Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 22

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the apex decision-making body of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), at its meeting on Thursday approved a proposal to procure 24 major equipment, including longer-range missiles for the Indian Air Force, futuristic combat vehicles and light tanks for the Army and long endurance autonomous vehicles for the Navy.

The acceptance of necessity (AoN) is the first step in the acquisition process of the MoD and is like a greenlight to the forces to frame the tenders for procurement. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the meet, the MoD said.

These proposals collectively cost Rs 84,328 crore and include six projects for the Army, six for the Indian Air Force, 10 for the Navy and two for Indian Coast Guard.

The Army proposals okayed include futuristic infantry combat vehicles, light tanks and mounted gun system. These will provide a quantum jump to the Army’s operational preparedness. Proposals approved also includes procurement of ballistic helmets with enhanced protection level for soldiers.

The Navy projects include the naval anti-ship missiles, multi-purpose vessels and high-endurance autonomous vehicles.

The IAF proposals okayed include new range of missile system, long-range guided bombs, range augmentation kit for conventional bombs and advanced surveillance systems.

Highlights shortage of fighter squadrons

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 22

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari today said there were certain critical deficiencies like shortage of fighter squadrons and force multipliers that must be addressed on priority to retain combat edge.

He was speaking at the inaugural function of the 19th Subroto Mukerjee seminar. From an airpower perspective, the IAF will be expected to contribute across the full spectrum of conflict and it needs to evolve into an aerospace power, the IAF Chief said.

“There is a need to develop capability to fight and win future wars. Multi-domain operations and hybrid warfare are here to stay and we must realign and reform to keep pace with technology to remain relevant,” he said. “We must enhance our collective strength by partnering with nations that share common beliefs and values. We must use our image as a stable country with considerable economic heft to forge mutually beneficial relationships and strategic partnerships. It is important we retain our strategic autonomy,” he said. “When we look at the Indo-Pacific region, we see great power politics at play, where an established superpower (US) is increasingly being challenged by an established regional power (China) with global ambitions. The outcome of this great power competition will have repercussions for all major players in the region,” said Chaudhari.

Corps Commander-level meet held on Dec 20 after 5 months

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 22

India and China have not been able to come up with a resolution to end the military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

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Two sides agree to maintain dialogue

The two sides agreed to maintain stability on the ground. They decided to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels

Depsang issue raised at meeting

At the meeting, the issues of the Depsang Bulge, a 972-sq km plateau, and troop build-up at the LAC by both armies were taken up. The 16th round of talks was held in July

India, China, Russia abstain on UN resolution on Myanmar

The 17th round of Corps Commander-level military talks was conducted on December 20 at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side of the LAC.

A joint statement issued simultaneously by India and China tonight on the meeting said: “The two sides exchanged views on the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the western sector (military nomenclature for the LAC in the eastern Ladakh) in an open and constructive manner.”

“They had a frank and in-depth discussion to work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest which would help in the restoration of peace and tranquillity and enable progress in bilateral relations,” the statement said. In other words, the deadlock continues, sources said. In the interim, the two sides agreed to maintain the security and stability on the ground. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest, the statement said.

This was the 17th round of talks since June 2020 to end the military build-up that has occurred on both sides of the LAC since April 2020 with troops, guns, tanks and missiles deployed on either side. The previous round of talks was held in July.

At the meeting, the issues of the Depsang Bulge, a 972-sq km plateau, and troop build-up at the LAC by both armies were taken up. India has suggested a graded resolution and a three-step process to ease the standoff: disengagement of troops, de-escalation of tension followed by de-induction of all troops, weapons and equipment.

Till these steps are completed, Indian troops intend to remain at the LAC, which is un-demarcated on the ground. India shares a 832-km LAC with China in the eastern Ladakh sector.

More than 10L devotees to pay obeisance

Our Correspondent

Fatehgarh Sahib, December 21

The administration has completed all arrangements for the smooth conduct of the annual Shaheedi Jor Mela. The mela will be held here from December 26 to 28 in the memory of Guru Gobind Singh’s younger Sahibzadas.

An official said no VIP passes would be issued except duty passes. The administration has established night shelters for the pilgrims. E-rickshaws and minibuses will take senior citizens and disabled persons to the gurdwara free of cost, the official added.

(From the wall of Attar Singh Rathee)

It’s a known fact in history, that in September of 1965 when Pakistan was on the verge of victory in Kashmir with the Chhamb offensive, a three pronged attack on Jammu Akhnoor and Pathankot to cut off Kashmir from the rest of India; one man stood up… Lt Gen Harbaksh Singh the Western Army Commander.

The towering Khalsa, took upon himself to break the defensive mindset, and went on the offensive… thus, for the second time in history after the Khalsa offensive by the legendary Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa against the Pathans in 19th century; the Indian Army went on the offensive… Lahore was attacked.

Since early days, Harbaksh was destined to always save India out of trouble. 13 Years of combat experience with his parent unit 5 SIKH, fighting the Japanese in WWII, Harbaksh had seen it all from capturing posts, to being ambushed, injured and taken as Prisoner of War. By 1947 Harbaksh a senior Military officer and brilliant battle hardened soldier had just completed Staff College at quetta and was ready to take on the higher echelons of the military. As a full Colonel, he was the Deputy Commander of the famous 161 Infantry Brigade in Uri in 1947. He had volunteered to command a unit in battle but was denied as he was a full Colonel (units were commanded by Lt Cols).
During the offensive by 1 SIKH the CO Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai got Killed in Action, Harbaksh Singh again volunteered and this time removed a star from his shoulders (for the first time in history an officer demoted himself to lead his men in battle). The battered battalion regrouped and fought like lions under Harbaksh to reclaim Farkian Gali and drove out Pakistanis from the valley.
Harbaksh Singh was promoted as Brigadier in 1948. As the Commander of 163 Infantry brigade Harbaksh again conducted daring operations in Tithwal and captured Tithwal. He at the rank of Brigadier, was awarded Veer Chakra, the third highest gallantry award of India.
In September 1965, the Indian Army went on the offensive with Jalandhar based 11 Corps launched all of its infantry divisions (7th Inf Div, 15th Inf Div and 4th Inf Div) launched towards Lahore and Army HQ Reserve 1 Strike Corps with the elite 1 Armoured Division launched further North Towards Sialkot to not only thwart the Pakistani Juggernaut but also to crush Pakistan feeling of supremacy and regain the pride of the Indian Army licking its wounds from 62 China debacle. Bitter battles followed with both sides fighting even for an inch of land. The Indian Armoured Corps came into its own with destruction of Pakistani counterparts despite having inferior Sherman tanks as compared to the modren Patton Tanks of Pakistan. Legends were created on the battle field with units like 17 Poona Horse, 4 Horse, 3 Cavalry writing history in blood and gold.
The infantryman went beyond the call of duty and beyond imagination to fight with tanks, the likes of Abdul Hamid showed the true colour of the sons of the soil. India regained its pride as not only Pakistani offensives were crushed, but Indians were now ready to capture Lahore. Pakistan however launched another offensive this time towards south Punjab in Ferozpore sector. In Hussainiwala, Pakistan cracked up Indian defences and a crisis developed. The Army Chief Gen JN Choudhary ordered 11 Corps, which was in offensive to withdraw and take defensive positions. Lt Gen Harbaksh Singh Western Army Commander refused, defied the Army Chief and instead ordered GOC 11 Corps to attack, thereby saving Punjab and India from a certain defeat.
Meanwhile in Kashmir, during the progress of operations history was in the making. The Operation Gibralter combined with the Pakistani offensive in Jammu, initially had succeeded due to the surprise and speed. It was a precarious situation as Poonch was threatened. The only possible way to recapture territory and save poonch was to go behind the enemy lines and destroy his flanks. Pakistanis knew India would loose Kashmir if the old road to valley from Poonch was lost. Doom prevailed on the horizon of the future of an integrated India. At this time a miracle happened. It is often said that the outlaws create history, same thing happened when Maj Megh Singh of the 3RD BATTALION BRIGADE OF THE GUARDS, a superseded officer who had been denied promotion, volunteered to the Western Army Commander to carry out commando raids behind the enemy lines. A preposterous idea given the time and situation and with no resources at hand. India had no commando units. Nor were there any plans to raise any.
Gen Harbaksh listened patiently, and asked Megh Singh, “Son if you succeed in this, I will put that star on your shoulder with my own hands.” And without the govt’s approval, Harbaksh gave a nod to raise this force. Maj Megh Singh organised a force of volunteer dare devils personally chosen by him, A few Good Men. This force, known as the ‘MEGHDOOT FORCE’ after Megh Singh, the forgotten men not even recognised by the govt of the day, formed the nucleus of the first special forces unit in India. Thus was born the elite 9 PARA COMMANDO or the 9th BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT SPECIAL FORCES.
Maj Megh Singh proved his mettle and carried out not one but three of the most outstanding and daring raids and link ups ever in history of warfare. His raids took Pakistanis completely off the guard as nothing this spectacular was ever expected by them from the Indians. Today Poonch stands with India courtesy Megh Singh. Maj Megh Singh the outlawed man facing court martial charges before the raids, came back home with a bullet in his thigh and was pipped Lt Col by Gen Harbaksh Singh himself and became the first CO of 9 PARA.
By the time ceasefire was declared on 23 Sep 65, the Indian army had not only recovered from the initial losses, but instead captured large chunks of vital Pakistani territory in North Punjab. War as a whole was a stalemate but the Indian army was able to thwart the Pakistani intentions of capturing Kashmir with force, their Operation Gibralter proved to be an utter failure.Truly Harbaksh was the saviour of Kashmir, Punjab and that of the honour of India.
For saving India, Lt Gen Harbaksh Singh was awarded with Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan both the second and the third highest honours in the country. For inconspicuous bravery in the face of the enemy and outstanding leadership under fire Lt Col Megh Singh was awarded with Veer Chakra.
Today the Indian Parachute Regiment and Special Forces are considered amongst the best in the world including the British SAS, US Special Forces, Navy SEALs and Israeli Sayeret Matkal and Flotila 13. Few outlaws, few good men started a tradition of valour and sacrifice. The saga continues till date with Parachute Regiment being the most decorated regiment in the world despite it being only raised in WWII and despite it competing amongst the best of the best who have been there for centuries. The Maroon Berets are truly a different breed, and it all started with one man who said, “Who dares wins”.
This post is dedicated to Lt Gen Harbaksh Singh Padma Vibhushan, VrC, Padma Bhushan GOC-in-C Western Command 1965 and Lt Col Megh Singh Rathore VrC CO 9 PARA CDO BN….. True legends
I hope a war movie is made on these raids on Poonch.
PS:- For all those who are sharing this post.
The idea is to highlight a military personality, I deliberately combined two personalities, to negate the efforts of giving it a religious colour by certain kind of people who might portray Gen Harbaksh’s prowess as something related to his religious believes, which certainly is not the case. This post is not a “Sikh” praise post. It is a post on two brilliant military commanders.
A man’s ability has nothing to do with religion. and this post is equally for Lt Col Megh Singh Rathore and I want it to be that way if anyone shares this post.

PTI

Washington, December 21

The latest Chinese aggression against India is yet another reminder of strong India-US ties, top American lawmakers have said.

“China’s most recent aggression in Arunachal Pradesh is yet another reminder of why a strong security partnership with India is crucial to the national security of the United States and our allies,” India Caucus Co-Chairs said in a statement.

“This event marks yet another threat of the People’s Republic of China to the Indian territory, including China’s premeditated aggression on the Line of Actual Control in 2020 which saw the death of approximately 20 Indian troops,” the co-chairs said.

“As co-chairs of the India Caucus, we have worked for years to deepen the US-India bilateral relationship. The India Caucus built on this progress by including the Khanna-Sherman-Schweikert amendment in the House-passed FY23 NDAA, highlighting the immediate and serious regional border threats that India faces from China,” said the statement. 

Dear Col Ashok Leekha Sir,
You said the Hon’ble Supreme Court directed the Govt of India to take a decision on the Anomalies of OROP in four months’ time and it is a good news. You are a qualified advocate with tons of law practice after your retirement.
Govt of India has developed the knack of approaching Hon’ble Supreme Court for seeking extension of time till Mar 2024 to get votes of Ex-Servicemen in the general elections of 2024.
When Min of Def went for first extension of time for disbursal of OROP – 2019 arrears, the plea given is “We have all things ready only cabinet approval is required. The papers have gone to Cabinet for approval but the approval is expected any time”.
Now I am told they have gone to Hon’ble Supreme Court saying ” Tables are not ready”. That means they lied to the Supreme Court when they sought first extension of three months time. When everything is ready does it not mean even tables are ready, they know the total cash outgo for disbursal of OROP arrears from Jul 2019 to Dec 2022. Then how is that suddenly they found tables are not ready? I am sure with your legal knowledge you can explain to me this riddle.
When the committee of Jt Secys have not taken decision from 26 Oct 2016 on the report submitted by Justice L Narasimha Reddy on Anomalies of OROP, do you think they will take a decision in next four months. As you know the report of the committee of jt secys has to go before the Cabinet for approval. Will it all be done in next four months. I have no such confidence!
Let us see how many more months extension the Govt of India will now seek?
The question you got to ask is : Does the Govt of India has any intention to remove the anomalies in OROP?

f we have to wait till the 2024
Elections to get OROP and DR arrears, by then how may more ESM and widows would have proceeded to the grand Aramgrah Above.The mighty would have to invent a celestial money- gram to pay them in situ.

warm regards,
Brig CS Vidyasagar (Retd)