldiers in various districts of the Kashmir Valley splashed colours on each other. The regiment&nbsp;they belong to is what they call their&nbsp;family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Srinagar's 117 Battalion of CRPF, soldiers along with their&nbsp;teammates as well as their officers celebrated the festival of Holi. It's a day when they are all a family with no boundaries of ranks. Soldiers were dancing to the Bollywood songs and&nbsp;feeding each other sweets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-politicise-legitimate-energy-transaction-message-from-new-delhi-on-getting-discounted-russian-oil-463381" hreflang="en">Don't politicise legitimate energy transaction: India on Russian oil price</a></p>

<p>''All the CRPF and people from nearby areas have come together to celebrate the festival. We are missing our families, but these soldiers are our family. We live together for the whole year and consider each other family. It's so good to celebrate festivals together&nbsp;with each other. '' said Manoj Kumar, CRPF soldier, 117 Battalion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The security forces prepared various cuisines for the jawans to enjoy the day. The whole motive is to make soldiers happy and not feel as if they are far from their homes. To keep the morale high, various activities are organised for them as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-boat-with-six-crew-held-for-fishing-in-indian-waters-463221" hreflang="en">Sri Lankan boat with six crew held for fishing in Indian waters</a></p>

<p>''We are all from different states of the country and our cultures are different. But these festivals bring us together. We celebrate the festival of Holi together. And as you can see there is only happiness all over. We should always spread love. '' said Krishan Kumar, CRPF Soldier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whether it is Holi or Diwali or Eid, security forces come together to celebrate these festivals with full fervour. They might be away from home, but they stand by each other while guarding the country.s</p>


While the whole country is celebrating Holi, soldiers of Indian army, Para Military forces deputed in Kashmir Valley far from their homes celebrated it with each other.

While the whole country is celebrating Holi, soldiers of Indian army, Para Military forces deputed in Kashmir Valley far from their homes celebrated it with each other. The soldiers in various districts of the Kashmir Valley splashed colours on each other. The regiment they belong to is what they call their family. In Srinagar's 117 Battalion of CRPF, soldiers along with their teammates as well as their officers celebrated the festival of Holi. It's a day when they are all a family with no boundaries of ranks. Soldiers were dancing to the Bollywood songs and feeding each other sweets. Also read | Don't politicise legitimate energy transaction: India on Russian oil price ''All the CRPF and people from nearby areas have come together to celebrate the festival. We are missing our families, but these soldiers are our family. We live together for the whole year and consider each other family. It's so good to celebrate festivals together with each other. '' said Manoj Kumar, CRPF soldier, 117 Battalion. The security forces prepared various cuisines for the jawans to enjoy the day. The whole motive is to make soldiers happy and not feel as if they are far from their homes. To keep the morale high, various activities are organised for them as well. Also read | Sri Lankan boat with six crew held for fishing in Indian waters ''We are all from different states of the country and our cultures are different. But these festivals bring us together. We celebrate the festival of Holi together. And as you can see there is only happiness all over. We should always spread love. '' said Krishan Kumar, CRPF Soldier. Whether it is Holi or Diwali or Eid, security forces come together to celebrate these festivals with full fervour. They might be away from home, but they stand by each other while guarding the country.s

Soldiers celebrate Holi in Kashmir, while being away from homes

Designed specifically for Sikh soldiers in the army, global defence & homeland security company MKU has come out with 'The Veer Helmet' which can be worn comfortably over their under-turban cloth, giving Sikh soldiers an added layer of safety. #army #sikh #soldier

'Veer Helmet': Special helmets for Sikh soldiers in Indian Army

'Veer Helmet': Special ballistic helmets for Sikh soldiers

<p>Aimed at motivating young women to take up sailing as an adventure sport, an Indian Army team of nine women officers has set sail on a Chennai-Visakhapatnam-Chennai expedition.</p>

<p>Heading out to sea from the Chennai port, the team of women sailors are led by Major Mukta S Gautam and will be covering a distance of nearly 900 nautical miles or 1700 kilometres.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-male-indias-defence-secretary-reaffirms-capacity-building-for-maldives-defence-force-453385" hreflang="en">In Malé, India's defence secretary reaffirms capacity building for Maldives defence force</a></strong></p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Organised by Army Southern Wing Sailing Command Node and EME Sailing Association, Secunderabad, this maiden expedition by the crew that comprises officers of the rank major and captain, will demonstrate the strength and vigour of women officers in the Indian Army.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">The expedition was flagged off from Chennai Port by Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, in presence of senior Officers of the Indian Army.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Led by Major Mukta S Gautam, these are the nine brave <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/women?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#women</a> officers who are undertaking the first-ever offshore sailing expedition , in order to promote <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sailing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sailing</a> and encourage young women to join the <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmedForces?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmedForces</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmpowerWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmpowerWomen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Defence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Defence</a> <a href="https://t.co/rpjdookHWy">https://t.co/rpjdookHWy</a> <a href="https://t.co/lKYalnZNCo">pic.twitter.com/lKYalnZNCo</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1493564359007940610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Governor emphasised that Indian women are shattering all possible glass ceilings and making their own mark, setting new benchmarks. She said that this expedition would not</p>

<p>Only give an impetus to sailing as a sport, but also inspire and motivate young girls to join the Indian Army, don Olive green uniforms and serve the nation.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Lt Gen TSA Narayanan, Commandant MCEME (Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering), congratulated the women officers for having completed their gruelling training and being selected for the expedition. He said that the event was another step towards women empowerment and enhancing the role of women officers in the Army.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">The Sailing Association at MCEME has been taking efforts to promote sailing and has groomed sailors of national and international repute. They have also undertaken numerous expeditions in recent decades. These include sea routes such as&nbsp;Mumbai-Kochi, Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai and the Around the Indian Peninsula Offshore sailing expedition, among others.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Aimed at motivating young women to take up sailing as an adventure sport, an Indian Army team of nine women officers has set sail on a Chennai-Visakhapatnam-Chennai expedition.

Aimed at motivating young women to take up sailing as an adventure sport, an Indian Army team of nine women officers has set sail on a Chennai-Visakhapatnam-Chennai expedition. Heading out to sea from the Chennai port, the team of women sailors are led by Major Mukta S Gautam and will be covering a distance of nearly 900 nautical miles or 1700 kilometres. Also read | In Malé, India's defence secretary reaffirms capacity building for Maldives defence force Organised by Army Southern Wing Sailing Command Node and EME Sailing Association, Secunderabad, this maiden expedition by the crew that comprises officers of the rank major and captain, will demonstrate the strength and vigour of women officers in the Indian Army. The expedition was flagged off from Chennai Port by Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, in presence of senior Officers of the Indian Army. Led by Major Mukta S Gautam, these are the nine brave #IndianArmy #women officers who are undertaking the first-ever offshore sailing expedition , in order to promote #sailing and encourage young women to join the @adgpi #Chennai #India #IndianArmedForces #EmpowerWomen #Defence https://t.co/rpjdookHWy pic.twitter.com/lKYalnZNCo — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 15, 2022 × The Governor emphasised that Indian women are shattering all possible glass ceilings and making their own mark, setting new benchmarks. She said that this expedition would not Only give an impetus to sailing as a sport, but also inspire and motivate young girls to join the Indian Army, don Olive green uniforms and serve the nation. Lt Gen TSA Narayanan, Commandant MCEME (Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering), congratulated the women officers for having completed their gruelling training and being selected for the expedition. He said that the event was another step towards women empowerment and enhancing the role of women officers in the Army. The Sailing Association at MCEME has been taking efforts to promote sailing and has groomed sailors of national and international repute. They have also undertaken numerous expeditions in recent decades. These include sea routes such as Mumbai-Kochi, Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai and the Around the Indian Peninsula Offshore sailing expedition, among others.

In a first, all-women Indian Army team undertakes offshore sailing expedition off India's east coast

<p>Two Indian Army teams with&nbsp;mountaineering experts have been mobilised in Palakkad in the southern Indian state of Kerala to attempt a complex rescue operation at a steep hillside crevice. Babu, a young trekker has been stuck in the narrow crevice for over 30 hours, at the Koormbachi hillock. He slipped while descending and his friends couldn’t help him to safety.</p>

<p>The trekker has been braving bad weather without food and water for 30 hours now.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Efforts on by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> Defence forces to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RESCUE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RESCUE</a> trekker who has been stuck at a hillside crevice in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/malampuzha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#malampuzha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/palakkad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#palakkad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> for over 30hrs<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> helo conducted recce, but terrain &amp; winds proved challenging &amp; had to abort<br />
<br />
Next attempt Wednesday morning <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Help?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Help</a> <a href="https://t.co/yJDzAGA8bb">pic.twitter.com/yJDzAGA8bb</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1491057725781864448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Monday, Babu and three of his friends went on a trek near the Malampuzha area in Palakkad and scaled the Kurumbachi hillock. His friends alerted authorities. Fire brigade and Police were unable to rescue him. Videos from the spot show the trapped youngster signalling for help and asking for food and water. Efforts from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel were not enough to rescue him.</p>

<p>On Tuesday afternoon, a Coast Guard helicopter flew over the hill and conducted an aerial recce. Another rescue mission is planned for Wednesday morning.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Might look like a small hillock on drone shots... But it is quite a huge place.. indeed a challenge for rescue ops..<br />
<br />
Hoping for the best <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> teams from TN &amp; KA, <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> chopper and drones from <a href="https://twitter.com/GAPL_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GAPL_Official</a> mobilized to aid rescue<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/palakkad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#palakkad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RESCUE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RESCUE</a> <a href="https://t.co/qa77m4XjbF">https://t.co/qa77m4XjbF</a> <a href="https://t.co/XvDwpNGHQP">pic.twitter.com/XvDwpNGHQP</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1491104804667805697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Of the two army teams, the team from Wellington, Tamil Nadu arrived by late Tuesday. The team from Bengaluru is expected to reach by Wednesday morning. Garuda Aerospace, a private drone company based in Chennai has also mobilized two of their customized drones that will help carry payload (food and water) to the individual and also aid in carrying a rope or harness that would eventually help in his rescue.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chennai-based drone-as-a-service company <a href="https://twitter.com/GAPL_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GAPL_Official</a><br />
has mobilized 2 pilots and 2 special drones from Chennai by road..<br />
<br />
Payload-carrying Drone meant to help deliver food &amp; water and also help provide a rope or harness to aid rescue<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RESCUE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RESCUE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Help?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Help</a> <a href="https://t.co/b1uNONN40C">https://t.co/b1uNONN40C</a> <a href="https://t.co/oJGgdsERB6">pic.twitter.com/oJGgdsERB6</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1491108942248034305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Two Indian Army teams with mountaineering experts have been mobilised in Palakkad in the southern Indian state of Kerala to attempt a complex rescue operation at a steep hillside crevice.

Two Indian Army teams with mountaineering experts have been mobilised in Palakkad in the southern Indian state of Kerala to attempt a complex rescue operation at a steep hillside crevice. Babu, a young trekker has been stuck in the narrow crevice for over 30 hours, at the Koormbachi hillock. He slipped while descending and his friends couldn’t help him to safety. The trekker has been braving bad weather without food and water for 30 hours now. Efforts on by #Indian Defence forces to #RESCUE trekker who has been stuck at a hillside crevice in #malampuzha #palakkad #kerala for over 30hrs@IndiaCoastGuard helo conducted recce, but terrain & winds proved challenging & had to abort Next attempt Wednesday morning #Help pic.twitter.com/yJDzAGA8bb — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 8, 2022 × On Monday, Babu and three of his friends went on a trek near the Malampuzha area in Palakkad and scaled the Kurumbachi hillock. His friends alerted authorities. Fire brigade and Police were unable to rescue him. Videos from the spot show the trapped youngster signalling for help and asking for food and water. Efforts from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel were not enough to rescue him. On Tuesday afternoon, a Coast Guard helicopter flew over the hill and conducted an aerial recce. Another rescue mission is planned for Wednesday morning. Might look like a small hillock on drone shots... But it is quite a huge place.. indeed a challenge for rescue ops.. Hoping for the best @adgpi teams from TN & KA, @IndiaCoastGuard chopper and drones from @GAPL_Official mobilized to aid rescue#Kerala #palakkad #RESCUE https://t.co/qa77m4XjbF pic.twitter.com/XvDwpNGHQP — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 8, 2022 × Of the two army teams, the team from Wellington, Tamil Nadu arrived by late Tuesday. The team from Bengaluru is expected to reach by Wednesday morning. Garuda Aerospace, a private drone company based in Chennai has also mobilized two of their customized drones that will help carry payload (food and water) to the individual and also aid in carrying a rope or harness that would eventually help in his rescue. Chennai-based drone-as-a-service company @GAPL_Official has mobilized 2 pilots and 2 special drones from Chennai by road.. Payload-carrying Drone meant to help deliver food & water and also help provide a rope or harness to aid rescue#Kerala #RESCUE #India #IndianArmy #Help https://t.co/b1uNONN40C pic.twitter.com/oJGgdsERB6 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 8, 2022 ×

India: Army teams mobilised to rescue trekker stuck in crevice for 30 hours

<p>Babu, the 24-year-old trekker was rescued by the Indian Army&nbsp;after being stuck at a steep hillside crevice, saying he felt reborn on Wednesday morning.</p>

<p>In a video, an elated Babu is seen encircled by the daring team of the Indian Army that successfully completed the rescue operation.</p>

<p>Thanking the Indian Army, Babu is seen planting kisses on the cheeks of the soldiers Deepak and Bala, who carried him to safety, at the hilltop. The enthusiastic rescue team is heard raising slogans hailing the Indian Army and Mother India.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">24yr old trekker, Babu feels reborn, all thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IaSouthern?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IaSouthern</a><br />
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Loud Chants of Indian Army ki Jai (all hail army) and Bharat mata ki jai at hilltop<br />
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Babu kisses and thanks soldiers Deepak and Bala who secured him, carried him to safety <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bharatmatakijai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bharatmatakijai</a> <a href="https://t.co/z0IpZrYhZX">pic.twitter.com/z0IpZrYhZX</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1491280631661481985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Bringing to an end to a harrowing 43-hour-long wait, Indian Army teams from Wellington and Bengaluru managed to reach the trekker at the crevice&nbsp;by the steep hillside&nbsp;on Wednesday at around 9:30am.</p>

<p>After securing him with ropes and harness, the Army teams carried him to safety and provided first aid. Babu was visibly exhausted, after having starved for 43 hours, braving the day and night weather.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Babu, had been stuck at a narrow crevice at the Koormbachi hillock in Palakkad, Kerala, after he slipped and fell during a group trekking expedition he undertook on Monday.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Unable to rescue him, his fellow trekkers returned to the nearby town and alerted authorities. Teams from Kerala Police, Fire brigade, NDRF and an Indian Coast Guard helicopter had taken efforts to attempt a rescue on Tuesday. However, they couldn't accomplish the task&nbsp;as planned.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Having arrived in the late hours of Tuesday, the Army teams immediately commenced work and pulled off the rescue within 12 hours of their having reached the site.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">&nbsp;</p>


Babu, the 24-year-old trekker was rescued by the Indian Army after being stuck at a steep hillside crevice, saying he felt reborn on Wednesday morning. In a video, an elated Babu is seen encircled by the daring team of the Indian Army that successfully completed the rescue operation.

Babu, the 24-year-old trekker was rescued by the Indian Army after being stuck at a steep hillside crevice, saying he felt reborn on Wednesday morning. In a video, an elated Babu is seen encircled by the daring team of the Indian Army that successfully completed the rescue operation. Thanking the Indian Army, Babu is seen planting kisses on the cheeks of the soldiers Deepak and Bala, who carried him to safety, at the hilltop. The enthusiastic rescue team is heard raising slogans hailing the Indian Army and Mother India. 24yr old trekker, Babu feels reborn, all thanks to @adgpi @IaSouthern Loud Chants of Indian Army ki Jai (all hail army) and Bharat mata ki jai at hilltop Babu kisses and thanks soldiers Deepak and Bala who secured him, carried him to safety #India #Indian #bharatmatakijai pic.twitter.com/z0IpZrYhZX — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 9, 2022 × Bringing to an end to a harrowing 43-hour-long wait, Indian Army teams from Wellington and Bengaluru managed to reach the trekker at the crevice by the steep hillside on Wednesday at around 9:30am. After securing him with ropes and harness, the Army teams carried him to safety and provided first aid. Babu was visibly exhausted, after having starved for 43 hours, braving the day and night weather. Babu, had been stuck at a narrow crevice at the Koormbachi hillock in Palakkad, Kerala, after he slipped and fell during a group trekking expedition he undertook on Monday. Unable to rescue him, his fellow trekkers returned to the nearby town and alerted authorities. Teams from Kerala Police, Fire brigade, NDRF and an Indian Coast Guard helicopter had taken efforts to attempt a rescue on Tuesday. However, they couldn't accomplish the task as planned. Having arrived in the late hours of Tuesday, the Army teams immediately commenced work and pulled off the rescue within 12 hours of their having reached the site.

Watch: Miracle hill rescue: Indian Trekker stuck in a hole for 43 hours saved by Army

<p>The bodies of seven Indian Army personnel who went missing after an avalanche struck near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh have been recovered, the army said in a statement on Tuesday.</p>

<p>On February 6, the army personnel from the 19 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles were trapped after the avalanche hit the Kameng Sector.&nbsp;The personnel were part of a patrol team.</p>

<p>The area, located at an altitude of 14,500 feet had been witnessing inclement weather with heavy snowfall for the past few days.</p>

<p>Search and rescue operations, including airlifting specialised teams, had been launched immediately after the avalanche struck the Mummy Head area in the Tawang district where the soldiers were patrolling in sub-zero conditions.</p>

<p>Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of everyone involved, all seven have been confirmed dead, the army said in the statement.</p>

<p>"The area, located at an altitude of 14,500 feet, had been witnessing inclement weather with heavy snowfall since the last few days. The bodies of the soldiers are currently being transferred from the avalanche site to the nearest army medical facility for further formalities," the army said.</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered their condolences to the bereaved families.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sadddened by the loss of lives of Indian Army personnel due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh. We will never forget their exemplary service to our nation. Condolences to the bereaved families.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1491065041785073664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>President Ram Nath Kovind said the death of Army soldiers due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh is a tragedy beyond words and offered condolences to their families.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The death of soldiers due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh is a tragedy beyond words. The brave soldiers laid down their lives for the service of the nation. Their selfless sacrifice will always be remembered. My condolences to their families.</p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1491058111334862855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Arunachal Pradesh is generally divided into Kameng area on the west and rest of Arunachal Pradesh.</p>

<p>The army’s Eastern Command handles the 1,346-km-long LAC including Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, bordering China.</p>

<p>This command has three corps — 33 Corps (Sikkim), 4 Corps (Kameng sector) and 3 Corps (Rest of Arunachal Pradesh) to handle the LAC.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The bodies of seven Indian Army personnel who went missing after an avalanche struck near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh have been recovered, the army said in a statement on Tuesday.

The bodies of seven Indian Army personnel who went missing after an avalanche struck near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh have been recovered, the army said in a statement on Tuesday. On February 6, the army personnel from the 19 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles were trapped after the avalanche hit the Kameng Sector. The personnel were part of a patrol team. The area, located at an altitude of 14,500 feet had been witnessing inclement weather with heavy snowfall for the past few days. Search and rescue operations, including airlifting specialised teams, had been launched immediately after the avalanche struck the Mummy Head area in the Tawang district where the soldiers were patrolling in sub-zero conditions. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of everyone involved, all seven have been confirmed dead, the army said in the statement. "The area, located at an altitude of 14,500 feet, had been witnessing inclement weather with heavy snowfall since the last few days. The bodies of the soldiers are currently being transferred from the avalanche site to the nearest army medical facility for further formalities," the army said. President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered their condolences to the bereaved families. Sadddened by the loss of lives of Indian Army personnel due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh. We will never forget their exemplary service to our nation. Condolences to the bereaved families. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 8, 2022 × President Ram Nath Kovind said the death of Army soldiers due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh is a tragedy beyond words and offered condolences to their families. The death of soldiers due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh is a tragedy beyond words. The brave soldiers laid down their lives for the service of the nation. Their selfless sacrifice will always be remembered. My condolences to their families. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 8, 2022 × Arunachal Pradesh is generally divided into Kameng area on the west and rest of Arunachal Pradesh. The army’s Eastern Command handles the 1,346-km-long LAC including Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, bordering China. This command has three corps — 33 Corps (Sikkim), 4 Corps (Kameng sector) and 3 Corps (Rest of Arunachal Pradesh) to handle the LAC. (With inputs from agencies)

Seven Indian soldiers stuck in Arunachal avalanche found dead; PM, president offer condolences

<p>The Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army donned the new combat uniform during the Republic Day 2022 parade on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the parade, the Parachute Regiment, which is an airborne and special forces regiment, was carrying the latest Tavor Assault rifles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new Indian Army uniform was unveiled at the parade ground on the occasion of the Army Day Parade (January 15).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-republic-day-parade-pride-and-honour-as-lt-manisha-bohra-leads-all-male-aoc-contingent-watch-447670">India's Republic Day parade: Pride and honour as Lt. Manisha Bohra leads all-male AOC contingent - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>The new uniform has been designed by a team of eight students and professors from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The changes in material and pattern were done to make it easy and comfortable to be worn by men and women in the Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new uniform is of digital pattern and also, one of the key features of the uniform is that the soldiers will not have to tuck in the dress as in the new uniform, the belt will be under the dress.</p>

<p>The new camouflage dress is an amalgamation of colours including earthen and olive. It will be introduced in the Indian Army by August this year.</p>

<p>It is also more climate-friendly and suitable for the different kinds of terrain.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Parachute Regiment Rday 2022 <a href="https://t.co/pTfiy7BfdS">pic.twitter.com/pTfiy7BfdS</a></p>
— SSBCrack (@SSBCrack) <a href="https://twitter.com/SSBCrack/status/1486216195418525696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ahead of the vibrant parade, India's national flag was unfurled at Rajpath followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the tradition, the 21-gun salute was presented by the ceremonial battery of 871 field regiment. The ceremonial battery was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Jitender Singh Mehta.</p>

<p>Indian President Ram Nath Kovind honoured the proud winners of the highest gallantry, including the winners of Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra.</p>

<p>Flower petals were showered by four Mi-17 V5 helicopters flying in the wineglass formation.</p>


The Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army donned the new combat uniform during the Republic Day 2022 parade on Wednesday. During the parade, the Parachute Regiment, which is an airborne and special forces regiment, was carrying the latest Tavor Assault rifles.

The Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army donned the new combat uniform during the Republic Day 2022 parade on Wednesday. During the parade, the Parachute Regiment, which is an airborne and special forces regiment, was carrying the latest Tavor Assault rifles. The new Indian Army uniform was unveiled at the parade ground on the occasion of the Army Day Parade (January 15). ALSO READ | India's Republic Day parade: Pride and honour as Lt. Manisha Bohra leads all-male AOC contingent - Watch The new uniform has been designed by a team of eight students and professors from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). The changes in material and pattern were done to make it easy and comfortable to be worn by men and women in the Army. The new uniform is of digital pattern and also, one of the key features of the uniform is that the soldiers will not have to tuck in the dress as in the new uniform, the belt will be under the dress. The new camouflage dress is an amalgamation of colours including earthen and olive. It will be introduced in the Indian Army by August this year. It is also more climate-friendly and suitable for the different kinds of terrain. Parachute Regiment Rday 2022 pic.twitter.com/pTfiy7BfdS — SSBCrack (@SSBCrack) January 26, 2022 × Ahead of the vibrant parade, India's national flag was unfurled at Rajpath followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute. According to the tradition, the 21-gun salute was presented by the ceremonial battery of 871 field regiment. The ceremonial battery was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Jitender Singh Mehta. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind honoured the proud winners of the highest gallantry, including the winners of Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra. Flower petals were showered by four Mi-17 V5 helicopters flying in the wineglass formation.

Indian Army's Parachute Regiment dons new combat uniform during Republic Day 2022 parade - Watch

President Ram Nath Kovind will unfurl the National flag as India celebrates its 73rd Republic Day. Amid the rising concerns over covid-19, number of parade attendees have also reduced significantly.

President Ram Nath Kovind to unfurl the National flag as India celebrates its 73rd Republic Day

Six marching contingents of the Indian Army march down the Rajpath as India celebrates its 73rd Republic day. 'Made in India' Military equipment and Military's might is on display.

India shows off 'Made in India' Military equipment during 73rd Republic day parade at Rajpath

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