Sanjha Morcha

Tejas to debut on R-Day

Tejas to debut on R-Day

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, January 19

Indigenous fighter jet, Tejas, has finally come of age. It will make its debut during Republic Day flypast on January 26.Tejas would fly over the Rajpath in New Delhi during the parade, said Air Commodore Rajiva Ranjan, Principal Director, Air Defence. It will lead the display formation of fighter jets of the IAF inventory. The IAF will use three Tejas, which are designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of the DRDO and produced by public sector giant Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.The IAF has contracted 123 Tejas in various configurations; the first lot has been inducted. It will be after three decades that a homemade jet will fly during the Republic Day parade. The last time an indigenous fighter jet was part of Republic Day, it was in 1980s when HF-24 Marut, a 1960s’ German-designed plane was part of the flypast. Marut notably took part in the battle of Laungewala in 1971.A team of Tejas has been forward located at the IAF base Nal, near Bikaner. It will fly in from there and return to its temporary base. Tejas was inducted into 45 Squadron the ‘Flying Daggers’ on July 1, 2016. It’s based in Bangalore.‘Tejas’ is the first advance fly-by-wire (FBW) fighter aircraft designed, developed and manufactured in India. It has flown more than 3,000 sorties and 2,000 hours without any accident. It’s equipped with state-of-the-art satellite-aided inertial navigation system. It has a digital computer-based attack system and an autopilot. It can fire air-to-air missiles, bombs as well as precision-guided munitions.The next version of Tejas will incorporate Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, improved, better stand-off weapons, air-to-air refueling capability, new generation Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar and an integrated advanced electronic warfare suite.Besides Tejas, as many as 34 aircrafts of the IAF will be part of the Republic Day flypast. There will be 19 fighters, 11 helicopters and four transport aircrafts enthralling the public this year. UAE crown prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is the chief guest.

 


Navy exorcises data leak ghost

SCORPENE SUBMARINE Says data leaked was from pre-2008 when the boat wasn’t even on drawing board

Khanderi, India’s second Scorpene class submarine, was launched at Mumbai’s Mazagon docks on Thursday, adding to the nation’s naval might with a vessel possessing superior stealth technology. The submarine will undergo extensive trials at sea and harbour till December to test equipment before it is commissioned into the Indian Navy. 

 

NEW DELHI: India on Thursday launched its second Frenchdesigned Scorpene class diesel-electric attack submarine, Khanderi, at Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, exorcising the ghost of a data leak scandal that threatened to derail the project in August 2016.

Khanderi is one of the six Scorpene submarines being constructed in the country with technology transfer from French firm DCNS under a `23,562-crore programme called Project 75.

In what was seen as a major setback for the project, a leaked cache of 22,400 documents in 2016 detailed key secret stealth capabilities of the submarines, including the frequencies at which they gather intelligence, their diving depths, range and endurance, and specifications of their torpedo launch and combat systems.

Navy spokesperson Captain DK Sharma said the data leak was a closed chapter. “The data was from pre-2008 when the boat wasn’t even on the drawing board. The project has evolved significantly in all aspects and there’s no problem.”

The Scorpene is expected to become the main conventional submarine of the Indian fleet and replace the ageing Russian Kilo class and German HDW vessels that are almost three decades old.

Commodore C Uday Bhaskar (retd), strategic affairs expert and director, Society for Policy Studies, said a submarine acquires its acoustic signature only after it becomes fully operational. “Suggesting that the leak compromised submarine safety is misplaced. The programme is on track,” Bhaskar said.

Minister of state for defence Subhash Bhamre and Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba were present when the Khanderi was floated out. The boat derives its name from a Russian Foxtrot class submarine the Navy retired in 1989. It is likely to be commissioned into the Navy by year-end after extensive trials.

Kalvari, the first Scorpeneclass submarine to be built in India, is expected to be commissioned into the Navy in the coming months. All the six submarines are expected to join the Indian fleet over the next three years. Sharma said the third boat would also be launched this year.

The Scorpene project was delayed by five years due to issues related to transfer of technology. At present, the Navy operates 13 conventional submarines.

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PROPOSALS For EX-SERVICEMEN (PB):: BY SANJHA MORCHA

      SANJHA MORCHA CONVEYS ITS HEARTFELT

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THANKS TO CAPT AMRINDER SINGH AND MANPREET BADAL  FOR HAVING INCLUDED MAXIMUM PROPOSALS IN THE MANIFESTO PROPSED BY SANNJHA MORCHA AND

salute

 

SALUTE BOTH OF THEM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 There is sea change in the outlook and approach  of the ex-servicemen of Punjab towards Pb political scenario ,as maximum are contemplating to get united to support a strong and popular political party or get into alliance.

   The basic reason is that ex-servicemen of Punjab have felt continuously neglected and rejected by various State Governments. Many are being dragged to support AAP party by Capt Bikram Singh Pahuvind Convenor ESM wing AAP (Pb) who is on tour to all segments of Pb .

Suggested proposals to redress ESM grievances needs to be addressed in various gatherings of ESM at priority areas under

  1.    

    13% vacancies

    earmarked in every department of Punjab to be filled with ESM. The govt rejects ESM for not meeting the criteria and vacancies are filled by the politicians for their like ones.

  2. Unskilled Labour

    :Great injustice being done to Ex-servicemen as PESCO treat them as unskilled labour and enrols them as security guards at prevailing DC rates of wages, overlooking that ESM are highly skilled force to be reckoned with. They are technical qualified as carpenters, electricians, Engine fitters, Mechanics, machine operators, drivers, Dozer operators, education field, nursing assistances, telephone operators,barbers,Dhobis,cooks,waiters etc and many more.

  3. Exception from Toll Tax

    on all State owned Toll tax barriers

  4. Reservation of seats in private Institutions

     At the time of retirement a ESM becomes more loaded with responsibilities to complete his children education, marriages, build his own house etc but unable to seek admission in good private schools because of financial constrains as central schools are only available in cantonments hence needs reservations in private  Schools/colleges/universities) for their  children.  Keeping in view the deteriorated conditions of Punjab govt Institutions/Colleges/schools

  1. Excess Levy of tax on CSD Canteen liquor items in Punjab

      The Liquor in Punjab CSD canteens are levied with heavy Excise tax in canteen from 10-12% and in addition excise duty  4 to 12 % as per IMFL . Where as in Haryana the tax is 4%. for e.g a  beer cost Rs 84 in Mohali CSD but Rs 45 in Ch5andigarh CSD and cheaper in Panchkula. 

  1. Ex-Servicemen not permitted to use Liquor quota in marriage palaces.

Keeping in view the high cost of liquor in Punjab Thekkas due to monopoly of present SAD govt, the ESM is not permitted to use his saved quota to celebrate marriages of his children. On all marriages the custom duty team along with Punjab Police raids the Marriage palaces and create an embarrassing scene compromising the reputation of the ESM and fine them heavily. To get liquor licence from civil without obligation is not possible.

  1. Duel Pension including Old age especially widows.

  It’s a long pending demand of ESM of Punjab but till date Punjab govt has not implemented as per central govt orders of 2013 and have just now issued a notification keeping eye on vote bank.

  1. Compulsory NCC

      NCC should be made compulsory in all institutes ( Govt or Private) and Ex-servicemen should be employed as instructors to stream line youth into a discipline force.

  1. Recruitment in Punjab Police

      A discipline soldier joining the Punjab Police will create a discipline Punjab Police force and will reduce the cost of training as every ESM from Punjab retiring has a minimum qualification of  senior secondary(12th class) . After selection a small capsule of 3 months training in Police academy will make them suitable for Police service. The other states like Bihar, Delhi,etc and recently Haryana is enrolling 3000 ESM is police force..

  1. 10. Army recruitment training Institutes

              The State must open more Institute to train youth of Punjab to join Army as a soldiers or as an officer. The services of Ex-servicemen should be explored for such institutes which boost character building of Punjab Youth in the line with Mai Bhago Institute at Mohali opened for Girls and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed forces Institute and Army Law College are inadequate. There should be SSB training Institutes too.

 

  1. Lambardar appointment Racket/Scams

           The present State govt has deliberately done away with a one family lambardari system and have made number of claimants for a lambardar post in all village of Punajb. The Farmers are fighting litigation case to claim the right to claim Lambardari in all DC’s office of the state. Though the priority is to be given to ESM but even ESM are fighting cases in DC’s office to retain their ancestors crown of Lambardari. A total wasteful of litigations and workload on DC’s office all are being exploited by the office bearers of DC office with continuous future dates.

  1. Indian Prisoner’s of War in Pakistan jails since 1971.

   Need to be taken up with the central govt which has denied having no information to the supreme court  but the relatives are receiving messages and letters from their brave hearts. Though ESM are conducting candle light marches with POW relatives but to no consequences.

  1. 13. Formation of ESM Cell

       There should be ESM cell formed directly under control of CM apart of Director Sainik welfare which function under constrains of a sectary (IAS)  and a Sainik welfare minister, the portfolios Sainik welfare minister is considered as  low prestige politically. Thus the Director is not able to do justice to the welfare of State ESM being controlled by IAS Babus. The transport of the department are equally misused by these Babus and are at disposal of their families. The Minister has no interaction with ESM at any level.

14 . The War Jageers

 It has been observed that gallantry awards emoluments are increased every year but no respite is provided to the widows nor the war Jageers as promised in the laid down orders of Punjab State Govt  are not implemented. However now days due to paucity of land in Punjab Govt must consider to provide one time financial relief to all dependents.

15 . Safety and security of property

 Due to prevailing land mafia in the state with nexus of politicians and police the properties of serving soldiers are forcibly occupied (Land/ House) by this Mafia as   by preparing fake documents in conveyance with the revenue department sheltered by Politicians. All properties of ESM and serving soldiers need to be made secured as provision exits  to NRI

16   Priority to complain of Soldiers

 The serving soldiers are facing day to day problems at their home but complains are not attended even forwarded by the Commanding officers of the unit to Police Stataions.The Ex-servicemen not given due respect in the police stations nor heard which needs to be ensured as it directly affect the morale of defence forces serving in operational area and after retirement hence recruitment of ESM in Police force will pay dividends.However the ESM cell formed should be tasked to look into these issues.

17 Non-payment of Cash Incentives

   Many Youth have joined defence forces as soldiers or as officers through NDA ,they are entitled to get incentive from Rs 25000/- to Rs 100000/- but many have not been paid and are pending , even director Sainik welfare is helpless to distribute the incentives due to paucity of funds and records of those joined the forces. Even number of war decorated soldiers are not paid their dues by the State govt.

  1.  Condition of Sainik Rest House .

  The Sainik Rest House need lot of improvement in all districts and provision of refreshment canteen and other facilities need to be made available as no provision of tea is also available in these rest houses nor the desert coolers or Ac’s are functional. Once the ESM cell is formed its member can be nominated to supervise these rest houses etc.

  1. Completion of Sainik Sadan at Phase X,Mohali

                 The ESM dependant on Mohali ECHS,CSD Canteen and District welfare officer or stay in Sainik Rest House are deprived of these facilities at one place. The Sainik Sadan at PhaseX , has been designed for the very purpose. The grants /Funds allocated for completion has been diverted to other sector by the Punjab Govt which were in crores. The superstructure of the building is complete but construction held up due to fund crunch. At present only DSW has occupied area earmarked for ECHS. Myself has been the technical advisor to the Director Sainik welfare Pb for this purpose. Need to be promised to the ESM of SAS Nagar.

  1.  ESM Involvement in Development works

 ESM will be the right choice to make them enter the village panchayats, Block samite’s ,Zila Parishads, Cooperated socities,as reserved seats for them once announced will fetch dividends in elections.

                   The above are the various burning Issues in the minds of ESM community which is suggested to be fulfilled and need to be spoken to them in all ESM gatherings. Any further delay in clubbing the ESM under congress banner may not fetch dividends.

With warm regards

   PS: 

Col Charanjit Singh(Retd)

*Congress social media coordinator (Ex-Servicemen) Punjab

*General Secy, All India Ex-Servicemen Joint Action Front (Sanjha Morcha)

 

 

                                                                                                                                 


Locals joining militancy is not a happy situation: Army chief

Locals joining militancy is not a happy situation: Army chief

New Delhi, January 5

Plans are on the anvil to bring in a shift in the counter-insurgency strategy in Kashmir in which “false” propaganda inspiring youth to take up arms will be targeted rather than individuals alone, says new Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat.

He is also concerned at the rising number of Kashmiri youth joining militancy.

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Gen Rawat, who has experience in handling the Kashmir militancy, said that unlike naxalism in which locals are joining due to feeling of deprivation, it is not the case in Kashmir, which has been under the siege from Pakistan-backed insurgency since late 1980s.

He said that the “false propaganda” and developments in the Middle East has affected some of the local youth and that is why one finds “more and more educated youth” getting driven towards militancy.

“When the local youth join insurgency and pick up gun it is a matter of concern because our own countrymen getting involved in insurgency is not a happy situation,” Gen Rawat said.

Since the killing of Hizb-ul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8 last year, 59 local youth have joined militant groups as per official figures though security experts say the figure is much higher.

Gen Rawat questioned if the local youth in Kashmir are getting into insurgency because of feeling of deprivation, which he said was happening in other areas.

“Is it similar to what is happening with naxalism? It is not. It has something to do with the false propaganda that is being propagated. I think we need to reach out to people.

Rather than seeing them as targets, we need to sympathise with them and undo the kind of false propaganda that is being spread among the youth,” he said. —PTI


Bihar to have 3-day holiday on Guru’s 350th birth anniversary of the Warrior-Saint Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

 

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Bihar to have 3-day holiday on Guru’s 350th birth anniversary
Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib in Patna. File photo

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Jitendra K Shrivastava

Tribune News Service

Patna, September 16

link to open below on Red Fonts

350 Prakash Praw of Takht shri harmandir sahib ji gurudwara lighting patna.mp4

Bihar will observe a three-day state holiday on the occasion of the 350th birth anniversary of the tenth Sikh guru — Guru Gobind Singh — early next year in Patna.The state would observe three days government holiday on January, 3, 4 and 5 next year during weeklong celebrations.Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced three days state holiday during Prakashotsava on Thursday, while he also launched a website www.350thprakashparv.bih.nic.in to facilitate tourists visiting Patna on the occasion.The weeklong birth anniversary celebration would begin on December 30 this year. At least ten lakh devotees from different corners of the world are expected to arrive in Patna.Three tents would be erected covering an area of 60.91 acres in Gandhi Maidan. Two other tents would also be erected at Gurdawara Kangan Ghat and near Bypass to accommodate the devotees.The state tourism department would be the nodal agency of the grand celebration.

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Throughout his life, Guru Gobind Singh Ji embodied values that help define India and her aspirations today:

National Cohesion: In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, formed the Khalsa, by choosing the five Pyaras (beloved ones) from different castes, different locations and different vocations. This act reinforces the Guru’s much needed vision of creating a spirit of unity amongst all peoples beyond perceived boundaries of caste, vocation and ethnicity, and is an important value for India in the present day and beyond.

Click here to see a map showing the different vocations and locations of birth of the Panj Pyare

Freedom of Religion: Before becoming the tenth Guru, a young Gobind Rai, prompted his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, to make the supreme sacrifice in order to defend the rights of Hindu Pandits to practice their religion. During the Moghul reign of Aurungzeb, Hindu’s were being forcibly converted to Islam, and Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed after defending the Hindu’s rights to practice their own religion. Unparalleled in the history humankind, this willing martyrdom in the defence of another religious community earned Guru Tegh Bahadur the title of “Hind ki Chadur” i.e. The Shield of India. It has often been noted that this act, together with Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s formation of the Khalsa as “Saint-Soldiers” to defend righteousness, was a major factor in preventing mass forced conversions to Islam across northern India. India has a proud history of not just religious tolerance, but of religious respect, and the importance of Freedom of Religion is enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Sarbat da Bhalla (the good and welfare of all): Guru Gobind Singh Ji championed universal solidarity by proclaiming “manas ki jaat sabae ek hee paechanbo” (recognise the whole human race as one family) and Guru Ji’s further hukam: “sach kaho sun leho sabhae jin prem kiyo tin hee prabh paiyo” (all those who wish to meet up with God must exercise love for God’s entire creation) is a guiding light for us all to be inspired and motivated in pursuing global “Sarbat da bhalla”.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji

FastFacts

  • Father    Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
  • Mother    Gujri Ji
  • DATE OF BIRTH     12/22/1666
  • PLACE OF BIRTH      Patna Sahib
  • WIFE        Mata Sundari Ji
  • CHILDREN      Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Jorawar Singh & Fateh Singh
  • AGE, YEAR & TIME AT GUR GADHI    11/11/1675, 33 Year
  • REGIMES

    Aurangjeb, Bahadur Shah

  • CONTRIBUTION OF BANIES

    Jap Sahib, Akal Ustat, Chopai, War Shri Bhagoti, Vachitar Natak, Chobis Avtar Chandi, Charitar, Shastar Nam Mala (Dasam Granth)

  • AGE     42
  • JYOTI-JOT DAY      10/07/1708
  • JYOTI JOT PLACE     Nanded

It may not be out of the way to say here that throughout the annals of human history, there was no other individual who could be of more inspiring personality than Guru Gobind Singh. At its climax the tenth Nanak infused the spirit of both the saintlihood and the undauntedness in the minds and hearts of his followers to fight oppression in order to restore justice, righteousness (Dharma) and to uplift the down-trodden people in this world. It is said that after the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the tenth Master declared that he would create such a Panth (nation) which would not be cowed down by tyrant rulers but it would rather challenge the oppressor in every walk of life to restore justice, equality and peace for mankind. He further resolved that he would feel worthy to be called Gobind Singh only when any single member of his Khalsa Panth would successfully and undauntedly challenge the army of one hundred and twenty-five thousand opponents in the field. This point was rightfully proven at Chamkaur Sahib when Sahibzada Ajit Singh (Guru’s about 18 years old eldest son) challenged the Mughal forces and their allies, the hilly Rajas.

“The Divine Guru hath sent me for religion’s sake On this account, I have come into the world; Extendthe faith everywhere Seize and destroy the evil and sinful. Understand this, ye holymen, in your mindsI assumed birth for the purpose of spreading the faith, saving the saints and extirpating all tyrants.”(Guru Gobind Singh- Chaupai, Bachitar Natak)

The moment child Gobind Rai was born in Patna,
Pir Bhikan Shah of Thaska offered his prayers
facing East instead of towards West, contrary to
his daily practice. He left for Patna immediately.
On arrival at the Guru residence, Pir placed two
bowl of milk and water before the divine child.
The child Guru Gobind put his hands on both the
bowls, thus signifying: The entire humanity is
from the same divine fountain: How can some be
good and others evil?’

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom symbolized in itself the resistance to the tyranny of Muslim rule in favor of a new society. When evil is holding its head high, should a holy man knuckle under it or take up arms to combat and destroy it? The young Guru, Gobind Rai, decided in favor of the latter course i.e. to combat evil and uphold righteousness. He thus enjoined upon his followers to make use of the sword if all other means failed to liquidate the wicked and his wickedness. In order to achieve this mission, he issued ‘Hukamnamas’ (circular letters of authority) to his followers to present to him arms of different designs. The Guru’s orders were obeyed with great zeal and devotion. He himself wore uniform and bore arms and induced others to practise archery and musket- shooting. He encouraged various muscle-developing and strenuous sports as part of the program of physical culture. Many followers with martial instincts whose forefathers had served the Guru’s father and his grandfather, flocked to him. His principal companions at that time were his aunt Bibi Viro’s (Guru Har Gobind’s daughter) five sons, Sango Shah, Jit Mal, Gopal Chand, Ganga Ram, Mohri Chand; his uncle Suraj Mal’s two sons- Gulab Rai and Sham Das; his maternal uncle Kirpal Chand; Bhai Daya Ram, the friend from his youth; and Bhai Nand Chand, a favorite masand.

The Guru instructed his followers to lead a well-meaning and disciplined life. He according to the customs of his redecessors, used to rise early in the morning and perform his devotions. He was particularly delighted to listen to Asa di Var. After day-break, he gave divine instructions to his Sikhs and then practised martial exercises. In the afternoon, he received his followers, went shooting or raced horses; and ended the evening by performing the divine service of ‘Rehras’.

The Guru’s handsome exte rior was much admired both by men and women. A person called Bhikhia from Lahore came to visit him. Seeing the handsome young Guru, Bhai Bhikhia offered the alliance of his daughter Jito to him. The proposal was accepted and there were great rejoicing at Anandpur on the occasion of the betrothal ceremony. The twenty-third of Har, Sambat 1734 (1677 A.D.) was fixed for the marriage. The Guru sent orders in all directions for this occasion and the Sikhs thronged from various places including Lahore. A place was set up near Anandpur, which was called Guru ki Lahore where the marriage ceremony took place.

VISIT OF DUNI CHAND AND RAJA RATTAN RAI:

Surging crowds of people with their hearts filled with love and devotion to the Master, thronged to see him.Some came from Kabul, Qandhar, Gazni, Balkh and Bukhara. They brought several priceless gifts- rugs, carpets, shawls and other valuables when they came to pay homage to their Lord. Duni Chand, one of the devotees, visited Anandpur in 1681 and presented to the Guru a woolen tent, ‘Shamiana’ or a royal canopy which surpassed in excellence. It was embroidered in gold and silver studded with pearls. It is said that its splendor surpassed that of the Emperor’s canopy.

Through the grace of Guru Tegh Bahadur, Raja Ram of Assam was blessed with a son, Rattan Rai. Raja wanted to take his son to the Guru but he died soon and could not visit Anandpur. His last injunction to his Rani (wife) was that the prince should be brought up as a devout Sikh. The Rani faithfully carried out the behests of her husband and imparted the knowledge of the lives and teachings of the Gurus to the growing prince. When Rattan Rai, the prince, attained the age of twelve, he felt an inclination to see the Guru. Accordingly he with his mother and several of his ministers proceeded to Anandpur. He brought with him an offering of five horses with golden trappings, a very small elephant, and a weapon out of which five sorts of arms could be made, a pistol, a sword, a lance, a dagger, and a club.

The Raja was accorded a great reception. He offered his presents and prayed to the Guru to grant him the Sikh faith. He was granted all his desires. The Raja exhibited the traits of his presents. He caused the elephant to wipe Guru’s shoes and placed them in order for him. At the word of command the animal took a chauri and waved it over the Guru. The Raja requested the Guru never to let the elephant out of his possession.

The prince and his party remained at Anandpur for five months and during this time, he enjoyed kirtan and Felt uplifted by the Guru’s sermons. At the time of departure, the Guru accompanied them to some distanceand then bade them good-bye. They were sent off with presents. Besides these tangible gifts, the Guru gave Rattan Rai a RATTAN – a jewel of Nam, which was the ultimate gift of life:

“Nam is the priceless Jewel that the perfect Guru hath;
If one dedicates oneself in love to the True Guru,
He lights in one’s heart the Light of Wisdom, and Nam is then revealed.
Blessed is the fortunate one who goeth to meet the Guru.”
(Sri Rag Mohalla 4, p-40)

RANJIT NAGARA:

The wooden sandals of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at
his birth place Patna Sahib

The Guru’s army was swelling day by day and he was now set for the construction of a big beating drum which was deemed necessary to enthuse his army and without which he considered his equipment was incomplete. The work of the drum was entrusted to his Dewan, Nand Chand. In those days, only an independent chieftain was to use such a drum within the limits of his territory. The beating of the drum within the bounds of another chief’s domain was an hostile act and meant an open invitation of war. The completion of the big drum which was called Ranjit Nagara, or victorious drum on the battle- field, was celebrated with prayers and the distribution of Parshad (sacred food). When it was beaten, the men and women of the city came to behold it and there were great rejoicing.

The Guru and his men went for hunting the same day and when they reached near Bilaspur, the capital of Kahlur, the drum was beaten and it sounded like a thunder to the hillmen who became apprehensive of some danger. Raja Bhim Chand of Kahlur consulted his prime minister who advised him that it was the Guru’s drum who was worthy of worship, secondly, he maintained a large army and was greatly feared; and thirdly the Guru was brave, and such men were sometimes useful as allies. On hearing this Raja Bhim Chand desired to meet the Guru and despatched his prime minister to arrange for an interview which was granted. The Raja accordingly went with his courtiers to Anandpur.


Tributes paid to martyr Capt Navpal

Tributes paid to martyr Capt Navpal
People pay tributes to Captain Navpal Sidhu at 40RB village near Padampur. Tribune Photo

Our Correspondent

Abohar, January 3

Army Havildar Anil Patil travelled all the way from Jammu and Kashmir to offer a wreath on behalf of Commanding Officer Colonel Bhaskar Kataria of the 19 Maratha Light Infantry at the memorial of Captain Navpal Sidhu at 40RB village near Padampur.A function had been organised on Captain Sidhu’s 14th death anniversary today. Anil said he had served with the martyred officer for two years and was keen to salute Navpal at the memorial.Anil was joined by hundreds of people who braved dense fog and chill to pay their tributes to Captain Sidhu at his memorial in the Sriganganagar region. Sehaj Path bhog was also performed in the village gurdwara.Navpal of 19 Maratha Light Infantry was killed in 2002 after he gunned down three PoK-trained terrorists in the Surankote area of Poonch region in Jammu and Kashmir.He was awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously. Navpal’s father Lieutenant Colonel Agyapal Singh Sidhu had led the offensive against Pakistan in 1965 and 1971.Shaheed Navpal Trust secretary Ghanshyam Harwani and other social activists urged the Rajasthan Government to complete the Navpal Stadium, the foundation of which was laid in 2003.Rajasthan Minister for Mining Surinderpal Singh TT and former Union Minister Nihal Chand offered floral tributes to the martyr and assured that they would request the Chief Minister to sanction funds for the stadium.Earlier, the trust organised a free medical camp in collaboration of Shaheed Bhai Sukha Singh Mehtab Singh Memorial Hospital.

IAF employee attempts suicide

Tribune News Service

Panchkula, January 3

A 25-year-old Indian Air Force employee today tried to kill himself by consuming poison at a park in Sector 5 here.The police took the victim, Vikas Kumar, to the Civil Hospital, Sector 6, here, where he is recovering after treatment. The police have recovered a suicide note from him.Investigating Officer Ishwar Singh of Sector 5 police station said Vikas was having an affair with a girl, who, along with two others, had started blackmailing him. According to the police, the three were demanding Rs 5 lakh and a flat from Vikas. Fed up with the blackmailing, the IAF employee attempted suicide.According to sources, the youth is posted at the Zirakpur Air Force Station. The police have registered a case against the three accused and have started investigations.A case of attempt to suicide has also been registered against Vikas.


India displays its military might, cultural heritage on Republic Day

Indian Army’s Infantry Combat Vehicles march during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2017. Tribune photo: Mukesh Aggarwal

Border Security Force (BSF) ‘Daredevils’ motorcycle riders take part in the Republic Day parade in New Delhi, January 26.Tribune photo: Mukesh Aggarwal

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Indian Army’s Infantry Combat Vehicles march during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2017. Tribune photo: Mukesh Aggarwal

New Delhi, January 26India’s military might and rich cultural diversity were in full display during the dazzling 68th Republic Day celebrations in the national capital which had Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the chief guest.Light rains and overcast skies failed to dampen the enthusiasm of thousands of spectators who witnessed the nearly one-and-half hour-long parade that marched down the majestic Rajpath, India’s ceremonial boulevard, amid unprecedented security cover.A major highlight of the parade was 149-member marching contingent from the UAE comprising personnel from Presidential Guards, the Air Force, the Navy and Army. They were led by a band comprising 35 musicians from that country.

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Al Nahyan, also Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE armed forces, was seated next to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who wore a pink-colour turban. The two leaders were seen sharing some light moments.For the first time, a contingent of the National Security Guard (NSG), popularly known as the Black Cat Commandos, was part of the march past.The parade also saw the fly-past of three LCA Tejas Aircraft flying at a height of 300 metres in ‘Vic’ formation and the Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C) developed by DRDO.The Army’s missile firing capability T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tank, Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP-2K, Mobile Autonomous Launcher of the BrahMos Missile System, Weapon Locating Raddar ‘Swathi’ and Akash Weapons System and Dhanush Gun System were among the main draw in the mechanised columns.Alongside the Crown Prince, the ceremonial parade was watched by Vice President Hamid Ansari, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and the country’s top political and military brass, besides the diplomatic community.Tableaux from 17 states and union territories and six central ministries and departments showcased the varied historical, art and cultural heritage of the country. Goods and Services Tax (GST) was the theme of the tableau of Central Board of Excise and Customs.Twenty-one of the 25 children who won the National Bravery Award also participated in the parade. Four children have received the award posthumously.The grand finale of the parade was a spectacular flypast by the Indian Air Force which displayed various formations like ‘Chakra’ and ‘Vic’ leaving the spectators spell-bound.The ‘Hercules’ formation comprising three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft also drew loud cheers. PTI


Chinese subs permanently sailing in Indian Ocean

Test Indian tracking abilities, no aggressive posture so far

Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, January 20

Posing a fresh challenge to India, one or two Chinese submarines are now permanently sailing in the Indian Ocean, testing New Delhi’s abilities to keep an eye on under-sea threats.The Navy has flagged the matter to the government about the continuous presence of Chinese submarines, floating either in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea or the Bay of Bengal. Though the subs are in international waters, the visits are no more sporadic in nature.For the past one year or more, submarines of the People Liberation Army Navy are constantly noticed, Navy has told the government. The world’s busiest sea lane of communication runs from the west of India and passes through the Bay of Bengal. China’s trade moves on these routes and so does India’s and Japan’s, among others.With submarine technology becoming more sophisticated, tracking these under-sea vessels is a challenge. China has 61 submarines, including nine nuclear-powered, allowing longer endurance. At present, China is just testing waters and there is no aggressive posturing, sources said.A submarine, under-sea, can ‘pin down’ six-seven warships just by instilling the fear of unknown and track ship movements. The Navy’s most potent ability to track submarines is the Boeing P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. Eight are in the fleet and another four are on order. The aircraft have the ability to quickly search a wide area of water.Such is the threat that the Navy wants even the planned 100-odd naval utility copters to carry an anti-submarine weapon. The Kalvari class diesel-electric submarines have ASW suites. The Kalvari and Khanderi, the first two of the subs, will be commissioned within this year.A new set of ASW-capable helicopters are on the anvil. An ASW helicopter with its sea-dunking sonars is a favoured platform for detecting a submarine as an over flying copter itself cannot be found or targeted by a submarine. The ASW-capable Kamov 28 copters are being modernised, sensors upgraded and the copters will undergo a technical overhaul to enhance the copter’s life.

Cause for concern

  • With submarine technology becoming more sophisticated, tracking under-sea vessels is a challenge
  • China has 61 submarines, including nine nuclear-powered, allowing longer endurance
  • A submarine, under-sea, can ‘pin down’ six-seven warships just by instilling the fear of unknown and track ship movements

 


Grievance Redressal Systems In Defence Forces Need Fixing, And Urgently

Navdeep Singh – Jan 17, 2017, 6:04 am

Snapshot

Perhaps this is an uneasy era, and like all sections of society, the uniformed forces shall also self-adjust with these times.

All stakeholders of the Army must show flexibility and balance to tide over this temporary disquiet.

In my opinion, no organisation, the uniformed services included, is beyond scrutiny.

And with that disclaimer, I would like to emphasise, that the recent events in public gaze concerning our armed forces, triggered by a video posted on social media by a trooper of the Border Security Force (BSF), must not be viewed in black or white, and till the full facts are made known, neither the organisation nor the individual should be the target of preconceived notions or bias.

There is no denying that like other large organisations, the security forces also face certain issues at various levels, but that reality must not become a tool for spreading discontentment, frustration or disaffection or an opportunity to create fissures between the leaders and the led. Scandalising of the subject must cease, but at the same time, such instances, even if assumed as emanating from disgruntled personalities, should lead to all stakeholders trying to ensure resolution and improvement. As I have stated many times in the past, while there is too much focus on anomalies related to pay and pension and other financial matters, real issues which affect the very heart and soul of our organisations comprising brave men and women, are ignored.

Though the incident primarily revolved around bad rations, it has encompassed many facets of life in the uniformed services. Let me comment on certain highlights of various aspects that are being played out in the media and social media. I must warn though that this is going to be a long read.

Us And Them syndrome

All security forces serve the same flag and are expected to work shoulder to shoulder for the same ultimate aim. The episode, however, again brought to fore statements such as “this is the BSF and not the Army” or “this never happens in the Army” or “there is a problem of leadership in the Police Forces” and so on.

That is no consolation. It was the BSF this time, tomorrow it could be the Army.

Irrespective of the veracity of this incident, complaints on quality of ration are not rare in the Army and we must not pretend to be surprised. Further, the Army has had its share of ration (and other) scams too, and the Army is also not a holy entity removed from the society. The quality of roti, kapda and makaan is talked of in hushed tones and we should have the moral courage to admit that and make amends.

While there is no reason for the voices of superiority from military veterans, there is also no reason for former and current members of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to play out how they are discriminated against in pay and allowances time and again, especially with regard to the additional Military Service Pay (MSP) granted to defence personnel (Army, Navy and Air Force) but not to those in other uniformed services. It is pertinent to note that there is one inherent difference between the Defence Services and the CAPFs, and that is, while personnel of the former start retiring in their 30s, troopers of the latter retire in their 50s, serving two decades more than the former and in the bargain enjoying not only certainty and protection of livelihood during productive lifetime but also higher lifetime earnings and multiple pay revisions. Similarly, while it is true that the military gets higher allowances in certain field areas, the reverse is also correct wherein CAPFs have an edge. It is a fact that on one hand, over the years, while some of the better military specific allowances stand extended to the other services, the same courtesy or reciprocity has not been allowed to the military. Today, payouts such as the detachment allowance, special duty allowance, tribal area allowance and double house rent allowance are not available to defence services.

Of course, bullets of the enemy do not distinguish between the colour of the uniform and the CAPFs operating in the same area as members of the defence services deserve the same risk-related allowances, but vice versa should also be made applicable. Hence apart from the basic pay, which is broadly the same for all services including the military, there is no comparison of service conditions- you win some, you lose some, and which is absolutely clear at the time of joining service, whether it is the military or the CAPFs.

Yes, discriminatory practices such as inequitable allowances must be ironed out. I am anyway not a believer of superiority or inferiority of any service or organisation. All play a role and all are equal.

Excellent System Of Redressal Of Grievances In The Uniformed Forces?

I tend not to fully agree. The number of representations, petitions, non-statutory complaints, statutory complaints and litigation cannot be termed as low by any stretch of imagination. The redressal of grievances theoretically is apt in the forces, but practically speaking there are many rough edges which need to be smoothened out since handling of grievances is personality oriented and there is no thumb rule. It is argued that the Commanding Officer (CO) is a father figure and if a person does not get redressal from his Commanding Officer, he can always approach the next senior in hierarchy. Easier said than done. Can a prudent person expect a soldier, who has complained against his CO, to have a smooth time thereafter in the unit under that very CO? Are all complaints made to superiors in the hierarchy even promptly forwarded to them? Both answers are in the negative.

Moreover, the CO can only deal with local issues within his control, nothing beyond it, and again, the resolution would be dependent upon personality traits. It is also well known that the formal system of statutory and non-statutory complaints for issues such as confidential reports, disciplinary matters and promotions is a slow grind. While such complaints are supposed to be finalised within six months (against the three months prescribed by civil departments), despite emphasis by successive defence ministers on promptness, complaints are rarely decided in time, unless, let us face it, strings are pulled. What does it lead to? Nothing but frustration and discontentment and lack of closure- aspects that can be easily handled in-house with a well-oiled responsive grievances redressal machinery.

To add to the woes, complaints are rejected on points such as ‘incorrect format’ and what not, leading to more disgruntlement. Should soldiers who are cut-off from the world sitting in tough posts on the border be expected to adhere to formats and red-tape and then wait forever to get their issues resolved? Should soldiers remain preoccupied with their pending grievances or perform their duties? Should a few disgruntled ones then be allowed to disproportionately flag these problems and hurt the image of the entire force? There is hence hollowness on display when we hear phrases of praise for the grievance redressal system. The reality is that one has to be well connected or street-smart to get himself or herself heard and those stating otherwise obviously do not have the courage to admit the follies of the existing system.

Think if you must that we are ‘the best’, but let us strive for making the system even better and ensure objectivity and decisions that are not influenced by any other aspect but the merits of the grievance.

What Can Be Done?

To improve the system of redressal of grievances, some simple steps can be initiated, of course within the four corners of discipline and military efficiency. Steps that would be easy to implement but may not undermine the authority that is needed to command troops into battle.

Going Up The Hierarchy

In case of a grievance related to an individual’s unit or an officer under whom he is serving, rather than jumping the hierarchy, the person must be allowed to write to the higher formations or commanders through proper channel, as is permissible under the existing system, but with an additional concept of a direct ‘advance copy’ to the senior officer as a matter of right. Further, it should be reemphasised strictly that officers in the channel would not hold back any complaint or representation for more than the prescribed days and any such delay would entail a notice to the lower unit, officer or formation from where it was supposed to move up. The authority to who the advance copy is addressed must interact with the affected person and hear him out before reaching a conclusion. Officers should be encouraged not to consider ‘recommendations’ or ‘comments’ from down below as binding and must not shy away from forming own objective opinions by overruling such recommendations, if required.

Opportunity of hearing or interaction:

In case of statutory complaints, which are not routine representations as above, but usually involve career aspects, an opportunity of hearing or interaction must be provided to the complainant by the competent decision-making authority or the authority closest to the decision-making authority. This procedure, recommended recently by a Committee of Experts, of which this author was also a member, already stands accepted by the Defence Minister in principle but the implementation instructions are yet to be issued. Explaining the benefits of such an approach, the following was stated by the Committee:

“…Opportunity of personal hearing or personal interaction has many advantages. It is what is known as sunwai in vernacular. Not only does it lead to satisfaction of the Complainant that he/she has been heard objectively by the decision making authority but at times it may also lead to the competent authority getting convinced that what the Complainant is stating is correct and the picture painted by the authorities on noting sheets lower in the chain could be incorrect. It may be pointed out that in almost all civil organizations and even in the Indian Air Force, opportunity of hearing is freely provided which leads to a higher degree of satisfaction level and also harmony within the system. Though the informal system of ‘interview’ is available in the defence services, it is discretionary and not institutionalized and not at the ‘competent authority level’ especially while dealing with statutory complaints. The system of opportunity of hearing also provides a catharsis to individuals who may feel stifled at times and hence would provide an outlet to at least open up before the competent authority. It becomes all the more important in defence services where there is no trade unionism or associations, and rightly so. It becomes even more important in the stratified rank structure environment and physically long distances of location.

Under the current system, complaints of aggrieved personnel are being dealt with by way of a one-way file noting system on which, after a complaint is submitted, the complainant is neither heard nor is given an opportunity to rebut what is put up against his Complaint by the dealing official chain. At times, decisions are taken based on the comments of those very officers/officials who have been complained against giving rise to a question of bias, which could be simply a perception, or even real, and which may not result in closure of the issue with rampant dissatisfaction due to the very reason that a person has not been heard and only a one-sided decision has been taken. There is also a challenge to address the perception that there remains an element of subjectivity in the processing of the Complaints since the system would perceivably remain favourably inclined towards the organisation. It also so happens that on many occasions, especially at ranks other than Commissioned Officers, personnel are apprehensive in approaching the institutional redressal system for the fear of reprisal from superiors. All this would change with the system of institutionalizing ‘opportunity of hearing’ which would not only be in tune with the best practices of the current times, but also in line with decisions of Constitutional Courts, the views of the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri and also DoPT instructions issued from time to time. In fact, it has been emphasized time and again even by the Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances that employees’ frustration rises from the perception of inaccessibility and lack of concern of superior officers, failure to acknowledge and act upon grievances and non-involvement in organizational activities…”

Faster And Time-Bound Redressal

Timelines on grievances must be strictly adhered to and non-processing in time should provide a right of audience for the soldier to the competent authority. Though there must be a balance between individual and organisational rights, the precious personal rights cannot be held hostage to administrative lethargy. Again, in such cases, when grievances are not decided within a particular time limit, to obliterate any negative usage of other unauthorised channels, soldiers must have a system of informing the competent authority directly or through electronic means, and the designated authority should be obliged to provide an audience or interaction. It is well known that many complaints are rendered infructuous, including in career related issues, due to the fact that they are not decided in time.

I would mince no words in stating that it is truly unfortunate that seven decades after independence we have not been able to even ensure decisions on complaints within laid down time limits, and time limits which, ironically, are themselves needlessly generous- six months in most cases. It should not be forgotten that timely, objective and fair disposal of a grievance is like a legally provided pressure valve which can provide quietus to an issue and bring closure for a person, but if that vent or outlet is not provided, the built-up pressure is bound to escape through routes that would not be palatable.

Social Engineering And Flattening Of Hierarchy Through Technology

The Army Chief’s idea for grievance boxes is a welcome step but it may prove to be ungainly since he alone would not be able to monitor grievances from such a large manpower, and some of such complaints would be frivolous and personal rants which would have to be filtered out. Since interaction with senior officers is not feasible at all times due to the nature of duties, there must be an established system for more interaction in real time with seniors without being put up through staff officers with a hackneyed approach, and for designated grievance officers in all formations who must remain insulated from influence and subjectivity.

This actually is nothing new. The Army’s Western Command under the aegis of the then Army Commander, Lt Gen KJ Singh, had initiated a blog wherein all ranks were free to float suggestions, recommendations and grievances. In fact, it could be loosely termed as an electronic and more feasible version of a grievance box advocated by the Chief of the Army Staff. It provided real-time outlet for such issues thereby eliminating simmering undercurrents. Further, this was not done as a mere formality but grievances and recommendations were acted upon and star recommendations were also publically awarded. At the same time, the same Army Commander had also done away with an eatery in a market within the cantonment which had separate sitting spaces for families based on ranks. While hierarchy within official spaces and establishments cannot be avoided, and in fact may be desirable, public spaces for families in cantonments need to be rendered totally rank-neutral.

The sahayak system is also in news. Though the uniformed services often emphasise the ‘buddy system’ and ‘breaking bread together’ and the ‘camaraderie’, it is still felt in certain quarters that there is a clash of societal dynamics which has resulted in personnel resisting work outside their charter of duties. The system, by whichever name it may be called, is an integral part of operational environment and apart from relieving Commissioned Officers and Junior Commissioned Officers from the rigmarole of mundane day to day issues, sahayaks act as a bridge between the troops and their leaders. Just as support staff is provided to officers to enable them to perform duties efficiently in peace and staff appointments, sahayaks are entitled in units and formations on war establishment. If an officer cannot be expected to type all his letters without assistance of a clerk in a staff appointment, he cannot also be expected to perform routine administrative tasks and run around without assistance in a field appointment.

Rules anyway prohibit combatants from being used for domestic chores, but it does seem that the concept has faltered and has become hazy due to unfortunate aberrations. If there is so much hue and cry on this subject, obviously there must be things that require to be fixed. With some very senior officers and veterans brushing aside the voices raised against the exploitation of the system, we should simply ask ourselves whether the system is being misused or not. Even if the answer is uncomfortable, it should not be ignored, and with changing social dynamics, the effort should be to provide a practical alternative without compromising the dignity of combatants.

Due to frequent movements, military families have to struggle for survival in new places every now and then, they even have to live most of the service life without the breadwinner. It is a nightmare, to say the least. There is hence requirement of support but the answer to that must be brainstormed by the establishment itself. Whether it is staff specially recruited for the purpose, whether it is manpower arranged out of contributory funds at each station centrally after due verification or whether it is a trained and organised system of housekeepers and maids with background checks at military stations paid by those who employ them – it is for the stakeholders to devise and find a solution to. In fact, the few cases of transgression cannot be blamed upon the uniformed organisations per se or even on officers, we have simply failed to provide an alternative, and in other cases, it might be a sense of entitlement at play and being miserly with a tendency to live on the house, crudely put. Yes, the issue is blown out of proportion every now and then with extreme stands on both sides, yet, a long lasting solution needs to be found.

Stress And Strain Of Military Service And Its Effect On Mental Health

At times, there is a thin line between misdemeanour and a psychiatric condition, a line which is not discernable to an untrained eye. Stress and strain is the hallmark of military service, which is recognised universally, all over the world. The fact that a person is away from his family most of the year and cannot hence fulfil domestic commitments results in added pressure which at times becomes unbearable. It is not a sign of weakness, we’re all different and the body reacts differently to varied stimuli. Under such pressures, certain individuals tend to develop conditions which need care and sensitivity and not disdain. For example, a person may wander out of the lines due to his mental condition and while a mature leader of troops may rightly refer him to a psychiatrist, another may simply declare him absent without leave. Similarly, mature leaders would understand that while intoxication on duty could be an offence, alcoholism could well be a psychiatric condition. While I do not mean to defend the BSF trooper we all saw on TV, I found it a little odd for him to be summarily branded as a ‘bad hat’ or an ‘alcoholic’. If so, he required psychiatric care and not entrustment with a weapon in an operational area! Officers should not forget that stress and strain of service and effect on mental health is much higher on lower ranks than on higher ranks.

A great contributor is the inability to cope up with requirements back home, seemingly small little matters- education of children, property disputes, registration of house, municipal work and so on, and an insensitive administration does not help. While officers are still able to get a grip by speaking to their civilian counterparts and are blessed with better education and wherewithal, personnel of lower ranks are at sea, the result of which is stress which is then also wrongly blamed on ‘domestic reasons’ while the actual cause is military service and its exigencies which keep troops away from efficient and timely resolution of the multitude of issues back home, but that is another story for another time.

The times we live in are complicated and there are no easy solutions. The answers, or even the questions, cannot be so simplistic as many of us seem to believe. There is no wrong and no perfect right, there is no black and there is no white. The only truth in this is the fact that this perhaps is an uneasy era, but just like the society, the uniformed forces shall also self-adjust with these times. The churning is not comfortable but all stakeholders must show flexibility and balance to tide over this temporary disquiet.

Navdeep Singh

Major Navdeep Singh is a practising High Court lawyer, author and the founding President of the Armed Forces Tribunal Bar Association. He is Member of the International Society for Military Law and the Law of War at Brussels.