Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting with Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, the three service chiefs and External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar over the recent developments in Eastern Ladakh on Tuesday.

China asks India to not take unilateral actions over violent stand-off at Galwan Valley

An Army officer and two jawans were killed during a "violent stand-off" between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh on June 15. In a statement, the Indian Army said that the senior military officials of India and China are currently meeting to defuse the situation in the region

'Casualties suffered on both sides in violent face-off at Galwan valley' says Indian Army

Rajnath Singh Meets CDS, Service Chiefs, EAM over LAC developments

'In a major violent face-off between India and China at Galwan Valley, both the sides faced casualties' officially said by the Indian Army. There was no incident of firing took place at the ground zero also confirmed by the same sources. According to China 'Indian army invaded and crosses LAC twice yesterday and in retaliation Chinese PLA reacted'

'India crossed LAC twice on Monday, provoked & attacked Chinese personnel' says China

An Army officer and two jawans were killed during a "violent stand-off" between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh on June 15. In a statement, the Indian Army said that the senior military officials of India and China are currently meeting to defuse the situation in the region. Watch report.

India China standoff: Indian Army's press conference at 2 PM

A Colonel-rank officer and two soldiers of the Indian Army were killed in a violent face-off with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley area of Ladakh on June 15 night. The face-off took place during efforts to de-escalate the prevailing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Watch report.

Breaking News: Violent face off at India-China border | 3 casualties on Indian side

Indian Army has caused heavy damages to Pakistani posts on the Line of Control (LoC). This came as the Indian Army retaliated to Pakistan's unprovoked ceasefire violation. Watch WION's report from Sri Nagar, J&K.

Indian Army destroys Pak posts along LoC: India retaliates to ceasefire violations

India and China's latest border dispute may have involved scuffles and troop maneuvers on the ground, but, the Indian Army has won a rare public compliment from a Chinese military expert who said India has the world's largest and experienced plateau and mountain troops equipped with some of the best weapons suited for such terrain in the Tibetan border.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agreed-to-work-together-to-maintain-peace-in-border-chinas-foreign-ministry-304333">India, China agreed to work together to maintain peace in border: China's foreign ministry</a>

"At present, the world’s largest and experienced country with plateau and mountain troops is neither the US, Russia, nor any European powerhouse, but India," Huang Guozhi, senior editor of Modern Weaponry magazine, wrote in an article published by China’s thepaper.cn on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-face-off-exposes-chinas-two-facedness-304316">India-China border face-off exposes China's two-facedness</a>

His remarks coincided with the current military standoff between India-China troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Mountain brigades being raised by India are mostly meant for the Chinese border, especially the Tibetan plateau, and it is perhaps the first time a Chinese military expert publicly complimented their strength and strategic importance.

"With more than 200,000 troops in 12 divisions, the Indian mountain force is the largest mountain fighting force in the world,” Huang wrote.

Huang said that since the 1970s, the Indian military has established and expanded the size and personnel of the mountain troops on a large-scale, and also plans to create a mountain strike force of more than 50,000 troops.

(With inputs from PTI)

India and China's latest border dispute may have involved scuffles and troop maneuvers on the ground, but, the Indian Army has won a rare public compliment from a Chinese military expert who said India has the world's largest and experienced plateau and mountain troops equipped with some of the best weapons suited for such terrain in the Tibetan border.

India and China's latest border dispute may have involved scuffles and troop maneuvers on the ground, but, the Indian Army has won a rare public compliment from a Chinese military expert who said India has the world's largest and experienced plateau and mountain troops equipped with some of the best weapons suited for such terrain in the Tibetan border. Also read: India, China agreed to work together to maintain peace in border: China's foreign ministry "At present, the world’s largest and experienced country with plateau and mountain troops is neither the US, Russia, nor any European powerhouse, but India," Huang Guozhi, senior editor of Modern Weaponry magazine, wrote in an article published by China’s thepaper.cn on Tuesday. Also read: India-China border face-off exposes China's two-facedness His remarks coincided with the current military standoff between India-China troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Mountain brigades being raised by India are mostly meant for the Chinese border, especially the Tibetan plateau, and it is perhaps the first time a Chinese military expert publicly complimented their strength and strategic importance. "With more than 200,000 troops in 12 divisions, the Indian mountain force is the largest mountain fighting force in the world,” Huang wrote. Huang said that since the 1970s, the Indian military has established and expanded the size and personnel of the mountain troops on a large-scale, and also plans to create a mountain strike force of more than 50,000 troops. (With inputs from PTI)

Indian Army has world's most experienced mountain troops, says Chinese military expert

China on June 10 refused to give details about the disengagement of border troops of the two countries along the line of actual control (LAC) in Ladakh. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said that the armies of India and China had undertaken a “limited disengagement” in eastern Ladakh to demonstrate intent to end the month-long border standoff ahead of another round of military talks on Wednesday.

China-India border tensions:  We have reached a positive consensus with India, says China

After a face-off in Sikkim, Chinese choppers were spotted near the line of actual control close to Ladakh. Amid a pandemic, China is asserting its claim over different territories. But two countries are pushing back.

Gravitas: Chinese choppers spotted near Ladakh

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday.&nbsp;

The building was closed after one suspect and one confirmed case of coronavirus was detected. Actions as per protocol, such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress.

"Affected area of Sena Bhawan closed for sanitation and disinfection. Actions as per protocol such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress," the Indian Army said in a statement.

India's coronavirus count on Friday crossed 81,000 cases. According to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 3,967 new COVID-19 patients and 100 fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours. The total cases in the country have reached 81,970, with 2,649 deaths.

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday.

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday. The building was closed after one suspect and one confirmed case of coronavirus was detected. Actions as per protocol, such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress. "Affected area of Sena Bhawan closed for sanitation and disinfection. Actions as per protocol such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress," the Indian Army said in a statement. India's coronavirus count on Friday crossed 81,000 cases. According to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 3,967 new COVID-19 patients and 100 fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours. The total cases in the country have reached 81,970, with 2,649 deaths.

Indian Army headquarters partly closed after soldier tests COVID-19 positive

Chinese troops clashed with Indian soldiers at the Naku La sector in Sikkim. Amid the pandemic, China has been engaged in military provocations in in the South China Sea & the East China Sea.

Gravitas: China provokes border skirmish in Sikkim

Four Indian Army personnel and a police sub-inspector were among five security personnel martyred in an encounter in Handwara, Jammu and Kashmir .

Colonel, Major among 5 security personnel martyred in Handwara encounter

The Indian army in Jammu and Kashmir has set up two COVID-19 hospitals with the cooperation of civilian administration to help battle the pandemic. Watch WION ground report from Srinagar.

Indian Army sets up 2 COVID-19 hospitals in Jammu and Kashmir

Four Indian Army personnel and a police sub-inspector were among five security officials who were killed in action in an encounter in Handwara, Jammu and Kashmir.

Five Indian security personnel killed in action

Indian Navy chopper showered rose petals over health workers, especially frontline staff at the Goa Medical College, the state''s biggest hospital and a quarantine facility for Covid-19 patients

Navy chopper showers rose petals on Goa Medical college

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a fly-past over Dal Lake in Srinagar on Sunday morning to express gratitude to medical professionals and other frontline workers at the forefront of battle against the deadly Coronavirus.

IAF conducts flypasts across the Nation, C-130 hercules flies over Delhi

The Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy joined hands on Sunday (May 3) to express their gratitude to corona warriors, including healthcare workers, police, and forces who are at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

Illuminated Indian naval vessels salute coronavirus warriors

India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat holds press conference amid COVID-19 crisis. Let's listen in...

WION Dispatch: India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Rawat holds press conference amid COVID-19 crisis

Watch how the brave soldiers of the Indian Army are helping in the fight against coronavirus. Video courtesy: The Indian Army

How the Indian Army is helping in the fight against Coronavirus

Pakistan diverting attention from COVID-19 pandemic | Indian Army | Coronavirus Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy.

Pakistan diverting attention from COVID-19 pandemic | Indian Army | Coronavirus

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice.&nbsp;

About 30% of Field Hospitals have been put on standby for constructing COVID-19 hospitals in coronavirus hotspots. These are part of the Indian army's measures to deal with the crisis, which is a global pandemic.&nbsp;

Speaking in response to several media questions via emails, Army chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane &nbsp;said, "Next few weeks will be crucial to prevent negative effects of this deadly mutant virus."

He said that the Covid crisis in a preparatory stage in India and the Indian army has the "inherent capability to rise to various emergency situations by virtue of organizational structure and training."

Army's QuickReaction Medical Teams (QRMTs) will be ready to mobilize at six hours notice to meet the requirements of the hospitals/ civil administration.&nbsp;

COAS also said, "There is likely to be an increase in demand for medical services for both infected/ suspected cases within the Indian Army as also requisition from civil administration in the coming days. Necessary instructions have been passed to Command Headquarters to augment medical facilities"

Army has established quarantine facilities at Manesar, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur for the evacuees from China, Italy and Iran and additional four locations have been earmarked for setting up of wellness/ quarantine facilities. Till now 372 evacuees have been treated at Manesar and currently, 82 are under quarantine. At Jaisalmer 484 citizens who were evacuated from Iran are under quarantine and another 277 at Jodhpur.

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice.

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice. About 30% of Field Hospitals have been put on standby for constructing COVID-19 hospitals in coronavirus hotspots. These are part of the Indian army's measures to deal with the crisis, which is a global pandemic. Speaking in response to several media questions via emails, Army chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane said, "Next few weeks will be crucial to prevent negative effects of this deadly mutant virus." He said that the Covid crisis in a preparatory stage in India and the Indian army has the "inherent capability to rise to various emergency situations by virtue of organizational structure and training." Army's QuickReaction Medical Teams (QRMTs) will be ready to mobilize at six hours notice to meet the requirements of the hospitals/ civil administration. COAS also said, "There is likely to be an increase in demand for medical services for both infected/ suspected cases within the Indian Army as also requisition from civil administration in the coming days. Necessary instructions have been passed to Command Headquarters to augment medical facilities" Army has established quarantine facilities at Manesar, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur for the evacuees from China, Italy and Iran and additional four locations have been earmarked for setting up of wellness/ quarantine facilities. Till now 372 evacuees have been treated at Manesar and currently, 82 are under quarantine. At Jaisalmer 484 citizens who were evacuated from Iran are under quarantine and another 277 at Jodhpur.

Field hospitals can create 10 bed ICU facility in 6-hour notice: Indian Army chief

In the first case of coronavirus affecting military personnel, a soldier from Leh is reported to have been infected by the virus. He was on leave from February 25 to March 1. The soldier's father had returned from a pilgrimage in Iran.

Indian Army soldier tests positive for coronavirus

The first coronavirus case has been confirmed in the Indian armed forces. A 34-year-old jawan from Ladakh Scouts in Leh has tested positive for COVID-19. His father returned from Iran recently. Watch report:

First COVID-19 case confirmed in Indian Army

The CRPF on Friday postponed its raising day celebrations planned to be held next week in view of the coronavirus outbreak.

The 3.25 lakh central force was supposed to hold the main ceremonial parade and display of martial skills with the involvement of thousands of troops at its officer's academy campus in Gurgaon on March 19 to mark its 81st raising day.

"Conforming to precautionary advisory to break the spread of COVID-19, all CRPF programs in connection with CRPF raising day and passing out parade of 51st batch DAGOs (directly appointed gazetted officers) have been postponed," the force said in a statement.

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Conforming to precautionary advisory to break the spread of COVID-19, all CRPF programs in connection with CRPF Raising day and Passing out Parade of 51st batch DAGOs have been postponed. CRPF has joined the national response against COVID-19 by gearing up its medical facilities. <a href="https://t.co/8pTWouKkBD">pic.twitter.com/8pTWouKkBD</a>
— 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/crpfindia/status/1238324125610827776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"CRPF has joined the national response against COVID-19 by gearing up its medical facilities," it said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-324-indians-evacuated-from-wuhan-admitted-to-itbp-army-facilities-278066">Coronavirus: 324 Indians evacuated from Wuhan, admitted to ITBP, Army facilities</a>

The passing out parade of its latest batch of officers was scheduled to be held after the raising day event on March 21.

Taking a similar action, the Central Industrial Security Force had last week postponed its anniversary day celebrations to be held on Friday.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-batch-of-200-evacuees-from-coronavirus-epicentre-wuhan-discharged-from-itbp-quarantine-camp-in-delhi-281199">Coronavirus: First batch of 200 evacuees from Wuhan discharged from ITBP quarantine camp in Delhi</a>

However, the CISF is now mulling to hold this event on March 28 after reviewing the threat posed by the disease that has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation.

"The Union home ministry has explicitly asked all forces under its command to avoid large congregations like these events and the CISF raising day will be postponed further if the coronavirus situation does not improve," a senior official said.

The CRPF on Friday postponed its raising day celebrations planned to be held next week in view of the coronavirus outbreak. The 3.25 lakh central force was supposed to hold the main ceremonial parade and display of martial skills with the involvement of thousands of troops at its officer's academy campus in Gurgaon on March 19 to mark its 81st raising day.

The CRPF on Friday postponed its raising day celebrations planned to be held next week in view of the coronavirus outbreak. The 3.25 lakh central force was supposed to hold the main ceremonial parade and display of martial skills with the involvement of thousands of troops at its officer's academy campus in Gurgaon on March 19 to mark its 81st raising day. "Conforming to precautionary advisory to break the spread of COVID-19, all CRPF programs in connection with CRPF raising day and passing out parade of 51st batch DAGOs (directly appointed gazetted officers) have been postponed," the force said in a statement. Conforming to precautionary advisory to break the spread of COVID-19, all CRPF programs in connection with CRPF Raising day and Passing out Parade of 51st batch DAGOs have been postponed. CRPF has joined the national response against COVID-19 by gearing up its medical facilities. pic.twitter.com/8pTWouKkBD — 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) March 13, 2020 × "CRPF has joined the national response against COVID-19 by gearing up its medical facilities," it said. Also Read: Coronavirus: 324 Indians evacuated from Wuhan, admitted to ITBP, Army facilities The passing out parade of its latest batch of officers was scheduled to be held after the raising day event on March 21. Taking a similar action, the Central Industrial Security Force had last week postponed its anniversary day celebrations to be held on Friday. Also Read: Coronavirus: First batch of 200 evacuees from Wuhan discharged from ITBP quarantine camp in Delhi However, the CISF is now mulling to hold this event on March 28 after reviewing the threat posed by the disease that has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. "The Union home ministry has explicitly asked all forces under its command to avoid large congregations like these events and the CISF raising day will be postponed further if the coronavirus situation does not improve," a senior official said.

CRPF cancels anniversary celebrations amid coronavirus threat

As the world celebrated Women’s day this weekend, a group of men and women at the Army Officers Training Academy, Chennai were cherishing the completion of their 11-month gruelling and rigorous training. At the spectacular Passing out&nbsp;Parade, 167 Indian and 11 foreign cadets were commissioned as officers into the Indian and their respective foreign armies.&nbsp;

There were 136 Gentlemen cadets and 31 Lady cadets who passed out of the Academy, in addition to 11 cadets from friendly foreign countries such as Bhutan, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

The parade was reviewed by Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff.

Among the commissioned officers were Veer Naris (a martyr's spouse) and various other pathbreakers who have overcome challenges and left behind comfortable jobs to don the Olive greens in service of the nation.&nbsp;

On the process of making provisions for Veer Naris to join the Army, Lt Gen A. Arun, the Chief Instructor of OTA Chennai told WION, “This is not a college or an academy. This is life. This is a life which you join and as co-travellers within the Army, we do not let go even if you fall, stumble or pass away. It is the strongest piece of thread that binds the fabric that is the Army. There is constant encouragement for a martyr’s spouse to join the Army. It starts with counselling, then the lady herself has to choose and we facilitate the choice. But still, not everyone makes it, however, we encourage them to make it.”&nbsp;

“For the Veer Naris, there is no dispensation in the standards to be achieved, except for the age criteria which is relaxed for them. Most of them are elder than the other ladies and gentlemen in their batch, but there is no difference in the standards they have achieved. We don’t let go of our families”, he added.

WION spoke to some of these inspiring people to understand their journey:

Lieutenant Aahana&nbsp;

Wife of Late Major Arvind Bazala

74 Armored, Army Aviation&nbsp;

“I got married in 2015 to an Army Officer… But unfortunately, I lost him in a chopper crash, he was an Army Aviator. Being a Fuji wife I decided to take the legacy ahead. I did my SSB exam, cleared it and came here and did a year of gruelling training and have enjoyed it. Today I am here as a commissioned officer, to live the dreams of my husband personally and professionally.

Lieutenant Gauri Prasad Mahadik&nbsp;

Wife of Late Major Prasad Ganesh Mahadik&nbsp;

“My dream was never to join the forces, I always wanted to be an officer's wife. On Dec 30, 2017, when I lost my husband, after 10 days, it was very difficult for me. I was clueless, what was going to be my life without him. Being a working woman in Mumbai and staying alone. I said no, but he always wanted me to be happy always. My motivation was to continue and join the forces. Finally, I’m here wearing his stars they are his stars only."

"My family was very supportive, initially, my mother and mother in law were a little sceptical.. but they accepted for my happiness."

"For the next generation who will be joining, this is the best profession and if you want to serve the country come ahead do your training, be physically fit and just have a great career. For me its not a profession or a career as such. But today I have done it”.

Lieutenant Ipupu Mena&nbsp;

2nd-ever cadet from Arunachal Pradesh&nbsp;

“When I first dreamt of joining the Army it was an impossible dream for me. But I never stopped dreaming and I worked hard for it. I didn’t have many people to guide me. But now that I’m here and have achieved it, I’ll give my best to serve the country and the organization. I’m happy as my parents are really proud of what I’ve done. Also, I’m glad that I’ll be able to help all the people out there in my state who want to join the army and be a guiding light for them."

"Mostly my people don’t know much about the Army. Even though young kids have a feeling about joining the Army they weren’t open about it and didn’t know how to join. Looking at me, they are inspired and they are thinking about it as a possible dream. I will be helping them in every way that I can to help them serve the country”

Lieutenant Naveen Udameshi&nbsp;

Former Wiring Harness Engineer at Mercedes Benz

"I used to work for Mercedes Benz Research and development as a wiring harness engineer. I had worked there for over two and a half years. People ask me why did you join the Army by leaving behind an illustrious and luxurious career when you had a good package and could go to Germany for work. But there was something that was pulling me towards the Indian Army. The passion and feeling that you get from serving your country and commanding your men, it doesn’t measure up to the luxury or the money that you get in the corporate sector. We as Army guys sleep peacefully as we have done something that benefits our citizens, be it a rescue during a natural disaster or fighting a war. I had done eight SSB attempts and this was my last attempt, once I cleared I didn’t think twice and even my company supported me well and here I am getting commissioned."

As the world celebrated Women’s day this weekend, a group of men and women at the Army Officers Training Academy, Chennai were cherishing the completion of their 11-month gruelling and rigorous training.

As the world celebrated Women’s day this weekend, a group of men and women at the Army Officers Training Academy, Chennai were cherishing the completion of their 11-month gruelling and rigorous training. At the spectacular Passing out Parade, 167 Indian and 11 foreign cadets were commissioned as officers into the Indian and their respective foreign armies. There were 136 Gentlemen cadets and 31 Lady cadets who passed out of the Academy, in addition to 11 cadets from friendly foreign countries such as Bhutan, Fiji and Papua New Guinea. The parade was reviewed by Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff. Among the commissioned officers were Veer Naris (a martyr's spouse) and various other pathbreakers who have overcome challenges and left behind comfortable jobs to don the Olive greens in service of the nation. On the process of making provisions for Veer Naris to join the Army, Lt Gen A. Arun, the Chief Instructor of OTA Chennai told WION, “This is not a college or an academy. This is life. This is a life which you join and as co-travellers within the Army, we do not let go even if you fall, stumble or pass away. It is the strongest piece of thread that binds the fabric that is the Army. There is constant encouragement for a martyr’s spouse to join the Army. It starts with counselling, then the lady herself has to choose and we facilitate the choice. But still, not everyone makes it, however, we encourage them to make it.” “For the Veer Naris, there is no dispensation in the standards to be achieved, except for the age criteria which is relaxed for them. Most of them are elder than the other ladies and gentlemen in their batch, but there is no difference in the standards they have achieved. We don’t let go of our families”, he added. WION spoke to some of these inspiring people to understand their journey: Lieutenant Aahana Wife of Late Major Arvind Bazala 74 Armored, Army Aviation “I got married in 2015 to an Army Officer… But unfortunately, I lost him in a chopper crash, he was an Army Aviator. Being a Fuji wife I decided to take the legacy ahead. I did my SSB exam, cleared it and came here and did a year of gruelling training and have enjoyed it. Today I am here as a commissioned officer, to live the dreams of my husband personally and professionally. Lieutenant Gauri Prasad Mahadik Wife of Late Major Prasad Ganesh Mahadik “My dream was never to join the forces, I always wanted to be an officer's wife. On Dec 30, 2017, when I lost my husband, after 10 days, it was very difficult for me. I was clueless, what was going to be my life without him. Being a working woman in Mumbai and staying alone. I said no, but he always wanted me to be happy always. My motivation was to continue and join the forces. Finally, I’m here wearing his stars they are his stars only." "My family was very supportive, initially, my mother and mother in law were a little sceptical.. but they accepted for my happiness." "For the next generation who will be joining, this is the best profession and if you want to serve the country come ahead do your training, be physically fit and just have a great career. For me its not a profession or a career as such. But today I have done it”. Lieutenant Ipupu Mena 2nd-ever cadet from Arunachal Pradesh “When I first dreamt of joining the Army it was an impossible dream for me. But I never stopped dreaming and I worked hard for it. I didn’t have many people to guide me. But now that I’m here and have achieved it, I’ll give my best to serve the country and the organization. I’m happy as my parents are really proud of what I’ve done. Also, I’m glad that I’ll be able to help all the people out there in my state who want to join the army and be a guiding light for them." "Mostly my people don’t know much about the Army. Even though young kids have a feeling about joining the Army they weren’t open about it and didn’t know how to join. Looking at me, they are inspired and they are thinking about it as a possible dream. I will be helping them in every way that I can to help them serve the country” Lieutenant Naveen Udameshi Former Wiring Harness Engineer at Mercedes Benz "I used to work for Mercedes Benz Research and development as a wiring harness engineer. I had worked there for over two and a half years. People ask me why did you join the Army by leaving behind an illustrious and luxurious career when you had a good package and could go to Germany for work. But there was something that was pulling me towards the Indian Army. The passion and feeling that you get from serving your country and commanding your men, it doesn’t measure up to the luxury or the money that you get in the corporate sector. We as Army guys sleep peacefully as we have done something that benefits our citizens, be it a rescue during a natural disaster or fighting a war. I had done eight SSB attempts and this was my last attempt, once I cleared I didn’t think twice and even my company supported me well and here I am getting commissioned."

As Indian Army gets new officers, here are stories of courage, sacrifice and patriotism

Drill, weapons training and exhaustive physical exercises. This is the life for 100 young girls who are undergoing training to become India’s First Women Military Police Soldiers.

Training of first batch of 100 women for induction into military police begins

On the occasion of International Women's Day, WION met these inspiring women who chosen to take up one of the toughest jobs in the country i.e., of the Indian Army. Have a look...

Meet these inspiring women, chosen to take up the toughest job in the country!

International Women's Day Special: Nitika Kaul Dhoundiyal was shattered when she came to know that her husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal was martyred during an operation against the terrorists that took place following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. But now, Nitika has summed up the courage and has decided to follow the footsteps of her late husband. Dhoundiyal is all set to join the Indian Army. She has cleared Services Selection Board (SSB) exam necessary to join the Army. She has also got a call letter from Officers Training Academy or OTA, Chennai for joining as an officer in the technical wing of Indian Army. On the occasion of International Women's Day, she fits as the perfect example for hashtag 'She Inspires Us' which PM Narendra Modi tweeted.

International Women's Day 2020: Pulwama Terror Attack martyr's wife to don Indian Army uniform to fulfil husband's dreams

The Indian Army Headquarters has issued detailed instructions about with respect to preparations being made and emergency responses for tackling Covid-19

The latest advisory includes detailed instructions for Actions at various military stations, Army formations and service hospitals.

Non- essential mass gatherings for festivals, welfare activities To be postponed till The situation improves.

Regular health information and Counseling activities will be carried out at all millitary stations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-batch-of-200-evacuees-from-coronavirus-epicentre-wuhan-discharged-from-itbp-quarantine-camp-in-delhi-281199">Coronavirus: First batch of 200 evacuees from Wuhan discharged from ITBP quarantine camp in Delhi</a>

Military hospitals will establish isolation wards.

Separate opd sections will &nbsp;be set up for screening of symptomatic cases to prevent avoidable transmission.

 
Service hospitals will work in synergy with local civil medical authorities and designated icmr labs.

Service personnel to be encouraged to utilise shopping complex facilities within the cantonment or military stations.

Visits to crowded areas like movie halls and shopping malls to be avoided.

All non-essential foreign travel to be avoided.

The Indian Army Headquarters has issued detailed instructions about with respect to preparations being made and emergency responses for tackling Covid-19 The latest advisory includes detailed instructions for Actions at various military stations, Army formations and service hospitals.

The Indian Army Headquarters has issued detailed instructions about with respect to preparations being made and emergency responses for tackling Covid-19 The latest advisory includes detailed instructions for Actions at various military stations, Army formations and service hospitals. Non- essential mass gatherings for festivals, welfare activities To be postponed till The situation improves. Regular health information and Counseling activities will be carried out at all millitary stations. Also Read: Coronavirus: First batch of 200 evacuees from Wuhan discharged from ITBP quarantine camp in Delhi Military hospitals will establish isolation wards. Separate opd sections will be set up for screening of symptomatic cases to prevent avoidable transmission. Service hospitals will work in synergy with local civil medical authorities and designated icmr labs. Service personnel to be encouraged to utilise shopping complex facilities within the cantonment or military stations. Visits to crowded areas like movie halls and shopping malls to be avoided. All non-essential foreign travel to be avoided.

Indian Army issued instructions  with respect to preparations tackling Covid-19

The department of aerospace engineering at IIT Madras is working on developing a next-generation artillery shell that can be used by the Indian Army to hit targets that are nearly twice as far the existing distances, with greater precision. While this is an existing technology, it has to be noted that no country has implemented in artillery shells.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION spoke to Lt Gen PR Shankar (retd), Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, whose team had exhibited the theoretical possibilities of the project at the recently concluded Defense Expo in Uttar Pradesh. Lt Gen P R Shankar is a retired Director General of Artillery. He gave great impetus to the modernization of artillery through indigenization. He has deep knowledge, understanding and experience in successful defence planning and acquisition, spanning over a decade. Major 155mm Gun projects like the Dhanush, M777 ULH and K9 Vajra, rocket and missile projects related to Pinaka, Brahmos and Grad BM21, surveillance projects like Swati WLR and few ammunition projects came to fructification due to his relentless efforts. He has been a Professor of Practice at IIT Madras’ aerospace engineering department and is actively involved in applied research.

Here are the excerpts of an exclusive interview with him.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What necessitates the development of such a new generation artillery shell, over and above the existing ammunition? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: We are working on an artillery shell that is based on the ramjet technology, this will enable it to travel unto a range of 60kms and above. Most shells that are in use travel around 30kms or so. Extending the range of a shell would be highly useful in non-contact warfare scenario, like the situations on the western border. Some of the current shells can travel up to 24kms. We could extend the range unto 30kms by traditional methods, but doubling it to 60kms is going to be a game-changer. Changing the gun would mean a tedious process, instead, we could change the ammunition and improve the performance.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: How compatible is this artillery shell going to be with current artillery guns used by the Indian Army? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Although we are developing a new kind of shell, we would not be building it from scratch. We are planning to re-design the existing shells using ramjet propulsion technology. The new shells are compatible with all the existing artillery guns such as Bofors, Dhanush, Vajra and ATAGS. It is a fact that each gun has its own characteristics, but the shell we are developing is of a 155mm calibre. Hence, it would be usable on all Indian or foreign platforms that utilize the 155mm shell.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: How is your method different from the standard range-extension methods for artillery shells? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Traditionally, we would utilize a method called ‘base bleed’ where a chemical at the base of the shell burns emits gas to fill the vacuum behind the shell to reduce the base drag force. Base bleed enables an increase of range by 10 to 20 per cent. We are aiming to double the range by using ramjet propulsion technology through indigenously developed fuel and air intake at the front that helps the shell travel faster, thus enabling it to reach double the range.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What are the challenges pertaining to maintaining accuracy when you aim to extend a shell’s range? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: When a shell travels for around 30kms, the normal methods of correction are applicable. However, when a shell travels 60kms, it would be affected by wind and weather conditions far more. So, we would incorporate some kind of system to keep it on the intended track. It is called a Precision Guided Kit. We will be developing the precision-guided kits, especially for such extended ranges. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Would Indian ordnance factories and facilities be able to mass manufacture such shells for the Army’s requirements? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Most of the shells that we need are made here. When we do resort to importing, it is only restricted to smart ammunitions and precision-guided munitions (PGMs). Our ramjet based shell is like any other shell and we would be ensuring that OFB (Ordnance factory board) can manufacture it. The ability to manufacture it is there, but we are working on design and technology. That's where IIT Madras comes in, along with IIT Kanpur, Armament Research and Development Establishment(ARDE) Pune and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) Hyderabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: Would there be a significant reduction in unit cost due to the indigenous manufacture? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Primarily this technology is a first for artillery shells. Being a new product and new technology, they tend to be very costly. But it is certainly less expensive when compared to missiles and other weapons that have a range of over 60kms. There is also scope for exporting this type of shell to friendly foreign countries.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: How long before we have a working prototype? Any major engineering challenges that we are faced with? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: We expect to develop a working prototype within three to five years. Development of this shell would require a synergy between different types of engineering. We’ll have to combine expertise in Fundamental engineering of propulsion (solid propellants), structural design, a lot of design capability in geo-referencing and guidance with a lot of engineering capability and principles of rocket technology. In the case of a missile, we can design from scratch, but here we are taking an existing ramjet technology and fusing it with an existing shell to get something that doesn't exist. But if we manage to fit a ramjet into an artillery shell, it would pole vault us into the next generation.&nbsp;

WION: Funding and facilities are major components that drive defence research. How are we placed? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Lot of things have been proven. The design is ready and we are waiting for validation and prototyping. All the theory is ready and certain lab tests are done. We are waiting for funding as well because with new testing facilities we need to do more lab tests and start the prototype test. Test facilities that are to be set up can only be done with government support. Some of the facilities that we would need would be India’s first such facilities. There are a few, but they are with the missile development programme, and those are of a different kind. Once we go commercial, we need many such facilities to do fundamental testing for the long-term. For the ramjet to start working, it has to be taken to speeds of Mach 1 (speed of sound) so that we can test it. So we’d require a high-end wind tunnel that would be able to generate such speeds. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Are there any other defence firms that are working on the same technology? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: At the recently concluded DefExpo, we saw the Norwegian firm 'Nammo' display a shell of ramjet projectile. Their projectile and our projectile are technology-wise very different. While the theory is the same, the application is different. Ours is a simple system. We also know that various others are working on it as this is very futuristic defence technology.&nbsp;

The department of aerospace engineering at IIT Madras is working on developing a next-generation artillery shell that can be used by the Indian Army to hit targets that are nearly twice as far the existing distances, with greater precision.

The department of aerospace engineering at IIT Madras is working on developing a next-generation artillery shell that can be used by the Indian Army to hit targets that are nearly twice as far the existing distances, with greater precision. While this is an existing technology, it has to be noted that no country has implemented in artillery shells. WION spoke to Lt Gen PR Shankar (retd), Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, whose team had exhibited the theoretical possibilities of the project at the recently concluded Defense Expo in Uttar Pradesh. Lt Gen P R Shankar is a retired Director General of Artillery. He gave great impetus to the modernization of artillery through indigenization. He has deep knowledge, understanding and experience in successful defence planning and acquisition, spanning over a decade. Major 155mm Gun projects like the Dhanush, M777 ULH and K9 Vajra, rocket and missile projects related to Pinaka, Brahmos and Grad BM21, surveillance projects like Swati WLR and few ammunition projects came to fructification due to his relentless efforts. He has been a Professor of Practice at IIT Madras’ aerospace engineering department and is actively involved in applied research. Here are the excerpts of an exclusive interview with him. WION: What necessitates the development of such a new generation artillery shell, over and above the existing ammunition? Prof Shankar: We are working on an artillery shell that is based on the ramjet technology, this will enable it to travel unto a range of 60kms and above. Most shells that are in use travel around 30kms or so. Extending the range of a shell would be highly useful in non-contact warfare scenario, like the situations on the western border. Some of the current shells can travel up to 24kms. We could extend the range unto 30kms by traditional methods, but doubling it to 60kms is going to be a game-changer. Changing the gun would mean a tedious process, instead, we could change the ammunition and improve the performance. WION: How compatible is this artillery shell going to be with current artillery guns used by the Indian Army? Prof Shankar: Although we are developing a new kind of shell, we would not be building it from scratch. We are planning to re-design the existing shells using ramjet propulsion technology. The new shells are compatible with all the existing artillery guns such as Bofors, Dhanush, Vajra and ATAGS. It is a fact that each gun has its own characteristics, but the shell we are developing is of a 155mm calibre. Hence, it would be usable on all Indian or foreign platforms that utilize the 155mm shell. WION: How is your method different from the standard range-extension methods for artillery shells? Prof Shankar: Traditionally, we would utilize a method called ‘base bleed’ where a chemical at the base of the shell burns emits gas to fill the vacuum behind the shell to reduce the base drag force. Base bleed enables an increase of range by 10 to 20 per cent. We are aiming to double the range by using ramjet propulsion technology through indigenously developed fuel and air intake at the front that helps the shell travel faster, thus enabling it to reach double the range. WION: What are the challenges pertaining to maintaining accuracy when you aim to extend a shell’s range? Prof Shankar: When a shell travels for around 30kms, the normal methods of correction are applicable. However, when a shell travels 60kms, it would be affected by wind and weather conditions far more. So, we would incorporate some kind of system to keep it on the intended track. It is called a Precision Guided Kit. We will be developing the precision-guided kits, especially for such extended ranges. WION: Would Indian ordnance factories and facilities be able to mass manufacture such shells for the Army’s requirements? Prof Shankar: Most of the shells that we need are made here. When we do resort to importing, it is only restricted to smart ammunitions and precision-guided munitions (PGMs). Our ramjet based shell is like any other shell and we would be ensuring that OFB (Ordnance factory board) can manufacture it. The ability to manufacture it is there, but we are working on design and technology. That's where IIT Madras comes in, along with IIT Kanpur, Armament Research and Development Establishment(ARDE) Pune and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) Hyderabad. WION: Would there be a significant reduction in unit cost due to the indigenous manufacture? Prof Shankar: Primarily this technology is a first for artillery shells. Being a new product and new technology, they tend to be very costly. But it is certainly less expensive when compared to missiles and other weapons that have a range of over 60kms. There is also scope for exporting this type of shell to friendly foreign countries. WION: How long before we have a working prototype? Any major engineering challenges that we are faced with? Prof Shankar: We expect to develop a working prototype within three to five years. Development of this shell would require a synergy between different types of engineering. We’ll have to combine expertise in Fundamental engineering of propulsion (solid propellants), structural design, a lot of design capability in geo-referencing and guidance with a lot of engineering capability and principles of rocket technology. In the case of a missile, we can design from scratch, but here we are taking an existing ramjet technology and fusing it with an existing shell to get something that doesn't exist. But if we manage to fit a ramjet into an artillery shell, it would pole vault us into the next generation. WION: Funding and facilities are major components that drive defence research. How are we placed? Prof Shankar: Lot of things have been proven. The design is ready and we are waiting for validation and prototyping. All the theory is ready and certain lab tests are done. We are waiting for funding as well because with new testing facilities we need to do more lab tests and start the prototype test. Test facilities that are to be set up can only be done with government support. Some of the facilities that we would need would be India’s first such facilities. There are a few, but they are with the missile development programme, and those are of a different kind. Once we go commercial, we need many such facilities to do fundamental testing for the long-term. For the ramjet to start working, it has to be taken to speeds of Mach 1 (speed of sound) so that we can test it. So we’d require a high-end wind tunnel that would be able to generate such speeds. WION: Are there any other defence firms that are working on the same technology? Prof Shankar: At the recently concluded DefExpo, we saw the Norwegian firm 'Nammo' display a shell of ramjet projectile. Their projectile and our projectile are technology-wise very different. While the theory is the same, the application is different. Ours is a simple system. We also know that various others are working on it as this is very futuristic defence technology.

IIT-M working on next-gen Ramjet-powered 155mm artillery shells for Indian Army 

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