Pranab presents President’s Standards to MiG-27’s two squadrons based in West Bengal’s Alipurduar
Hasimara (West Bengal), Nov 28
Calling for mature statesmanship from India and China, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha today said the country should not look at China as an adversary anymore.
“We are in the same region, we have common interests. I don’t think that we should look at them as adversaries anymore,” Raha said in Alipurduar district.
“Yes, we had fought a conflict, we have borders to settle. I think it’s time for mature statesmanship from both the countries to reconcile on many issues,” he said.
All MIG-27 fighter jets, which have not been upgraded, will be phased out in the next couple of years and there are plans to introduce Rafale and Tejas, he added.
President Pranab Mukherjee said India was firmly committed to peace but was always prepared to deploy its military might to safeguard its sovereignty as he decorated two gallant IAF fighter aircraft squadrons at a strategic border airbase here today.
Mukherjee presented the President’s Standards to the 22nd and 18th Squadrons of the Indian Air Force operating the strike and combat superior MiG-27 aircraft to secure Indian skies along the eastern theatre during peace times and war.
The Squadrons are based here in Alipurduar district of West Bengal, strategically located right across the India-Bhutan border with the task to keep a vigil over the entire north-east border skies of India.
“India’s increasing eminence in the comity of nations draws its strength from the capabilities of our armed forces. Though we remain firmly committed to peace, we will use all our might to protect the sovereignty of the nation. I am confident that our valiant men and women in uniform will rise to the occasion,” the President said.
The President’s Standards are given to armed forces’ units which render exceptional and dedicated service over a period of time. Both the units which got the honours today have been doing so for the past 50 years now.
While the 18th Squadron, called the “Flying Bullets”, was formed in 1965 in Ambala, the 22nd Squadron was raised in 1966 in Bareilly and subsequently based at the Hasimara Air Force Station here.
Mukherjee praised the IAF’s role in carrying out numerous humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations especially during the 2013 deluge in Uttarakhand and during the earthquake in Nepal in April this year.
“The nation is indeed proud of you,” he said complimenting the two units and the Air Force.
The two air strike units decorated today have played important roles during the 1971 Indo-Pak war with the 18th Squadron being the lone recipient of the highest battle-time gallantry medal — the Param Vir Chakra — for the daredevil operation of its Flying Officer NJS Sekhon, who successfully brought down Pakistani air force “Sabre” fighter jets in skilled dogfights.
The 22nd Squadron, also called “The Swifts” for their fast and precision skills, earned its laurels during the same war when its fighters brought down three Pakistani jets over Jessore in a single sortie.
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha and senior air force officers were present at the event along with state government officials. — PTI

New Delhi, January 8

An explosives-laden vehicle was on Friday found near the Indian consulate in Herat and one person arrested in this regard, prompting speculation as to whether it was intended for attacking yet another Indian diplomatic mission in Afghanistan.

According to the information available here, a vehicle was found parked unattended in a makeshift taxi stand next to the consulate and when checked by police officials, it was found to contain explosives.

“The police had seized a suspect vehicle near consulate perimeter with explosives to be used for VBIED (vehicle-borne improvised explosive device). It was not ready to be used as VBIED but only had preparatory explosive materials. All main suspects were able to escape…. Only one suspect from nearby area has been detained by police for interrogation,” Afghan police have reportedly informed Indian officials.

However, Indian consulate in Herat tweeted that “reports about discovery of VBIED outside the Consulate are misleading.

“No explosives found.”

Today’s incident comes less than a week after an attack by a group of heavily armed insurgents who attempted to storm into the Indian consulate in northern Mazar-e-Sharif city of Afghanistan on Sunday.

Just few days after Mazar-e-Sharif incident, a small bomb exploded near the Indian consulate in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad on January five.

Meanwhile, Afghan new agency Khaama Press (KP) while reporting on today’s development said the Afghan national security forces thwarted a terrorist attack plot by seizing a vehicle packed with explosives while it was parked close to the Indian consulate.

Provincial police spokesman Abdul Rauf Ahmadi confirmed that the vehicle was identified by the security forces and was defused on time. He was also quoted as saying that the police discovered explosives, fuses and remote controls from the vehicle which are normally used in suicide attacks. — PTI

Our Correspondent
Ferozepur, November 27
In continuation with the Indian armed forces’ relentless efforts to connect with the people, especially with the youth, the Golden Arrow Division today organised a seminar to mark the golden jubilee celebrations of the historic 1965 Indo-Pak war which saw intense action here.
During the seminar organised at RSD College in Ferozepur City, the speakers educated the youth about the nefarious and aggressive designs of the western neighbour and gave an overview about the war which was fought on this land 50 years ago. The event was attended by hundreds of students and faculty members of various colleges besides several dignitaries.
The Army officials also gave a talk about the sacrifices made by the armed forces personnel in protecting the sovereignty of the nation. The Army officials said the Indian Army being the principal stakeholder in the nation building will continue to lead from the front working hand in hand with proud citizens. The Army officials also lauded the role of Punjabis for their sacrifice for the sake of the motherland, especially the people of this “Land of martyrs” whom they said have always stood like a second wall of defence in case of any external aggression.

ਨਵੀਂ ਦਿੱਲੀ/ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ (ਵਿਸ਼ੇਸ਼) : ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ਏਅਰਬੇਸ ‘ਤੇ ਹਥਿਆਰਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਲੈਸ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਨੇ ਹਮਲਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਪੂਰੇ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਨੂੰ ਦਹਿਲਾ ਕੇ ਰੱਖ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਪਰ ਇਸ ਹਮਲੇ ਸੋਚਣ ਵਾਲੀ ਗੱਲ ਤਾਂ ਇਹ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਇੰਨੇ ਅਸਲੇ ਸਮੇਤ ਆਖਰ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀ ਪੰਜਾਬ ‘ਚ ਦਾਖਲ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਹੋ ਗਏ। ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਏਜੰਸੀਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਸ਼ੱਕ ਹੈ ਕੁਝ ਪਾਕਿਸਤਾਨੀ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੀ ਸਥਾਨਕ ਦਵਾਈ ਵਿਕਰੇਤਾਵਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਮਿਲੀਭੁਗਤ ਹੈ, ਜਿਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਉੱਤਰ ਭਾਰਤੀ ਅਧਿਕਾਰੀਆਂ ਦਾ ਸਹਿਯੋਗ ਮਿਲ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ। ਇਸੇ ਕਾਰਨ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਏਜੰਸੀਆਂ ਦਾ ਸ਼ੱਕ ਡੂੰਘਾ ਹੁੰਦਾ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਡਰੱਗ ਸਮੱਗਲਰਾਂ ਦੀ ਮਦਦ ਨਾਲ ਹੀ ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ਦੀ ਤਬਾਹੀ ਦਾ ਸਮਾਨ ਭਾਰਤ ਆ ਸਕਿਆ।

ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ‘ਚ 4 ਦਿਨ ਤਕ ਚੱਲੀ ਮੁਹਿੰਮ ਮਗਰੋਂ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਢੇਰ ਕਰ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਗਿਆ ਹੈ ਪਰ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੀ ਘੁਸਪੈਠ ਵਿਚ ਕਿਸ ਨੇ ਮਦਦ ਕੀਤੀ, ਗੋਲਾ-ਬਾਰੂਦ ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ਤੱਕ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਪਹੁੰਚਿਆ। ਇਹ ਅਜਿਹੇ ਸਵਾਲ ਹਨ ਜਿਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦਾ ਜਵਾਬ ਲੱਭਣ ਵਿਚ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਏਜੰਸੀਆਂ ਲੱਗੀਆਂ ਹੋਈਆਂ ਹਨ। ਸੂਤਰਾਂ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਏਜੰਸੀਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਸ਼ੱਕ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਬੀ. ਐੱਸ. ਐੱਫ. ਦੇ ਕੁਝ ਅਧਿਕਾਰੀਆਂ ਦੀ ਮਦਦ ਨਾਲ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਵਿਚ ਡਰੱਗ ਸਮੱਗਲਿੰਗ ਦਾ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰ ਵਧ-ਫੁਲ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ।
ਦੂਸਰੇ ਪਾਸੇ ਪਾਕਿਸਤਾਨ ਅਤੇ ਭਾਰਤ ਵਿਚ ਆਉਣ-ਜਾਣ ਲਈ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀ ਸੰਗਠਨਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਡਰੱਗ ਮਾਫੀਆ ਨੇ ਗੱਢ-ਤੁੱਪ ਕੀਤੀ ਹੋਈ ਹੈ। ਉਚ ਪੱਧਰੀ ਸੂਤਰਾਂ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਪਾਕਿਸਤਾਨੀ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਵਲੋਂ ਵਰਤੇ ਹਥਿਆਰ ਤੇ ਗੋਲਾ-ਬਾਰੂਦ ਦਵਾਈਆਂ ਦੀ ਖੇਪ ਦੇ ਨਾਲ ਲੁਕੋ ਕੇ ਹੀ ਭਾਰਤ ਪਹੁੰਚਾਇਆ ਗਿਆ। ਰੱਖਿਆ ਮੰਤਰੀ ਮਨੋਹਰ ਪਾਰਿਕਰ ਨੇ ਵੀ ਮੰਗਲਵਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਇਹ ਮੰਨਿਆ ਸੀ ਕਿ 24 ਕਿਲੋਮੀਟਰ ਦੇ ਕੰਡਿਆਲੇ ਖੇਤਰ ਵਿਚ ਹਥਿਆਰਾਂ ਦੀ ਖੇਪ ਬਿਨਾਂ ਕਿਸੇ ਦੀ ਸਥਾਨਕ ਮਦਦ ਦੇ ਏਅਰਬੇਸ ਤਕ ਪਹੁੰਚ ਸਕਣਾ ਸੰਭਵ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੈ। ਇਹੀ ਕਾਰਨ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਹੁਣ ਐੱਨ. ਆਈ. ਏ. ਦੀ ਰਾਡਾਰ ‘ਤੇ ਬੀ. ਐੱਸ. ਐੱਫ. ਨਾਲ ਕੁਝ ਸਥਾਨਕ ਪੁਲਸ ਵੀ ਆ ਗਈ ਹੈ।

ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ਹਮਲਾ : ਸਿਵਲ ਹਸਪਤਾਲ ਪੁੱਜੀਆਂ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਲਾਸ਼ਾਂ, ਅੱਜ ਹੋਵੇਗਾ ਪੋਸਟਮਾਰਟਮ (ਵੀਡੀਓ)

ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ : ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ਏਅਰਫੋਰਸ ਸਟੇਸ਼ਨ ‘ਤੇ ਹਮਲੇ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਫੌਜ ਵਲੋਂ ਢੇਰ ਕੀਤੇ ਗਏ 6 ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ‘ਚੋਂ 4 ਦੀਆਂ ਲਾਸ਼ਾਂ ਸਿਵਲ ਹਸਪਤਾਲ ਪਹੁੰਚਾ ਦਿੱਤੀਆਂ ਗਈਆਂ ਹਨ। ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਪੂਰੇ ਸਰੀਰ ਦੀ ਸਕੈਨ ਹੋਣ ਤੋਂ ਬਾਅਦ ਹੀ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦਾ ਪੋਸਟ ਮਾਰਟਮ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਵੇਗਾ। ਇਸ ਦੇ ਲਈ 4 ਡਾਕਟਰਾਂ ਦੀ ਟੀਮ ਬਣਾਈ ਗਈ ਹੈ।
ਡਾਕਟਰਾਂ ਦਾ ਕਹਿਣਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਪੋਸਟਮਾਰਟਮ ਨੂੰ 6 ਘੰਟੇ ਤੱਕ ਦਾ ਸਮਾਂ ਲੱਗੇਗਾ। ਜਿੱਥੇ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਲਾਸ਼ਾਂ ਰੱਖੀਆਂ ਗਈਆਂ ਹਨ, ਉੱਥੇ ਕਿਸੇ ਨੂੰ ਵੀ ਆਉਣ-ਜਾਣ ਨਹੀਂ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ। ਪੁਲਸ ਨੇ ਸਿਵਲ ਹਸਪਤਾਲ ਦੇ ਚਾਰੋ ਪਾਸੇ ਰਾਤ ਤੋਂ ਹੀ ਚੌਕਸੀ ਵਧਾ ਦਿੱਤੀ ਹੈ।
ਇਸ ਸੰਬੰਧੀ ਗੱਲ ਕਰਦੇ ਹੋਏ ਐੱਸ. ਐੱਮ. ਓ. ਪਠਾਨਕੋਟ ਨੇ ਕਿਹਾ ਕਿ ਸਾਡੀ ਚਾਰ ਡਾਕਟਰਾਂ ਦੀ ਟੀਮ ਡੀ. ਐੱਚ. ਓ. ਤਰਸੇਮ ਸਿੰਘ ਦੀ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨਗੀ ‘ਚ ਬਣਾਈ ਗਈ ਹੈ। ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਅੱਤਵਾਦੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਪੂਰੇ ਸਰੀਰ ਦੀ ਸਕੈਨ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾਵੇਗੀ ਤਾਂ ਜੋ ਪਤਾ ਲੱਗ ਸਕੇ ਕਿ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਕਿੱਥੇ-ਕਿੱਥੇ ਗੋਲੀਆਂ ਲੱਗੀਆਂ ਹਨ ਅਤੇ ਇਸ ਤੋਂ ਬਾਅਦ ਹੀ ਪੋਸਟ ਮਾਰਟਮ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਵੇਗਾ।

The Indian Air Force has been forced to commence intermediate stage II pilot training with the Pilatus PC-7 Mk II basic trainer aircraft (BTA), which also serves as its basic stage I trainer.

“We understand that in the last couple of months, the IAF has thoroughly tested the aircraft with regard to their Stage II training syllabus requirements and determined that the PC-7 Mk II is very capable for deployment in an intermediate flying training role,” says Pilatus Aircraft executive Jim Roche in an email to Flightglobal.

The PC-7 Mk II’s service entry in early 2013 ended the crisis stemming from the grounding of Hindustan Aeronautics’ HPT-32 ‘Deepak’ basic trainer on safety grounds.

Prior to the induction of the PC-7, the air force undertook stage I and stage II training on Kiran jet trainers. In a reversal of roles, the PC-7 Mk II will now take-over the Kiran’s Stage II training role, as the service looks to keep the 1960s type in service till 2018.

A number of challenges remain for the air force. Only 38 additional PC-7 Mk IIs are planned to be acquired from Pilatus, for a total of 113, instead of the 181 originally planned.

Despite the delay in finalising the contract, the Swiss airframer’s now proven ability to deliver aircraft in short order, once a contract is inked, could be a source of comfort for the air force.

At the beginning of the year, then HAL Chairman RK Tyagi told Flightglobal that its developmental basic trainer, the HTT40, would undertake its maiden flight before the end of the year. It would provide an indigenous solution to India’s basic trainer needs and include a weaponised variant. Developmental work on the type is now expected to be completed by 2018.

Nonetheless, Pilatus remains confident of a firm order for 38 more PC-7 Mk IIs.

“As has been reported by various IAF sources, discussions are continuing between Pilatus and the Indian air force regarding implementation of the option clause within the current contract,” says Roche.

One advantage Pilatus has is a hot production line, which is producing five PC-7 Mk IIs for Malaysia and will produce nine PC-9Ms for Jordon. Deliveries for both run out to 2017.

HAL, meanwhile, continues to have issues with its HJT-36 Sitara Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT).

Fifteen years of development have resulted in an aircraft that is overweight, has yet to clear spin trials and is powered by an NPO Saturn AL-55I engine with a Total Technical Life (TTL) of only 300 hours.

The IAF has orders for 12 limited series production (LSP) aircraft, of which six have been produced so far, and orders for 73 series production aircraft. Nonetheless, the air force issued a request for information to global OEMs in February 2014 seeking an IJT. With the PC-7 Mk II fulfilling the stage II training role of the IJT, it is not clear if this RFI will lead to an RFP.

Our Correspondent,Ambala, January 7

Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Air Command SB Deo today visited the residence of Corporal Gursewak Singh, a Garud Commando of the Indian Air Force, who made the supreme sacrifice during the Pathankot terror attack.He expressed his condolences to the bereaved family. Air Commodore Tejinder Singh and other senior officers of the Ambala air base were also accompanying Deo.Deo met Sucha Singh, the martyr’s father and assured him all possible help. He said the Air Force was proud of Gursewak who showed extraordinary courage during the Pathankot terror attack.When asked that the Ambala air base was not safe as a large number of residential and commercial constructions have come up along its boundary, Deo said the matter would be taken up with the local administration and sarpanches of the villages concerned .Former union minister Kumari Selja also reached Garnala village today. She met the maryr’s father Sucha Singh, mother Amrik Kaur and wife Jaspreet Kaur. Some Mahila Congress activists accompanied Selja.Another Ambala commando hurt in terror attackAnother Garud Commando Shailabh Gaur (in pic) of Ambala Cantonment who was seriously injured in the Pathankot terror attack was admitted to the ICU at Army Hospital in Pathankot.  When Health Minister Anil Vij came to know about Shailabh, he went to his residence without informing Air the Force or the district administration. He met Shailabh’s mother Manjula and other family members at their residence at Dilipgarh village near Ambala Cantt on Thursday. He assured them of provide all help.  Anil Vij contacted the DC on his mobile phone and directed him to visit Shailabh’s residence at the earliest. Vij contacted CM Manohar Lal Khattar and briefed him about Shailabh, who is admitted to the Army Hospital at Pathankot. —OC

Ajay Banerjee
Tribune News Service
New Delhi, November 25
The Chinese navy has recently completed a series of ‘realistic confrontation training exercises’ in the South China Sea (SCS) which could set the tone for renewed tension in the disputed waters.
The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) fielded a new type of ‘submarine’. However, it is not clear if the vessel was one of the new Type 94 Jin-class nuclear submarines. Multi-type of destroyers and frigates carrying anti-submarine helicopters were part of the exercise.
Sources said the vessel was a submarine submersible ballistic nuclear (SSBN)—- in other terms, a nuclear-powered sub capable of carrying nuclear missiles. This was second such exercise within weeks.

defence minister

ARMY CANNOT BE EXPECTED TO PERFORM CIVIL DUTIES. ALSO, SINCE THERE WERE CIVILIANS IN THE BASE, WE NEEDED THE EXPERTISE OF NSG… I SEE SOME GAPS. BUT I DO NOT THINK THERE IS ANY COMPROMISE ON SECURITY… IT IS WORRYING HOW THE TERRORISTS GOT INSIDE THE BASE… THERE WERE BLIND SPOTS INSIDE… THE NIA HAS LEADS THAT SOME OF THE WEAPONS USED BY THE TERRORISTS WERE OF PAKISTANI-MAKE.

A very visible remote control

TALKING GRIEVANCES With the central government issuing the one rank one pension notification recently, shouldn’t ex-servicemen call off the OROP agitation instead of threatening to intensify their protest over a few sticking points? Doesn’t returning meda

FOR

Diluted OROP no relief to veterans, will do more harm
The Modi government has released OROP in a diluted form which will do more harm to the soldiers than providing any relief. The major flaw is that this OROP will not be applicable to those soldiers who quit their service pre-maturely due to some reasons. The frequency of revision and fixing of benchmark of pension are other issues. It is a serious anomaly that goes against the post-Kargil military reforms that have helped bring down the average age of field commanders. In seeking a solution to the outstanding issues, appointing yet another committee to look into the grievances will amount to nothing but a travesty of justice.
CAPT AMAR JEET KUMAR, SAS Nagar
Recent OROP notification has several anomalies
The armed forces have always remained apolitical. The veterans only seek to get the OROP in letter and spirit as promised by Narendra Modi as a prime ministerial candidate during the 2014 election campaigning on a number of occasions. The recent OROP notification has several anomalies as highlighted by the veterans, but to no avail. Parliament had also passed the OROP on two occasions — first, during the UPA rule and then by the NDA regime. Even defence minister Manohar Parikkar had allocated a budget of `8,300 crores in February this year for the purpose, but now they are throwing crumbs at ex-servicemen. The truncated OROP will cost the government just `3500 crore.
COLONEL SK SOOD (RETD), Panchkula
Govt’s attitude adding fuel to fire, failed to meet pre-poll promise
Nobody wants to fight the government of the day, forget about the harried veterans. By not meeting the pre-poll promise and not implementing the unambiguous decision of Parliament and the Supreme Court for implementing the recommendations of a committee the NDA leadership has forced the veterans to hit the streets. After lot of dilly dallying and lame excuses for the delay, what has now been dished out is a complete negation of everything that the veterans have been fighting for.
SC LUTHRA, Manimajra
Agitation a symptom of a larger malaise
I believe the OROP agitation is a symptom of a larger malaise, i.e. neglect of the defence forces by successive governments. The defence forces have been systematically downgraded over the period of time. The service chiefs do not have the authority to undertake the responsibilities that they have been charged with. The authority rests with bureaucratic structure of the ministry of defence (MoD), which does not have the requisite professional competence to take decisions on matters related to national security. There is an urgent need for a full and meaningful integration of the service headquarters with the MoD so that the basic principles of management are not violated to the detriment of national security planning, procurement, and execution. The structures give an impression of the soldier being treated as a ‘paid mercenary’ rather than the only professional partner in ensuring national security.
WG CDR JP JOSHI (RETD), Zirakpur
Delay in implementing OROP affecting morale of ex-servicemen
Today’s serving soldier is tomorrow’s veteran. Our demand is parity in pension and that is at no stage a junior in rank and length of service should draw more pension than his senior. If the government wants to resolve this long-standing issue it should do it once and for all. The government knows that the Supreme Court accepted the OROP in1982. Delay on the part of the government in accepting the actual OROP, and implementing it is affecting the morale of the ex-servicemen community. When the government did not pay attention to the OROP demand, protest rallies followed.
COL CT ARASU (RETD), Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Government has divided veterans on the issue
The government by announcing the OROP notification has succeeded in dividing the veterans. Some anxious veterans are in a hurry to compromise on the issue. There are people who want to belittle the entire ex-servicemen community. They will have to stand in front of the oneman committee pleading for their case. The government took 30 years to resolve the issue but not to the satisfaction of veterans. The honorable SC has already decided in their favour.
PS BAJWA, via email
Diluted OROP insult to real heroes, govt sending wrong message
It is a matter of shame to the entire country that its war veterans are protesting for their rights. What kind of message we are trying to send across the world? The Centre spent thousands of crores on the Swachh Bharat Mission but when it came to our war veterans they cite shortage of funds. Successive governments have been befooling ex- army officers for the last 40 years. The Centre needs to fulfill their demands. To burn or return the medals will send a wrong message. Medals are conferred on the soldiers for their service and gallantry and returning these is disrespect to the nation.
GAGANDEEP JASSOWAL, Chandigarh
Complete misunderstanding of OROP concept must
I am deeply hurt by what Brig Ravi Bains said on the issue. It is clearly apparent that there is complete misunderstanding of the OROP concept. The veterans have been compelled to launch the agitation. And continue, they will. All we demand are honourable post-retirement considerations for selfless sacrifices and hardships we undergo in the prime of our life. Nearly 95% of these men retire before the age of 40 and majority of them are forced to seek jobs. Political leaders belittle the role played by these men.
COL NIRMAL SINGH (RETD), Panchkula
Modified parity and not OROP
The government’s recent OROP notification cannot be termed real OROP. Right in the beginning, the veterans would be granted pension less than that of their counterparts with the same rank and the length of service. For example, a pre-1996 retiree jawan with 17 years of service gets a pension of `5,196 while a recent retiree gets a pension of `7,605. As per the recent government notification he is likely to get `6,000 approximately which is lower than that of a recent retiree by `1,605 which is considerable. Same would be in the case of all offecers, JCOs and other ranks. This difference would keep increasing till 2018.This is against the very definition of OROP. At best, this can be termed as modified parity.
BRIG JOGINDAR SINGH (RETD), via email
Ex-servicemen’s agitation is more about honour
The ex-servicemen’s agitation even after issuing of notification is more to do with honour and slight meted out to them by the government. The fundamental issue of OROP has been settled. I identify with the fraternity which feels that pension should be equalized every year. Now, it is just a matter of little amount. The future premature retirees are not entitled to OROP. I think that once you are entitled to pension, you should get OROP.
LT GEN HS PANAG (RETD)
Learn to honour the soldier, protest peaceful way to draw attention
If we look at the OROP agitation as a battle between the government and the ex-servicemen then we are on a wrong track. It is a peaceful way of drawing the government’s attention to our 40-year-old demand of one rank one pension, which the present PM promised to fulfill before the general elections in 2014. The protest is more about our honour than money. They are forced to take up such small jobs because they can’t run their households with the meagre pension they get.
COL RD SINGH (RETD), Ambala Cantonment

AGAINST
Soldiers fighting shamelessly for petty considerations
Both sides are lacking open-mindedness with the confrontation acquiring new proportions. It is sad that defence personnel, who having fought for national honours, are now fighting shamelessly for petty material consideration. Old retirees are all for parity in pension with the new ones, but what would they say aabbout theirs having got pension decades more than the others. Moreover, how would defence retirees respond to many of them getting absorbed in lucrative civil positions, and their entitlements for canteen concessions? What if civilians too come agitating for OROP or lucrative adjustments on defence posts? It looks undignified and shameful for defence personnel quarrelling for few bucks.

AGAINST

MPS CHADHA, SAS Nagar
Notification takes care of veterans’ basic demands
The OROP notification the government has come out with takes care of the basic demands of veterans. Other things are also soldier-friendly. The most important issue that has been highlighted is that the pensioners who retired long back stand to benefit more than others and deservingly so. The agitation should be brought to an end immediately and benefits announced be implemented at the earliest. The negotiations can continue in a systematic manner without political meddling into the issue.
PRITHIPAL SINGH, Chandigarh
No rationale behind continuing stir after OROP notification
The common man is unable to understand the reasons behind continuation of agitation by ex-servicemen after the OROP notification by the central government on Diwali eve. Logically speaking, ex-servicemen can approach the commission or committee appointed by the government to hear their grievances, if any.
VD KALRA, Panchkula
Veterans should have waited for outcome first
The OROP agitation launched about six months ago was uncalled as the government had made a statement on accepting the demand. Ex-servicemen as disciplined soldiers needed to trust this, and should have awaited the outcome. Any such decision is not free from complications and not that simple as it may appear to be. It may have repercussions and disturb the existing structured pension pattern creating more problems for the government. Now when OROP has been notified and is being implemented and the government has announced a one-man judicial commission to look into grievances. Therefore, there is no point continuing with the agitation.
DS BANATI, SAS Nagar
Some protesting for publicity
The decades-long struggle of veterans brought results when the NDA government notified OROP implementation on Diwali. No government in the past gave a serious thought to the issue. The UPA-2 announced `500 crore for OROP which was mere tokenism. Innocent veterans came from all parts of country contributed money amounting to crores. It is a holy protest by some unholy veterans at Jantar Mantar for money and self glorification. It should end and the veterans should join talks.
VEDPAL RATHEE VETERAN, Rohtak
Start caring for our paramilitary forces also
With the central govt issuing the one rank one pension notification, I feel that the ex-servicemen should call off their stir, not because they have got what they have asked for but at least a beginning has been made. The matter can be solved amicably. It is high time that we as a nation start caring for our paramilitary forces, state police forces and other departments engaged in the security of our people.
SUMEET SETH ZIRAKPUR
Returning medals disrespect towards nation
The Union government has already implemented the OROP scheme. Returning medals and holding agitations only shows disrespect towards the nation. The ex-servicemen should negotiate with the government in a proper manner on the modifications required by them in the scheme.
BHANU MADAN, Chandigarh
Credit goes to NDA govt for taking OROP decision
The OROP agitation is decades old and the previous governments have been deferring the decision on it. It was the NDA leadership promised to solve it during the General Election and they have done it, even as the grievances remain. Credit must be given where credit is due. Defence people must accept it with all magnanimity. For pending issues, a one-man judicial commission is in place to set the things right. They must behave like true soldiers and gentlemen and stop the agitation.
DEVINDER GARG, Chandigarh
Agitation has not achieved anything
The agitation has not achieved anything. The government has given what it has been saying all along and announced it at a time which suited them. The continued agitation has brought us down in the eyes of the public and alienated the media. I do not understand the purpose of agitation. If we keep agitating, the government will not talk to us. Burning the medals is sacrilege, as there is Ashoka emblem on it.
LT GEN RAJ KADYAN (RETD), ex-army deputy chief
Veterans should withdraw the ongoing agitation
As a veteran I myself feel the pain and anguish over the way the OROP scheme has been handled by the central government. After indulging in lip service for long, the government finally announced a diluted OROP which is unacceptable to the veterans in its present form. Some of the pending issues are of minor nature and can be resolved through a constructive and positive dialogue. The government should take the initiative and start a dialogue with the veterans who should also withdraw the agitation which is losing support and is now becoming counterproductive.
COL ASHOK SHARMA (RETD), Rupnagar

NEUTRAL

Accept benefits and pursue matter through negotiations
Wait for final report by judicial commission
Having fought bravely on all fronts, the ex-servicemen deserved OROP, which would not have come soon had they not resorted to agitation. The returning of bravery medals may not have been necessary but it may have been thought so as the government was delaying OROP on one pretext or the other. However, they should accept the presently offered benefits and continue pursuing the matter by negotiations.
MANJEET SINGH ISHAR, SAS Nagar
Pursue OROP issue with commission, call off protest
The one rank one pension agitation is not about money alone. It is about ensuring justice to a soldier retiring in the prime of his life. Though the soldier has again been shortchanged by an insecure bureaucracy that led to the defence minister announcing a diluted OROP recently, the rallies, street protests and returning of medals should stop now. Such protests don’t behove a disciplined veteran. Our representatives should instead take up the pending demands with the one-man judicial commission. Let us be magnanimous and trust the government.
LT COL NS YADAV (RETD), Panchkula Notwithstanding some shortcomings in the notification issued by the government, OROP is a reality. The definition as enunciated in Koshiyari committee report falls short when the notification talks of pension correction every five years as against every year. The second major issue of no OROP for future pre-mature retirees is presumptuous. The government is playing a psychological game with soldiers who seek pre-mature retirement on genuine grounds.

COL AVNISH SHARMA, Chandigarh
Everyone says that we should not call off the agitation unless all the seven demands are met. The government did not stand by its commitment. It is betrayal of trust. If one cannot trust the Prime Minister of this country whom shall we trust? It (the recent notification on OROP) is totally unacceptable.
Brig Kiran Krishan (retd),
convener, Indian Ex-servicemen Movement The government has accepted the OROP. Whatever they have given we should accept it but we should continue our fight for more. Returning medals will not achieve anything. They are awarded for exceptional service and bravery. Rather than returning medals, we should focus on getting more from the government.
Bhim Sen Sehgal, chairman,
All India Ex-servicemen Association Burning of medals is an offence and insult to their sanctity and value. Service honour and medals are very precious and close to our hearts. We are rather planning to take back our deposited medals, once the OROP issue is settled. Some politically motivated people leading the ex-servicemen are misguiding and misrepresenting the veterans for their personal gains
.It is not about money alone
BRIG BS GILL, Chandigarh
It has to be OROP in the purest form as recommended by the Koshiyari Committee and passed by two Parliaments and directed by the apex court. And it is not about money alone but about restoration of military pride and rightful place in the civil society. There are seven major anomalies in the diluted OROP notification.

New Delhi: It was the speed and spontaneity with which the Indian Army launched its attacks that took the enemy by surprise, leading to their victory in the 1999 Kargil war, says Lieutenant General Mohinder Puri, who headed the 8 Mountain Division.

Gripping accounts of valour and fortitude from the battle front of the war between India and Pakistan have been recollected in a new book penned by Puri.

The book titled ‘Kargil: Turning the Tide’, which was launched in Delhi on Tuesday, is a first-hand narrative of the operations of 8 Mountain Division, which was tasked to evict the enemy from the Drass-Mushkoh Sector during ‘Operation Vijay’.

“We surprised the enemy with the speed and ferocity of our movement. It was the speed with which we conducted the operations and took them totally by surprise, this was one of the reasons why we succeeded in evicting the enemy,” he said.

Recounting on such incident, the then Major General Puri said how after several failed attempts to capture the pivotal Tololing peak, he had asked his men to attack again the next evening, but by the time he reached his headquarters, India had already conquered the strategic feature.

The Tololing, a dominant position overlooking Srinagar- Leh Highway (NH-1D), was so strategic that after it was conquered it was only a matter of six days for Indian troops to notch up a string of successes by evicting well-entrenched intruders in four nearby outposts.

He said, Colonel MB Ravindranath, Commanding Officer of the 2 Rajputana Rifles, radioed him, camping some 20-km away and said in a terse message, “Sir, I’m on Tololing top.”

“After I was informed that we have not been able to capture Tololing, I just asked them to consolidate and in the evening I said, ‘have a go.’ By the time I reached the headquarters, I was told that we have captured Tololing. I spoke to Ravi and when I asked him what had happened he said he just saw a window of opportunity and there he launched the attack and captured the feature which was until then with the enemy,” Puri said.

Puri’s Division was responsible for spearheading the Army’s offensive in the Kargil sector which restored the sanctity of the Line of Control by capturing Tololing, Tiger Hill and Point 4875.

General (retd) VP Malik, who himself has authored a book titled “Kargil – From Surprise To Victory” in 2006 on the same subject inaugurated the event at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi.

“Lots of books have been written about the Kargil War and most of them are hearsay. There are only two authentic books I can mention, one is General Puri’s and I will take credit for the second one. While I have dealt with the war at a macro level, General Puri’s book talks about the several battles fought. After all, there is no war without these battles,” Malik said.

A fast-paced read, the book captures the emotions and sentiments of a soldier, the apprehensions and fears of the leaders, and finally the joy and ecstasy of victory.

“I have gone through the book and it is a good read. It brings out vividly the emotions of the soldiers before they went into the battle, during the battle and after the battle has ended,” he said.

With stories about several close quarters, hand to hand battles fought in challenging and hostile environment of the perilous rugged high altitude terrain, inclement weather and an entrenched enemy, Puri’s work is a moving tale of fortitude, valour and exemplary junior leadership.

“We had to put the division through an advanced state of acclimatisation so that they could get on to the fight without any problem,” Puri further said.

The book covers a wide spectrum of the event- from attacks at platoon level to issues impinging on national security and thus is fit to serve as a document of immense relevance to military professionals.

The war received a massive media coverage such that it came to be known as the first televised war of the country.

According to the author, India suffered very high casualties in the successive battles that were fought during the war with 268 killed and over 818 soldiers wounded.

“We suffered very heavy casualties but what was most commendable was that the ratio of the officer to man casualty was 1 officer to 12 men,” he said.

Indian soldiers from the division, who had fought and laid their lives for the country, were honoured with a rich haul of gallantry awards that included 3 Param Vir Chakras, 8 Mahavir Chakras and 42 Vir Chakras.