Monthly Archives: October 2022

Rejecting Nepal’s contention, the Ministry of External Affairs said it was unilateral “artificial enlargement” of territorial claim and was “untenable”

Nepal has formally objected to the proposed Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and lodged a diplomatic protest to both India and China. It claimed that Lipulekh and its surrounding areas were its territory.

Rejecting Nepal’s contention, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday night said it was unilateral “artificial enlargement” of territorial claim and was “untenable”.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “As regards territorial claims, India has consistently maintained that such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. Such unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable.” In its protest, the Nepal foreign ministry had said, “The government remains clear and firm that as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal.”

Nepal also signalled that it remained open to a diplomatic resolution. “In keeping with the spirit of close and friendly relations, Nepal remains committed to resolving the boundary issue through historical facts, evidence and diplomatic dialogue,” it said.

The MEA said, with regards to claims related to border issues made by the Nepal foreign ministry in the context of the Manasarovar yatra, India’s position in this regard had been consistent and clear. “Lipulekh Pass has been a long-standing route for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra since 1954 and the yatra through this route has been going on for decades. This is not a new development.”The MEA said India remained open to a constructive

interaction with Nepal on all issues in the bilateral relationship, including on resolving agreed outstanding boundary issues through dialogue and diplomacy.

This is second such protest by Nepal, since the last one in August last year when India and China announced the opening of a trade route via the same mountainous region.

India had last week announced the pilgrimage to Mansarovar and one of the routes is through Lipulekh Pass, located near the trijunction of India, Nepal and China.

Nepal’s foreign ministry said it had taken note of reports about the proposed route and reiterated its long-held claim.

Nepal’s foreign minister Shishir Khanal said the step was taken after consultations with political parties, and its official stance had now been formally communicated.

Nepal has, in the past, repeatedly urged India not to undertake road construction, expansion, border trade or pilgrimage-related activities in the region. The government said it has consistently raised these concerns in the past, describing the matter as sensitive.

Nepal has, on multiple occasions, reminded both India and China of its claim and concerns regarding developments in the Lipulekh area.

The dispute centres around the Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura regions, which Nepal claims part of its territory under the Sugauli Treaty, signed after the Anglo-Gurkha war. The British had defeated the Gurkha kingdom in a battle and the treaty defined territories the Gurkha king ceded to the British.

Kuki groups seek UT status for hill areas; Meiteis urge govt not to support ‘Kuki militants’

Sunday marked the third anniversary of ethnic violence breaking out in Manipur. However, the chasm between the Kuki groups and the majority Meiteis shows no signs of narrowing, as both communities reiterated their known stands. The former is seeking a UT status for hill areas, while the latter urged the Centre and the state government not to support Kuki militants, who are under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact with them.

Several Meitei groups organised a sit-in at Jantar Mantar in the national capital, while the tribal Kuki groups carried out a peaceful march in Lamka town in the state’s Churachandpur district.

Both communities have been blaming each other for the sustained violence, which continues to rock the state despite imposition of the President’s Rule, its subsequent revocation and a change in CM with Y Khemchand Singh replacing N Biren Singh.

Thousands of people across the Sadar Hills in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district also observed “Separation Day” to mark three years since the outbreak of the conflict on May 3, 2023. The observance coincided with a 12-hour shutdown across Sadar Hills. Business establishments, private offices and educational institutions remained closed, while vehicular movement, except for emergency services, was suspended.

Meanwhile, after their protest march at Jantar Mantar, several Meitei groups condemned the ongoing violence in the state. They collectively condemned the continued support, funding, protection and shielding extended to Kuki militant groups. They alleged that their continued operation was a direct assault on constitutional order and justice.

They sought immediate end to all support, funding, and protection to Kuki militant groups; complete dismantling and disarmament of all militant networks operating in Manipur; immediate restoration of constitutional rule, law and order in Manipur and time-bound justice for every victim of violence since May 3, 2023.

Meanwhile, the Kuki Inpi, an apex body of the tribal community, reiterated its demand for the creation of a UT with Legislature under Article 239A of the Constitution of India.

The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) issued a separate statement, criticising the authorities. “Kuki-Zo lives remain the cheapest commodities in India even three years after the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur,” it alleged.

The rights body demanded a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the events of May 2023 and accused the then government led by Biren of presiding over a “systematic ethnic cleansing campaign” allegedly carried out in coordination with armed groups.

KOHUR claimed that despite documented allegations of killings, sexual violence and arson, there had been “no arrests and zero prosecutions” in several major cases, describing the situation as a “complete collapse of the rule of law”. Referring to the attack on BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte during the violence, the organisation said the incident demonstrated that even elected representatives were not spared, raising concerns over public safety and accountability.

Blast in Imphal; no casualty

Suspected militants triggered a bomb explosion in Imphal West district on Sunday, said officials.

No casualty or damage to property was reported in the blast that occurred near a crematorium at Malom under the Singjamei police station, less than a kilometre from the Imphal Airport. The incident site is also close to a camp of the Territorial Army.

India’s private space ecosystem reached a major milestone with the successful launch of GalaxEye’s Mission Drishti, which features the world’s first OptoSAR satellite and India’s largest privately built satellite. The mission marks a significant advance in all‑weather earth observation capabilities and strengthens the country’s growing space technology landscape.

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime inister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh were among those who congratulated the team on the successful launch.

PM Modi lauded the achievement, calling it an important moment in India’s space journey. He said the successful deployment of the OptoSAR satellite reflected the passion of India’s youth for innovation and nation-building, and extended his best wishes to the founders and the entire GalaxEye team for their continued contribution to cutting-edge space technology.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also praised the achievement, saying it was proud to support such initiatives by providing access to its satellite testing facilities. ISRO said its efforts were aimed at fostering innovation and supporting the growth of India’s emerging private space sector.

The space agency said such collaborations were helping build a stronger and more self-reliant space ecosystem, enabling private players to contribute meaningfully to advanced space research and applications.

The satellite was placed in orbit aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from California. The rocket launched the CAS500-2 mission and delivered 45 payloads into orbit, including the OptoSAR satellite.

Mission Drishti is being seen as a major step forward in enhancing India’s earth observation capabilities, while also highlighting the expanding role of private participation in the country’s space sector.

WISHING LT GEB SS DAHIYA ,COL COMDT BENGAL SAPPERS HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Brig Prahlad Singh chairman Sanjha Morcha Honoring Comdt 167 MH for rendering excellent medical services to ESM,Group

WE WANT EQUALITY

Lt Gen Balbir Singh takes charge of Chinar Corps

Lt Gen Depinder Singh, ex-IPKF commander, dies at 96

Major Deependra Singh Sengar.Real stories India never makes headlines about

GOLDEN-SAMPARK

Army releases list of 7 Pak terror camps hit during Op Sindoor

Does Trump’s war with Iran mark the start of de-dollarisation?

Bangladesh summons Indian envoy over Assam CM’s remarks

India, Italy exchange Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan

Govt to invite bids for 5th-generation fighter aircraft

Overseas Citizen of India registration system revamped, fully digitised

Commercial LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 993, now at record Rs 3,071.50

Rupee hits all-time intraday low of 95.34 against $ as crude spirals past 122 per barrel

No Promotion, No Pay Growth? The Hidden Crisis in Indian Armed Forces | Lt Col Narendra Singh Thakur

Honoring Comdt 167 MH for rendering excellent medical services to ESM,Group Capt PS Pathania and Col Balkar Singh for attaining more than 90 years of age at Pathankot.More than 300 ESM Participated
Warm Regards
Brig Prahlad Singh Veteran

Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava on Friday relinquished command of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps after 19 months, handing over charge to Lieutenant General Balbir Singh.

During his tenure, the region witnessed consolidation of the security architecture, making it more responsive and synergised, contributing to peace and stability in the Valley. His tenure was marked by the execution of Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which brought the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice, the incident-free conduct of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 and several other initiatives.

“Under his astute stewardship, the Corps also registered notable operational successes in counter-infiltration along the Line of Control and in counter-terrorism operations in the hinterland, delivering a decisive and debilitating blow to inimical elements. Equally commendable were his sustained outreach initiatives, which fostered trust and goodwill among the local populace, earning him admiration for his humane and affable approach. Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava now proceeds to assume the prestigious appointment of the Quarter Master General at IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi,” an official spokesperson said.

Soon after assuming command, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh paid obeisance at the Chinar War Memorial in Srinagar, honouring the supreme sacrifice of soldiers. A highly decorated officer with over 34 years of service, he has extensive operational experience in counter-infiltration and counter-terrorism operations across Jammu and Kashmir and the North East. He previously commanded the Counter Insurgency Force (Victor) in south Kashmir.

In his inaugural address, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh reaffirmed his resolve to work in close synergy with the civil administration and the people of Kashmir to further strengthen peace, stability and prosperity in the region. He urged all sections of society to join hands with security forces in overcoming persistent challenges.

“As the mantle of leadership transitions, the Chinar Corps remains an enduring emblem of unity, resilience and unwavering commitment — steadfast in its mission to ensure lasting peace, stability, nurturing rich cultural heritage and meet the aspirations of the Kashmiri youth for a brighter future and ‘Vikasit Kashmir’,” the spokesperson said.

Also served as aide to Manekshaw in 1971 war

Lt Gen Depinder Singh, former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Southern Command, and overall force commander of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka, passed away in Panchkula on Tuesday at the age of 96.

Commissioned into the 8 Gorkha Rifles in December 1950, he served as the Military Assistant to the then Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, making him a witness to high-level decision-making and key events that shaped the course of history, especially the 1971 Bangladeshi liberation campaign. He remained on Field Marshal Manekshaw’s office staff from 1969 to 1973.

He also participated in the 1965 India-Pakistan war, where he was the Brigade Major of 41 Mountain Brigade that stopped the Pakistani advance towards Akhnoor. He also commanded a Gorkha Rifles battalion in the counter-insurgency environment.

In 1975, during Sikkim’s merger into India, he was closely involved in the sensitive operation to disarm the then ruler, Chogyal’s personal bodyguard, the Sikkim Guards.

After being promoted to the Brigadier rank, he commanded a brigade in Sikkim. Following a stint as the commander of the Indian Military Training Team in Bhutan, he also commanded the 36th Infantry Division as a Major General, and thereafter on promotion to Lieutenant General, he commanded 33 Corps in the North-East.

As the GOC-in-C, Southern Command, he was appointed as the overall force commander of the IPKF when the India-Sri Lanka accord was signed in 1987 to disarm Tamil militant groups like the LTTE.

Although the operation in Sri Lanka, which saw intense and bitter battles, was largely considered a tactical military success, there were heavy Indian casualties and it threw up several hard lessons.

“Lt Gen Depinder Singh’s illustrious career was marked by courage, integrity and unwavering dedication to the nation. A proud and fine embodiment of the Gorkha spirit and values of bravery, loyalty and selfless service, he led with quiet strength, dignity and inspired all,” said Lt Gen Bhopinder Singh (retd), former Military Secretary to the President and Governor of Puducherry.

“He was among the tallest figures of the Gorkha Brigade. He was gentle and kind-hearted, and his demise is a big loss to the Gorkha community as well as the service fraternity at large,” said Lily Bawa, his neighbour whose husband, Lt Col IS Bawa was decorated posthumously with the Maha Vir Chakra for showing exemplary courage during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka.

After retiring in February 1988, Lt Gen Depinder Singh authored several books, including one on the legacy of Field Marshal Manekshaw, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Soldiering with Dignity, and others on his Sri Lankan experiences. He also spoke at various seminars and wrote on military affairs.

Former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command and overall force commander of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka, Lt Gen Depinder Singh, passed away in Panchkula on Tuesday at the age of 96.

His mortals remain were consigned to the flames with full military honours today. He is survived by a daughter.

Commissioned into the Eight Gorkha Rifles in December 1950, he has served as the Military Assistant to the then Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, making him a witness to high-level decision making and key events that shaped the course of history, especially the 1971 Bangladesh liberation campaign.

He was in Field Marshal Manekshaw’s staff from 1969 to 1973.

Having participated in the 1965 India-Pakistan war, where he was the brigade Major of 41 Mountain Brigade that stopped the Pakistani advance towards Akhnoor, he later commanded a Gorkha Rifles battalion in counter insurgency environment.

In 1975, during Sikkim’s merger into India, he was closely involved in the sensitive operation to disarm the then ruler, Chogyal’s personal bodyguard, the Sikkim Guards.

After being promoted to Brigadier, he had commanded a brigade in Sikkim. Following a stint as the commander of the Indian Military Training Team in Bhutan, he commanded the 36th Infantry Division as a Major General.

As the GOC-in-C, Southern Command, he was appointed as the overall force commander of the IPKF when the India – Sri Lanka accord was signed in 1987 to disarm Tamil militant groups like the LTTE.

While the operation in Sri Lanka, which saw intense and bitter battles, were largely considered a tactical military success, there were heavy Indian casualties and it threw up several hard lessons.

“Lt Gen Depinder Singh’s illustrious career was marked by courage, integrity and unwavering dedication to the nation. A proud and fine embodiment of the Gorkha spirit and values of bravery, loyalty and selfless service, he led with quiet strength, dignity and inspired all, Lt Gen Bhopinder Singh (retd), former Military Secretary to the President and Governor of Puducherry,” said Lt Gen.

“He was among the tallest figures of the Gorkha Brigade. Despite being a real soldier he was gentle and kind hearted, and his demise is a big loss to the Gorkha community as well as the service fraternity at large,” Lily Bawa, his neighbour whose husband , Lt Col IS Bawa was decorated posthumously with the Maha Vir Chakra in Sri Lanka said.

After retiring in February 1988, Lt Gen Depinder authored several books, including one on the legacy of Field Marshal Manekshaw and others on his Sri Lankan experiences. He also remained active on the social front, speaking at various seminars and writing on military affairs.

He grew up in Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh. Studied at Sainik School Rewa. Commissioned into the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment Special Forces in 1991. His fellow soldiers called him Rocket.

In 1998, during an anti insurgency operation in Guwahati, he eliminated two militants and was hit by two bullets that tore through his abdomen. Doctors said recovery would take 18 to 24 months. He was back in action in one year.

During recovery, he sneaked out of hospital wearing a colostomy bag, hired a car, and travelled five hours to attend a colleague’s wedding.

When the Kargil War began, he went back into combat. He led his team to capture Neelam Post, the highest post captured by the Indian Army in the entire Kargil engagement.

In September 1999, an AK 47 burst shattered his hip bone. He barely survived. The doctors told him he would never walk again.

He lay on a hospital bed on traction and studied mathematics eight hours a day. A nursing assistant sent his twelve year old son to help him with calculations. Six months later, Sengar hobbled on crutches to a CAT examination centre.

He cleared CAT. Received admission offers from 15 of India’s top 16 business schools. He chose IIM Ahmedabad. Attended every class on crutches. Interned at Lehman Brothers in Tokyo. Graduated with distinction.

He went on to work at Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Genpact and Microsoft. He walked without crutches a decade after doctors said he never would.

He received 12 military medals including a gallantry award. In 2021, ZEE5 made a web series on his life called Jeet Ki Zidd.

Two bullets could not stop him. A shattered hip could not stop him. The doctors could not stop him.

He just kept going.

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