Large parts of barren eastern Ladakh have wildlife sanctuaries. File

Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 18

Even as China is quickly building infrastructure on its side across the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has flagged serious concerns about procedural delays hampering its projects in the UT.

Sources in the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the BRO had recently intimated the ministry about difficulties being faced by it. These pertain to delay in taking clearances under environment and wildlife laws.

Await wildlife, eco clearances

• The Border Roads Organisation has apprised the Centre about procedural delays hampering its projects in Ladakh
• These pertain to difficulties in getting clearances under environment and wildlife laws
• The MoD has reportedly taken up the matter with the authorities concerned

The MoD had taken up the matter with all stakeholders to resolve the issue keeping in view the projects of national importance, the sources said. An official pointed out that in November 2014, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, accorded a general approval under

Section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, to expedite the forest clearances for taking up border infrastructure works. This mandated that no prior clearance was needed from the environment impact assessment committee for raising infrastructure within 100 km of aerial distance from the LAC. The dispensation was to start work and then seek exemptions and clearances. The order also permitted diversion of land for strategic road building.

Notably, this exemption does not apply for wildlife protection issues under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. Each project needs an independent bio-diversity impact assessment by a committee of experts, which submits a report to the National Board of Wildlife.

The Ladakh plateau had seen major battles in the 1962 war. Some 9,000 sq km (15.22 per cent) area in Ladakh is under wildlife sanctuaries. Some of these include mountain ridges which are strategically vital and provide a deep view across the LAC in Tibet.

A proposal to remove the blanket ban on building infrastructure was first proposed in 2012, but non-official members of the National Board for Wildlife protested. Earlier in October 2011, an independent survey of the animal population was completed.

Meanwhile, China, on similar terrain and ecology on the Tibetan side, has gone ahead to provide all-weather connectivity.

INS Trikand participates in the maiden IN-EUNAVFOR joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Aden. PTI

India and three European nations on Friday began a two-day naval wargame in the Gulf of Aden with the aim of improving operational inter-operability and promote peace.

The Indian Navy has deployed INS Trikand. The other warships are Italian Navy’s ITS Carabinere, Spanish ship ESPS Navarra and two French Navy ships FS Tonnerre and FS Surcouf. PTI

The accused told police that he posed as Captain Shekhar of the Indian Army to impress women on social medi

Photo for representation only. Source: iStock.

New Delhi, June 19

A 40-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly impersonating an army officer to impress women on social media, police said on Saturday.

The accused, Dilip Kumar, a resident of Sainik Enclave, Mohan Garden, works as a security guard at a school, they said.

On Friday around 3 pm, the accused was arrested near Archana Red Light, Greater Kailash 1, they said, adding he was in the area to meet a date.

“He was in army uniform. One fake army ID card and one mobile phone were seized from him,” Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), South, Atul Kumar Thakur said.

The accused told police that he posed as Captain Shekhar of the Indian Army to impress women on social media.

He was fascinated by the Army and realised that he could connect with people wearing uniform, police said, adding he had been doing so for about four months.

On examination of his mobile phone, it was found that he was a member of several WhatsApp groups and had made video calls to International numbers as well, the DCP said, adding his links abroad were being examined.

A case under relevant sections of the law has been registered against him. — PTI

On target, 36 Rafales to be inducted by 2022, says Bhadauria

The Air Force is undergoing monumental transformation with rapid infusion of niche technology and combat power in every facet due to rapidly evolving security challenges, said the IAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria while addressing the combined graduation parade at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 19

The Air Force is undergoing monumental transformation with rapid infusion of niche technology and combat power in every facet due to rapidly evolving security challenges, said the IAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria while addressing the combined graduation parade at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.

RKS Bhadauria, IAF Chief

Tech to play vital role

Rapid infusion of niche technology, combat power in every facet of our operations has never been as intense as it is now.

He said the past few decades had clearly established the critical role of air power in achieving victory in any conflict. “It is in this backdrop that the IAF’s ongoing capability enhancement assumes tremendous significance,” the IAF Chief said. He said the officers passing out today were fortunate to be joining the IAF at this juncture. “The pilots will get to fly fighters carrying an array of potent weapons. The transport and helicopter fleets are well-equipped and capable of contributing effectively in war,” he said.

“Flight controllers will have to adapt to vectoring fighters in large formations using digitised and networked systems,” Bhadauria said.

He said the induction of 36 Rafale aircraft into the Indian Air Force would take place by 2022. The IAF is absolutely on target with respect to the Rafale induction plan, he said.

ile photo of Milkha Singh | Wikipedia CommonsText Size: A- A+

New Delhi: One of independent India’s biggest sporting icons, ace sprinter Milkha Singh, died on Friday after a month-long battle with COVID-19, during which he lost his former national volleyball captain wife Nirmal Kaur to the same ailment.

The Padma Shri awardee, who was nicknamed ‘The Flying Sikh’ for his accomplishments, was 91 and is survived by his golfer son Jeev Milkha Singh and three daughters.

“It is with extreme sadness that we would like to inform you that Milkha Singh Ji passed away at 11.30 pm. on the 18th of June 2021,” read a statement from the family.

“He fought hard but God has his ways and it was perhaps true love and companionship that both our mother Nirmal ji and now Dad have passed away in a matter of 5 days,” it added.

His condition turned critical this evening as he developed complications, including fever and dipping oxygen saturation levels, after a bout with COVID-19, in the Intensive Care Unit of the PGIMER hospital here.

“We are deeply indebted to the doctors at PGI for their valiant efforts and the love and prayers we received from across the world and from yourselves,” the family stated.

The PGIMER also issued a statement and expressed its condolences.

“…despite best of the efforts by a medical team, Milkha Singh ji could not be retrieved from his critical condition and after a brave fight, he left for his heavenly abode at 11:30 pm,” the hospital stated.

PGIMER Director Prof Jagat Ram said Milkha “will be remembered for his exceptional accomplishments on and off the field and his endearing and humane personality.”

Milkha had contracted COVID-19 last month and tested negative for the virus on Wednesday when he was shifted to general ICU in another block of the hospital.

He had been “stable” before Thursday evening.

Milkha’s 85-year-old wife Nirmal, who had also been infected by the virus, passed away at a private hospital in Mohali on Sunday. The couple were suspected to have contracted the infection from a house help.

Milkha was admitted to PGIMER on June 3 after his oxygen levels dipped at home following treatment at the Fortis hospital in Mohali for a week.

The legendary athlete is a four-time Asian Games gold medallist and the 1958 Commonwealth Games champion but his greatest performance remains the fourth-place finish in the 400m final of the 1960 Rome Olympics.

His timing of 45.6 sec at the Italian capital remained the national record for 38 years before Paramjeet Singh broke it in 1998.

He also represented India in the 1956 and 1964 Olympics and was bestowed the Padma Shri in 1959.

After testing positive for COVID-19 on May 19, Milkha had remained in home isolation at his Chandigarh residence till May 23 and was admitted to Fortis hospital in Mohali on May 24 as he kept running fever, had body aches and experienced loss of appetite.

His golfer son Jeev, who was in Dubai at that time, had reached here on May 22 while another daughter Mona Milkha Singh, a doctor in the United States, also arrived here later.

Fortis hospital had earlier diagnosed the couple with “COVID pneumonia”.

While in Fortis, the couple also shared the same room for a few days.

After being admitted to PGIMER earlier this month, Milkha had received a phone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, enquiring about his health.

Modi, while condoling Milkha’s demise, remembered that conversation on Friday and said that “little did I know that it would be our last conversation.”

Also read: Dingko Singh — the ‘hot-blooded’ Asian Games gold medalist who inspired a generation of boxers

“In the passing away of Shri Milkha Singh Ji, we have lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation’s imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians.

“His inspiring personality endeared himself to millions. Anguished by his passing away,” the Prime Minister tweeted.

Milkha died at Chandigarh’s PGIMER hospital, less than a week after he lost his wife Nirmal Kaur, a former national volleyball captain, to the same ailment.

India’s sporting fraternity also paid homage to one of its most inspiring figures, who continued to be a keen observer even after quitting the track.

Olympic-bound star javelin throwers Neeraj Copra tweeted “We lost a Gem. He will always remain as an inspiration for every Indian. May his soul Rest in peace.”

Condoling the death, Home Minister Amit Shah said the one of the brightest stars of Indian sports has been lost.

“India mourns the sad demise of legendary sprinter Shri Milkha Singh Ji, The Flying Sikh. He has left an indelible mark on world athletics. Nation will always remember him as one of the brightest stars of Indian sports. My deepest condolences to his family and countless followers”

Sports Authority of India (SAI) expressed “immense sadness at the demise of one of India’s greatest ever sportspersons ‘The Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh.

“A gold medalist at the CWG & Asian Games, he held the 400m National record for 38 years. Condolences to his family & the millions whom he inspired,” the SAI said in a tweet.

Athletics Federation of India said in a tweet: “Very very sad news for all #Indians, legend Shri Milkha Singh Ji passed away.”

AFI President Adille Sumariwalla called Milkha “a Titan who lifted the profile of athletics in a young nation…”

“…his sharp observations on Indian sport will be missed. His towering legacy will continue to inspire generations of young Indians. Rest in peace legend.”

“A huge loss for the sport of athletics today. Rest well #MilkhaSingh ji,” Olympian Anju Bobby George tweeted.

“Really shocked by the demise of the legend Milkha sir. You will forever have a very special place in my heart.The Flying Sikh will live forever. RIP” Indian sprinter Mohamad Anas Yahiya.

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also expressed also expressed his condolences on the micro-blogging site.

“Very sad,heartbreaking to hear flying sikh Sardar Milkha singh ji is no more… waheguru RIPMilkhaSinghji.”

Indian tennis star Sania Mirza said “Had the honour of meeting you and you blessed me so many times .. the kindest and warmest Palms up together RIP Milkha Singh sir .. the world will miss a legend like you ..MilkhaSingh

“Really shocked and sad to learn about the passing away of the legend Milkha Singh ji. Om Shanti,” Javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia said.

Decorated doubles badminton player Jwala Gutta also joined in expressing her sadness.

“What an inspiration you were to the millions like us . There will be none like you sir Rest in peace legend MilkhaSingh,” she posted.

The official handle of the Indian football team also mourned Milkha’s death.

“We join the nation in mourning the loss of the iconic ‘Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh. His incredible achievements will continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in peace RIP.”

Assam Chief Minsiter Himanata Biswa Sarma said: “Saddened at the demise of Flying Sikh’ Captain Milkha Singh. His laurels had not only made India swell with pride but also inspired generations of sports enthusiasts. My condolences to his family. Om Shanti!”

Indian wicketkeeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha, squash player Joshna Chinappa and shooter Sanjeev Rajput also paid homage to the sprint icon.

“Saddened by the passing away of #MilkhaSingh ji. RIP the Flying Sikh. An inspiration for millions. A great loss to our nation,” Saha tweeted.

“Very saddened to hear about the passing of Milkha Singh Sir. A True Legend and Champion. You will be greatly missed. RIP Sir,” Chinappa wrote.

“A great loss to the nation. Rest in Peace legend #MilkhaSingh ji. Om Shanti,” Rajput tweeted.

All India Football federation president Praful Patel said: “Deeply pained to learn about the passing of ‘The Flying Sikh’ Shri #MilkhaSingh Ji. The legendary athlete made India proud with his sporting achievements & his legacy will continue to be one of the most inspiring stories in Indian sports. May his soul rest in eternal peace”

“Sad to hear about the passing away of legendary Indian sprinter Sardar #MilkhaSingh . He will always remain an inspiration for all. Om Shanti,” Union Minister Praksh Javadekar said.

Also read: Ahead of India-NZ world Test cricket final, only 1 Indian, no Kiwi in Boycott’s ‘fantasy’ teams

In the passing away of Shri Milkha Singh Ji, we have lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation’s imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians. His inspiring personality endeared himself to millions. Anguished by his passing away.

I had spoken to Shri Milkha Singh Ji just a few days ago. Little did I know that it would be our last conversation. Several budding athletes will derive strength from his life journey. My condolences to his family and many admirers all over the world….NARINDER MODI

India mourns the sad demise of legendary sprinter Shri Milkha Singh Ji, The Flying Sikh. He has left an indelible mark on world athletics. Nation will always remember him as one of the brightest stars of Indian sports. My deepest condolences to his family and countless followers.–AMIT SHAH

Upset and saddened to hear of Milkha Singh Ji’s demise. It marks the end of an era and India & Punjab are poorer today. My condolences to the bereaved family & millions of fans. The legend of the Flying Sikh will reverberate for generations to come. Rest in peace Sir!- CAPT AMARINDER

Saddened to hear about the demise of Shri Milkha Singh Ji. A legendary sportsman, he will be dearly remembered. My sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and fans across the worlD–MAMTA BANERJEE

Hina Khan, Karanvir Bohra and other TV celebs pay tribute to ‘The Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh

The legendary Olympian turned critical on Friday evening after he developed complications, including fever and dropping of oxygen saturation level

Chandigarh, June 18

Milkha Singh, the Flying Sikh, has flown — and it’s clear that there will be none like him again. The 91-year-old’s fight with Covid-19 ended late Friday night at the PGI, where he had been undergoing treatment for the dreaded virus which took his wife Nirmal’s life five days ago.

He will be cremated at 5 pm on Saturday with full state honours.

His mortal remains have been kept at his Sector 8 residence. 

Milkha Singh, who tested positive for Covid-19 on May 20 after a domestic help at his residence was found infected, was initially admitted to a Mohali hospital before being brought home on May 30. However, he was admitted to the PGI after his oxygen levels fell.

Also read: 

Milkha Singh: An unmatchable romance with a near miss

In Pics: The inspirational journey of the Flying Sikh

For Flying Sikh, self-discipline is the key to fitness

Milkha’s death brings the curtain down on the extraordinary story of this remarkable athlete, whose exploits were retold to the new generation through cinema with the movie Bhag Milkha Bhag. Born in Gobindpura — now in Pakistan — on November 30, 1928, Milkha was violently uprooted from his birthplace by the Partition when riots took the lives of his parents, two sisters and a brother. His life changed for the better when Milkha joined the Army, and it was in this institution that his amazing talent was identified and nurtured. Milkha became the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in the 400m division at Cardiff in 1958. The same year he did the 200m-400m double at the Tokyo Asian Games. His most famous race, however, is the 400m final at the 1964 Olympic Games, where he was one of the favourites to get a medal — which he missed by a whisker, ending up fourth. After his career ended, Milkha became a sports administrator.

He is survived by one son — golfer Jeev Milkha Singh — and three daughters.

The legendary Olympian turned critical on Friday evening after he developed complications, including fever and dropping of oxygen saturation level

Chandigarh, June 18

Milkha Singh, the Flying Sikh, has flown — and it’s clear that there will be none like him again. The 91-year-old’s fight with Covid-19 ended late Friday night at the PGI, where he had been undergoing treatment for the dreaded virus which took his wife Nirmal’s life five days ago.

He will be cremated at 5 pm on Saturday with full state honours.

His mortal remains have been kept at his Sector 8 residence. 

Milkha Singh, who tested positive for Covid-19 on May 20 after a domestic help at his residence was found infected, was initially admitted to a Mohali hospital before being brought home on May 30. However, he was admitted to the PGI after his oxygen levels fell.