Underlining the project’s national importance, the CAS emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to ensure the success of this endeavor. He emphasized the LCA’s significance as a representation of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) and the Make in India initiatives. The program shows India’s growing self-reliance in the aerospace sector.

The comprehensive review revealed that all fighter variants falling under the LCA Mk 1 category had been successfully delivered to the IAF as per the agreed-upon contracts. The HAL representatives reaffirmed their commitment to delivering the contracted twin-seater aircraft within the stipulated timeframe.

In addition to the achievements of LCA Mk 1, the IAF signed a contract for 83 units of the LCA Mk-1A variant in 2021. HAL’s Chairman & Managing Director assured attendees that deliveries of this advanced version would commence by February 2024. Praising HAL’s efforts, the CAS suggested that if these commitments were met, the LCA Mk 1A could be assigned to a newly established squadron at one of the IAF’s operational bases in the early months of the upcoming year.

While acknowledging some project delays discussed during the review, the CAS appreciated the dedication demonstrated by all stakeholders. He also emphasized the importance of integrating the valuable lessons learned from the LCA program into future indigenous design and developmental projects.

With the expected timely deliveries of the improved LCA Mk 1A variant, its deployment is set to expand to forward bases and its participation in international exercises in the near future. This achievement indicates technological progress and strengthens India’s growing prominence in the global aerospace arena. 

The author is a Delhi-based, DCC-qualified defence beat writer and independent contributor to print and online publications

Views are personal

Taking advantage of unfavorable weather conditions and heavy rainfall, the terrorists were tracked and engaged in a well-planned Indian Army ambush at around 0130 hours. In the ensuing firefight, the terrorists sustained casualties. The area has been cordoned off, and a search operation is currently underway, as stated by Lt. Col. Devender Anand of the Indian Army.

Notably, deep blood trails have been discovered at the site. Three terrorists, weapons, war-like supplies, an improvised explosive device (IED), and narcotics have been apprehended. Unfortunately, one Indian Army soldier was injured in the exchange of fire but has been evacuated for medical assistance. Search operations are ongoing.

This incident follows a similar operation called Op-Machal Prahar earlier this month, where two terrorists attempting infiltration were eliminated. The success of this intelligence-based operation in the challenging and treacherous terrain reflects the exceptional coordination among the Indian Army, JKP, and other agencies involved in counter-infiltration efforts.

The security forces of India remain steadfast in their commitment to thwart the disruptive intentions of hostile elements supported by our adversaries, thus ensuring peace and harmony in India.

The author is a Delhi-based, DCC-qualified defence beat writer and independent contributor to print and online publications

Moreover, India’s progress in space exploration gained momentum with the joint release of the Gaganyaan Recovery Training Plan by the Indian Navy and ISRO at the Water Survival Training Facility (WSTF) INS Garuda in Kochi. Vice Admiral Atul Anand, Director General of Naval Operations, Dr. Unnikrishnan Nair, Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), and Dr. Umamaheshwaran R, Director of the Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) of ISRO, jointly unveiled the training document.

This training document outlines the plan for the recovery of the Crew Module of the Gaganyaan mission. It specifies the overall requirements for training various teams involved in recovery operations, including divers, MARCOs, medical specialists, communicators, technicians, and naval aviators. The recovery training will be conducted in incremental phases, starting from unmanned recovery and progressing to manned recovery training in both harbor and open sea conditions. The Indian Navy is coordinating the recovery operations with other government agencies.

The Crew Module Recovery Model was officially handed over to the Indian Navy at the state-of-the-art Water Survival Training Facility (WSTF) at INS Garuda, Kochi. This simulated mockup, representing the mass and shape of the module, will be used for familiarization and training of the Gaganyaan recovery teams. The Indian Navy will also support ISRO by conducting a series of trials to refine the Standard Operating Procedures for training the crew and recovery teams of the Gaganyaan mission.

Operating across air, surface, and sub-surface domains, INAS 312 has played a crucial role in various Naval Operations, showcasing its competence and versatility. They have spearheaded aerial missions, surface operations, and underwater activities. With a steadfast dedication to safeguarding national interests, the squadron has served as the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), maintaining maritime security and protecting national sovereignty. Through operational excellence, INAS 312 has rendered invaluable service to the nation.

The accomplishment of 40,000 flight hours by the INAS 312 squadron, operating P8I aircraft, represents a commendable milestone and a decade of Naval Operations. Their role as ‘Albatross’ has been instrumental in leading operations across air, surface, and sub-surface domains. As the first responder in the IOR, they have consistently safeguarded national interests and played a crucial role in maintaining maritime security.

During a conversation with Cmde. Srikant B Kesnur (Retd), Former Director of the Maritime Warfare Centre, Mumbai & Naval Historian, highlighted the significant capabilities of the P8I aircraft operated by the INAS 312 squadron. The P8I Poseidon, renowned for its versatility, is considered a formidable asset for the Indian Navy and is utilized in various roles, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and maritime security operations. It has greatly contributed to maritime diplomacy efforts. It is equipped with advanced sensors, communication systems, and data-sharing capabilities, enhancing situational awareness and promoting collaborative marine security initiatives on a larger scale.

Cmde. Kesnur emphasized that the P8I Poseidon’s exceptional fitness, readiness, and long-range capabilities make it advantageous for rapid deployment and quick responses to maritime challenges. Its modern systems and efficient maintenance processes ensure operational availability and facilitate swift mission planning and execution. The P8I Poseidon’s extended fuel capacity, efficient engines, and advanced avionics enable it to conduct prolonged surveillance missions far from its base of operations. This long-range capability is crucial for monitoring activities in distant waters, supporting search and rescue operations, and contributing to regional maritime security.

Compared to earlier generation aircraft such as the TU and IL, the P8 Poseidon is considered far more advanced and capable of maritime patrol and reconnaissance. It is regarded as one of the best aircraft in the business today.

To provide timely evidence of the aircraft’s effectiveness, the Indian Navy recently deployed its Air Maritime Reconnaissance assets in response to the sinking of the Chinese Fishing Vessel Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028 on the 17th of May. Despite adverse weather conditions, P8I aircraft conducted extensive searches and located multiple objects possibly associated with the sunken vessel. The Indian Navy promptly deployed search and rescue (SAR) equipment at the scene at the request of PLA(N) ships. They coordinated SAR efforts with other units and guided the PLA(N) warships transiting to the incident scene. 

This swift humanitarian action displayed India’s commitment as a credible and responsible partner in ensuring safety at sea. The Indian Navy remains deployed to support ongoing SAR efforts, with the INAS 312 squadron, ‘Albatross,’ steadfastly fulfilling its role.

The P-8I naval aircraft was crucial in rescuing renowned sailor Cdr (Retd) Abhilash Tomy during a challenging incident in 2018. As he participated in the Golden Globe Race, Cdr. Tomy’s boat, ‘Thuriya,’ was severely damaged in a storm, leaving him stranded and immobile—distress messages from Cdr. Tomy alerted the international community, triggering a collaborative rescue mission.

On September 23, 2018, an Indian Navy’s P-8I Poseidon, a long-range maritime patrol aircraft, departed from Mauritius and made visual contact with Abhilash Tomy’s Thuriya. The aircraft conducted an initial inspection before returning, while Australian Navy aircraft also carried out similar visual reconnaissance missions. It was determined that the French patrol boat, Orisis, was the closest vessel to Tomy and, thus, in the best position to execute the rescue mission. The P-8I aircraft played a crucial role in relaying vital information and visuals to the involved countries, facilitating the coordination of the rescue efforts.

Additional ambushes were placed along likely infiltration routes, and troops braved adverse weather conditions for two nights. The terrorists were encountered by the troops early on May 3, and a fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the elimination of two terrorists. The security forces recovered two AK series rifles, magazines, and many warlike stores.

The identity of the terrorists and their affiliated groups is being investigated. This successful operation is a testament to the collaboration between the Indian Army, JKP, and all agencies to defeat the malicious intentions of those who seek to disturb the peace and harmony of the area.

Having demonstrated its impressive capabilities during many military exercises in the past, the mighty C-130J was recently deployed on a mission and executed an assault short-field landing with great success.

On the night of April 27th/28th, 2023, a daring operation was conducted by the Indian Air Force to rescue 121 individuals from a small airstrip located approximately 40 kilometers north of Khartoum, known as Wadi Sayyidna. The passengers rescued included medical cases, among them a pregnant woman, as well as individuals who lacked the means to reach Port Sudan. The operation was carried out using a C-130J aircraft.

Under the aegis of the Indian Defence Attaché, the convoy made its way to the degraded airstrip located at Wadi Sayyidna. Throughout the journey, the Attaché remained in constant communication with the Indian Air Force authorities. The airstrip lacked navigational approach aids, fuel, and most critically, landing lights – essential for guiding an aircraft during night-time landings.

The aircrew approached the airstrip using their Electro-Optical/Infra-Red sensors to ensure that the runway was clear of any obstructions and that hostile forces were not present in the vicinity. After ensuring the safety of the landing, the aircrew performed a tactical approach using Night Vision Goggles on an extremely dark night.

Upon landing, the aircraft engines were kept running while eight IAF Garud Commandos secured the passengers and their luggage onto the aircraft. The takeoff from the unlit runway was also performed using NVGs (Night Vision Goggles). This operation, which lasted approximately two and a half hours, will be remembered in the annals of Indian Air Force history for its remarkable boldness and flawless execution like the operation carried out in Kabul.

The author is a Delhi-based, DCC-qualified defence beat writer and independent contributor to print and online publications

Defence Minister reaffirmed the faith of the billion-plus citizens in the Indian Army as one of the country’s most trusted and inspiring organizations. He highlighted the stellar role played by the Army in guarding our borders and fighting terrorism apart from providing assistance to the civil administration whenever called for.  Defence Minister also remarked “The Army’s contribution is applaudable in every domain from Security, HADR, Medical Assistance to maintaining the stable internal situation in the country.  The role of Indian Army is very important in Nation building as also in the overall national development”.  He expressed his happiness to be present in the Army Commander’s conference and complimented the Army leadership for successfully taking ahead the ‘Defence and Security’ vision of the Nation and the Hon’ble Prime Minister. 

The Defence Minister stressed the present complex world situation, which effects everyone globally. He stated, “Unconventional and asymmetric warfare, including hybrid war, will be part of the future conventional wars. Cyber, information, communication, trade, and finance have become inseparable from future conflicts. This necessitates that Armed Forces will have to consider all these facets while planning and formulating strategies”.

Commenting on the current situation along the Northern borders, the Defence Minister expressed full confidence in the Army for any contingency though, the ongoing talks for a peaceful resolution will continue, and disengagement and de-escalation is the best way forward. Expressing his gratitude, he remarked, “It is our ‘Whole of Government’ approach to ensure availability of best weapons, equipment and clothing to our troops braving extreme weather and hostile forces to defend our territorial integrity”. Defence Minister complimented the efforts of BRO, which has led to the incomparable improvement of road communication in the borders of both Western and Northern while working under difficult conditions.

Referring to the situation along the Western borders, he complimented the Indian Army’s response to cross border terrorism, however the proxy war by the adversary continues. The Defence Minister said “I compliment the excellent synergy between the CAPF/ Police forces and the Army in tackling the menace of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The synergised operations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are contributing to increased stability and peace in the region and the same should continue, and for this I again compliment the Indian Army”.

Defence Minister commended the Army for the high standard of operational preparedness and capabilities which he has always been experiencing first hand during his visits to forward areas. He also paid tributes to all the brave hearts for making the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the motherland. He complimented the significant contributions made by the Army in military diplomacy to further our national security interests by creating sustainable cooperative relationships with foreign Armies.  He also applauded  Indian Army  for its effort in providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Mission post earthquake in Turkey during ‘Operation Dost’.

The Defence Minister stressed upon the technological advancement taking place in every sphere of our life and applauded the Armed Forces for aptly incorporating them.  He appreciated the Army’s efforts to develop niche technologies in collaboration with civil industries, including premier educational institutions, thereby progressing towards ‘Modernisation through Indigenisation’ or ‘Atam Nirbharta’.  He also stressed that as user we must impose our faith in own Industries and technologies which would in turn motivate the Industry to produce the best as also would boost ‘Atam Nirbharta’.

Defence Minister also complimented the Army for its dedicated efforts towards the national vision of ‘Women Empowerment’ by grant of Permanent Commission and induction of women officers in most of the streams of Indian Army. He also complemented the Army in the execution of newly formulated recruitment scheme ‘Agniveers’ in the army as also the exuberance displayed by the youth of the county for the same.

The Defence Minister released the second edition of Indian Army UN Journal titled ‘Blue Helmet Odessey- Changing Contours of Peacekeeping Operations in the 20th Century” which is a compilation of inputs from missions and perspectives by senior military leadership and diplomats and a commemorative postal stamp on the occasion of 75 years of Indian Army. The Defence Minister also reviewed an equipment display focusing on niche technology, innovation, solutions for surveillance, Artificial Intelligence, Training, Robotics, Virtual Reality, Operational Logistics etc.

He concluded that issues related to “Defence diplomacy, indigenization, information warfare, defense infrastructure and force modernization should always be deliberated upon in such a forum.  War preparedness should be a continuous phenomenon and we should always be ready for unpredictables and uncertain events that may crop up at any time. We should always be honing up our fighting skills and weapons technologies to act effectively whenever required.  The Nation is proud of its Army and the Government is committed to facilitating the Army in their forward movement on the road to reforms and capability modernization”.

As subjects, women have been photographed in a variety of ways throughout the history of photography. In the medium’s early days, women were often depicted in traditional roles as wives, mothers, and homemakers. However, as photography evolved, women began to be represented in more diverse and complex ways, challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

Today, women continue to contribute to photography as photographers and subjects significantly. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to increase the representation of women and other marginalized groups in the field, with organizations like Women Photograph supporting and promoting women photographers’ work worldwide.

While these were the testimony of how women broke the ceiling globally, contributing to the field of photography, here is the story of – Sipra Das from Delhi-NCR, India. The 70-year-old photographer and photojournalist started her journey in 1980, and recently was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Photography Awards given by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.

Born to a lower-middle-class Bengali family in the pockets of South Kolkata, West Bengal, Sipra Das’s journey has never been a cakewalk. In my recent tryst with the veteran, we deliberated on her journey thus far.

When inquired of her parents, Sipra smurkly responded, “They must be happy today” as far as I remember, they hailed from the side of north Bengal.

“My childhood years were tough and will remain an etched memory. Poverty is a condition of severe deprivation of basic human needs, including food, water, shelter, healthcare, and education. Living a poverty-laden life can have profound and long-lasting effects on individuals and communities. And it was no exception for me. People living in poverty often face significant challenges, including inadequate housing, poor nutrition, limited access to healthcare, and lower levels of education. These challenges can lead to poor physical and mental health outcomes, higher rates of disease and disability, and reduced life expectancy,” Sipra expressed.

“Addressing poverty, I feel contained all of it couldn’t slow me down. By addressing the root causes of poverty and investing in programs and policies that support individuals and communities living in poverty, I feel we can work to create a more just and equitable society,” Sipra further added.

In her initial starting days, Sipra used to draft stories, features, and radio-related work such as scripts and dubbing to earn a living while standing by her family. Her interest in photography emerged when a patriarchy-led system refrained from assigning someone to click photos for her feature pieces.

The young girl, Sipra (then), thought to ace the art of photography, making herself self-sufficient to run her work-related deliverables.  Since then, Sipra has continued to shoot and to date. She further delineates how some of the seniors of her time helped her learn this art through lenses. Curiously, when inquired about her first camera, Sipra shared merrily – it was an – Agfa Isoly-II Vintage.

The veteran, today, feels that there are loads for her left to contribute to the journalistic fraternity of India. Some of her significant life assignments include the Kargil war, Hindu Temples in the Kashmir valley allegedly destroyed by the JKLF militants, covering IPKF withdrawal from Sri Lanka, Babri masjid issue in Ayodhya, Op-Rhino: against ULFA militants in the Assam region and many more if requested a jog to her mind.

A B.Sc. graduate, Sipra pursued a degree in M.A on Islamic history. In contrast, her professional degree as a photographer is validated by being an – Associate of the Royal Photography Society, London, in 1997. She has extensively contributed to the Indian and International PRESS at large.

When asked what the challenges are, she feels that compared to an advanced and digitized world in the present, she expressed, – “There is no end to photojournalism.” I don’t see anywhere falling short of taking the race with the young generation, even though they are more equipped and keep a digitized mindset.  

“This Lifetime award – I am treating it as my second innings. It is too early for me to think of retirement”, Sipra added. While our conversation touched upon some facets of the daring and seasoned soul, I was inquisitive about her feelings for the non-fulfilments in her life.

In conclusion to our heart-to-heart conversation, Sipra expressed with no sense of complaint, “I worked in a male-dominated profession. On top of it, the economic condition didn’t prompt me to afford full film rolls at that point in time. I used to rag-pick the film spools, which the male seniors (then) threw away in the dustbins. At times, I used to secure a couple of shots from one, and if it was a lucky day for me, three shots out of one. Seniors used to look down, which was evident for them, as they used to feel – how come a female be a duty photojournalist? Unsure of the outcomes of the harsh and tough news assignments.”

Since 1989 Sipra Das has been covering the Parliament sessions, and the veteran continues to do so. Laughingly, when I asked about her love life as a woman and why she chose to be a lone woman and not marry a man, she intensely replied – Who says I am unmarried? I am very much married. “I am married to my camera.” Wearing a smile between her sunken cheeks, that’s Sipra Das for you all.

The gallant Captain was later awarded the Mahavir Chakra posthumously. The ship and her fearless crew now lie at a depth of approximately 80m, about 100 nautical miles off Diu.

The Indian Navy paid a unique tribute in eternal gratitude to the ultimate sacrifice of the brave INS Khukri and her crew by laying wreaths underwater at the final resting place of the ship India lost in the 1971 War.

A unique tribute under the deep sea was paid over a touching homage through a poignant reunion as deep-sea divers of the Diving Support Ship, INS Nireekshak, placed three wreaths on the Khukri; one on behalf of the survivors and families of those lost, the second on behalf of all ranks of the Indian Navy and the third on behalf of the Operational Commander, the Commander-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command.

As an institution, Indian Navy believes the valiant ‘Khukri’ continues to live and will forever inspire a grateful nation and her Armed Forces. Commodore. Srikant Kesnur (retd) Indian Navy and a Naval Historian now, expressed, “As we remember the poignant loss of INS Khukri, 51 years ago, on 09 Dec 1971, let us spare a thought for all the 196 who were martyred and 69 who survived. Many of them would have such stories. Most are, possibly, untold. We owe it to them in the true spirit of Remembrance to tell their tales”. 

The author is a Delhi-based, DCC-qualified defence beat writer and independent contributor to print and online publications

Views are personal.

Ensuing that, at 0940hrs, the Security Forces intercepted a suspected Tata Sumo. On being intercepted, the terrorists in the vehicle, in an attempt to flee, opened indiscriminate fire on the Security Forces. They did so to create chaos by inflicting casualties to Security Forces & civilians in the crowded area.

However, the Security Forces exercised complete restraint and cordoned off the terrorists in the nearby shops, where they had to seek shelter.  

The security forces tightened the noose of the area by dynamically reinforcing the area with additional troops and cutting off all possible escape roots. While ensuring strict fire control and valuing civilian life, security forces evacuated the locals to safety.

The terrorists continued with indiscriminate fire on the security forces evacuating the locals. In the ensuing firefight, the dreaded terrorists were eliminated by the precise fire brought down by our security forces.

As per the JKP, the neutralized terrorists have been identified as Sahid Rashid Sheikh, r/o Kisrigom, Kakapora, and Arbaz Ah Mir, r/o Putrigam, Pulwama, both belonging to the outlawed LeT outfit. The search of the area resulted in the recovery of one AK series rifle, one pistol, and other indiscriminating material.

Eliminating these terrorists has given a big jolt to the terrorist ‘tanzeems‘ in the area. It has disturbed their nefarious plans of disturbing the peace and tranquillity in the area. A close watch continues to be there in the area, as reported.

The author is a Delhi-based, DCC-qualified defence beat writer and independent contributor to print and online publications