Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 25

The Army, as an institution, offers unique and unparalleled opportunities to imbibe leadership qualities and develop capability for innovative thinking and finding practical solutions in tough situations.This was stated by Gen VP Malik, former Chief of the Army Staff, at a session on Combat Episodes, organised as a run-up to the forthcoming Military Literature Festival, here on Sunday. He said nurturing human relations, comradeship and team spirit was the hallmark of the Army.

Earlier, Wg Cdr DS Kler (retd), a veteran of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, gave a firsthand account of the first aerial combat that took place on November 22 over Boyra in the east, in which four IAF Gnats shot down three Pakistani Sabre jest without any loss.Brig IS Gakhal (Retd) traced the history of the Sikh Regiment, recounting its important campaigns and landmark events since its rise in 1846. He laid emphasis on the legacy and exploits of notable commanders and officers of the regiment who played significant role in wars and other operations.

Giving an overview of the famous Battle of Dograi, Brig Pradeep Sharma (Retd) of the Jat Regiment gave an insight into the psych of Jat soldiers. He also narrated several anecdotes regarding Jat soldiers in various battles.

Brig Onkar Goraya narrated the operation concerning the crossing of the Meghna River in Bangladesh by Indian forces in 1971 and the role played by the 4 Corps commander, Lt Gen Sagat Singh, in successful offensive operations.

Delving on joys and tribulations of being an Army wife, Lily Swaran narrated her varied experiences while being married to an officer.