<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/breaking-news-update-Upload-criminal-records-of-candidates-on-your-website-Supreme-Court-directs-political-parties">Supreme Court </a>said today that women officers in Army be given a permanent commission as a change of mindset is required on government's part to end gender bias in armed forces.

"Absolute bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational and against Right to Equality," India's top court said.

The apex court directed the Centre to grant permanent commission within three months to all women officers in the Army who opt for it.&nbsp;

The court said that women officers will also be eligible for command posting in the Army.&nbsp;

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A bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud said: "There is no reason and justification for the union of India not to act as per the Delhi High Court verdict, adding,&nbsp;"On September 2, 2011, the Supreme Court has clarified this aspect and said there is no stay on the high court verdict. Despite that scant regard has been paid to the verdict of Delhi High Court and the order of Supreme Court as well."

The verdict comes after women officers sought the rejection of Centre's view in the case. The government in its reply to the top court had pointed towards "physical prowess" and "physiological limitations" as limiting factors to induct women in higher posts.

The court, however, said that physiological features of women had no effect in granting permanent commission and they have to be given equal opportunity at par with men&nbsp;in the armed forces.

The top court said even after 70 years of post-colonial era, there is a need for change in mindset with regard to giving equal opportunity to women officers in the Indian Army.

Supreme Court said today that women officers in Army be given a permanent commission as a change of mindset is required on government's part to end gender bias in armed forces.

Supreme Court said today that women officers in Army be given a permanent commission as a change of mindset is required on government's part to end gender bias in armed forces. "Absolute bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational and against Right to Equality," India's top court said. The apex court directed the Centre to grant permanent commission within three months to all women officers in the Army who opt for it. The court said that women officers will also be eligible for command posting in the Army. A bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud said: "There is no reason and justification for the union of India not to act as per the Delhi High Court verdict, adding, "On September 2, 2011, the Supreme Court has clarified this aspect and said there is no stay on the high court verdict. Despite that scant regard has been paid to the verdict of Delhi High Court and the order of Supreme Court as well." The verdict comes after women officers sought the rejection of Centre's view in the case. The government in its reply to the top court had pointed towards "physical prowess" and "physiological limitations" as limiting factors to induct women in higher posts. The court, however, said that physiological features of women had no effect in granting permanent commission and they have to be given equal opportunity at par with men in the armed forces. The top court said even after 70 years of post-colonial era, there is a need for change in mindset with regard to giving equal opportunity to women officers in the Indian Army.

Bar on granting command post to women officers in Army is irrational: Supreme Court to government

The Supreme Court said even women who have served more than 14 years in the Short Service Commission (SSC) in the Army can have the option of permanent commission.

WION Fineprint: Landmark ruling over Women officers; Top court rejects centre's arguments

India: Women Army Officers Can Get Command Roles

Indian Army "received" banned anti-aircraft ammunition worth around Rs 39 crore from the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in August 2015, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) said in its latest report that was tabled in Lok Sabha.

As an accident had taken place with this ammunition "K" at Gopalpur firing range in November 2014, the Army Headquarters (AHQ) had asked the OFB to stop its production from December 2014 onward, the report noted.

This ban was lifted in September 2015 when a recommendation by a board of officers regarding improvements in the ammunition "K" were accepted by the AHQ, the CAG noted.

The AHQ, however, had "intimated" the OFB that the ammunition "K" produced between December 2014 to September 2015 will not be accepted.

According to the CAG report, which was tabled in the lower house recently, the OFB had supplied 52,369 numbers of the ammunition "K" worth around Rs 39 crore to Army's Central Ammunition Depot (CAD) in Pulgaon in August 2015, "when the ban had still not been revoked".

"The OFB justified the continuation of production even after December 2014 on the ground that ammunition were under various states of assembly or finishing i.E. Work in progress (WIP) stage as on date of receipt of AHQ's directions," the CAG report stated.

The CAG mentioned that the AHQ is reviewing use of ammunition "K" that was supplied during the ban period.

"Audit is of the view that the OFB should not have supplied ammunition during the ban period, the CAD Pulgaon should not have received the supply and, even if the supply had been received, it should have been isolated and not issued to the user units," the report stated.

The replacement of balance holding of affected ammunition "K" had not been carried out by the OFB as of July 2018, even as "three years" have passed since the CAD Pulgaon received it, the CAG noted.

"Further, the proposal for replacement by the AHQ was an indication that the same (ammunition "K") cannot be used for intended purpose," the CAG stated.&nbsp;

Indian Army "received" banned anti-aircraft ammunition worth around Rs 39 crore from the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in August 2015, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) said in its latest report that was tabled in Lok Sabha.

Indian Army "received" banned anti-aircraft ammunition worth around Rs 39 crore from the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in August 2015, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) said in its latest report that was tabled in Lok Sabha. As an accident had taken place with this ammunition "K" at Gopalpur firing range in November 2014, the Army Headquarters (AHQ) had asked the OFB to stop its production from December 2014 onward, the report noted. This ban was lifted in September 2015 when a recommendation by a board of officers regarding improvements in the ammunition "K" were accepted by the AHQ, the CAG noted. The AHQ, however, had "intimated" the OFB that the ammunition "K" produced between December 2014 to September 2015 will not be accepted. According to the CAG report, which was tabled in the lower house recently, the OFB had supplied 52,369 numbers of the ammunition "K" worth around Rs 39 crore to Army's Central Ammunition Depot (CAD) in Pulgaon in August 2015, "when the ban had still not been revoked". "The OFB justified the continuation of production even after December 2014 on the ground that ammunition were under various states of assembly or finishing i.E. Work in progress (WIP) stage as on date of receipt of AHQ's directions," the CAG report stated. The CAG mentioned that the AHQ is reviewing use of ammunition "K" that was supplied during the ban period. "Audit is of the view that the OFB should not have supplied ammunition during the ban period, the CAD Pulgaon should not have received the supply and, even if the supply had been received, it should have been isolated and not issued to the user units," the report stated. The replacement of balance holding of affected ammunition "K" had not been carried out by the OFB as of July 2018, even as "three years" have passed since the CAD Pulgaon received it, the CAG noted. "Further, the proposal for replacement by the AHQ was an indication that the same (ammunition "K") cannot be used for intended purpose," the CAG stated.

Army received banned anti-aircraft ammunition worth Rs 39 crore from OFB in August 2015: CAG

The Indian Government told the Supreme Court that the Indian Army is not ready for Women commanders. Judges of the Supreme Court asked the government to change its mindset. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why centre's arguments in court are unacceptable in the 21st century.

Gravitas: Is India not ready for Women commanders?

Military training is about reshaping social norms and obeying commands, irrespective of who the commander is. Military personnel should stand for discipline and not discrimination.

The women officers in the Indian Army aren't making any unrealistic demand. A&nbsp;plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India by women officers demanding permanent commission. In other words, a career in the Army until they retire.

Currently, women in the Indian Army can only serve up to 14 years. 
 
The world has come a long way since military roles were gender-specific. Today, women officers across the world rub shoulders with their male counterparts.

Months into World War I, the triple alliance and the entente met with an unexpected crisis - the shortage of troops. There were no men to guard the borders or fight the enemy.

So several thousand men had to give up farming and their daily jobs to join combat roles. Women too were rushed to camps, but their task was different.

They were expected to nurse the injured soldiers back to health. That was the early 1900s, an age defined by clear division of labour and gender roles.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Today, women are in the frontline, they are in the cockpit and on the deck. Armed Forces are no-longer a male-exclusive club.

Women comprise nearly 15 per cent of Canada's fighting force, 19 per cent of the French military and 10 per cent of the German military.

In Australia, women make up 14.3 per cent of the Army, the number is 4.5 per cent in China's People Liberation Army, and 3.8 per cent in the Indian Army.

Women also make up 14 per cent of the active-duty Army in the United States of America. At least 16 countries allow women to serve in combat roles.

They have equal rights to military stars, stripes and medals as their male counterparts. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In 2016, Brazil allowed women to enter combat training. The year before that, United Arab Emirates allowed a female fighter pilot to strike a mission against the Islamic State in Syria. South Korea opened combat positions to women as early as the 1990s.

In China, the first class of female fighter pilots graduated in 2009. Germany opened combat roles to women in 2001. Women make up almost 2 per cent of the French combat infantry.

In 1985, Norway became the first nation to open all combat jobs to women. Israel allowed women in combat roles in 1995.

The Philippines did the same in 2006. A woman officer of the US army once shared her experience of serving in Afghanistan. She said women were integral to combating cultural warfare.

At warzones where local women often hide ammunition, terrorists and critical intel, it's the women officer who play a crucial role in getting the complicit locals to break their silence and confederate.

Women are essential to peace-keeping - at home and outside. It's time more countries rise up the ranks and usher in gender balance in their Armed Forces.

 
&nbsp;

Military training is about reshaping social norms and obeying commands, irrespective of who the commander is. Military personnel should stand for discipline and not discrimination.

Military training is about reshaping social norms and obeying commands, irrespective of who the commander is. Military personnel should stand for discipline and not discrimination. The women officers in the Indian Army aren't making any unrealistic demand. A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India by women officers demanding permanent commission. In other words, a career in the Army until they retire. Currently, women in the Indian Army can only serve up to 14 years. The world has come a long way since military roles were gender-specific. Today, women officers across the world rub shoulders with their male counterparts. Months into World War I, the triple alliance and the entente met with an unexpected crisis - the shortage of troops. There were no men to guard the borders or fight the enemy. So several thousand men had to give up farming and their daily jobs to join combat roles. Women too were rushed to camps, but their task was different. They were expected to nurse the injured soldiers back to health. That was the early 1900s, an age defined by clear division of labour and gender roles. Today, women are in the frontline, they are in the cockpit and on the deck. Armed Forces are no-longer a male-exclusive club. Women comprise nearly 15 per cent of Canada's fighting force, 19 per cent of the French military and 10 per cent of the German military. In Australia, women make up 14.3 per cent of the Army, the number is 4.5 per cent in China's People Liberation Army, and 3.8 per cent in the Indian Army. Women also make up 14 per cent of the active-duty Army in the United States of America. At least 16 countries allow women to serve in combat roles. They have equal rights to military stars, stripes and medals as their male counterparts. WATCH: × In 2016, Brazil allowed women to enter combat training. The year before that, United Arab Emirates allowed a female fighter pilot to strike a mission against the Islamic State in Syria. South Korea opened combat positions to women as early as the 1990s. In China, the first class of female fighter pilots graduated in 2009. Germany opened combat roles to women in 2001. Women make up almost 2 per cent of the French combat infantry. In 1985, Norway became the first nation to open all combat jobs to women. Israel allowed women in combat roles in 1995. The Philippines did the same in 2006. A woman officer of the US army once shared her experience of serving in Afghanistan. She said women were integral to combating cultural warfare. At warzones where local women often hide ammunition, terrorists and critical intel, it's the women officer who play a crucial role in getting the complicit locals to break their silence and confederate. Women are essential to peace-keeping - at home and outside. It's time more countries rise up the ranks and usher in gender balance in their Armed Forces.

Explained: Rise of women soldiers around the world

India aspires to become a global power and for that, India must have a modern military force, among other things. India buys a bulk of its defence equipment and there is urgent need to make it domestically.

So, there's a market, there's demand, there's a push from the government and India has the technological know-how, then why hasn't Make in India made a difference?

Last year, Former Army Chief General VP Malik - the man who led the Indian Army during the Kargil war spoke about it. And he made a strong case for making defence equipment in India. &nbsp;

He said that unless India becomes adequately self-reliant in defence, our national security remains vulnerable. 
 
So, why has India's domestic arms industry not flourished?&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the longest time, defence manufacturing in India was in the hands of state-owned companies. Private players were allowed only in 2001. A report from 2019 says that even today, bulk of the business goes to the public sector units.&nbsp;

Last year, the annual turnover of private sector companies was close to Rs 15 thousand crores. Public sector units earned more than four times this figure. Their turnover was well over Rs 60 thousand crores.

But, the Armed Forces have not had good experiences working with India's Defence PSUs. They give three reasons:

First, professionalism, or the lack of it. Second, delays in deliveries, and third, overshooting the budget.&nbsp;

Let's take the case of HAL, it had the exclusive rights to manufacture foreign jets in India. Last year, the Indian Air Force told the government that production delays are impacting its combat strength, particularly, when it comes to the Mirage 2000 and Jaguar Fighter fleets that were undergoing upgrades.&nbsp;

The IAF pointed out delays, ranging from two to six years. As a result, costs have also gone up. Furthermore, India lacks the talent to develop futuristic weapons.

Research and Development is still restricted to government agencies like DRDO. So, the Defence Forces have little choice and they have to resort to off the shelf purchases.

All the major contracts the Narendra Modi government has signed have been off the shelf. There has been no transfer of technology, this includes 36 Rafale jets from France, the S400 Missile Defence system from Russia, and the Apache and Chinook from the US.

Although, the government should be given credit where it's due. Some major bottlenecks for the entry of the private sector have been removed under the Modi government, like - increasing the FDI cap, easing licensing conditions and reduced time frame for obtaining defence exports approvals.

Several private players have entered the market - Adani Defence and Aerospace, Tata Advanced Systems, Bharat Forge and Mahindra and Mahindra. They have all tied up with foreign Defence manufacturing firms.

But as of last year, some deals were yet to be finalised, a few have even hit dead ends or have been cancelled.

The private sector hasn't really been able to graduate from making small components to creating full-blown systems.

First of all, finalise the pending deals. Second, invest more in defence research and development. Third, encourage private players and startups to build indigenous offerings. And fourth, push for weapons imports that come with a technology transfer.

This will boost India's know-how in defence manufacturing.&nbsp;

Another major concern is the budget. India might not have enough money to clear big-ticket purchases. This is where the Defence Forces must consider deeper integration of resources and talent and open up some room in the budget.

The appointment of the Chief of Defence staff is a step in that direction. The more immediate concern is the pending defence procurement. Public-private partnerships must be encouraged to complete priority purchases.

Delaying the development of India's defence manufacturing not just makes our imports bills bigger, it even forces the Armed Forces, bureaucrats and the government to make compromises with national security.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

India aspires to become a global power and for that, India must have a modern military force, among other things. India buys a bulk of its defence equipment and there is urgent need to make it domestically.

India aspires to become a global power and for that, India must have a modern military force, among other things. India buys a bulk of its defence equipment and there is urgent need to make it domestically. So, there's a market, there's demand, there's a push from the government and India has the technological know-how, then why hasn't Make in India made a difference? Last year, Former Army Chief General VP Malik - the man who led the Indian Army during the Kargil war spoke about it. And he made a strong case for making defence equipment in India. He said that unless India becomes adequately self-reliant in defence, our national security remains vulnerable. So, why has India's domestic arms industry not flourished? For the longest time, defence manufacturing in India was in the hands of state-owned companies. Private players were allowed only in 2001. A report from 2019 says that even today, bulk of the business goes to the public sector units. Last year, the annual turnover of private sector companies was close to Rs 15 thousand crores. Public sector units earned more than four times this figure. Their turnover was well over Rs 60 thousand crores. But, the Armed Forces have not had good experiences working with India's Defence PSUs. They give three reasons: First, professionalism, or the lack of it. Second, delays in deliveries, and third, overshooting the budget. Let's take the case of HAL, it had the exclusive rights to manufacture foreign jets in India. Last year, the Indian Air Force told the government that production delays are impacting its combat strength, particularly, when it comes to the Mirage 2000 and Jaguar Fighter fleets that were undergoing upgrades. The IAF pointed out delays, ranging from two to six years. As a result, costs have also gone up. Furthermore, India lacks the talent to develop futuristic weapons. Research and Development is still restricted to government agencies like DRDO. So, the Defence Forces have little choice and they have to resort to off the shelf purchases. All the major contracts the Narendra Modi government has signed have been off the shelf. There has been no transfer of technology, this includes 36 Rafale jets from France, the S400 Missile Defence system from Russia, and the Apache and Chinook from the US. Although, the government should be given credit where it's due. Some major bottlenecks for the entry of the private sector have been removed under the Modi government, like - increasing the FDI cap, easing licensing conditions and reduced time frame for obtaining defence exports approvals. Several private players have entered the market - Adani Defence and Aerospace, Tata Advanced Systems, Bharat Forge and Mahindra and Mahindra. They have all tied up with foreign Defence manufacturing firms. But as of last year, some deals were yet to be finalised, a few have even hit dead ends or have been cancelled. The private sector hasn't really been able to graduate from making small components to creating full-blown systems. First of all, finalise the pending deals. Second, invest more in defence research and development. Third, encourage private players and startups to build indigenous offerings. And fourth, push for weapons imports that come with a technology transfer. This will boost India's know-how in defence manufacturing. Another major concern is the budget. India might not have enough money to clear big-ticket purchases. This is where the Defence Forces must consider deeper integration of resources and talent and open up some room in the budget. The appointment of the Chief of Defence staff is a step in that direction. The more immediate concern is the pending defence procurement. Public-private partnerships must be encouraged to complete priority purchases. Delaying the development of India's defence manufacturing not just makes our imports bills bigger, it even forces the Armed Forces, bureaucrats and the government to make compromises with national security. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: India's defence manufacturing gaps

The Comptroller and Auditor-General have pulled up the Army for stationing troops in difficult terrain without enough food or equipment. What was the Army's response? WION's Palki Sharma gets you the report.

Gravitas: Siachen Troops ill-fed & ill-equipped, says CAG report

The ninth&nbsp;edition of India and Bangladesh military training called 'Sampriti IX' began&nbsp;in Umroi, Meghalaya.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/union-budget-2020-defence-sector-needs-more-money-for-modernisation-278261">Budget 2020: Here's what's in store for the Defence sector</a>

The training commenced on Monday and its main focus is counter-terrorism on difficult terrains like mountains and jungles.

Command Post Exercise (CPX) and Field Training Exercise (FTX) will be conducted in the 14-days training schedule. For both the CPX and FTX, a scenario where both the nations are working together in a counter-terrorism environment will be simulated under the United Nations charter.

The Bangladesh Army's contingent is under the command of Commander Md. Shafiul Azam. The contingent is Bangladesh's 42nd infantry regiment. Indian Army's Bihar regiment will take part in the training, the regiment is led by Brigadier Rajesh Sharma.&nbsp;

Each side comprises 128 jawans, 12 officers and 10 junior commission officers (JCOs).

The FTX training's curriculum is steadily planned where the participants will initially get familiar with each other's organisational structure and tactical drills.

Subsequently, joint tactical exercise will be conducted wherein the battle drills of both Indian and Bangladeshi armies will be practised.

 
The training will end with a final validation activity in which troops of both armies will jointly practice a counter-terrorist operation in a controlled and simulated environment.

In addition, to understand each other at a tactical level, greater cultural understanding will be emphasised to increase military trust and partnership between the two countries.

This exercise will conclude on February 16.

(With inputs from ANI)

The ninth edition of India and Bangladesh military training called 'Sampriti IX' began in Umroi, Meghalaya. Also read- Budget 2020: Here's what's in store for the Defence sector The training commenced on Monday and its main focus is counter-terrorism on difficult terrains like mountains and jungles.

The ninth edition of India and Bangladesh military training called 'Sampriti IX' began in Umroi, Meghalaya. Also read- Budget 2020: Here's what's in store for the Defence sector The training commenced on Monday and its main focus is counter-terrorism on difficult terrains like mountains and jungles. Command Post Exercise (CPX) and Field Training Exercise (FTX) will be conducted in the 14-days training schedule. For both the CPX and FTX, a scenario where both the nations are working together in a counter-terrorism environment will be simulated under the United Nations charter. The Bangladesh Army's contingent is under the command of Commander Md. Shafiul Azam. The contingent is Bangladesh's 42nd infantry regiment. Indian Army's Bihar regiment will take part in the training, the regiment is led by Brigadier Rajesh Sharma. Each side comprises 128 jawans, 12 officers and 10 junior commission officers (JCOs). The FTX training's curriculum is steadily planned where the participants will initially get familiar with each other's organisational structure and tactical drills. Subsequently, joint tactical exercise will be conducted wherein the battle drills of both Indian and Bangladeshi armies will be practised. The training will end with a final validation activity in which troops of both armies will jointly practice a counter-terrorist operation in a controlled and simulated environment. In addition, to understand each other at a tactical level, greater cultural understanding will be emphasised to increase military trust and partnership between the two countries. This exercise will conclude on February 16. (With inputs from ANI)

India-Bangladesh military training begins in Meghalaya

Indian troops based in high altitudes like Siachen and Ladakh are facing critical shortages of high altitude clothing and equipment like snow goggles, boots, jackets and sleeping bags. Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has pulled down the army for delays in procurement. It said the delay in forcing troops to use old and recycled versions of equipment, endangering the lives of the soldiers.

CAG report on Indian Army: Indian soldiers facing trouble in high altitudes

The state of Indian economy reflected in India's GDP to the growth of 4.8 per cent in 2019-20, and its projected GDP growth as per IMF at 5.8 per cent for 2020-21, coupled with the rise in fiscal deficit to 3.8 per cent, has constrained the government from enhancing the allocations for the Ministry of Defence.&nbsp;

The increased allocations to socio-economic sectors for boosting economic growth and on development of infrastructure had a bearing on the defence allocation, with a marginal increase in the defence <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/union-budget-2020-government-has-taken-bold-steps-to-put-economy-back-on-track-278226">budget allocation</a> from Rs 318,000 crores in &nbsp;2019-20 to Rs 337,533 crores for 2020-21.&nbsp;

The allocation for the revenue head continues to be in excess of the capital expenditure. Revenue allocation is essential for the maintenance of the weapons, equipment, transport and ammunition for the smooth functioning of the Armed Forces, apart from repairs, overhauls and procurements for the recoupment of the stores and the reserves. &nbsp;

The revenue allocation saw a marginal increase from Rs 201901.76 in 2019-20 to Rs 209319.00 for 2020-21 (Increase of Rs 7417.24 crores)&nbsp;

On the capital expenditure allocation, there is only an increase of Rs 3340 crores in the budgetary allocation from a RE (Revised Estimates) in 2019-20 of Rs 110,394.31 crores to Rs 113734 crores for 2020-21. &nbsp;

Despite a rationalisation of the requirements carried out by the Navy and IAF, (though the allocation to the Navy has risen from 13 per cent to 18 per cent in the current budget), this allocation with the committed liabilities, of the past will fall short of the requirements for modernisation.&nbsp; 
 
WATCH: Budget 2020: Hits and misses 
&nbsp;

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The largest increase in terms of budgetary allocation for capital expenditure is for the IAF of Rs 3979 crores followed by Army at Rs 3531 crores. The Indian Army has committed liabilities for the pending procurements of artillery gun systems, rifles and ammunition. IAF has liabilities for the acquisition of aircraft&nbsp;both from HAL and abroad.&nbsp;

Closer scrutiny of the allocation of the capital expenditure, reveals there is an enhanced share for aircraft and aero engines, for all the 3 services from FY 2019-20 to FY 2020-21 apart from their core acquisitions of weapon systems and naval fleet.&nbsp;

The allocation for aircraft and aero engines, for the Army, is Rs 4000 crores up from Rs 2115 Crores from last FY; Navy from Rs 2400 crores to Rs 4640 crores; and IAF from Rs 24807 to Rs 26909 crores to the FY 2020-21. Much of the increased IAF allocation will go to HAL for funding the contract of 83 LCA Mk-1A.&nbsp;

The Indian Armed Forces need to continue their modernisation to meet the growing challenges in the neighbourhood but the performance on the key economic parameters, will not allow for greater budgetary support in the next financial year(s).&nbsp;

Some long in the pipeline reforms such as enhanced FDI for Defence manufacturing, IPR protection and Defence SEZs will bring in more commitment of investment in defence production.&nbsp;

A two-pronged pragmatic approach could hold the key for meeting our security challenges.&nbsp;

At the strategic level of international relations – by forging alliances with partners who hold a stake in the Indian Sub-continent and the Indian Ocean Region. &nbsp;

The Quad in the Indian Ocean Region is one such welcome move, apart from securing naval berths in the friendly nations from Vietnam and Indonesia in the East to Qatar and Seychelles in the West, to counter the growing Chinese influence in the region buttressed by Chinese investments and OBOR.&nbsp;

The second approach involves a more pragmatic approach to continue modernisation of the Armed Forces by way of greater participation of the private industry through reliance on making in India and also assembling in India. &nbsp;

This initiative has given proven results in terms of faster induction of patrol vessels for Navy, K9 Catapult for the Indian Army and large number of key systems including airframes for LCA being sourced from the private industry – moving forward, the shortlisting of L&amp;T with MDL for the P75I project as a Strategic Partner, displays the growing confidence on the capabilities. &nbsp;

There needs to be more such partnerships of the Public Sector and Private Sector, to meet the shortfalls in the budgetary allocation to fill in the wide gaps of technology, capital and to broad base the defence production in the country.&nbsp;

With the creation of the office of CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) and the enhanced powers of procurement to the services, it is hoped that the three wings of India’s armed forces may operate in synergy in terms of defence spends, both for capital and revenue expenditure. India’s security concerns mandate a strong army, navy and air force where the three wings work cohesively for maximum tactical and operational efficiency.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

*Source for Data: Union Finance Ministry Expenditure Budget Bill FY 2020-21.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The state of Indian economy reflected in India's GDP to the growth of 4.8 per cent in 2019-20, and its projected GDP growth as per IMF at 5.8 per cent for 2020-21, coupled with the rise in fiscal deficit to 3.

The state of Indian economy reflected in India's GDP to the growth of 4.8 per cent in 2019-20, and its projected GDP growth as per IMF at 5.8 per cent for 2020-21, coupled with the rise in fiscal deficit to 3.8 per cent, has constrained the government from enhancing the allocations for the Ministry of Defence. The increased allocations to socio-economic sectors for boosting economic growth and on development of infrastructure had a bearing on the defence allocation, with a marginal increase in the defence budget allocation from Rs 318,000 crores in 2019-20 to Rs 337,533 crores for 2020-21. The allocation for the revenue head continues to be in excess of the capital expenditure. Revenue allocation is essential for the maintenance of the weapons, equipment, transport and ammunition for the smooth functioning of the Armed Forces, apart from repairs, overhauls and procurements for the recoupment of the stores and the reserves. The revenue allocation saw a marginal increase from Rs 201901.76 in 2019-20 to Rs 209319.00 for 2020-21 (Increase of Rs 7417.24 crores) On the capital expenditure allocation, there is only an increase of Rs 3340 crores in the budgetary allocation from a RE (Revised Estimates) in 2019-20 of Rs 110,394.31 crores to Rs 113734 crores for 2020-21. Despite a rationalisation of the requirements carried out by the Navy and IAF, (though the allocation to the Navy has risen from 13 per cent to 18 per cent in the current budget), this allocation with the committed liabilities, of the past will fall short of the requirements for modernisation. WATCH: Budget 2020: Hits and misses × The largest increase in terms of budgetary allocation for capital expenditure is for the IAF of Rs 3979 crores followed by Army at Rs 3531 crores. The Indian Army has committed liabilities for the pending procurements of artillery gun systems, rifles and ammunition. IAF has liabilities for the acquisition of aircraft both from HAL and abroad. Closer scrutiny of the allocation of the capital expenditure, reveals there is an enhanced share for aircraft and aero engines, for all the 3 services from FY 2019-20 to FY 2020-21 apart from their core acquisitions of weapon systems and naval fleet. The allocation for aircraft and aero engines, for the Army, is Rs 4000 crores up from Rs 2115 Crores from last FY; Navy from Rs 2400 crores to Rs 4640 crores; and IAF from Rs 24807 to Rs 26909 crores to the FY 2020-21. Much of the increased IAF allocation will go to HAL for funding the contract of 83 LCA Mk-1A. The Indian Armed Forces need to continue their modernisation to meet the growing challenges in the neighbourhood but the performance on the key economic parameters, will not allow for greater budgetary support in the next financial year(s). Some long in the pipeline reforms such as enhanced FDI for Defence manufacturing, IPR protection and Defence SEZs will bring in more commitment of investment in defence production. A two-pronged pragmatic approach could hold the key for meeting our security challenges. At the strategic level of international relations – by forging alliances with partners who hold a stake in the Indian Sub-continent and the Indian Ocean Region. The Quad in the Indian Ocean Region is one such welcome move, apart from securing naval berths in the friendly nations from Vietnam and Indonesia in the East to Qatar and Seychelles in the West, to counter the growing Chinese influence in the region buttressed by Chinese investments and OBOR. The second approach involves a more pragmatic approach to continue modernisation of the Armed Forces by way of greater participation of the private industry through reliance on making in India and also assembling in India. This initiative has given proven results in terms of faster induction of patrol vessels for Navy, K9 Catapult for the Indian Army and large number of key systems including airframes for LCA being sourced from the private industry – moving forward, the shortlisting of L&T with MDL for the P75I project as a Strategic Partner, displays the growing confidence on the capabilities. There needs to be more such partnerships of the Public Sector and Private Sector, to meet the shortfalls in the budgetary allocation to fill in the wide gaps of technology, capital and to broad base the defence production in the country. With the creation of the office of CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) and the enhanced powers of procurement to the services, it is hoped that the three wings of India’s armed forces may operate in synergy in terms of defence spends, both for capital and revenue expenditure. India’s security concerns mandate a strong army, navy and air force where the three wings work cohesively for maximum tactical and operational efficiency. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) *Source for Data: Union Finance Ministry Expenditure Budget Bill FY 2020-21.

Budget 2020: Here's what's in store for the Defence sector

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday addressed the nation on the eve of 71st Republic Day. The President's address, which began at 7 pm, is being broadcast on the entire national network of All India Radio (AIR) and telecast over all channels of Doordarshan in Hindi followed by the English version.

President Ram Nath Kovind addresses nation ahead of 'Republic Day 2020'

Climate change is causing the glaciers to shrink globally but Pakistan's Shisper glacier is expanding causing tons of ice to roll down the valley. The villages downstream are threatened as water swells in the rivers. WION gets you ground report from Indian Army Winter Warfare school where soldiers are taught to how to deal with adverse weather.

WION Exclusive ground report from Indian Army Winter Warfare school

January 15 in History: From first Indian commander-in-chief to US flight 1549 lands in New York City’s Hudson River

Programs aimed at counter-radicalisation of youth should be started for saving them while there is still time, said Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Bipin Rawat, on Thursday.

"We should start counter-radicalisation programs while identifying who are the people to have been radicalised and to what degree. Then look at them who are completely radicalised and then look towards the future. What we are seeing in Kashmir, young boys and girls as young as 10 years old have been radicalised, but they can still be isolated from radicalisation in a gradual manner," General Rawat said at the panel discussion during Raisina Dialogue 2020.

Asserting there is a need to counter the radicalisation programs, the CDS said that the sources of radicalisation need to be found out and treated.

"Radicalisation can be countered, anything which has started can end. You need to see where it is starting. It is starting from schools, universities, from some other sources. We get the nerve of the whole things from where the radicalisation is coming, we have to start isolation of these people through deradicalisation camp," Rawat said.

"We have such deradicalisation camps going in our country and so does Pakistan... ideology and radicalisation are the issues which have to be addressed on priority," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Programs aimed at counter-radicalisation of youth should be started for saving them while there is still time, said Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Bipin Rawat, on Thursday.

Programs aimed at counter-radicalisation of youth should be started for saving them while there is still time, said Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Bipin Rawat, on Thursday. "We should start counter-radicalisation programs while identifying who are the people to have been radicalised and to what degree. Then look at them who are completely radicalised and then look towards the future. What we are seeing in Kashmir, young boys and girls as young as 10 years old have been radicalised, but they can still be isolated from radicalisation in a gradual manner," General Rawat said at the panel discussion during Raisina Dialogue 2020. Asserting there is a need to counter the radicalisation programs, the CDS said that the sources of radicalisation need to be found out and treated. "Radicalisation can be countered, anything which has started can end. You need to see where it is starting. It is starting from schools, universities, from some other sources. We get the nerve of the whole things from where the radicalisation is coming, we have to start isolation of these people through deradicalisation camp," Rawat said. "We have such deradicalisation camps going in our country and so does Pakistan... ideology and radicalisation are the issues which have to be addressed on priority," he added.

De-radicalisation programs should be started to save the youth: General Rawat

The Indian army on Tuesday came to the rescue of a pregnant woman who was trapped in snow and escorted the woman to a hospital through heavy snowfall in the Kashmir Valley.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the valour and professionalism of the Chinar Corps personnel.

Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Modi said the Army is India''s pride and saluted the courage and valour of the soldiers.

The Prime Minister tweeted that "Our Army is known for its valour and professionalism. It is also respected for its humanitarian spirit. Whenever people have needed help, our Army has risen to the occasion and done everything possible! Proud of our Army. I pray for the good health of Shamima and her child."

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Our Army is known for its valour and professionalism. It is also respected for its humanitarian spirit. Whenever people have needed help, our Army has risen to the occasion and done everything possible! 
 
Proud of our Army. 
 
I pray for the good health of Shamima and her child. <a href="https://t.co/Lvetnbe7fQ">https://t.co/Lvetnbe7fQ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1217312604189671425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The video was captioned: "#HumsaayaHainHum...During heavy snowfall, an expecting mother Mrs Shamima required emergency hospitalisation. For 4 hours over 100 Army persons &amp;amp; 30 civilians walked with her on a stretcher through heavy snow. Baby born in a hospital, both mother &amp;amp; child doing fine. #VRWithU4U".

Users on the microblogging site Twitter also appreciated the Indian Army soldiers for their bravery and service.

A user said that "These Video speaks itself how Indian Security Forces is helping Kashmiris in Kashmir. They are always here to protect us in every situation."

"Greetings to Indian Army personnel and their families on Army Day. Dedication, commitment, discipline and values of the Indian Army is an inspiration to all countrymen. We salute the valour of our brave soldiers who have made supreme sacrifice for the motherland," a Tweeple remarked.

The Indian army on Tuesday came to the rescue of a pregnant woman who was trapped in snow and escorted the woman to a hospital through heavy snowfall in the Kashmir Valley.

The Indian army on Tuesday came to the rescue of a pregnant woman who was trapped in snow and escorted the woman to a hospital through heavy snowfall in the Kashmir Valley. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the valour and professionalism of the Chinar Corps personnel. Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Modi said the Army is India''s pride and saluted the courage and valour of the soldiers. The Prime Minister tweeted that "Our Army is known for its valour and professionalism. It is also respected for its humanitarian spirit. Whenever people have needed help, our Army has risen to the occasion and done everything possible! Proud of our Army. I pray for the good health of Shamima and her child." Our Army is known for its valour and professionalism. It is also respected for its humanitarian spirit. Whenever people have needed help, our Army has risen to the occasion and done everything possible! Proud of our Army. I pray for the good health of Shamima and her child. https://t.co/Lvetnbe7fQ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2020 × The video was captioned: "#HumsaayaHainHum...During heavy snowfall, an expecting mother Mrs Shamima required emergency hospitalisation. For 4 hours over 100 Army persons &amp; 30 civilians walked with her on a stretcher through heavy snow. Baby born in a hospital, both mother &amp; child doing fine. #VRWithU4U". Users on the microblogging site Twitter also appreciated the Indian Army soldiers for their bravery and service. A user said that "These Video speaks itself how Indian Security Forces is helping Kashmiris in Kashmir. They are always here to protect us in every situation." "Greetings to Indian Army personnel and their families on Army Day. Dedication, commitment, discipline and values of the Indian Army is an inspiration to all countrymen. We salute the valour of our brave soldiers who have made supreme sacrifice for the motherland," a Tweeple remarked.

Indian Army escorts pregnant woman to hospital in waist-deep snow, gets appreciation from PM and netizens

Indian Army Chief Manoj Mukund Narwane said on Saturday that the Indian Army would take steps to remove Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) from Islamabad's control if Parliament wishes and if the Government of India gave such an order. #IndianArmy #India #WION

'Pok will belong to India as soon as we get orders,' says Indian Army Chief

General Naravane: Ready to take appropriate actions on PoK, waiting for orders

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-camps-continues-to-exist-in-pakistan-army-chief-mm-naravane-to-wion-271729">Army chief general Manoj Mukund Naravane</a> on Saturday in a press conference said that the emphasis of Armed Forces training will be to train for the future, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Describing the formation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the creation of the Department of Military Affairs as "a very big step towards integration", Naravane said that the force will ensure "this is a success".

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Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane briefs the media in Delhi: We will have to train for the future and that is where the emphasis of our training will be. <a href="https://t.co/wvypVGXOZO">pic.twitter.com/wvypVGXOZO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1215885803852718081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"As the Army, we swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, and that should guide us in all our actions at all times," the Army chief said, adding that the ethos of "justice, liberty, equality and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution should guide us".&nbsp;

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Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane: As the army, we swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, and that should guide us in all our actions at all times. <a href="https://t.co/GXfLKXMhEa">pic.twitter.com/GXfLKXMhEa</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1215887439975215104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Naravane said that the Indian Army is "much better prepared today than before".

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Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane: As the army, we swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, and that should guide us in all our actions at all times. <a href="https://t.co/GXfLKXMhEa">pic.twitter.com/GXfLKXMhEa</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1215887439975215104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The army chief emphasised the significance of Siachen for India and said that "collusion can happen from there".

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Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane to ANI: Siachen is very important to us where one formation is looking after western and northern fronts. It is strategically important. It is from there where collusion can happen. <a href="https://t.co/aAOsvfEGuC">pic.twitter.com/aAOsvfEGuC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1215890377724456960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this month, in an interview to WION, Naravane had said that terror camps, launch pads and infrastructure continue to exist in Pakistan.

In conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Naravane also said that after the 2018 Wuhan informal summit, Indian and Chinese forces have developed a greater understanding.

Army chief general Manoj Mukund Naravane on Saturday in a press conference said that the emphasis of Armed Forces training will be to train for the future, news agency ANI reported.

Army chief general Manoj Mukund Naravane on Saturday in a press conference said that the emphasis of Armed Forces training will be to train for the future, news agency ANI reported. Describing the formation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the creation of the Department of Military Affairs as "a very big step towards integration", Naravane said that the force will ensure "this is a success". Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane briefs the media in Delhi: We will have to train for the future and that is where the emphasis of our training will be. pic.twitter.com/wvypVGXOZO — ANI (@ANI) January 11, 2020 × "As the Army, we swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, and that should guide us in all our actions at all times," the Army chief said, adding that the ethos of "justice, liberty, equality and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution should guide us". Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane: As the army, we swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, and that should guide us in all our actions at all times. pic.twitter.com/GXfLKXMhEa — ANI (@ANI) January 11, 2020 × Naravane said that the Indian Army is "much better prepared today than before". Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane: As the army, we swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, and that should guide us in all our actions at all times. pic.twitter.com/GXfLKXMhEa — ANI (@ANI) January 11, 2020 × The army chief emphasised the significance of Siachen for India and said that "collusion can happen from there". Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane to ANI: Siachen is very important to us where one formation is looking after western and northern fronts. It is strategically important. It is from there where collusion can happen. pic.twitter.com/aAOsvfEGuC — ANI (@ANI) January 11, 2020 × Earlier this month, in an interview to WION, Naravane had said that terror camps, launch pads and infrastructure continue to exist in Pakistan. In conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Naravane also said that after the 2018 Wuhan informal summit, Indian and Chinese forces have developed a greater understanding.

We're much better prepared today than before: Army chief general Naravane 

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-uses-terrorism-as-tool-of-state-policy-army-chief-naravane-271301">new Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane</a> on Wednesday said that the priority of the Indian Army will be to be operationally prepared at all times and "pay special attention to respect human rights," news agency ANI reported.

Naravane added that all three services are ready to defend the country.&nbsp;Naravane received Guard of Honour today morning as the Army chief and paid tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.

The Army chief emphasised the need to pay more attention to India's border along China and said that the force is capable of dealing with any security challenge.

"We have been giving attention to our western front in the past. The northern front now also requires an equal amount of attention... The Army is capable of tackling any dangers to the country," General Naravane told reporters.

"In that context, we are now going in for capability development and enhancement of our capacities even in our northern borders which includes the northeastern part of our country," he said.

On the border dispute with China, the Army chief said that continuing peace along the border will pave the way for a solution.

"We have been able to maintain peace and tranquillity along borders and I'm sure that situation will prevail. By maintaining this, we will be able to set the stage for the eventual solution," he said.

On Tuesday, Naravane said that the "neighbouring country" (Pakistan) uses terrorism as a tool of state policy.

In an exclusive interview to ANI hours after taking the charge as the new Army Chief, General Naravane asserted that terrorism is a worldwide problem.

"Terrorism is a worldwide problem, India has been at the receiving end of terrorism for a long time. It is only now that the entire world and many countries affected with terrorism are coming to realise what a threat it is," he said.

"As far as our neighbour is concerned they are trying to use terrorism as a tool of state policy, as a way of carrying out a proxy war against us...while maintaining deniability. However, this state can't last long, as they say, you can't fool all the people, all the time," General Naravane added.

General Naravane took over as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on Tuesday, succeeding General Bipin Rawat who has become India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He previously served as the Vice Chief of Army Staff.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The new Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Wednesday said that the priority of the Indian Army will be to be operationally prepared at all times and "pay special attention to respect human rights," news agency ANI reported.

The new Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Wednesday said that the priority of the Indian Army will be to be operationally prepared at all times and "pay special attention to respect human rights," news agency ANI reported. Naravane added that all three services are ready to defend the country. Naravane received Guard of Honour today morning as the Army chief and paid tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. The Army chief emphasised the need to pay more attention to India's border along China and said that the force is capable of dealing with any security challenge. "We have been giving attention to our western front in the past. The northern front now also requires an equal amount of attention... The Army is capable of tackling any dangers to the country," General Naravane told reporters. "In that context, we are now going in for capability development and enhancement of our capacities even in our northern borders which includes the northeastern part of our country," he said. On the border dispute with China, the Army chief said that continuing peace along the border will pave the way for a solution. "We have been able to maintain peace and tranquillity along borders and I'm sure that situation will prevail. By maintaining this, we will be able to set the stage for the eventual solution," he said. On Tuesday, Naravane said that the "neighbouring country" (Pakistan) uses terrorism as a tool of state policy. In an exclusive interview to ANI hours after taking the charge as the new Army Chief, General Naravane asserted that terrorism is a worldwide problem. "Terrorism is a worldwide problem, India has been at the receiving end of terrorism for a long time. It is only now that the entire world and many countries affected with terrorism are coming to realise what a threat it is," he said. "As far as our neighbour is concerned they are trying to use terrorism as a tool of state policy, as a way of carrying out a proxy war against us...while maintaining deniability. However, this state can't last long, as they say, you can't fool all the people, all the time," General Naravane added. General Naravane took over as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on Tuesday, succeeding General Bipin Rawat who has become India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He previously served as the Vice Chief of Army Staff. (With inputs from ANI)

Need to pay more attention to India's border along China: Army Chief MM Naravane

In the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, the security forces have been maintaining a tight vision to prevent any attempts of infiltrators. As we welcome the New Year 2020 the security forces have been battling the harsh winter while patrolling the Line of Control. Watch report: #NewYear #LoC #IndianForces #IndianArmy

Fineprint: Indian forces celebrating New Year along LoC

Government of India today appointed Bipin Rawat as its first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who will act as the single-point advisor to the government. General Rawat's new duties will include heading the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force.

Government of India today appointed Bipin Rawat as its first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who will act as the single-point advisor to the government. General Rawat's new duties will include heading the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. The newly instituted designation aims to integrate different branches of the Indian armed forces. The first recommendation for creating the post was made after the 1999 Kargil War. Watch: General Bipin Rawat, who served a full three-year-long term as the Indian Army Chief after he superseded two officers in 2016, was announced as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) today. Besides being at the helm of important operations, Rawat has a vast experience in high altitude warfare and counter-insurgency operations. Rawat was born in Pauri, Uttarakhand, and is currently serving as the 32nd Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, the office he had assumed in September 2019. Earlier, he served as the 27th Chief of the Army Staff starting December 2016. The new CDS was awarded the 'Sword of Honour' from the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun after being commissioned in the Fifth Battalion of the Eleven Gorkha Rifles in December 1978. Additionally, he has also commanded an Infantry Battalion, along the Line of Actual Control in the Eastern Sector; a Rashtriya Rifles Sector, and an Infantry Division in the Kashmir Valley. Rawat also commanded a Multinational Brigade in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC). The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) has also received awards for gallantry and distinguished service carrying various military decorations including Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Yudh Seva Medal (YSM), Sena Medal (SM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM). Rawat attended the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, New Zealand.

Army chief General Bipin Rawat appointed as India's first Chief of Defence Staff

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on December 31 expressed his gratitude to soldiers and their kin as he demitted office after a grand farewell ceremony. General Rawat will officially take over as India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who will act as the principal military adviser to the defence minister on all matters relating to tri-services, on January 1, 2019. #BipinRawat #CDS #IndianArmy #ChiefOfAllForces #IndianForces #AirForce #IndianNavy

India General Bipin Rawat: Will form strategy after assuming charge

India gets its first military 'Superchief' as Bipin Rawat

The Siachen Glacier is the highest battlefield in the world. Since operation Meghdoot in 1984 India is is in complete control of the Siachen Glacier. Why is the control of 70 km long stretch of land so important and in what conditions does the Indian Army operate there? Watch exclusive report of WION: #WION #SiachinGlacier #Siachin #Indian Army

WION's exclusive report on Siachen, world's highest battlefield

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-introduces-course-to-help-jawans-clear-ssb-serve-as-officers-251476">Indian Army</a> is better prepared to take on the challenges at Pakistan and China borders, said India's first Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-named-as-indias-first-chief-of-defence-staff-271016">Bipin Rawat</a> before demitting office of the Army chief on Tuesday.

Answering a question by ANI whether the Army became better equipped to tackle challenges on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pakistan-army-is-obsessed-with-india-because-it-justifies-its-indispensability-209455">Pakistan</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/china-celebrates-70th-anniversary-of-communist-rule-252939">China</a> borders under his three years tenure, he said: "Yes, they are better prepared."

General Rawat said that he is focused on restructuring and modernising the Army.

"My focus was on army restructuring, weapon system modernisation, and non-contact warfare," he told reporters here.

During General Rawat's tenure as the Army chief, artillery gun systems M777 American Ultra Light Howitzers and K-9 Vajra, and Sig Sauer assault rifles were inducted in the force.

Speaking to reporters after paying tribute to martyrs at the National War Memorial, General Rawat expressed gratitude to soldiers and complimented "defence civilians and their families" for their support.

"As I demit the office of the chief of Army staff, I wish to convey my gratitude and compliment our soldiers, the ranks and files of Indian Army who have stood steadfast under challenging circumstances and performed duty in keeping traditions of armed forces," he said.

He said: "I thank defence civilians, their families, veterans and their families who have supported us, and me in particular, in helping me perform my duties in an honourable manner." He also extended new year wishes to the soldiers and their families.

General Rawat expressed confidence that General Ashok Narawane, who will be stepping in his shoes, will take the Indian Army to new heights. "I also wish to convey my best wishes to General Ashok Narawane who will be assuming office as 28th chief of Army staff. We are confident that he will, through his competence and professionalism, take this army to even new heights," he said and complimented Narawane's wife who will be taking charge as the mantle of president of army wifes welfare association. "The army will continue to achieve greater heights under their leadership," he added.

General Rawat took over as Army chief on December 31, 2016, after superseding two officers senior to him.

General Rawat will take charge as the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-announce-indias-first-chief-of-defence-staff-today-269990">Chief of the Defence Staff</a> (CDS), a post created to make it the main point of contact for the government for dealing with defence forces' issues.

The Indian Army is better prepared to take on the challenges at Pakistan and China borders, said India's first Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Bipin Rawat before demitting office of the Army chief on Tuesday.

The Indian Army is better prepared to take on the challenges at Pakistan and China borders, said India's first Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Bipin Rawat before demitting office of the Army chief on Tuesday. Answering a question by ANI whether the Army became better equipped to tackle challenges on the Pakistan and China borders under his three years tenure, he said: "Yes, they are better prepared." General Rawat said that he is focused on restructuring and modernising the Army. "My focus was on army restructuring, weapon system modernisation, and non-contact warfare," he told reporters here. During General Rawat's tenure as the Army chief, artillery gun systems M777 American Ultra Light Howitzers and K-9 Vajra, and Sig Sauer assault rifles were inducted in the force. Speaking to reporters after paying tribute to martyrs at the National War Memorial, General Rawat expressed gratitude to soldiers and complimented "defence civilians and their families" for their support. "As I demit the office of the chief of Army staff, I wish to convey my gratitude and compliment our soldiers, the ranks and files of Indian Army who have stood steadfast under challenging circumstances and performed duty in keeping traditions of armed forces," he said. He said: "I thank defence civilians, their families, veterans and their families who have supported us, and me in particular, in helping me perform my duties in an honourable manner." He also extended new year wishes to the soldiers and their families. General Rawat expressed confidence that General Ashok Narawane, who will be stepping in his shoes, will take the Indian Army to new heights. "I also wish to convey my best wishes to General Ashok Narawane who will be assuming office as 28th chief of Army staff. We are confident that he will, through his competence and professionalism, take this army to even new heights," he said and complimented Narawane's wife who will be taking charge as the mantle of president of army wifes welfare association. "The army will continue to achieve greater heights under their leadership," he added. General Rawat took over as Army chief on December 31, 2016, after superseding two officers senior to him. General Rawat will take charge as the first Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), a post created to make it the main point of contact for the government for dealing with defence forces' issues.

Army better prepared to take on challenges at Pakistan, China borders: CDS General Rawat

Indian Army General Bipin Rawat named as the first 'Chief of Defence Staff'. Watch this video to find out more in detail. #CDS #BipinRawat #ChiefOfDefenceStaff

Indian Army General Bipin Rawat named as the first 'Chief of Defence Staff'

As many as 1,500 stranded tourists were rescued by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-armed-forces-ensure-protection-of-human-rights-of-adversaries-also-general-rawat-270673">Indian Army</a> after heavy snowfall blocked the Jawaharlal Nehru road in Sikkim.

The Army carried out the rescue operation on December 27 despite poor visibility and inclement weather.

The stranded tourists were provided relief including, food, shelter, warm clothing and medicines, to ensure their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unabated-cold-wave-grips-northern-india-270473">safety from weather</a> and high altitude.

"These tourists, travelling in nearly 300 taxis, were returning from Nathu La Pass - Tsomgo Lake on Friday evening and got stranded midway at various points along Jawaharlal Nehru road as the motorable stretch was blocked by snow," read an official statement by Indian Army.

The stranded tourists including women, children and elderly persons were accommodated at Army Camp at 17th Mile.

The Army provided JCB and Dozers to clear the snow and restore road connectivity at the earliest.

The evacuation process is still on and will continue till all stranded tourists are safely evacuated to the state capital Gangtok.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Gangtok is likely to receive cloudy sky and rain in the next week.

Dense fog is very likely in isolated pockets over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland," IMD said in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

As many as 1,500 stranded tourists were rescued by the Indian Army after heavy snowfall blocked the Jawaharlal Nehru road in Sikkim. The Army carried out the rescue operation on December 27 despite poor visibility and inclement weather.

As many as 1,500 stranded tourists were rescued by the Indian Army after heavy snowfall blocked the Jawaharlal Nehru road in Sikkim. The Army carried out the rescue operation on December 27 despite poor visibility and inclement weather. The stranded tourists were provided relief including, food, shelter, warm clothing and medicines, to ensure their safety from weather and high altitude. "These tourists, travelling in nearly 300 taxis, were returning from Nathu La Pass - Tsomgo Lake on Friday evening and got stranded midway at various points along Jawaharlal Nehru road as the motorable stretch was blocked by snow," read an official statement by Indian Army. The stranded tourists including women, children and elderly persons were accommodated at Army Camp at 17th Mile. The Army provided JCB and Dozers to clear the snow and restore road connectivity at the earliest. The evacuation process is still on and will continue till all stranded tourists are safely evacuated to the state capital Gangtok. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Gangtok is likely to receive cloudy sky and rain in the next week. Dense fog is very likely in isolated pockets over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland," IMD said in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Indian Army rescues 1500 stranded tourists in Sikkim

Indian armed forces not only ensure the protection of human rights of our own people but also of adversaries and deal with the prisoners of war as per the Geneva Conventions, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Friday.

He was addressing the interns and senior officers of the National Human Rights Commission on 'Preserving Human Rights in Times of War and Prisoners of War'.

He said the country's armed forces were disciplined and have the utmost respect for human rights laws.

According to a NHRC release, Army Chief said that the driving ethos of the Indian armed forces is "Insaniyat"( Humanity) and "Sharafat"( Decency) and they are extremely secular.

The Army Chief said there was a challenge of changing warfare tactics with the advent of technology.

He said that unlike the attack by any armed force, the terror attacks remain unaccountable in international law.

"Hence, the counter-terrorism and anti-insurgency operations have to be dealt in a manner of winning the hearts of the people by identifying and alienating the insurgents among them without collateral damage, which becomes very challenging and difficult", he said.

The Army chief said that Army Headquarters had created a human rights cell in 1993, which now is being upgraded to the level of a Directorate to be headed by an Additional Director General.

This will also have police personnel to address the complaints of human rights violations against the armed forces and facilitate related inquiries, he said.

General Rawat said that a new initiative has been taken in October this year by recruiting women jawans in Military Police Force.

He said that the Army takes along with it several police personnel in search operations, but keeping in view the concerns of women during such operations, the army has now decided to deploy the lady jawans of its Military Police force also.

He said that keeping in view provisions of human rights law and the importance of the protection of human rights, a court of inquiry is being held after every anti-insurgency operation and all records are maintained related to such operations.

Referring to the Armed Force Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Army Chief said that the Act gives almost the same powers to the Army, which are also exercised by police and CRPF in connection with search and inquiry operations.

However, he said that over the years the army itself has diluted its application in its own way under the ten commandments issued by the Chief of Army Staff, which are to be strictly adhered by every soldier, and particularly those deployed for operations in anti-insurgency areas.

The Supreme Court guidelines on this are also being strictly followed by soldiers, who are given special training before their deployment in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, he said.

Earlier, NHRC Member Justice P.C. Pant gave an insight into various laws protecting human rights.&nbsp;

Indian armed forces not only ensure the protection of human rights of our own people but also of adversaries and deal with the prisoners of war as per the Geneva Conventions, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Friday.

Indian armed forces not only ensure the protection of human rights of our own people but also of adversaries and deal with the prisoners of war as per the Geneva Conventions, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Friday. He was addressing the interns and senior officers of the National Human Rights Commission on 'Preserving Human Rights in Times of War and Prisoners of War'. He said the country's armed forces were disciplined and have the utmost respect for human rights laws. According to a NHRC release, Army Chief said that the driving ethos of the Indian armed forces is "Insaniyat"( Humanity) and "Sharafat"( Decency) and they are extremely secular. The Army Chief said there was a challenge of changing warfare tactics with the advent of technology. He said that unlike the attack by any armed force, the terror attacks remain unaccountable in international law. "Hence, the counter-terrorism and anti-insurgency operations have to be dealt in a manner of winning the hearts of the people by identifying and alienating the insurgents among them without collateral damage, which becomes very challenging and difficult", he said. The Army chief said that Army Headquarters had created a human rights cell in 1993, which now is being upgraded to the level of a Directorate to be headed by an Additional Director General. This will also have police personnel to address the complaints of human rights violations against the armed forces and facilitate related inquiries, he said. General Rawat said that a new initiative has been taken in October this year by recruiting women jawans in Military Police Force. He said that the Army takes along with it several police personnel in search operations, but keeping in view the concerns of women during such operations, the army has now decided to deploy the lady jawans of its Military Police force also. He said that keeping in view provisions of human rights law and the importance of the protection of human rights, a court of inquiry is being held after every anti-insurgency operation and all records are maintained related to such operations. Referring to the Armed Force Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Army Chief said that the Act gives almost the same powers to the Army, which are also exercised by police and CRPF in connection with search and inquiry operations. However, he said that over the years the army itself has diluted its application in its own way under the ten commandments issued by the Chief of Army Staff, which are to be strictly adhered by every soldier, and particularly those deployed for operations in anti-insurgency areas. The Supreme Court guidelines on this are also being strictly followed by soldiers, who are given special training before their deployment in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, he said. Earlier, NHRC Member Justice P.C. Pant gave an insight into various laws protecting human rights.

Indian armed forces ensure protection of human rights of adversaries also: General Rawat

At least 18 houses have suffered damages after Pakistan army violated ceasefire in north Kashmir’s Tanghdar sector during the intervening night, officials said.

A police official told WION that Pakistan army used heavy weaponry and targeted Indian positions and villages resulting in damage to houses in Taad Teetwal village.&nbsp;

“Around 18 houses have suffered heavy to partial damage due to the shelling last night,” the officer said adding that there was no loss of life or injuries and the firing had stopped.&nbsp;

On December 25, one army officer and a girl were killed in Pakistan shelling in Baramulla’s Uri sector.&nbsp;

The Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan has been on the boil with a spike in the number of ceasefire violations ever since India abrogated J&amp;K special status and bifurcated the state into two union territories.

At least 18 houses have suffered damages after Pakistan army violated ceasefire in north Kashmir’s Tanghdar sector during the intervening night, officials said. A police official told WION that Pakistan army used heavy weaponry and targeted Indian positions and villages resulting in damage to houses in Taad Teetwal village.

At least 18 houses have suffered damages after Pakistan army violated ceasefire in north Kashmir’s Tanghdar sector during the intervening night, officials said. A police official told WION that Pakistan army used heavy weaponry and targeted Indian positions and villages resulting in damage to houses in Taad Teetwal village. “Around 18 houses have suffered heavy to partial damage due to the shelling last night,” the officer said adding that there was no loss of life or injuries and the firing had stopped. On December 25, one army officer and a girl were killed in Pakistan shelling in Baramulla’s Uri sector. The Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan has been on the boil with a spike in the number of ceasefire violations ever since India abrogated J&K special status and bifurcated the state into two union territories.

18 houses suffer damage as Pakistan violates ceasefire in Kashmir

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-cabinet-approves-funds-for-updating-national-population-register-officials-269981">Central Government</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday approved the creation of a chief of defence staff (CDS), who will be the single-point military adviser to the government as suggested by the Kargil Review Committee in 1999.

"Government has approved the creation of post of Chief of Defence Staff. The officer to be appointed as Chief of Defence Staff will be a four star General and will also head the Department of military affairs," Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said in a press conference.

According to the Government Sources the Armed forces will fall under ambit of Department of Military Affairs which will have appropriate expertise to manage military affairs. Chief of Defence Staff will head it.&nbsp;

The Department of Military Affairs will have appropriate mix of civilian and military officers.

The department of military affairs under the Chief of Defence Staff will facilitate restructuring of military commands for optimal utilization of resources by bringing about jointness in operations, including through establishment of joint/ theatre commands.

Chief of Defence Staff will also have a second role, will be the permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. In this role, the CDS will be supported by the Integrated Defence Staff.

Earlier in the morning the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved creation of post of Chief of Defence Staff.&nbsp;

The first recommendation for creating the post was made after the 1999 Kargil War.

The officer appointed for the post of Chief of Defence Staff is expected to be responsible for creating synergy in operations and finances for the armed forces.

The CDS is expected to be the main point of contact between the armed forces and the government on the issues related to the armed forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-unveil-atal-bihari-vajpayee-statue-in-lucknow-tomorrow-269943">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> had announced the creation of the new office of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on August 15 in his Independence Day speech.

(With inputs from ANI)

Central Government on Tuesday approved the creation of a chief of defence staff (CDS), who will be the single-point military adviser to the government as suggested by the Kargil Review Committee in 1999.

Central Government on Tuesday approved the creation of a chief of defence staff (CDS), who will be the single-point military adviser to the government as suggested by the Kargil Review Committee in 1999. "Government has approved the creation of post of Chief of Defence Staff. The officer to be appointed as Chief of Defence Staff will be a four star General and will also head the Department of military affairs," Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said in a press conference. According to the Government Sources the Armed forces will fall under ambit of Department of Military Affairs which will have appropriate expertise to manage military affairs. Chief of Defence Staff will head it. The Department of Military Affairs will have appropriate mix of civilian and military officers. The department of military affairs under the Chief of Defence Staff will facilitate restructuring of military commands for optimal utilization of resources by bringing about jointness in operations, including through establishment of joint/ theatre commands. Chief of Defence Staff will also have a second role, will be the permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. In this role, the CDS will be supported by the Integrated Defence Staff. Earlier in the morning the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved creation of post of Chief of Defence Staff. The first recommendation for creating the post was made after the 1999 Kargil War. The officer appointed for the post of Chief of Defence Staff is expected to be responsible for creating synergy in operations and finances for the armed forces. The CDS is expected to be the main point of contact between the armed forces and the government on the issues related to the armed forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the creation of the new office of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on August 15 in his Independence Day speech. (With inputs from ANI)

Government approves Chief of Defence Staff post, single-point military adviser to government

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