Two Army personnel, including a Captain, were killed while another was seriously injured when an improvised explosive device (IED), suspected to have been planted by Pakistan-based terrorists, exploded along the Line of Control in Laleali area of Akhnoor sector in…

Arjun Sharma

Two Army personnel, including a Captain, were killed while another was seriously injured when an improvised explosive device (IED), suspected to have been planted by Pakistan-based terrorists, exploded along the Line of Control in Laleali area of Akhnoor sector in Jammu.

Planted by ultras

• The IED is believed to have been planted by terrorists
• The Army team was on a patrol when the blast occurred
• Injured were shifted to hospital where 2 of them succumbed

According to information, an Army team was on an area domination patrol close to the LoC when the blast occurred. The injured were rushed to a hospital where two of them succumbed to their injuries. The entire area was cordoned off after the explosion, said officials.

The deceased have been identified as Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi and Naik Mukesh. In a post on X, Army’s Nagrota-based White Knight Corps said, “Suspected IED blast reported at Laleali in Akhnoor sector during a fence patrol, resulting in two fatalities. Our troops are dominating the area and search operations are underway. White Knight Corps salutes and pays tribute to the supreme sacrifice of two gallant personnel.” The powerful explosion was learnt to have been heard by soldiers stationed in far-off areas, following which a quick reaction team (QRT) was dispatched to the blast site for area domination. The explosion occurred a day after the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps, Lt General Navin Sachdeva, visited forward areas in Rajouri in wake of the “hostile activities” going on close to the LoC.

On Saturday, Indian troops patrolling along the LoC in Rajouri had come under fire from a forest area on the Pakistani side. The Army, BSF and the CRPF are already on a high alert, specifically in the Jammu region. In a two-day encounter on October 28-29 last year, three Pakistani terrorists were shot dead by Army personnel in Akhnoor sector.

In his native Bri Kamila village in the border district of Samba, villagers remember Naik Mukesh Singh Manhas as an enthusiastic cricketer, an extrovert and someone who was always ready to extend a helping hand to the needy

General Officer Commanding of the Jammu-based White Knight Corps Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva lays a wreath at the mortal remains of the two soldiers who were killed in an IED blast near LoC, in Jammu, Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. (PTI Photo)

He had returned to his Army unit on January 28 after his engagement and having given final touches to his new house. Just 14 days later, Naik Mukesh Singh Manhas was killed in an IED blast, leaving his family shattered.

The 29-year-old from Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba, who was supposed to get married in April, was killed along with Captain Karamjit Singh Bakshi from Jharkhand’s Ranchi in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast carried out by terrorists near the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu’s Akhnoor sector on Tuesday.

In his native Bri Kamila village in the border district of Samba, villagers remembered Manhas as an enthusiastic cricketer, an extrovert and someone who was always ready to extend a helping hand to the needy.

“He served the Army for more than nine years. He was posted in Siachen glacier (in Ladakh), Kashmir and Punjab, before moving to Akhnoor recently. He returned to his unit on January 28 after a two-week leave from duty for his ring ceremony,” his father Chagatar Singh, a retired policeman, told reporters.

Manhas, whose younger brother is also in the Army, was supposed to get married on April 20, the grieving father said, as his relatives and neighbours made a beeline for their house to convey their condolences.

Chagatar Singh said his son joined the Army at a very young age to fulfil his desire to serve the country.

“His two sisters, one older to him and another younger, are married. He was a cricket lover and made extraordinary efforts during his recent stay in the village to prepare a cricket pitch for the youth,” Mahesh, a childhood friend of the slain soldier, said.

Chuni Lal, another resident of the village, said Manhas was full of energy and always motivated youngsters to get involved in sporting activities.

“We have lost a true gem in a cowardly terror attack. The enemy has no courage to face our brave soldiers and is undertaking such actions. We believe our forces will take appropriate action to ensure justice for the martyrs,” he said.

Officials said the body of Manhas would be taken to his village and his funeral held with full military hours later in the day.

One person dies as SUV veered off road into muddy waters of canal near Machhiwara

Gaurav Kanthwal Tribune News Service

Harjinder Singh (49), an ex-Armyman and Kargil War veteran, and his two teenaged sons saved five persons from drowning whose SUV plunged into the Sirhind canal between Pvaat village and Behlolpur village near Machhiwara in Ludhiana on Monday night around 11:30 pm.

One person, Kuldeep Singh, did not survive in the accident after his body was taken out from the freezing cold water.

The veteran of 15 Punjab (Patiala), now re-employed in the security of Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia, had come home on vacation. On Monday he, along with his two sons Gurleenpreet Singh (18) and Harkirat Singh (17), were returning after attending a wedding in Bathinda when they saw a vehicle plunging into the Sirhind canal with six victims trapped inside it.

“I was sleeping in the rear seat of my car when one of my sons, who was driving the car, stopped to see the vehicle falling into the canal. After realising that six youths around 25 years of age were struggling to get out of the vehicle, me and my two sons were lucky to bail them out by the grace of God,” the former sepoy said.

Harjinder, along with his sons, rescued the victims by breaking open windowpanes. His sons took the help of a fallen tree to stop the vehicle from sliding further into the muddy water. The trio brought the victims to safety and informed the police. Village residents gathered at the scene and took care of the shivering victims.

“Though we all were wet and shivering with cold, we were feeling thirsty as climbing uphill with victims was torturous. The residents arranged some water for us after which we breathed easy,” they said.

Three PCRs and an ambulance reached the spot after around one hour. One person was declared brought dead at hospital. “One of the five victims was unconscious and water had to be pumped out of the body with the help of chest presses. One victim was bleeding profusely as thick blood oozed out of his head. We secured his head with two Siropas lying in our car.” He has been referred to the DMCH, Ludhiana, on Tuesday.

The local residents lauded the ex-Armyman’s courage and recounted that Harjinder had saved a 25-year-old girl who jumped into the canal way back on August 25, 2008. Then too, he had held the drowning girl by her hair for around 500m in the muddy water and rescued her to the other bank of the canal.

What was Harjinder doing there? “I had gone to a liquor vend near the canal to have some quality time,” he chuckled.

Harjinder, who was injured in the artillery fire from across the border had fell in a ditch in the Mala sector of Kargil during the war and had to be medically boarded out soon, was awarded by the state government for showing exemplary bravery in saving the life of a drowning girl.

Residents said the 6-ft jawan has helped many village children and youths learn swimming. “The canal is a part of our life, we cannot afford to stay away from it. Hence, learning swimming is a step in knowing our surroundings and responding to such situations,” he said.

On being asked what made him jump along with his two sons into the canal in the dead of the night to save the trapped victims, Harjinder said: “How can you see people drowning in front of your eyes. God has given me the ability to help someone. I want my teenaged sons to be fearful of God and brave enough to come to the rescue of persons in need.”

The police said the victims were gas pipeline workers and they were on the way from Bathinda to Rupnagar when the mishap occurred.

Cutting down on imports a big challenge

Editorial

IT’s intriguing that India continues to be the world’s biggest arms importer despite the Modi government’s consistent emphasis on self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) and indigenous production in the defence sector. In his address at the ongoing Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the evolving global security scenario demanded innovative approaches and stronger partnerships. But is greater strategic collaboration helping India become a global powerhouse of defence research, development and innovation? Or is it making the country more dependent on foreign manufacturers? These questions need to be addressed with an open mind by the Centre as well as the top brass of the defence forces.

The government’s resolve to cut down on arms imports and boost exports is being put to the test by US President Donald Trump. He is insistent that India should buy more US-made security equipment. Trump, who is set to host Prime Minister Modi, wants a ‘fair’ trading relationship with New Delhi. And he has made no bones about his zealousness to introduce new tariffs on steel and aluminium imports into the US, a move that could hit many Indian companies. India, which is keen on co-production of Stryker combat vehicles and fighter jet engines, needs to ensure that such deals are not skewed in favour of the US.

Russia’s preoccupation with the Ukraine war has prompted India to rely less on its traditional defence partner and focus more on acquisitions from Western nations in a bid to diversify supplies. Transfer of technology is a prerequisite for bolstering domestic production in the long run, but some Western firms have shown reluctance on this count. The Defence Minister has asserted that India does not believe in transactional relationships or imposing solutions. However, the same cannot be said with confidence about the country’s top partners. New Delhi must judiciously prioritise its strategic interests, striking a balance between indigenous capacity-building and its ‘Make for the world’ aspirations.

With no major terror activity in Jammu region for past sometime, the security forces are keeping a close eye on the Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and terror associates to know if the terrorists were plotting a new strategy, specifically in…

Arjun Sharma Our Correspondent

With no major terror activity in Jammu region for past sometime, the security forces are keeping a close eye on the Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and terror associates to know if the terrorists were plotting a new strategy, specifically in the upper reaches of the division.

Police officials in terror-affected districts of the region have been asked to remain vigilant and act against any OGW present in their respective areas. The police have also started action against SIM card dealers who sell new connection without proper authentication.

Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, Lt General Navin Sachdeva, held separate security and operational review in different areas of Jammu region on Monday.

Jammu IGP Bhim Sen Tuti reviewed operational preparedness of the Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban range during his first high-level review meeting after assuming the charge. Senior officials from these districts and other areas were present during the meeting.

At the meeting, the IGP assessed the security situation, operational readiness and response mechanisms in the region. The focus was on ensuring effective coordination between various security agencies and police forces deployed in the area to maintain law and order, as well as to combat potential security threats.

“A detailed review of the strategic deployment of forces across Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban districts was conducted. Emphasis was placed on countering emerging security challenges, improving surveillance and enhancing coordination between field forces and the intelligence network. The IGP also discussed strengthening the logistics support, patrolling and preventive measures to thwart any potential incidents,” an official said.

The IGP also highlighted the need for continuous engagement with local communities, particularly in areas with difficult terrain, to foster cooperation and build trust. Ensuring the welfare of officers deployed in these areas, particularly in remote and challenging locations, was also stressed as a priority.

Doda and Kishtwar have witnessed many attacks by Pakistani terrorists last year in which many security forces personnel were killed. Some terrorists were also shot dead in these areas.

Meanwhile, GOC Lt General Navin Sachdeva along with other senior Army officers visited the Rajouri sector for an operational update on the prevailing security situation and the hostile activities. He asked the troops to remain prepared for all contingencies.

There have been reports of activities on the other side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri during recent times. Reports also suggested that firing from other side on Indian troops took place multiple times during the recent days.

Amid a thick blanket of snow and temperatures dropping below -5 degrees Celsius, Army personnel are conducting patrolling operations in the upper reaches of Doda district, ensuring the region’s security, officials said on Monday. The region has witnessed multiple terrorist…

Amid a thick blanket of snow and temperatures dropping below -5 degrees Celsius, Army personnel are conducting patrolling operations in the upper reaches of Doda district, ensuring the region’s security, officials said on Monday.

The region has witnessed multiple terrorist attacks in the past. The Army’s vigilant presence has been instrumental in monitoring and preventing terrorist activities, ensuring the safety of the local population.

In response to past militant attacks, security forces have intensified surveillance, adopting a proactive approach to locate and neutralize foreign terrorists. The Army’s counter-terrorism operations in Doda have yielded positive results, further reinforcing security in the region.

On Sunday, the Doda Police conducted a mock drill to enhance emergency preparedness and security.

Additional Superintendent of Police (SP), Doda, Shakeel Raheem Bhatt said the district was divided into three zones to assess police preparedness in handling emergencies. “We had divided Doda into three zones to conduct mock drills and check our preparedness to deal with emergencies,” Bhatt said.

He expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the public, shopkeepers and tourists, assuring them that there was no need to panic

India must transform its information operations to counter Pakistan’s propaganda effectively.

Lt Gen Dushyant Singh retd

On a winding stretch of the Jammu-Srinagar highway, a convoy of 78 vehicles carrying 2,500 CRPF personnel was making its way to Srinagar on February 14, 2019. Among them were 40 bravehearts of the 76th CRPF Battalion. Unnoticed by the troops, a Mahindra Scorpio packed with 200 kg of explosives, driven by 22-year-old Adil Ahmad Dar — a suicide bomber from the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) — rammed into one of the buses. The explosion killed 40 soldiers, marking one of the deadliest attacks on Indian security forces in decades.

This was not the first time that India faced such brutality. The 2016 Pathankot airbase attack, the 2018 Uri terror strike and the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks were all grim reminders of Pakistan’s proxy war against India.

However, Pulwama became the inflection point that tested India’s strategic patience. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement after the attack reflected the nation’s resolve: “Security forces have been given full freedom to choose the time and place for the future course of action. Terrorists have made a big mistake and will pay a heavy price.”

The Pulwama attack forced India to rethink its counterterrorism strategy. For decades, Pakistan had waged a proxy war, bleeding India with “a thousand cuts.”

While diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan globally were initiated, the national leadership, including the military, believed a stronger response was necessary. The challenge was to act decisively despite the nuclear dynamics between the two nations.

India had to move beyond reactive approaches, overcoming bureaucratic inertia, intelligence gaps and predictable military response.

Addressing the root causes of radicalisation in Jammu and Kashmir and transforming governance in the region became critical.

The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in August 2019 was a watershed moment. It revoked J&K’s special status, extended the jurisdiction of Central agencies, and allowed them to target terror funding, money-laundering and other activities that fuelled terrorism. The state was also bifurcated into two union territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh — further integrating the region with the rest of the country.

India’s desire for a proactive counterterrorism strategy has often been hindered by several barriers.

First, geopolitical constraints, including Pakistan’s alleged support for militant groups and the nuclear deterrence dynamics, have historically limited India’s options.

Second, intelligence gaps — due to inadequate human intelligence, poor coordination and technological limitations — have made pre-empting attacks difficult.

Third, legal and institutional hurdles, such as delays in implementing counterterrorism laws and reforms, have slowed progress. For instance, the proposal for a National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) after the 26/11 attacks remains stuck in bureaucratic red-tape.

Finally, anti-India propaganda fuelled by Pakistan and supported by internal actors, like the Hurriyat Conference, and overground workers has complicated efforts to balance public demand for swift retaliation with long-term strategic goals.

Post 2014, India began to adopt a more assertive approach. Surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) in 2016 and 2019 demonstrated India’s willingness to use military force.

Diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan and designate terrorists gained momentum.

However, Pulwama demanded an even stronger response.

On February 26, 2019, the Indian Air Force conducted airstrikes on a JeM training camp in Balakot, Pakistan. This marked the first use of air power against Pakistan since 1971 and signalled a significant shift in India’s strategy.

The strikes, which killed hundreds of terrorists, effectively called Pakistan’s nuclear bluff and raised the threshold for India’s response to terrorism.

Pakistan retaliated with airstrikes on Indian military targets, leading to a dogfight in which India lost a MiG-21 Bison and its pilot. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured, but not before he had shot down a much superior aircraft in terms of capability, the F-16 of the Pakistani Air Force.

However, combined pressure from India and the international community forced Pakistan to release him.

While India achieved strategic surprise and deterred Pakistan from major terror attacks since Pulwama, the operation also highlighted the need for better perception management.

India must transform its information operations to counter Pakistan’s propaganda effectively.

Despite moving down the global terrorism index, India’s challenges are far from over. With two hostile neighbours who act in a collusive manner against India and the evolving terror tactics, the threat persists. Groups like the LeT and the JeM have rebranded as “The Resistance Front”, while lone-wolf attacks, fuelled by social media radicalisation, are on the rise.

To counter these threats, India must invest in advanced intelligence technologies, improve inter-agency coordination and strengthen regional cooperation with countries like Afghanistan and Central Asian states. Hard power options, including punitive actions akin to those taken by Israel or the US, must remain on the table.

At the same time, India must balance counterterrorism measures with respect for human rights and civil liberties.

The Pulwama attack was a turning point in India’s fight against terrorism. It shattered old mindsets and forced India to adopt a more proactive and multi-dimensional approach. The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, the Balakot airstrikes, and the integration of J&K into the Union Territory framework, were bold steps that redefined India’s counterterrorism strategy.

While significant progress has been made, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. India’s ability to adapt, innovate and respond decisively will determine its success in securing its future from the menace of terrorism.

                 I Cannot express my experience and explained rather a surprised ,flabbergasted , to know sea change in working style for issue/reissue of Chandigarh Passport . Must say other passport office in India and Police verifications must adopt the same methodology and working style of passport office as Chandigarh ,if not better.

   (a) Had applied for reissue of Passport for my self & my wife on 29 Jan 2025(Wednesday)

(b) got appointment for 03 Feb 2025 at 4:30 pm for both .

(c) All formalities were hassle free  .

(d) Received call for Police verification on 03 Evening itself from ASI Harish Pandey for verification which is Free of cost .

(e) After police verification got message from passport office on 05 Feb 20025 that passport has been dispatched and ultimately received on 06 Feb 2025 within a period less than 72 hours .

What a change brought In by the present Regional Passport officer Chandigarh Smt Priyanka Mehtani . We veterans salute her for making the best and efficient Passport office in India .God bless her .

Word about Chandigarh Police  verification Team

      (a)First time in my life never heard Police carrying out Police verification of passport without their hands being greased .

(b) ASI  harish pandey sounded me the verification is free of cost ,

(c )  There is a total change in approach of Verification police team

(i) firstly moral courage secondly Impressive and pleasing uniform worn by team.

(ii) Hope police of Punjab and other states follow same and make independent department for verification.

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh piloted a TEJAS MK-1 fighter jet with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi as the co-pilot on Sunday, February 9. This marks the first time an Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief has flown the Army Chief in an indigenous combat aircraft. The 45-minute flight in the two-seater trainer version of the TEJAS MK-1 Light Combat Aircraft took off from the Yelahanka airbase in Bangalore during Aero India 2025.

This event signals jointness in the armed forces and the air force’s backing of the locally produced fighter jet. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh will also fly in a formation of three TEJAS MK-1s on Monday, the opening day of Aero India 2025, which is Asia’s biggest Air Show. The air force has already inducted the TEJAS MK-1s.

This development comes at a time when Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to begin critical trials on the TEJAS MK-1A, an advanced variant of the MK-1 aircraft. These trials will test the indigenous Astra beyond-visual-range missile, the aircraft’s locally made electronic warfare suite, and the Israeli Elta radar.

HAL is aiming to deliver the first fighter jet to the IAF by March 31, after completing the necessary certification requirements. The TEJAS MK-1A will also participate in the aerial display during the five-day Air Show.

The IAF has ordered 83 MK-1A fighters for ₹48,000 crore in February 2021 and plans to buy 97 more Mk-1As at a cost of around ₹67,000 crore. HAL is in talks with US firm GE Aerospace to expedite the delivery of the F404 engines for the MK-1A aircraft.

Aero India 2025, Asia’s premier aerospace exhibition, has begun today, February 10, and will continue until February 14 at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. The event will showcase a range of advanced aircraft, including the U.S. F-35 Lightning II and Russia’s Su-57.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 15th edition of Aero India, emphasizing India’s strength and self-reliance in the aerospace sector.

Spectators can witness aerial displays, including the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran and Sarang teams, as well as international aerobatic squads. The exhibition includes participation from the US Air Force’s F-35 fifth-generation fighter aircraft, and the Russian Su-57.

The event highlights India’s growing capabilities in the global aerospace arena, with a dedicated India Pavilion displaying over 275 exhibits across five zones. Indian defence giants like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) are showcasing their latest innovations, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas) and the Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv).

Prior to the event, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh took a historic flight together in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted mainly clear skies throughout the week in Bengaluru.

Bangalore Traffic Police have implemented traffic restrictions and diversions from February 10 to 14. Attendees were advised to arrive early, carry valid identification, and use public transportation. The exhibition is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with air shows in the morning and afternoon.

The event includes a Defence Ministers’ Conclave for discussions on global security and defence partnerships. The first three days (Feb 10–12) are reserved for business travellers.

Reuters