Monthly Archives: August 2018

Need to focus on cooperation than conflict, says Rajnath

Ajay Banerjee Tribune News Service

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun, who met on Wednesday, agreed to ‘rebuild’ mutual trust and understanding.

The duo met on the sidelines of the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) at Laos. Rajnath is on three-day visit to Laos from November 20 to 22.

The Ministry of Defence, in a statement, said Rajnath Singh called for reflecting on lessons learnt from the unfortunate border clashes of 2020 (Galwan June 2020). Rajnath asked for the need to “take measures to prevent recurrence of such events to safeguard peace and tranquillity along the border”.

The MoD said: “Both sides agreed to work together towards a roadmap for rebuilding mutual trust and understanding.” Rajnath Singh emphasised and looked forward to greater trust and confidence building between the two sides through de-escalation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

ADMM is the highest defence consultative and cooperative mechanism in ASEAN. ADMM-Plus is a platform for ASEAN member states – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam – and its eight Dialogue Partners – India, US, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand – to strengthen security and defence cooperation.

India became the dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992 and the inaugural ADMM-Plus was convened in Hanoi, Vietnam, on October 2010. Since 2017, ADMM-Plus Ministers have been meeting annually to bolster the cooperation amongst ASEAN and the Plus countries. Laos is the chair and host of 11th ADMM-Plus.

Stressing the importance of integrating the three armed forces to fight future wars, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan on Wednesday said 180 initiatives had been identified to integrate the forces. He said the vision statement, which was like…

Tribune News Service

Gen Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, with NN Vohra, former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, in New Delhi on Wednesday. Tribune Photo: Mukesh Aggarwal

Stressing the importance of integrating the three armed forces to fight future wars, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan on Wednesday said 180 initiatives had been identified to integrate the forces. He said the vision statement, which was like a roadmap for 2047, had three phases. He said a written national security policy document was being worked out.

The CDS was speaking on the subject of future wars and the armed forces at an event organised by the India International Centre here this evening. He was in conversation with NN Vohra, former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, who also held key positions during his bureaucratic career.

The CDS said the vision statement laid down the period till 2027 as a phase of transition by when the structures of the integrated operations should come up. The next 10 years (2027-37) would be the period for consolidation. In the last phase (2037-47), the CDS said, the projections were “slightly hazy” as the period was too far away in this era of fast-changing technology.

Vohra bats for national security document

We need a well-worked-out written framework with ministries like Home, Defence and External Affairs, along with intelligence agencies, having a mandate in it. Their accountability should be assessed under this framework. NN Vohra, Former governor, J&K

The armed forces were looking at eight domains to integrate and for that 180 initiatives had been identified, said General Chauhan. “We need organisational and structural changes. The integrated theatre commands would lay the foundation of change. The creation of theatre commands is just the beginning of the next set of reforms,” he said.

The CDS said, “We have a vision and we are preparing for that. The forces will be ready to respond to a full spectrum of conflict. The nature of combat is changing. Rising uncertainties mean we need to make doctrinal changes for future wars. We should be able to fight integrated multi-domain operations.”

Vohra, who is also a former Defence Secretary and was part of the Kargil War Review Committee, raised the matter of having a national security document. “What is preventing us from saying that we want to go ahead to have a national security policy,” said Vohra, as he recollected that a draft of a written national security document was worked out and reworked multiple times in the past two decades or more.

Vohra suggested to the CDS, “We need a well-worked-out written framework with ministries like Home, Defence and External Affairs, along with intelligence agencies, having a mandate in it. Their accountability should be assessed under this framework.”

The CDS, who was asked by Vohra to clarify if a written national policy document was needed or not, responded by saying that the nation could not function in its absence. “A written document is being worked out,” he added.

Internal security was 95 per cent the job of states and the Union Home Ministry and the Army should not be burdened with day-to-day peacekeeping, said Vohra, who has also served as the Union Home Secretary.

The Border Roads Organization (BRO) carried out a snow clearance operation at Zojila Pass on Sunday following heavy snowfall to restore access and ensure safe travel in the region. Visuals showed a BRO truck carrying out snow-clearing operations at Zojila…

The Border Roads Organization (BRO) carried out a snow clearance operation at Zojila Pass on Sunday following heavy snowfall to restore access and ensure safe travel in the region.

Visuals showed a BRO truck carrying out snow-clearing operations at Zojila Pass, following yesterday’s snowfall.

Earlier on Saturday, the Machil sector in Kupwara district received fresh snowfall, further enhancing the picturesque beauty of the region. The snowfall amplified the scenic charm of this remote area, attracting tourists to its stunning landscapes.

The upper reaches of Bandipora, including border areas of Gurez, Tulail and Kanzalwan were also covered under a white sheet of snow as snowfall continued in the region.

The snow formed a white blanket over cars and trucks, camouflaged in the wintry scene.

Days after the killing of two Village Defense Guards (VDGs) and a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Army, General Officer Commanding in Chief (GOC-in-C) of Army’s Northern Command, Lt General MV Suchindra Kumar, visited Kishtwar on Tuesday and took…

Arjun Sharma

Days after the killing of two Village Defense Guards (VDGs) and a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Army, General Officer Commanding in Chief (GOC-in-C) of Army’s Northern Command, Lt General MV Suchindra Kumar, visited Kishtwar on Tuesday and took a first-hand review of the anti-terrorist operations going on in the region.

Two VDGs were brutally killed in the forest area of Kuntwara in the district on November 7 after which a joint search operation was launched by the Army and police in which a JCO suffered a volley of bullets in Keshwan forest when the terrorists hiding in the bushes opened fire on the search team.

An Army official informed that Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, accompanied by GOC White Knight Corps and GOC CIF (D) visited Kishtwar to review the prevailing security situation. “The Army commander was briefed on operational preparedness and ongoing operations. He commended the troops for their unwavering commitment and exhorted all ranks to maintain exemplary professionalism in conduct of operations,” the official said.

Forest areas of Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch and Reasi have become a safe haven for terrorists as after ambushing soldiers, they easily vanish into the woods in these districts. Many ambushes have taken place during the search operations launched after information about presence of ultras.

Also, the security forces have so far not been completely successful in weeding out the local support for terrorists, which is evident from the fact that they are able to thrive in deep jungles for months.

Police and Army had in the past stated that a network of over ground workers (OGWs) was being run by terrorists from the region, who have fled to Pakistan Occupied J&K years ago and are now in contact with their associates in parts of Jammu division.

Interestingly, the Army is also keeping a close watch on the Line of Control (LoC) to avoid any fresh infiltration. It was earlier reported that large scale infiltration had taken place from International Border in Kathua that is manned by the Border Security Force (BSF). However, questions have also been raised on the intelligence network of the police at micro level even as several terrorists were able to enter this side of the border.

Meanwhile, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Anand Jain visited the border area of Poonch and conducted a comprehensive review of the district’s operational and training preparedness.

During the visit, the ADGP was briefed on the status of the training programmes, operational readiness, the overall security scenario, and the measures put in place to strengthen the security apparatus in the region.

The ADGP also interacted with the personnel of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of police that mostly take part in operations against ultras. He emphasised upon the officials to strengthen the intelligence network and work in a well-coordinated and synergized manner to counter threat on any front.

In a significant step toward addressing the issue of plastic waste in the Leh region, the Housing & Urban Development Department (HUDD) of Ladakh and Project Himank (BRO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the procurement of plastic…

In a significant step toward addressing the issue of plastic waste in the Leh region, the Housing & Urban Development Department (HUDD) of Ladakh and Project Himank (BRO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the procurement of plastic waste to be used in road construction.

The MoU, which will be valid for three years, was signed at the Himank Headquarters in Ladakh. The agreement was formalised by Sudeep Mishra, Officiating Chief Engineer of Project Himank (BRO), and Moses Kunzang, Director, Urban Local Bodies (ULB), Ladakh, representing HUDD Ladakh.

Under this agreement, the HUDD will supply plastic waste collected through the Municipal Committee, Leh, to Project Himank. This plastic waste will be used in the construction of roads and Himank will make payments to the MC Leh as per mutually agreed terms and conditions. The aim of this collaboration is to utilise non-biodegradable waste in the region, thereby not only reducing pollution but also creating economic opportunities.

The initial requirement is set at two metric tons of plastic waste, with the possibility of procuring more based on the feedback and results from the first batch. This initiative is expected to contribute to environmental sustainability while addressing the growing plastic waste problem in Leh-Ladakh.

Over 26,000 young aspirants participated in a recruitment rally conducted by the Army after a gap of five years in border district of Poonch, officials said on Sunday. Separately, another rally at Dugga near Bhalra in Doda district attracted over…

PTI

Over 26,000 young aspirants participated in a recruitment rally conducted by the Army after a gap of five years in border district of Poonch, officials said on Sunday.

Separately, another rally at Dugga near Bhalra in Doda district attracted over 12,000 enthusiastic youths eager to serve the nation, they said.

The recruitment rally in Poonch commenced at Advance Landing Ground in Surankote on November 8 to fill 307 vacancies for soldier general duty and 45 vacancies for clerks and tradesmen in the Territorial Army, the officials said.

The rally was open to the candidates from 31 tehsils of Jammu division, including Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi and Jammu districts, for soldier general duty while the candidates from entire Jammu and Kashmir were eligible to apply for clerks and tradesmen positions.

“Over 26,000 enthusiastic candidates across the region took part in the selection process, showcasing their physical and mental readiness to serve the nation during the 10-day rally,” said an official of the Army recruitment office, expressing satisfaction over the response of the youth. He said the recruitment drive was organised with the objective of providing employment opportunities and encouraging the youth to join the armed forces.

The aspirants underwent various physical tests, including a 1.6 km run, chin-ups and other endurance exercises, followed by medical examinations and documentation checks, the official said. “The response from the local youth has been tremendous. It is heartening to see such enthusiasm and passion to join the Indian Army. We are committed to providing a fair and transparent selection process,” an officer of the Territorial Army said. He said around 4,000 candidates have cleared the ground test and will participate in the medical examination.

The locals lauded the Army for organising the recruitment drive in the border district. “This is a significant step towards addressing unemployment in the border areas and instilling a sense of pride and patriotism among the youth,” said Syed Imtiaz Kazmi, a prominent citizen of Surankote.

The officials said the event was conducted with strict adherence to safety protocols, ensuring that the large gathering was managed smoothly.

The recruitment process is expected to continue for the next three days, they said, adding this recruitment rally marks yet another milestone in the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its bond with people, providing new opportunities for the youth in the region that has historically faced challenges related to employment and development.

Many young aspirants expressed hope of securing a place in the prestigious armed forces, with dreams of serving the nation and supporting their families.

Mohd Asad, a local resident of Poonch, said that he joined the rally for the first time. “I am ready to serve the nation by joining the army,” he added. Another aspirant Mohd Iqbal from Haveli area of Poonch thanked the Army for providing them an opportunity to serve the nation.

In an address at a conference of top commanders of the IAF, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today asked them to be efficient and effective in the process of building capabilities and in adding capacity. Rajnath Singh commended the IAF for…

Tribune News Service

In an address at a conference of top commanders of the IAF, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today asked them to be efficient and effective in the process of building capabilities and in adding capacity.

Rajnath Singh commended the IAF for its dedication and professionalism in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

The minister said he was confident of the IAF’s ability to adapt to evolving challenges. The minister was briefed on the operational capabilities of the IAF.

He asked the commanders and senior officials of the Ministry of Defence to make the process of adding capabilities and capacities more efficient and effective. This, he said, should be in line with national aims and aspirations.

The ongoing conference has witnessed in-depth discussions on key operational, administrative and strategic issues. The top IAF leadership also interacted with the Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi.

The conference serves as a vital platform for the IAF’s senior leadership to deliberate on current challenges and strategise future actions to maintain operational excellence and self-reliance in defence capabilities.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat and Secretary Defence Production Sanjay Kumar were present at the event.

Upon his arrival at Air Headquarters, the minister was welcomed by IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh.

Dima (surname withheld) is eagerly waiting to visit her native state Manipur, which is on the boil, for the past one and a half years. However, the fresh round of arson and shooting incidents near Imphal have left her and…

Tribune News Service

Dima (surname withheld) is eagerly waiting to visit her native state Manipur, which is on the boil, for the past one and a

half years.

However, the fresh round of arson and shooting incidents near Imphal have left her and hundreds like her worried for the safety of their near and dear ones.

Around 100-odd youngsters from Manipur are nestled in Patiala and residing around Bhupindra Road, Punjabi Bagh, Gian Colony and Model Town. Most of them work at salons or as tattoo artists and physical fitness instructors at gyms.

Dima, who works as a makeup artist at a luxury salon, said, “I am worried about my parents and relatives. They are still waiting for normalcy to return.”

“The clashes have split up neighbourhoods and torn apart bonds between the communities. There is open display and use of weapons to silence voices of dissent,” said Maneka, who has been residing in Patiala for the last decade.

“My father tells me that despite the presence of security forces, locals are voluntarily taking up arms. My elder brother is also part of the night vigil group to keep intruders at bay,” added Maneka.

Those from the northeast living in Patiala are a worried lot as they are unable to reach their families with lines of communication down as a result of the recent unrest in their state.

Parimal, who works as a marketing executive, said, “Sometimes it becomes difficult to reach out to the family. For the past two days, I have been unable to contact my family members. I urge the Centre to ensure safety of everyone in Manipur.”