Monthly Archives: August 2018

Admiral Ali’s visit also included engagements at key maritime establishments

o bolster maritime collaboration, the Indian and Indonesian navies on Monday discussed operational cooperation, joint exercises and strategies to combat piracy and other maritime challenges.

Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, met with Indian Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi during his official visit to India as part of the high-level delegation accompanying President Prabowo Subianto.

The Defence Ministry stated, “Admiral Ali and Admiral Tripathi held bilateral interactions to deepen maritime cooperation and strengthen ties between the two close maritime neighbours.”

The discussions focused on advancing joint initiatives like ‘Exercise Samudra Shakti’, strengthening operational collaboration and addressing shared challenges, including piracy and illegal maritime activities.

Admiral Ali’s visit also included engagements at key maritime establishments, including Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Weapons and Electronics Systems and Engineering Establishment, focusing on technological and strategic advancements.

He also visited BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited, exchanging insights on strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence and strategy. Indonesia is in talks to procure the BrahMos missile from India under a $450 million deal. A high-level defence delegation from Indonesia is expected in the coming weeks to finalise details, including discussions on building warships for the Indonesian Navy and Coast Guard by Indian shipyards.

Indonesia’s geographic position across critical shipping routes, including the Malacca Strait, underscores its importance in regional security. Jakarta plays a key role in securing this vital maritime chokepoint and conducts coordinated patrols with Malaysia and Singapore.

Admiral Ali also met Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. Their discussions cantered on enhancing the strategic partnership and defence cooperation between the two nations.

Panel to meet soon to discuss concerns on trans-border rivers

ndia and China, in their ongoing efforts to iron out differences, today announced the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from this summer and restart of the direct flights that were suspended during Covid-19.

Being received by Deputy Commissioner Chandigarh

Introducing Superintend of Police, Chandigarh

Interacting with Chief Secretary cum Advisor to Governor of Punjab

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/opinion/columnists/manish-tewari-the-evolution-of-a-75-yr-old-republic-1856578

About the Author Manish Tewari Manish Tewari is a lawyer and a former Union minister. The views expressed are personal. Twitter handle @manishtewari

As India gets ready to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution and founding of the Republic it is imperative to reflect upon the impulses that drove the seminal moments before and after August 15, 1947, i.e. Independence Day. The first and foremost imperative was that Independence marked the culmination of the the freedom struggle that was an unique experiment in non-violence and passive resistance initiated by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi after his arrival in Bombay from Cape Town in South Africa on January 9, 1915, after an arduous sea voyage of five months and 20 days.

Fifty-eight years before that day a violent rebellion, namely the the First War of Independence in 1857, also called the Great Revolt in Anglophile history, had failed to liberate India from the avaricious clutches of the East India Company paving the way for the formal establishment of the British Crown Rule in India. The second impulse was that while freedom did come at midnight it was bloodstained. Both Punjab and Bengal had to bear the brunt of being partitioned followed by an orgy of violence that consumed and snuffed out millions of lives and uprooted millions more from their homes and hearth. From the far-flung mountainous extremities of the North Western Frontier Province (NWFP) to the plains of Delhi over two million people died and another 15 million were rendered refugees as a consequence of the Partition of Punjab. In Bengal the number of people who died range from five hundred thousand to two million.

he central dilemma that confronted the leaders of the liberation struggle was what kind of a nation they would like to create after such horrific violence on such a colossal scale that had convulsed the very soul of a yet to be fully conceived nation. Though the Constituent Assembly had been formed on December 6, 1946, and met formally for the first time on the ninth of December it really started its work only after the Partition of India that cleaved the continent into two dominions India and Pakistan, respectively.

The doyens who had led the movement for Independence were very clear in their minds that the ideas, concepts, aspirations of a people did not need expansive and grandiose structures of masonry to articulate and announce the dawn of a new era. Instead, it needed a foundational idea a grund norm that clearly spelled out in a crisp and crystallised manner as to what exactly are the principles on which the

Hence, they decided to persevere with the Constituent Assembly despite the fact that out of the original 389 members elected by the provincial assemblies only 289 remained with the rest leaving to form the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan that started meeting in Karachi. Thus, the written word, in the form of a book, cheap to publish and universally available would become the perfect instrument for the dissemination of the Constitution. The founding fathers of modern India who had come of age in the fiery crucible of the struggle against the mightiest imperialist goliath of the 20th century did not first, in 1947, move to raze building and raise buildings to announce the dawn of a new freedom. Instead, they chose to sit down, 299 of the very best of them, for almost two-and-a-half long years, to debate and dissect and carve the most important book of contemporary India, it’s Constitution. A new covenant of equality and fraternity and justice for all Indians. The constitution was a manifestation of the liberal impulses that were intrinsic to the very DNA of the men and women of the Constituent Assembly for it is democrats who create festivals of ideas, crusades of justice and equity, carnivals of creativity, in which all may participate, on some kind of equal footing. In the preamble of the Constitution itself they delineated a vision that was lofty in its conception and grandiloquent in its intent. The framers of the Constitution made a giant leap of faith when they gave the right to vote to all Indians irrespective of religion, caste, creed, place of birth or descent at a point in time when the literacy rate in India in 1950 was a meagre 18.32 per cent. The unamended Article 326 of the Constitution of India that was subsequently amended in 1988 by the sixty-first Constitutional Amendment Act when the voting age was reduced to18 years. On a separate note, as the national president of the NSUI then, I had driven the initiative to make this seminal transition to a lower voting age a reality. The framers of the founding document of the republic by a constitutional fiat abolished untouchability a centuries-old abhorrent practice that differentiated among people based upon caste. Article 17 of the Constitution explicitly stated untouchability is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden. The enforcement of any disability arising out of untouchability shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law. Similarly, Article 23 abolished the pernicious practice of beggar or forced labour. These are some of the very forward leaning and progressive features of the Constitution that tend to go unnoticed. Another not often discussed facet of the Constitution is how did the pendulum swing from a federal structure of the Constitution to a more unitary construct. The Cabinet Mission Plan had primarily allocated defense, communication and foreign affairs to the Union. In pursuance of this mandate a Union Powers Committee was appointed on January 25, 1947, headed by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The committee submitted its first report on April 17, 1947. It listed six subjects under the broad rubric of defence, 17 under foreign affairs and 12 under communications. However, in view of the uncertainty over the political status of the nation the report was but a mere formality. A second report was submitted on the 5th of July, 1947. Commending the report for the consideration of the Constituent Assembly, Pandit Nehru wrote to the president of the Constituent Assembly outlining the kernal shift in the constitutional structure of the new nation, namely a strong centre and weaker states. He stated, “Now that Partition is a settled fact, we are unanimously of the view that it would be injurious to the interests of the country to provide for a weak central authority which would be incapable of ensuring peace, of coordinating vital matters of common concern and of speaking effectively for the whole country in the international sphere…” There are many such ironical twists and turns in the making of the Constitution and the evolution of the republic. Many who today claim to be the protectors of the Constitution have unfortunately not even acquainted themselves with its fundamental tenets much less the story of its conceptualisation. ( Source : Deccan Chronicle )

The Japanese regard the battle of Imphal to be their greatest defeat ever, and it gave Indian soldiers a belief in their own martial ability and showed that they could fight as well or better than anyone else. – Robert Lyman, author of ‘Japan’s Last Bid for Victory: The Invasion of India 1944’ IV Corps of 14th Army with 17, 20 and 23 Indian Divisions, 50th Indian Para Brigade and 254 Indian Tank Brigade was fully committed to operations in Imphal. Two brigades from 5th and one from 7th Indian Divisions were flown in later into Imphal. The Japanese plan was over ambitious and lacked reasonable logistic support. Mataguchi assumed that he would achieve his terminal objective within three weeks. In his scheme of things they would survive on meager supplies and live off the land, later capturing enemy’s supply dumps. Operationally too he was boisterous and assumed that the Allies would not be able to use tanks in the forested mountains and left behind most of his field artillery, their principal anti-tank weapon. Emboldened by his success at Malaya at the start of the campaign, Mataguchi considered the British and Indian Troops inferior.

He was ambitious, impatient, thrusting: he terrorised his staff with the result that they held back bad news from him allowing misfortunes to drift and escalate. The Japanese operation began on 7 March 1944 with 15th, 31st and 33rd Divisions supported by 14th Tank rgiment. Mutaguchi’s order of the day was: Sweep aside the paltry opposition we encounter and add lustre to army traditions by achieving a victory of annihilation. By 12 March all Indian units based near the Indian/Burma border were in contact with the Japanese. Between Mar 22-26, a severe battle took place at Sangshak located close to Ukhrul about 60 Kms northeast of Imphal and saw 50th Indian Parachute Brigade holding out for several days against wave upon wave of Japanese attacks. The battle delayed the advance of the Japanese 31st Division towards Kohima and of 15th Division towards Imphal by a critical few days. This threw Mutaguchi’s timetable into disarray and also resulted in casualties beyond his expectations. On 29 March the road from Kohima to Imphal, its lifeline was cut by the Japanese 15th Division. Later it saw some very intense ding-dong and bloody skirmishes especially at Kanglatongbi. Imphal was now accessible only by air; the Royal Airforce played a decisive role by maintaining the forces in Imphal. A few miles to the north-east of Imphal town lay the detached massif of Nunshigum, towering 1,000 feet over the Plain and dominated Imphal airstrip; holding Nunshingum was vital. The battle of Nunshingum was fought from 7-15 April before it was recaptured using a combination of Armour, Artillery and Infantry (1/17th DOGRAS) in the battle, together with air support to evict the very determined Japanese. Radio was used effectively to avoid fratricide. Meanwhile, the 20th Indian Division from Tamu withdrew in face of the Yamamoto Force to the Shenam Saddle, a complex of hills through which the Imphal-Tamu Road passed. Further south, Tiddim based 17th Indian Division was cut off by Japanese 33rd Division. Both the divisions suffered heavy casualties. 23rd Indian Division was deployed to reinforce 17th Division. The two divisions, supplied by air, made their way back to the Imphal plain by 4 April. The Japanese followed triumphantly, failing to appreciate that their lines of communication were now extending all the way back over the mountains to Chindwin River in Burma. The planned withdrawal however would not be easy and in words of General William J. Slim, Commander of the 14th Army: “Like unevenly spaced spokes of a wheel, six routes converged on to the Imphal plain to meet at the hub: Imphal itself. It was by these that the Japanese strove to break into the plains. The fighting all round its circumference was continuous, fierce, and often confused as each side manoeuvred to outwit and kill.” By 1 May, the Japanese attacks had halted. The 14th Army planned a counter-offensive against the weak Japanese 15th Division. Their progress was however slow due to outbreak of monsoons and while rations and reinforcements were delivered to Imphal by air, artillery ammunition had to be conserved. By now, the Japanese were at the end of their endurance. Neither 31st Division which was fighting at Kohima nor 15th Division had any supplies and their troops were starving. 31st Division retreated in end May. 33 Indian Corps the Japanese from Kohima, and advanced south. Fighting along the Tamu Road involved repeated attempts by Yamamoto Force to get past the defences at Shenam Saddle and later by 20th Indian Division to evict the Japanese who held their ground tenaciously. The fighting was bitter and continued till July. All hills dominating the road lay barren and scorched by gunpowder.

The determined Japanese had to be repeatedly grenaded and finally bayoneted in their bunkers. Yamamoto Force suffered heavy casualties, but before withdrawing, they launched two successful raids on Palel Airfield a few KMs North of the Shenam Saddle in the first week of July, destroying several aircraft. drove Some of the fiercest fights of the battle would take place astride the Tiddim Road and on the track Silcher-Bisenpur. Four of the five Victoria Crosses were won in this sector. During the first half of May, there were several Japanese air attacks on Bishenpur, and heavy fighting. The frontlines shifted frequently and there was infiltration and cross infiltration by opposing battalions: this caused enormous confusion and casualties on both sides. The Japanese launched repeated attacks which reduced many of their battalions to a mere handful. By end of June 33rd Division was no longer a viable fighting force. “The struggle has developed into a fight between the material strength of the enemy and our spiritual strength. Continue in the task till all your ammunition is expended. If your hands are broken fight with your feet. If your hands and feet are broken use your teeth. If there is no breath left in your body, fight with your spirit. Lack of weapons is no excuse for defeat.” Lieutenant General Renya Mutaguchi Mutaguchi would not easily accept defeat and ordered 31st Division, which had retreated from Kohima, to join 15th Division in a renewed attack on Imphal from the north. Neither division obeyed the order, being in no condition to comply. When he realised that none of his formations were obeying his orders to attack, Mutaguchi finally ordered the offensive to be broken off on 3 July. The Japanese, fell back to the Chindwin, abandoning their artillery, transport, and many injured soldiers. Tamu was recaptured at the end of July. Japanese suffered 54,879 casualties, including 13,376 dead. Most losses were result of starvation, disease and exhaustion. T

he Allies suffered 12,603 casualties. Four Victoria Crosses were won by the Indian soldiers during this bloody battle: • Jemadar Abdul Hafiz (Posthumously) of 3rd Battalion of the 9th JAT Regiment on 6 April 1944, at Runaway Hill near the Iril River Valley Northeast of Imphal. He killed many Japanese and those who did not die simply ran away, hence the name of the hill. • Rifleman Ganju Lama of 1st Battalion, the 7th Gorkha Rifles (Transferred to British Army in 1947) on 12 June 1944, at Ningthoukhong on Tiddim Road for destroying three enemy tanks with PIAT (Projector Infantry Anti-Tank) and killing many. • Naik Agansing Rai of 2nd Battalion, the 5th Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) on 26 June 1944, made the enemy abandon Water Piquet on Silchar-Bishenpur Track and killed six Japanese soldiers. • Subedar Netrabahadur Thapa of 2nd Battalion, the 5th Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) on 26 June 1944, at Mortar Bluff on Silchar-Bishenpur Track. 2nd Battalion, the 5th Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) won the Battle Honour Sakawng, Shenam Pass, Bishenpur. The gallant action of Indian Divisions not only comprehensively defeated the Japanese but also ensured that Imphal remained unscathed by the desperate Japanese invaders. Battle Honours to Indian Army Regiments (Dogra, Gorkha, Madras, Jat, Punjab and Maratha Light Infantry) were awarded in the Battle of Imphal at Sangshak, Ukhrul, Kanglatongbi, Nunshigum, Tamu Road, Shenam Saddle, Tiddim Road and Bisenpur wherever they were deployed. “Whatever we may think of the Military Wisdom of pursuing a hopeless object, there can be no question about the supreme courage and hardihood of the Japanese Soldier who made the attempts. I know of no Army who could have equalled them”. General William J. Slim, Commander of the British 14th Army.

Army troops exchanged fire with terrorists in the higher reaches of Kathua district in the early hours of Saturday, officials said, as a massive search operation is underway to trace out the ultras who fled after the initial fire-fight. The…

Army troops exchanged fire with terrorists in the higher reaches of Kathua district in the early hours of Saturday, officials said, as a massive search operation is underway to trace out the ultras who fled after the initial fire-fight.

The alert sentry post of a temporary Army camp in Batod panchayat detected the movement of suspected terrorists at around 1.20 am and opened fire, the officials said.

They said the terrorists fired back and the intermittent exchange of fire continued between the two sides for nearly half an hour. However, there was no casualty on either side, the officials said, adding that the terrorists, believed to be three in number, fled into a nearby forest.

They said the Army troops have launched a cordon-and-search operation.

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on Sunday with a grand display of its military might that included elite marching contingents, missiles and indigenous weapon systems, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto gracing the occasion as the chief guest.

In a first, a tri-services tableau, depicting the broader spirit of “jointness” among the armed forces, rolled down Kartavya Path, the centrepiece boulevard of the National Capital.

It displayed a battlefield scenario, demonstrating a synchronised operation in land, water and air with the indigenous Arjun battle tank, Tejas fighter aircraft and Advanced Light Helicopter.

The theme of the tri-services tableau was “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat” (strong and secure India).

The parade commenced with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute shortly after she and Subianto, flanked by the Indian president’s bodyguards, arrived at Kartavya Path in a “traditional buggy”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, several other Union ministers, the country’s top military brass, foreign diplomats and senior officials were among the spectators on both sides of Kartavya Path.

The first Army contingent leading the mounted column was 61 Cavalry, led by Lieutenant Ahaan Kumar.

Raised in 1953, 61 Cavalry is the only serving active horsed cavalry regiment in the world. It was followed by nine mechanised columns and nine marching contingents.

Tank T-90 Bhishma, NAG missile systems, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, the Pinaka multi-launcher rocket system, the Agnibaan multi-barrel rocket launcher, the Akash weapon system, the integrated battlefield surveillance system and all-terrain vehicle Chetak were among the key displays by the mechanised columns.

Light specialist vehicle Bajrang, vehicle-mounted infantry mortar system Airawat, quick reaction force vehicles Nandighosh and Tripurantak and the short-span bridging system were also on display.

The Army’s marching contingents included the Brigade of the Guards, the Jat Regiment, the Garhwal Rifles, the Mahar Regiment, the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment and the Corps of Signals.

The Indian Navy’s contingent consisted of 144 personnel led by Lieutenant Commander Sahil Ahluwalia as the contingent commander and Lt Commander Indresh Choudhary, Lt Commander Kajal Anil Bharani and Lt Devender as platoon commanders.

It was followed by the Naval tableau, depicting a strong “Aatmanirbhar” (self-reliant) Navy, capable of protecting India’s maritime interests.

The tableau showcased the newly-commissioned indigenous frontline state-of-the-art combatants, including destroyer INS Surat, frigate INS Nilgiri and submarine INS Vaghsheer, highlighting India’s rapid progress in indigenous warship design and construction.

The tableau showcased the Indian Navy’s commitment to build a robust and self-sufficient defence ecosystem.

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) contingent comprised four officers and 144 personnel, led by Squadron Leader Mahender Singh Garati. It was followed by a fly-past by three MiG-29 aircraft in “Baaz formation”.

Another highlight of the parade was the veterans’ tableau on the theme “Viksit Bharat ki Ore Sadaiv Agrasar”, a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering spirit of the ex-servicemen towards the nation.

Several veterans who brought glory to India in sports were also part of the parade.

Representing “Nari Shakti” (women power) at the parade were veteran women officers — Lieutenant Colonel Ravinderjeet Randhawa, Lieutenant Commander Mani Agarwal and Flight Lieutenant Ruchi Saha.

In its tableau, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) displayed many home-grown critical systems and technologies developed by it.

The DRDO tableau, with the theme “Raksha Kavach — Multi-layer Protection against Multi-domain Threats” featured the quick reaction surface-to-air missile, the airborne early warning and control system, the 155 mm/52-calibre advanced towed artillery gun system and the drone detect, deter and destroy system.

It also showcased the satellite-based surveillance system, medium power radar Arudhra, advanced lightweight torpedo, electronic warfare system Dharashakti, the laser-based directed energy weapon, the very short range air defence system and the unmanned aerial system.

It was for the first time that the indigenously-developed Pralay missile system was showcased.

A 352-member marching and band contingent from Indonesia also participated in the Republic-Day parade. This was the first time that an Indonesian marching and band contingent participated in a national-day parade abroad.

Among the contingents marching down Kartavya Path were a 148-member all-women marching contingent of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M.

The Assam Rifles contingent was led by Captain Karanveer Singh Kumbhavat of 29 Assam Rifles. It comprised soldiers recruited from all over the country.

The Camel contingent of the Border Security Force (BSF) was under the command of Deputy Commandant Manohar Singh Kheechee.

The all-girls marching contingent of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) was led by Senior Under Officer Ekta Kumari of the Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh Directorate.

The all-boys marching contingent was led by Senior Under Officer Prasad Prakash Waikul of the Maharashtra Directorate.

The National Service Scheme (NSS) marching contingent of 148 volunteers was led by Deepak from Punjab.

The Corps of Signals motorcycle rider display team, famously known as “The Dare Devils”, carried out breath-taking stunts during a motorcycle display.

The team showcased its bravery and determination through a number of formations, including Bullet Salute, Tank Top, Double Jimmy, Devils Down, Ladder Salute, Shatrujeet, Shraddhanjali, Mercury Peak, Info Warriors, Lotus and Human Pyramid.

The celebrations ended with a jaw-dropping flypast by 40 aircraft and helicopters of the IAF.

The fleet included 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft and seven helicopters.

These included Rafale, Su-30, Jaguar, C-130, C-295, C-17, AWACS, Dornier-228 and An-32 aircraft. The helicopters were Apache and Mi-17.

The platforms displayed a variety of formations, including Dhwaj, Ajay, Satluj, Rakshak, Arjan, Netra, Bheem, Amrit, Vajrang, Trishul and Vijay.

The concluding Vertical Charlie manoeuvre was performed by a Rafale fighter aircraft. — with PTI

Prez leaves Kartavya Path after 76th Republic Day parade ends

January 26, 2025 12:21 pm

The Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path concluded with the national anthem, as President Droupadi Murmu and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was the chief guest at the event, left in the traditional buggy.

Navy’s R-Day tableau showcases three newly commissioned frontline combatants

January 26, 2025 11:20 am

The Indian Navy’s tableau showcased its three newly commissioned frontline combatants — warships INS Surat and INS Nilgiri, and submarine INS Vaghsheer. The three platforms commissioned in Mumbai on January 15, symbolises India’s naval prowess and the spirit of ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance).

76th Republic Day parade begins on Kartavya Path

January 26, 2025 11:05 am

Parade Commander and General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar led the parade, followed by Parade Second-in-Command and Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, Major General Sumit Mehta. Winners of the highest gallantry awards, including the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashok Chakra, followed the parade commander. They include Param Vir Chakra winners Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (retired) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (retired), and Ashok Chakra winner Lieutenant Colonel Jas Ram Singh (retired).

Mi-17 IV choppers of IAF’s 129 Helicopter Unit shower flower petals in ‘dhwaj formation’ on audience present at Kartavya Path

January 26, 2025 10:47 am

President Droupadi Murmu unfurls national flag on 76th Republic Day

January 26, 2025 10:40 am

The flag hoisting was assisted by Indian Navy Officer Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lt Yogita Saini. The flag unfurling was followed by the national anthem with a booming 21-gun salute given with 105 mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system, stationed along the iconic Kartavya Path. The gun salute was presented by the ceremonial battery of the 172 Field Regiment.

President Murmu, Indonesian counterpart arrive at Kartavya Path in traditional buggy

January 26, 2025 10:34 am

The gold-plated, horse-drawn buggy is a black carriage with the national emblem embossed on it in gold. The buggy, drawn by a mixed breed of Indian and Austrian horses, also features gold-plated rims. The presidential buggy had been used for Republic Day functions till 1984 but was discontinued after the assassination of the then-prime minister Indira Gandhi. The buggy was last used by Giani Zail Singh in 1984 before being discontinued due to security reasons. The presidents then began using limousines for travel. In 2014, then-president Pranab Mukherjee used it again for the beating retreat ceremony. His successor Ram Nath Kovind continued the tradition. He inspected the Guard of Honour in the presidential buggy after taking oath in 2017.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tributes at National War Memorial

January 26, 2025 10:14 am

The PM led the nation in paying solemn tributes by laying a wreath at the memorial, escorted by the Chief of Defence Staff and the three Service Chiefs. Following the wreath-laying, the Guard Commander gave command for the ‘Salami Shastra’, followed by the ‘Shok Shastra’, after which the buglers sounded the ‘Last Post’.

Time to work to realise Viksit Bharat goal: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar

PM Modi to lay wreath at National War Memorial, parade to start at 10.30 am

January 26, 2025 8:47 am

Before the parade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the nation in paying tribute to the country’s martyrs by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial. The parade will begin with the National Salute and will continue for 90 minutes, reflecting the journey of India’s heritage and growth.

‘Pralay’ set to register presence in ceremonial parade for first time

January 26, 2025 8:43 am

The country is set to showcase some of cutting-edge defence platforms including BrahMos, Pinaka and Akash, with the Army’s Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’ and DRDO’s surface-to-surface tactical missile ‘Pralay’ set to register their presence in the ceremonial parade for the first time. T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tanks Sarath (infantry carrying vehicle BMP-II), Short Span Bridging System 10m, Nag Missile System, multi-barrel rocket launcher system ‘Agnibaan’ and ‘Bajrang’ (light specialist vehicle) will also be part of the parade, according to officials.

President Droupadi Murmu to lead the nation in celebrating the momentous occasion

January 26, 2025 8:41 am

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will be the chief guest. A marching contingent and a band contingent from Indonesia will be participating in the parade.

16 tableaux from across states and UTs; 15 from central ministries, departments and organisations

January 26, 2025 8:34 am

Sixteen tableaux from across states and Union Territories and 15 from central ministries, departments and organisations will roll down the ceremonial boulevard during the annual parade when India displays its military prowess and its journey as a republic. The theme for the tableaux is ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’.

753 Border Roads Task Force under Project Himank organises felicitation programme for labourers employed from villages of Rumtse, Gya, Sasoma and Miru

Tribune News Service

At an altitude of 14,000 feet in the remote confines of Ladakh, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) felicitated its unsung heroes – the civilian populace from local villages who form a large chunk of its labour force – as part of the 76th Republic Day commemorations.

The 753 Border Roads Task Force under Project Himank organised a felicitation programme for labourers employed from the villages of Rumtse, Gya, Sasoma and Miru along National Highway 3, who showcased their unity and spirit of working in extreme conditions.

BRO personnel work in extremely tough conditions, facing the vagaries of weather, such as sub-zero temperatures and strong winds, harsh terrains, rarefied atmosphere, and isolated locations.

The national flag was unfurled along with the singing of the national anthem among chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” in the Valley, spreading a wave of patriotism and pride. Sweets and tokens of gifts were also distributed among the labourers as a recognition of their tireless contribution towards nation-building.

Project Himank is responsible for the construction and maintenance of roads in southeastern Ladakh in proximity to the Line of Actual Control. Its jurisdiction includes Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass at an altitude of 19,024 feet.

The dispute involves claims to islands and maritime rights, since the region is believed to contain oil, natural gas, and fisheries

India and Indonesia have stressed for peaceful resolution of disputes among the countries in South China Sea in accordance with the universally recognised principles of international law.

South China dispute is a series of territorial conflicts among several countries, including China, Taiwan, Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines and Vietnam that border the sea. The dispute involves claims to islands and maritime rights, since the region is believed to contain oil, natural gas, and fisheries. Besides, the route is a vital trade route for the global electronics industry, and it also has the potential of affecting the regional balance of power.

In their joint statement, India and Indonesia have reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace in South China Sea.

“In this regard, they (India and Indonesia) supported the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety and look forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that is in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS,” read the joint statement.

India’s position on South China Sea is that it attaches importance to freedom of navigation, overflight and unimpeded lawful commerce in the international waters in accordance with international laws, notably the United Nations’ Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.

India stands for the peaceful resolution of disputes, including through respect for legal and diplomatic processes, without resorting to the threat or use of force, and in accordance with international laws, while ready to work with international partners to maintain and promote peace, stability and development in the Indo-Pacific region.

Besides, India and Indonesia have also announced to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Both the nations have affirmed that the ongoing cooperation under the India-Indonesia-Australia trilateral format “to address common challenges, exchange views and explore opportunities for collaboration, including in the areas of maritime domain awareness, marine pollution, blue economy and also under the frameworks of East Asia Summit (EAS), Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI) and Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)”.