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In This Issue
Since 1909
PRESIDENT’S
ADDRESS
TO THE NATION of
Golden
Jubilee
Celebrations
1965 Indo Pak War
4
CAS Addresses the
Combined…
10
The Battle of Dograi
12
(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR)
Vol. 62 q No 19
9 - 23 Asvina, 1937 (Saka)
1-15 October 2015
The journal of India’s Armed Forces published every fortnight in thirteen
languages including Hindi & English on behalf of Ministry of Defence. It is not
necessarily an organ for the expression of the Government’s defence policy. The
published items represent the views of respective writers and correspondents.
Editor-in-Chief
Hasibur Rahman
Editor Editor (Features)
Dr Abrar Rahmani Parrikar Asks DRDO
to Focus…
7
Ehsan Khusro
Coordination Business Manager
Sekhar Babu Madduri
Dharam Pal Goswami
Our Correspondents
DELHI: Dhananjay Mohanty; Capt DK Sharma; Manoj Tuli; Nampibou Marinmai;
Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva; Col Rohan Anand; Wg Cdr SS Birdi, Ved Pal;
ALLAHABAD: Gp Capt BB Pande; BENGALURU: Dr MS Patil; CHANDIGARH:
Parvesh Sharma; CHENNAI: T Shanmugam; GANDHINAGAR: Wg Cdr Abhishek
Matiman; GUWAHATI: Lt Col Suneet Newton; IMPHAL: Lt Col Ajay Kumar Sharma;
JALANDHAR: Naresh Vijay Vig; JAMMU: Lt Col Manish Mehta; JODHPUR: Lt Col
Manish Ojha; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier ; KOHIMA: Lt Col E Musavi; KOLKATA:
Gp Capt TK Singha; LUCKNOW: Ms Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Rahul
Sinha; Narendra Vispute; NAGPUR: Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar; PALAM: Gp
Capt SK Mehta; PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: MA Khan Shakeel;
SHILLONG: Gp Capt Amit Mahajan; SRINAGAR: Col NN Joshi; TEZPUR: Lt Col
Sombith Ghosh; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suresh Shreedharan; UDHAMPUR:
Col SD Goswami; VISAKHAPATNAM: Cdr CG Raju.
Published by: Sitanshu
16Chakravyuh
17 IAF Conducts Ultra Marathon…
20 Valour of Punjab Regiment…
23 Air Chief Marshal Visits Lucknow
24 Paramotor Expedition…
Kar
Director General (Media & Communication)
Directorate of Public Relations, South Block,
Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011
Regulars
18 Photo Features: Shauryanjali…
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8 “Dimensions of Gender Justice…
27 Armed Forces Panorama
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On front cover: The President, Mr Pranab Mukherjee being presented a memento
by the Chief of Army Staff, General Dalbir Singh and the Chief of Naval Staff,
Admiral R.K. Dhowan, at ‘Shauryanjali’, a commemorative exhibition on Golden
pic: GD Mehra
Jubilee of 1965 war, at India Gate, in New Delhi on September 19, 2015.
AWWA Day Celebrations
26
Golden Jubilee Celebrations of 1965 Indo Pak War
T
he Army as part of Joint Service
effort,organised a series of events
to mark the Golden Jubilee of the
1965 Indo - Pak War. It was aimed
to pay tribute to the collective resolve
of the nation and the valour and
sacrifice of The Armed Forces. The
commemorative events commenced
from 28 Aug 15, with the President
laying a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti.
On this very day, fifty years ago
the Indian Army had captured the
strategic Hajipir Pass in response
to Pakistan’s Operation Gibraltar,
aimed at wresting Kashmir by
sending in armed infiltrators. This
was followed by a two day Seminar
on September 1 and 2, 2015 where
the lessons of the War were revisited
and books on Indo-Pak War 1965
were released.
Mr Pranab Mukherjee at AJJ on inauguration of Golden Jubilee of 1965 War
The major attraction of the
celebrations was the exhibition
“Shauryanjali” in the India Gate
lawns, initially planned from 15 to
20 September and extended till
September 27 due to overwhelming
public response. The exhibition
recreated major battle scenes and
show cased the role of various arms
and services during the War. During
the inauguration ceremony on 15
September, Mr Arun Jaitley stated
Mr Narendra Modi at AJJ on the eve of termination of Golden Jubilee Celebrations of
1965 War
4
Sainik Samachar
that India scored a decisive victory
in the War. He described it as a
nostalgic occasion and recalled the
emotional and material support that
the war had generated nationwide
for the Armed Forces. The Minister
released two commemorative coins
of Rs. 50/- and Rs. 5/- denominations
on this occasion. Mr Ravi Shankar
Prasad released a set of stamps and
First Day Cover to commemorate
the occasion. He recalled the clarion
call ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ coined by
Prime Minister Mr Lal Bahadur Shastri
and recollected how the nation rose
in unison in support of the Armed
Forces. A special brochure was also
released by the Defence Minister, Mr
Manohar Parrikar who stated that
this was first major war that India
won hands-down. A documentary
film on the War was also telecast.
The veterans and veer naris who
attended the event were Smt
Rasoolan Biwi - wife of PVC recipient
CQMH Abdul Hamid, Mrs Zarine
Mahir - daughter of PVC recipient Lt
Col AB Tarapore, Mrs Asha Rani wife of Ashok Chakra recipient Mr
October 1-15, 2015
They were conducted through the
exhibitions area to include Terrain
Walk Throughs, Battle Enclosures,
Martyrs Gallery and other enclosures
by arms and services, depicting
the Indo Pak war of 1965 in its
entirety. Their endorsements prior to
departure speaks for itself.
Mr Hamid Ansari releasing book on 1965 War authored by Mr Nitin Gokhale
Mr Arun Jaitley releasing the Commemorative Coin of 1965 War
Chaman Lal, Mrs Bharinder Dayal
– wife of MVC recipient Lt Gen RS
Dayal, Mrs Earini Vaidya - daughter
of former COAS Late General AK
Vaidya, MVC, amongst many others.
The President, Vice President,
Prime Minister, host of cabinet
ministers,
foreign
delegations,
eminent personalities and public
at large, visited the exhibition.
Gen Dalbir Singh felicitating the Para Motor adventure
team during the Carnival of 1965 War
October 1-15, 2015
On 20 September 2015, a
Carnival to commemorate the
Golden Jubilee of 1965 Indo- Pak
war, “Indradhanush”was organised
at India Gate Lawns. It celebrated
the triumph of India and shared the
joy of the success with one and all.
The carnival showcased events like
martial arts display by regiments of
the Army (Khukuri Dance, Gatka,
Thang La and Kalari Payattu), jazz
band concert, hot air balloon rides,
choreographed dance shows, Army
Dog Show,
Army Motor Cycle
display, magicians, jugglers and
host of other activities. Gen Dalbir
Singh, COAS felicitated the Army
Para Motors team led by Lt Col
Rajeev Mishra who traversed the
Northern and Western Sectors,
finally culminating in New Delhi. A
painting competition with ‘Indian
Armed Forces’ as the theme was also
conducted and prizes given away
by Mrs Namita Suhag, President
AWWA.
Martial arts display during carnival - Kalari Payattu
Sainik Samachar
5
Martial arts display during carnival – Gatka
Martial arts display during carnival - Khukuri Dance
The
Prime
Minister,
Mr
Narendra Modi laid wreath at Amar
Jawan Jyoti and interacted with the
war veterans on 22 September.
The President also interacted with
the veterans over tea at Rashtrapati
Bhawan, the same day, marking the
Martial arts display during carnival - Thang La
culmination of the 1965 Indo Pak
celebrations, while the exhibition
depicting the war continued till 27
September, on popular demand.
Golden Jubilee Celebrations of
1965 War was a recollection of history
and that of the magnificent men in
arms who created that history, along
with the nation that supported the war
effort with its heart and soul. Given
the response and emotions it evoked,
surely, it must have created a sense
of reassurance among the current
generation that the armed forces will
always respond to the occasion when
called upon to do so and gave us
all the opportunity to remember and
bow our heads to those who made
the supreme sacrifice in this glorious
chapter of history.
Army motor Cycle Team during the carnival
6
Sainik Samachar
- Col Rohan Anand
October 1-15, 2015
DRDO DIRECTORS’ CONFERENCE
Parrikar Asks DRDO to Focus on Core Defence Technology Areas
T
he Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar on
September 23, 2015 asked DRDO scientists to
concentrate on core activities factoring the defence
technology requirements of the Armed Forces. He
asked DRDO to involve the Industry in producing the
technologies which they have developed. “Hand- hold
the Industry to make some products which you may have
developed”, he said.
Addressing the 39th Directors’ Conference in Delhi
on September 23, 2015, Mr Parrikar said the close
interface of DRDO with Navy in developing technology
products is well matured. DRDO should now develop
similar level of interface with Army and IAF.
Appreciating the large scale technical manpower
that DRDO has developed over the years, Mr Parrikar
said DRDO can play an inspirational role in skilldevelopment in the country across several fields, leading
to job creation for the ever expanding youth population
of the country.
Mr Parrikar directed the top brass of DRDO to avoid
duplication or overlapping of activities by Laboratories
for greater economic efficiency. In this regard, the
Cluster Heads have a major role to play. He asked the
scientists not to rest on laurels but seek greater heights
in innovation and technology.
Mr Parrikar said there is a potential of one billion
dollar worth of exports of technology products developed
by DRDO in 2-3 years.
The Meeting was attended among others by the
Chief of Air Staff and Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee
Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, the Chief of Naval Staff
Admiral RK Dhowan and Scientific Advisor to Raksha
Mantri Dr G Satheesh Reddy.
Speaking on the occasion, Air Chief Marshal Arup
Raha said our visionary forefathers had conceptualized
DRDO as the prime instrument for gaining strategic
independence for India through indigenisation and
development of core/critical technologies. He said
Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar conferring the Lifetime
Achievement Award on former DRDO Chief Mr V Arunachalam in
DRDO Directors’ Conference
DRDO has been able to achieve the objectives of selfreliance to a great extent in the past seven decades.
While he touched upon the success stories of missiles and
Radars, he urged the scientists to treat disappointments as
challenges and convert them into greater opportunities.
ACM Raha said Scientists should be driven by
passion that does not allow them to resttill the task is
achieved.
The CAS said DRDO has a great role to play
in transformation process of the Armed Forces and
mentioned that key issues should be jointly addressed
by all the stakeholders. There should be a greater
involvement of the three services and production
agencies and a joint development road map.
ACM Raha said the transformation of Armed Forces
into a strategic Force with a multi spectrum capability
will need to ride on the shoulders of DRDO. They will
need to work together in a mission mode with result
orientation bringing in more indigenization through state
of art equipment.
The DG, DRDO Dr S Christopher said the year
2014-15 was marked by a number of achievements in
every technology cluster.
He said the current value of production orders or
DAC cleared systems from the DRDO stable stands at
1.79 Lakhs Crores, which does not include strategic
systems.
- Sitanshu Kar with Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva
October 1-15, 2015
Sainik Samachar
7
“Dimensions of Gender Justice-Armed
Forces: A Legal Prospective”
M
r Justice BP Dharmadhikari,
Bombay High Court (Nagpur
Bench) inaugurated a day long
symposium on “Dimensions of
Gender Justice – Armed Forces:
A Legal Prospective at Institute of
Military Law, Kamptee on September
4, 2015. The symposium was
conducted to commemorate Silver
Jubilee celebration of Army Training
Command (ARTRAC).
During his inaugural address
Justice Dharmadhikari, explained
that
equality
means
equal
opportunities without any gender
bias. He put up thought provoking
situation to the audience and the
symposium. He cited the example
of battlefield as a workplace where
bullets are flying in all directions.
Such a situation in context of
gender equality will need a careful
interpretation of law and wondered
The elite gathering on the dais is seen listening to Justice BP Dharmadhikari in rapt
attention.
whether it will be considered as a
contingency. He hoped that the
symposium would surely address
the issues of sexual harassment at
workplace and child abuse.
Earlier
Maj
Gen
VC
Chitravanshi, ADG (Litigation), Army
HQ, New Delhi intimated the august
gathering that the symposium would
give a better understanding of the
recent laws on subject.
Maj Gen NS Rao, Commandant,
NCC OTA recommended that IML
should prepare handouts on laws
and issues related to gender justice,
which may be made available on
website for ready reference and also
to be distributed to Commandants
Group Photograph of symposium conducted to commemorate Silver Jubilee celebration of Army Training Command (ARTRAC) at
IML Kamptee on September 4, 2015.
8
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015
Officers of Army, Air Force, MNS, Course Officers and representatives from various
defence units and establishments attending the symposium.
and Staff Officers at various levels.
ARTRAC carries out the yeomen
task of training officers and men in
various fields of combat training.
Col Sandeep Kumar, Commandant,
IML explained that fundamental
philosophy of ARTRAC is “No Soldier
or Officer should ever lose his life or
limbs in combat, because he was
inadequately trained.” That is the
essence of the training in the Indian
Army. With this aim & objective in
mind, ARTRAC came into being
on October 1, 1991 at Mhow in
Madhya Pradesh. Subsequently on
March 31, 1993, Headquarters
ARTRAC was shifted to Shimla, the
capital of Himachal Pradesh from
where it is functioning & successfully
creating Scholar Warriors ever since.
Presently, ARTRAC is commanded by
Lt Gen PM Hariz, who overtook the
command on August 1, 2015. The
General Offr is an alumnus of NDA,
Khadakvasla & was commissioned
into Mechanized Inf Bn, 16 MAHAR
(Para) on June 10, 1978.
The Seminar was attended by
Senior Officers from JAG Br from
Army Headquarters and various
Command Zones, Civil Dignitaries
including eminent Jurists, Professors
& Students from Law Colleges,
Nagpur, Judges from Bombay
High Court of Judicature (Nagpur
Bench), Officers from Air Force
Maintenance Command, Nagpur
and Station Officers. The scope of
October 1-15, 2015
the seminar was to address issues
specially connected and falling under
POCSO Act, 2012 and Protection of
Women from Sexual Harassment at
Work Places Act (Women Act), 2013,
with special reference to ‘Procedural
safeguards & conduct of proceedings
under Army Act.’ Gender inequalities
throughout the world are amongst
the most all-pervasive forms of
inequality. Gender equality concerns
each & every member of the society &
forms the very basis of just societies &
hence, the issue of Gender Justice is
of enormous magnitude & immense
importance. The days of yore when
women were treated as fragile,
feeble, dependent & subordinate
to men, should be a matter of
history. Gender equality & women
empowerment are the call of the day
& attempts should be made to achieve
satisfactory results. Every body should
be prepared to fight for the idea and
actualize the conceptual vision in
practicality. The mandate of POCSO
Act, 2012 under Sec 43, casts a
duty on Central Government & State
Governments to take measures to
give vide publicity to the provisions of
the Act and impart periodic training
on the related matters. Similarly
under Women Act, 2013, Sec 24
cast a duty on Govt. to take measures
to publicize the Act through info,
education on training awareness
and orientation on programmes.
The seminar especially focused on
applicability and implementation of
these acts in army environment and
to formulate guidelines to streamline
the processing of these cases.
The symposium proceedings
are being conducted by Capt Saloni
Parmar. It is interesting to note that
all the four instructors posted at IML,
other than the Commandant himself,
are women officers.
- Wg Cdr Samir S Gangakhedkar
Sainik Samachar
9
AFGIS AND IAFBA
CAS Addresses the Combined Annual Meet
A
ir Chief Marshal Arup Raha,
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS)
addressed the combined Annual
General Body Meeting of Air Force
Group Insurance Scheme (AFGIS)
and Indian Air Force Benevolent
Association (IAFBA) at Air Force
Auditorium, Subroto Park in New
Delhi on September 17, 2015.
These are the two agencies which
are the potent welfare arms of the
IAF and have continuously evolved
comprehensive welfare schemes
catering to the diverse needs of Air
Warriors, Air Veterans and their
families.
The Air Chief in his first
part of his address reviewed the
performance of the association
during 2014-2015. He lauded the
role of IAFBA by conveying that
it has been proactive and made a
positive impact to the aspiration of
air warriors, both serving and retired.
The Air Chief also highlighted the
humanitarian schemes being run
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha (In centre) addressing the combined
annual meet of Air Force Group Insurance Society (AFGIS) and Indian Air Force Benevolent
Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi.
by the association which included
merit based scholarships, schemes
of special children, disbursement
of education loan, welfare loans,
performing decent last rites of
deceased air veterans etc.
He also brought out that the
IAFBA was completing 75 years of its
existence on November 22, 2015.
Towards this, the Air Chief also
released a ‘First Day Cover’.
In the second part of the
address, the Air Chief highlighted
some significant measures initiated
by the AFGIS to enhance the
financial security of serving & retired
air warriors serving and retired.
The important ones include credit
of 0.5% of bonus to the survival
benefit,
the sustenance of the
interest rate of 10% per annum on
the survival benefits, the flying pay
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha addressing the combined annual meet of Air Force Group
Insurance Society (AFGIS) and Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium,
Subroto Park, New Delhi.
10
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015
Members of the Managing Council of the Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) during the combined annual meet of Air Force
Group Insurance Society (AFGIS) and Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi.
linked insurance scheme with effect
from October 1, 2014, Social
Security Deposit Scheme for benefit
of widows and next- of- kin of air
warriors, facility of SMS alerts to
retiring members about remittance
‘First Day Cover’ being released by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha as
the Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) completes 75 years of its existence at
Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi.
of survival benefits, and enhanced
insurance cover to air veterans and
increase of house building loan from
existing Rs. 35 Lakh to Rs. 50 Lakh
with effect from October 1, 2015.
In his concluding address, the
Air Chief complimented both the
associations for their significant
October 1-15, 2015
contribution
towards
financial
security of the air warriors, air
veterans and their families, and also
directed them to continue to provide
meaningful welfare service to their
members.
- Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva
pix: Rajesh Khanande
Sainik Samachar
11
GOLDEN JUBILEE OF 1965 WAR
The Battle of Dograi
P
relude to Operations in Lahore
Sector (Operation Riddle)
11 Corps was to launch
simultaneous thrusts along the Axes
GT Road and Bhikkiwind-Barki with
the aim of securing the East Bank of
Ichhogil Canal (laterally echeloned
between the international border and
Lahore city)and in doing so, capture
vital bridges on the canal intact. 4
Mountain Division, 7 & 15 Infantry
Divisions were orbatted to the
Corps. By mid September, 7 Infantry
Division had successfully captured
Barki and 4 Mountain Division had
mauled Pakistan armour, creating
the Patton graveyard at Asal Uttar.
Glory had however eluded 15
Infantry Division.
Col SZA Rizvi briefing PM Mr Narendra Modi on Battle of Dograi during Golden Jubilee
Celebrations of 1965 War at New Delhi on September 16, 2015
Dograi and adjoining area of operations (Pic taken from archives of 3 JAT)
12
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015
with the artillery was preventing
much needed fire support, enemy
pressure was intensifying and the
demolished bridge was crumbling
away threatening to isolate troops
ahead of canal .
Under the
circumstances, 3 JAT was ordered
to vacate their gains by abandoning
Batapore, Attoke Awan and Dograi
and withdraw to Gosal Dial which
it did by 1715 hrs on September
6, 1965. A brilliant success was
allowed to slip away unexploited.
Lt Col Hayde standing amidst the devastation in Dograi (Picture taken from Sanik
Samachar of Jan 1966)
Dograi was a township that
stood on the East bank of the
Ichhogil Canal. The canal itself
had considerable defence potential
for the enemy and shielded Lahore
from Indian offensive thrusts.
Grand Trunk (GT) Road connecting
Amritsar and Lahore cut across it
near Dograi. The capture of Dograi
and bridges on the canal were thus
imperatives to progress operations
towards Lahore.
Initial Success (6 to 10 Sep 65)
On September 6, 1965, 3 JAT
crossed the IB, North of Wagah,
approached Gosal-Dial and cleared
all enemy resistance by 0700 hrs the
same day, thereby clearing the way
for further progress of operations by
the brigade. In this fight, 35 enemy
soldiers were killed and many
taken prisoner. Pakistan air force
struck targets on GT Road causing
significant damage to 3 JAT reserve
echelons. Despite casualties, the
battalion took on the mantle of
further advance till Ichhogil Canal, a
task initially mandated for another
battalion.
The unit raced for Ichhogil
Canal and captured the East Bank
October 1-15, 2015
by 1130 hrs. The gallant unit then
swung South and captured Dograi.
Rapidly exploiting its success, two
companies crossed the Canal over
remnants of a demolished bridge
and secured areas of Batapore and
Attoke Awan. Enemy counterattack
was repulsed. Having scored a
sensational success, the unit then
started looking over their shoulders
for the logistical support to hold on
to their objective. Enemy air action
had earlier strafed its administrative
convoy, lack of radio communication
Till September 12, 1965,
attempts were made to recapture
Dograi and GT Road Bridge by the
brigade but did not make headway
in view of Pakistan reinforcing the
sector. By September 19, 15 Infantry
Division Sector regrouped for fresh
offensive and 54 Infantry Brigade
was again tasked to capture Dograi
and the East Bank of Ichhogil.
The Epic of Dograi
Dograi
and
approaches
leading to it were strongly held with
two coys at Mile 13 and another two
at Dograi, comprising elements of
16 PUNJAB, 3 BALUCH, 8 PUNJAB
and 18 BALUCH. The Night of
COAS interacting with soldiers of 3 JAT shortly after ceasefire
Sainik Samachar
13
JAT final orders to the men were
simple:“Follow your leaders, shoot at
anything that moves or is suspicious,
and quickly secure the objective
after it is captured”. Apparently, they
were well understood.
Capt KS Thapa, MVC (Posthumous)
21/22 September was chosen for
launching the assault.
 Phase 1 -
13 PUNJAB,
was to capture Mile 13, by 2359
hours September 21.
3 JAT, was
Phase 2 -
to make a wide outflanking detour
of 6000 yards to take Dograi from
the North.
13 PUNJAB scored a partial
success at Mile 13 but as planned,
the second phase of his attack
was launched at 0130 hrs. Lt
Col Desmond E Hayde, CO 3
3 JAT, after a most creditable
night advance, fell upon the flank
and rear of the enemy positions at
Dograi. The defenders were taken
by surprise. It was pitch dark, the
Jats and Pakistanis were all mixed
up. Inevitably there were close
encounters between the adversaries
and Dograi was captured at 0300
hrs. 27 hrs of non stop combat
and flushing operations continued
wherein the Jats did not pause or
ponder, till the last of the enemy
was cleared from Dograi. An extract
of statement by Lt Col Hayde at
Dograi, post ceasefire, when unit
was 400 mtr from Dograi and about
to assault it (Quoted from Sanik
Samachar of January 1966) :“It was from here that we really
started getting it. A whole machine
gun complex, along the eastern
bank of the Ichhogil Canal opened
up. They must have been in the area
in which myself, my intelligence
Defence Minister Mr YB Chavan being briefed from a vantage point in Dograi by Lt Col
Hayde (Pic taken from Photo Division of MoD)
14
Sainik Samachar
Maj AR Tyagi, MVC (Posthumous)
officer and a few others were. We
must have been under the fire of at
least eight machine-guns at every
step we took. We had a lot of fresh
young troops. But we had made it
very clear to them, that there was
only one aim, and that aim was to
close the gap from the FUP, on the
objective from where the enemy
was firing, as quickly as possible,
whether it be in the open, whether
it be through cover, whether it be at
the run, whether it be on your belly.
There was to be no stop until they
had made the built up area on the
north-eastern and northern edge of
Dograi.
And this, I am really proud so
say, my young Jat Jawans did with
full valour, with full vigor, under the
terrific and dynamic leadership of
my company commanders, platoon
commanders and junior leaders.
Once my boys closed in with the
enemy on the objective, very intense
and severe hand-to-hand fighting
had to take place, because it was
difficult to get the enemy out of their
trenches. The enemy for obvious
reasons was not very keen to leave
their trenches and we for very
obvious reasons had to get in there
October 1-15, 2015
and push them out”.
The success at Dograi made the
enemy position at Mile 13 untenable.
The two enemy companies located
in this area fled across the canal.
By September 22, 13 PUNJAB had
secured their objectives and four
enemy Counter Attacks had been
beaten back at Dograi by 3 JAT.
Cease-fire came into effect on
September 23.
Victory always comes at a price
; 58 soldiers (including 04 officers)
of 3 JAT were martyred and 157
wounded. Casualties inflicted upon
the enemy was over 300 soldiers
killed and 108 captured, including
the Commanding Officer of 16 (Pak)
PUNJAB. During the campaign, four
MVCs were awarded for conspicuous
bravery : Maj Gen Mohinder Singh,
GOC 15 Inf Div
 Lt Col Desmond E Hayde,
Commanding Officer, 3 JAT
 Maj AR Tyagi (Posthumous), 3
JAT
Capt Kapil Singh
(Posthumous), 3 JAT
Thapa
In addition, 3 JAT was awarded
4 VrC, 7 Sena Medals, 12 Mention
in Dispatches and 11 COAS
Commendation Cards.
Prime Minister Mr Lal Bahadur Shastri interacting with Lt Col Hayde and troops of 3 JAT,
post ceasefire
Summing Up
15 Infantry Division captured
Dograi on the eve of ceasefire,
an objective that had eluded
them for better part of the war. Its
spearhead battalion, 3 JAT wrote a
chapter in military campaigns that
is regarded till date as an “Epic”.
The Battle of Dograiis unique; there
are rare instances where only 523
determined attackers have gone
up against a defending force not
only vastly superior in strength but
also strongly entrenched in built
up defended area, 1000x800
yards in size, supported a large
number of tanks and un seemingly
by unlimited artillery support. It
is characterised by exceptional
valour of the Jat soldiers and
highly inspiring leadership. For
its exemplary display of courage
and determination, the battalion
was awarded the battle honour of
“DOGRAI”, and Theatre Honour
“PUNJAB”;which they earned with
their flesh and blood.
- Col Rohan Anand
Indian flag at Dograi (Picture borrowed from archives of 3 JAT)
October 1-15, 2015
Sainik Samachar
15
Chakravyuh - Quiz
W
e are introducing Defence related brain-storming quiz titled “Chakravyuh” on Indian Armed Forces from this
issue onwards. The frequency of this quiz will be once in a month i.e. first issue of every month.
Q1. When was Indian Air Force formed?
Q2. How is a deer in North America dear to IAF?(Refer
Picture 1)
Q3. Born in 1919 at Lyalpur, this great aviator
flew in a flypast in 1947 over the Red Fort to mark
India’s Independence. He has held many important
appointments, including that of Lieutenant Governor
of Delhi from 1989 to 1990. He holds a unique
distinction as on date. Identify him and the coveted
distinction.(Refer Picture 2)
Q4. From where is “Nabhah Sparsham Deeptam” the
motto of IAF derived. (Refer Picture 3)
Q5. What is the expanded form of MOF in the field of
Air Defence?
Q6. IAF landed a C-130J aircraft at an altitude of
16,700ft above sea level on 20 Aug 2013, very close
to China. Identify the airfield. (Refer Picture 4)
Pic 1(Refer Que 2)
Pic 2(Refer Que 3) Pic 3 (Refer Que 4)
Q7. What was the IAF operation in Kargil in 1999
code named?
Q8. IAF has rendered its services beyond Indian
Territory on several occasions. It was once tasked to
urgently transport Indian troops to an island nation
which was about to witness a coup. The goal was
achieved in a remarkable way. Name the island
nation?
Q9. Where in India is the Institute of Aerospace
Medicine located?
Q10. A forward Indian airbase in the Western Sector
has an auditorium named “Nirmal”.What is so special
about the name?
Q11. Late Wing Commander GR Mulky of IAF was
one of the founding members and inspiration behind
KQA. What is KQA?
Q12. Identify the aircrafts shown in pics 5.
Pic4 (Refer Que 6)
Pic 5
ANSWERS
1 8 Oct 1932 2 The first aircraft used by IAF was the West land Wapiti. Wapiti is a species of deer found
in North America. 3 Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh DFC. He is the only IAF officer to be promoted
to the ‘Five Star’ rank and also the only such officer alive in all the three armed services of India.(Pic-1) 4 The
Motto of Indian Air Force has been taken from eleventh chapter, verse 24 of the Gita, the Discourse given by Lord
Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra during the Great War of Mahabharata. The Lord is showing
His Supreme Divine form to Arjuna and the great form of the Lord is reaching the sky with glory, evoking fear
and loss of self-control in the mind of Arjuna. The Indian Air Force, similarly, aims to overwhelm the adversaries
with application of aerospace power in defence of the nation (Pic-2- IAF Logo). 5 Mobile Observation Flight
6 Daulat Beg Oldie (Pic-3) 7 Safed Sagar 8 Maldives 9 Bangalore 10. It is named after Flying Officer Nirmal
Jit Singh Sekhon, the valiant pilot who attained martyrdom on 14 Dec 1971 after shooting down Pakistani aircrafts
at Srinagar . He is the only awardee (posthumous) of Param Vir Chakra in IAF 11 Karnatak Quiz Association.
12 Pic 5 Gnat - The aircraft was nick named ‘Sabre Slayer’, which gave Gnatmares to Pakistani Pilots.
Note- Readers are welcome to give their feedback / contribute questions out of which one question will appear
in the quiz alongwith the name of the contributor. email-ids are: sainiksamachar@gmail.com & defpronagpur@gmail.
com.
- Wg Cdr SS Gangakhedkar
16
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015
GOLDEN JUBILEE OF 1965 INDO-PAK WAR
IAF CONDUCTS ULTRA MARATHON AND AERO EXPEDITIONS
A
ir Vice Marshal OEM Menon,
SOAWAC, flagged in theIAF
Ultra Marathon and Microlight
and twin Powered Hang glider
(PHG) cross country expeditions at
AF Station Hindon on September
19, 2015. These expeditions were
organised by the Indian Air Force as
a befitting tribute to the valour and
sacrifice made by the Indian Armed
forces during the 1965 Indo- Pak
war.
The Ultra Marathon was
flagged-off on September 9, 2015
from Pathankot and culminated at
Hindon on September 19, 2015
covering a distance of around 574
kms in 11 days covering major
airbases enroute at Adampur,
Halwar and Ambala. Seven air
warriors participated in this extreme
endurance event. Running an
average of 55 kms per day, these
bravehearts endured scorching
heat, blistering roads and intense
exhaustion and dehydration, drawing
on their will power and motivation.
They were joined by a large no of air
warriors at the enroute air bases for
distances upto 21 kms and 42 kms.
Gp Capt VS Choudhary,
Gp Capt Arvind Tripathi, Sqn Ldr
S Gayathri, and Cpl M Bishnoi
completed the entire ultra-marathon
distance of 574 kms, overcoming
blisters, cramps and heat exhaustion.
FgOffr S Dixit, Sgt GB Mishra, Sgt AK
October 1-15, 2015
AVM OEM Menon, Senior Officer Administration, HQ Western Air Command Indian Air
Force, flagged in and felicitated the IAF Ultra Marathon, Aero Expeditions teams.
Yadav covered the distance in relay
format and were joined by Gp Capt
Manoj Kumar who joined the team
from Ambala to Hindon covering a
distance of around 240 kms.
The Microlight and twin
PHG expeditions were flagged
on September 16, 2015 from AF
Stn Pathankot and AF Stn Amritsar
respectively. These ultra-light aircraft
landed at major airbases of WAC
such as Adampur, Halwara and
Amabala and gave motivational joy
rides to air warriors and civilians to
introduce them to the thrill of aero
adventure sports.
The crew for the microlight
comprised of Wg Cdr VS Shokeen
and Sgt Sunil whereas the two PHGs
were piloted by Sqn Ldr WS Singh,
Sqn Ldr Ajmer Singh, Sgt ML Yadav,
Sgt Ram Mehar and Cpl Dobhal.
AVM Menon complimented the
runners and the pilots for successfully
completing this unique odyssey and
also appreciated the efforts put in
by all in ensuring the success of this
commemorative event.
- Wg Cdr Rochelle D’Silva
Sainik Samachar
17
Shauryanjali Exhibition at Rajpath
INAUGURATION
EX-SERVICEMEN & VEER NARIS
VISIT
BATTLE ENCLOSURES
“
A heart warming exhibition showcasing the grit and valour of the Indian
Soldier. I salute the brave martyrs of the Indian Armed Forces who
sacrificed their present for our today. Every Indian should be proud to walk
through this exhibition glorifying our victory in the 1965 War.
My compliments to the team for organising this at such a grand scale”
Mr Pranab Mukherjee,
President of India
“
Excellent efforts to focus on the sacrifice by the Armed Forces/ Martyrs”
“
A great experience. Absolutely a superb recreation. Very emotive and
nostalgic”
Mr Manohar Parrikar,
Defence Minister
Mr Arun Jaitley,
Finance Minister
“
A wonderful tribute to our heroes of 1965. Great effort”
Mr G Mohan Kumar,
Defence Secretary
- Col Rohan Anand
(Pics from MoD Photo Division)
INDO – PAK WAR OF 1965
Valour of Punjab Regiment and Brigade of Guards
E
ighteen years after the first Indo-Pak War, and after
having modernised its armed forces, Pakistan once
again sent thousands of armed infiltrators into the State
of Jammu & Kashmir in 1965, with a view of annexing
the State. It timed and ill planned, this ‘misadventure’
back fired due to a strong reaction from Indian forces
and total lack of support from the local population of the
state. In this war, nine battalions of the Punjab Regiment
were fully committed, with many coming out with flying
colours, winning numerous honours and awards in the
process. In Jammu & Kashmir itself five battalions of the
Regiment took part.
In the Uri Sector, after the failure of an initial
battalion attack launched by 1 Para (Punjab), one of
its reinforced companies under the command of Major
(later Lt Gen) Ranjit Singh Dyal, captured the famous
Hajipir Pass on August 29, after a heroic battle. Apart
from winning the Battle Honour of ‘Hajipir’, this unit
also earned one MVC, one Vir Chakra (VrC), two Sena
Medals (SMs) and four Mentioned-in-Despatches. The
Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) was awarded to Major Dyal.
In the same Sector that very day, the capture of
Bedori feature near Hajipir became possible due to
determined efforts of all ranks of 19 Punjab under the
command Lt Col Sampuran Singh. He was the proud
recipient of both MVC and VrC respectively. The unit
also won the Battle Honours of ‘Bedori’ and ‘Hajipir’.
Artillery in action
In the Kargil Sector, 2nd Punjab (1 Guards) was
ordered to evict Pakistani forces which had crossed the
Cease Fire Line (CFL) and occupied the 13,060 feet
high feature known as ‘Kala Pahar’. In May 1965,
Pakistan had increased hostilities along the Indo-Pak
In the Akhnoor Sector, 9 Punjab took part in the
Kalidhar area where it repulsed two ferocious attacks on
September 6 and 9, 1965. The unit earned one VrC,
three SMs, four Mentioned-in-Despatches and three
Chief of the Army Staff’s (COAS) Commendation Cards
in this sector, apart from the Battle Honour of ‘Kalidhar’.
On the bank of Ichhogil canal
20
Sainik Samachar
A proud moment after the unfurling of the Indian Triculour at Hajipir
October 1-15, 2015
Maj Ranjit Singh Dyal, proud
hero of Hajipir
border and especially along the Line of Control (LoC) in
Jammu and Kashmir. The Pakistan Army had occupied
Kala Pahar and adjacent features, thereby dominating
Srinagar-Kargil-Leh road. On June 2, 1965 the unit
fought a gallant, almost hand-to-hand battle lasting
more than six hours. On June 5, 1965, after a battle
lasting six hours, the first battalion of Brigade of Guards
successfully eliminated the enemy and re-occupied Kala
Pahar. Though it suffered heavy casualties, it inflicted
almost twice the number of casualties on the enemy,
thus earning on VrC, two SMs and various other awards.
In the same sector 17 Punjab was directed to
capture Point 13620, which was occupied by Pakistani
troops. In a brilliant action involving a silent attack, the
unit accomplished the task on August 15, 1965 without
any casualty.
In the western sector of Punjab, four Punjabi
Battalions participated in the war. 7 Punjab (now 8
Lt Col Sampuran Singh (Later Brigadier) at Bedori
October 1-15, 2015
A view of ‘Kala Pahar’
Mechanised Infantry) had the honour to capture a
portion of ‘Ichogil Canal’. 13 Punjab (Jind), toio, was
tasked to capture the Ichogil Canal as part of a brigade
offensive. The leading battalion 3 Jat, which had crossed
the Canal on September 8, had to move back and the
brigade redeployed at Wagah Check Post.
On September 22, 13 Punjab (Jind) was tasked
to attack Dograi, an industrial town on the suburbs of
Lahore. It advanced astride the famous Grand Trunk
(GT) Road with a view to assault its objective frontally.
Due to heavy enemy opposition the attack was stalled,
but once a combined and determined assault went in,
the objective, to include Milestone 13, was captured, In
this successful battle four Sherman tanks, eight Jeeps, six
Recoilless Guns (RCLs) and a large quality of arms and
ammunition were captured, and both Jat and 13 Punjab
earned the Battle Honour of ‘Dograi’.
Not to be out done, on September 10, 1965, 16
Enemy soldiers taken captive by Punjabis
Sainik Samachar
21
Jubilant troops of 13 Punjab
Punjab (Patiala) fought a gallant action at Barki town,
situated about 800 yards east of the Barki Bridge,
spanning the Ichogil Canal. Inspite of heavy enemy fire
coming from the outskirts of Barki, petering the Patiala’s
first assault, the unit quickly changed its Forming Up
Place (FUP) and rushed forward its reserve companies
from a different direction, thereby taking the enemy by
total surprise. Though the latter destroyed the bridge
while withdrawing, it suffered 44 fatal casualties and six
of its soldiers were taken captive by the Patialas. The
battalion earned the Battle Honour of ‘Barki’ for this
valiant action.
operation in the Fazilka Sector. Its achievements included
repulsing a major enemy attack, apart from capturing a
vast assortment of enemy war like stores. However, the
spot light in this operation fell on the burly Havildar Jassa
Singh, who beat back a number of enemy assaulting
troops single handedly with the butt of his rifle, and when
that broke he swung ammunition belt boxes over his
head like a hammer to knock down many more enemy
soldiers. This action earned him VrC.
14 Punjab (Nabha Akal) took part in a successful
- Wg Cdr Samir Gangakhedkar
During the next years 22, 23, 24 Punjab were also
raised, bringing the total number of Punjab battalions
to 17.
Troops of 16 Punjab advancing towards Barki Bridge
22
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015
Air Chief Marshal Visits Lucknow
C
hairman
Chiefs
of
Staff
Committee (COSC) and Chief of
the Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal
Arup Raha was on a visit to Lucknow
on September 3, 2015. The Air
Chief addressed the audience at La
Martiniere College during a special
function organised to honour its
war veteran alumni. The war heroes
who were felicitated included the
legendary Keelor brothers and Flt Lt
Alfred Tyrone Cooke of the 65 war
fame and Air Vice Marshal Harbans
Parminder Singh, the hero of 71
war. Mrs Patracia Keelor, wife of
Late Wg Cdr Trevor Keelor unveiled
the memorial tablet in honour of her
late husband.
While addressing the gathering,
the Air chief said, “The courage,
valour and leadership displayed by
the legendary Keelor brothers and
Flt Lt Alfred Tyrone Cooke during
1965 war, are striking examples
of decisive impact of air power
AVM Harbans Perminder Singh receiving Memento From CAS
that is acknowledged by the entire
nation with respect. The greatest
achievement of IAF during the 1965
war was to Thwart Pakistan Army’s
armour thrust in Chhamb-Jaurian
Sector which resulted in failure of
operation Grand Slam aimed at
cutting off J&K from India”.
Coming to IAF’s transition, the
Air Chief said, “IAF has transformed
into a multi spectrum strategic
force. The growth of IAF is aligned
with India’s growth and is aimed
at acquiring the requisite strategic
footprint for exerting our influence in
our growing areas of interest”.
Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha
acknowledged
the
immense
contribution of all the veterans in
shaping the Indian Armed Forces.
He said that the present and
future generations shall forever be
indebted to our esteemed Armed
Forces Veterans for their deeds
of courage and sacrifice. The Air
Chief concluded his speech by
complimenting the principal, staff
and students of the college and
acknowledged the rich legacy of
the college with several of its alumni
joining the Armed Forces and
achieving the great laurels, many of
which will have been decorated with
gallantry awards.
Mrs Patracia Keelor unveiling the Tablet
October 1-15, 2015
- Gp Capt BB Pande
Sainik Samachar
23
PARAMOTOR EXPEDITION
Fascinating Demonstration
C
overing 219 Km of aerial distance over three days
the Para Motor Expedition undertaken by the Panther
Division was flagged in by Lt Gen K J Singh, GOC-in-C,
Western Command at TA Railway Ground, Chandigarh.
The expedition was undertaken to honour the brave
soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the Nation during
the 1965 Indo-Pak War.
The Expedition Team consisted 12 paramotorists
led by Lieutenant Colonel Rajiv Mishra had flying team
supported by a ground team which includes a Medical
team, Security team and a Rescue team sailed through
Kapurthala, Harike, Khasa, Dera Baba Nanak, Tibri and
Ropar beore arriving at city beautiful.
The expedition had four Para Gliders who had
flown at a speed of 25 to 75 Km per hour at a height
of approximately 500 ft to 700 ft. Earlier, this was
Paramotor of Indian Army
A Paramotorist approaches for landing
Expedition team leader handing over the expedition flag to Lt Gen KJ Singh,
GOC-in-C, WC
flagged off from Jalandhar on 12th by Maj Gen Deepak
Dhanda, COS Vajra Corps.
The event started with a colourful and melodious
Army Pipe Band Display followed by daredevilry of the
1 Para (Special Forces) Team those who carried out
slithering operations and other combat demonstrations
from army Aviation Helicopters. . The expedition was
given a warm welcome by the audience. The Army
Commander complimented the team for a job well done
and presented them mementos.
Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C, WC getting introduced with the team
members
24
Sainik Samachar
Besides, army officers, JCOs and jawans with their
families, a large number of school students and NCC
cadets also witnessed the fascinating event took place in
air and ground simultaneously.
- Pradip Dasgupta
October 1-15, 2015
Sainik School Rewa Annual Day Celebrations
T
he Annual Day Celebration and
Prize distribution ceremony was
conducted on September 9, 2015
at Sainik School Rewa, Madhya
Pradesh. Air Marshal KS Gill, Air
Officer
Commanding-in-Chief,
Central Air Command was the Chief
Guest of the function.
Guard of Honour
to the Chief Guest by the cadets. It
was followed by a band display and
briefing by the Principal. The briefing
included the latest initiatives taken
by the school for improvement in
training of the cadets.
Presentation of Banner
Air Marshal KS Gill landed at
the school helipad. On arrival, a
Guard of Honour was presented
The Celebration and prize
distribution ceremony were held at
Manekshaw auditorium. The Chief
Guest was welcomed by the School
Captain. The Principal introduced
the Chief Guest, Air Marshal KS Gill
to the audience. It was followed by
a very colourful cultural program. At
the end of the program, Chief Guest
presented ‘Banners’ and ‘Colours’
to the cadets. The academic
banner was presented to Vindhya
House and the sports banner was
presented to Satpura House. The
Laying of Foundation Stone of Indoor Sports Complex
October 1-15, 2015
overall championship banner was
presented to Satpura House and the
coveted NDA banner was presented
to Vindhya House.
In his address to the cadets,
Air Marshal KS Gill commented the
sterling performance of the cadets
in the Board Examinations. He
emphasized that the school should
not lose sight of its objective and
must focus on attracting more and
more cadets to join the defence
forces. He advised the cadets to
dedicate their life to the progress of
the nation.
During the visit, the Chief Guest
also laid the foundation stone of
the Indoor Sports Complex and the
Motivational Hall.
- Gp Capt BB Pande
Presentation of Best Cadet Award
Sainik Samachar
25
AWWA Day Celebrations
A
WWA Day was celebrated on August 23, 2015
to mark its existence of 49 years. The event was
presided over by Mrs Namita Suhag, President AWWA.
The event, organised by HQ Delhi Area, was held in
NCC Auditorium and was attended by 28 Veer Naris
and 742 wives from the Army fraternity.
The President AWWA in her message on AWWA
Day,conveyed her greetings and best wishes to the AWWA
fraternity. She congratulated all AWWA functionaries for
their devotion and selfless service to the association.
The message was followed by achievements of the past
one year given by Mrs Payal Sharma, General Secretary
AWWA.
President AWWA inaugurating the event
The highlights of the event included felicitation
of Veer Naris, competitions on knowledge, talent and
home remedies (medicines). A declamation contest on
subjects ‘Awareness about child abuse’, ‘Challenges
of traditional culture vis-a-vis modern outlook’ and
‘Psychological problems in teenagers’ was organised. An
entertainment programme sponsored by volunteers from
Centre for Creative Expressions, a media entertainment
group was also organised, which was appreciated by
one and all.
To mark the occasion the President AWWA also
released the 2015 edition of AWWA Journal, Asha
Greeting Cards, Thank You Cards and the Gift Wrapping
sheets. The speciality of greeting cards and gift wrapping
sheets is that they are selected from the exclusively
designed cards by the students of Asha Schools from all
over India.
Release of AWWA Journal
The event was also attended by Mrs Kiran Rai, Vice
President AWWA and other wives of all ranks of Army.
The event was hosted under the guidance of Mrs Radhika
Ravindran, President Regional AWWA, Delhi Area.
Message by President AWWA
The President AWWA in the end met all Veer Naris
personally and passed suitable directions to resolve their
problems.
The packed audience
26
Sainik Samachar
- Col Rohan Anand
October 1-15, 2015
NCC in Limca Book of Records
O
n September 24, 2015, National Cadet Corps was
presented the certificate by Limca Book of Records
for the ‘Largest Yoga performance simultaneously by a
single uniformed youth organisation (NCC) at multiple
venues on International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2015’.
The certificate was presented by Mrs Vijaya Ghose,
Editor Limca Book of Records to Lt Gen Chakravarty,
DGNCC in theaugust presence of Defence Minister, Mr
Manohar Parrikar.
Based on the encouragement given by the Prime
Minister Mr Narendra Modi during his address in the
Prime Minister’s NCC Rally on January 28, 2015,
NCC created this record with 9,50,210 NCC cadets
performing Yoga simultaneously at 1767 venuespan
India on June 21, 2015.
In a function held at Vigyan Bhawan, Mr Manohar
Parrikar congratulated the NCC for this extraordinary
performance and for making the Nation proud with its
achievement. He complimented the staff of NCC and
all the cadets for their hard work and dedication.
said it was an excellent achievement for the NCC and
the Organisation would continue to steadfastly carry
out its task of grooming the youth as leaders. He also
thanked Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Ayush for
their support to NCC in conducting the pan India event
on International Day of Yoga.
The Director General of NCC Lt Gen A Chakravarty
- Lt Col Umang Kohli
Tribute to the Hero of Chhamb-Jaurian Battle of 1965 War
O
n the eve of Golden Jubilee celebrations of the
Indo-Pak War of 1965 and as befitting tribute to
the Gallant Hero of Chhamb-Jaurian’ Major Bhaskar
Roy, Maha Vir Chakra, the Crossed Swords Division,
rechristened the Crossed Swords Sainik Institute as
Bhaskar Sainik Institute on August 31, 2015. The
ceremony was graced by the presence of Mrs Nita
Roy, w/o (Late) Major Bhaskar Roy alongwith General
Shanker Roy Chowdhury (Retired) and Major General
Kulpreet Singh, General Officer Commanding, Crossed
Swords Division.
Major Bhaskar Roy was born on April 4, 1936 and
was commissioned in 20 LANCERS on December 1956.
On September 1, 1965, when the Pakistani forces
attacked our positions in Chhamb-Jaurian Sector, Major
Bhaskar Roy was commanding the ‘C’ Squadron of 20
LANCERS positioned in the area. Undaunted by the
enemy which was, six times in numerical superiority and
October 1-15, 2015
had technologically avant-grade tanks, Major Bhaskar
Roy employed his armour boldly and most skillfully.
He ably stemmed the enemy advance and stalled the
enemy’s attempt to encircle 191 Infantry Brigade and the
bridge on river Chenab. In the tank to tank battle that
ensued, Major Bhaskar Roy with his actuate leadership
destroyed 13 enemy tanks and disabled several others.
- Lt Col Manish Mehta
Sainik Samachar
27
Make in India Seminar
A
seminar on ‘Make in IndiaFacilitating Boots on Ground’
was conducted under the aegis
of HQ Northern Command. The
seminar organised with the aim
of providing a perspective for the
domestic Industry on the technology
and equipment needs of the Indian
Army to meet the aspirations of
troops deployed in field.
The seminar was inaugurated
by Lt Gen DS Hooda, GOC-in-C
Northern Command. The Northern
Army Commander emphasized the
need for close partnership and synergy
in the efforts of the public and private
sectors alongwith the Army to merge
contemporary technologies with
tactical requirement of combat units.
The topic for discussions in
the Seminar was “Operational
perspective to infusion of technology
in operational areas, Make in
India in Defence sector-the PSU
perspective”.
- Col SD Goswami
New Building of ECHS Polyclinic Inaugurated
U
p keeping his commitment for
handing over the new permanent
building of ECHS polyclinic of city
beautiful to the armed forces veterans
on western command raising day,
Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C,
Western Command on September
17, 2015 inaugurated the new
polyclinic at Sector 47A during
a ceremony which was attended
by large number of veterans and
their families. Other senior serving
officers from Chandimandir and
local Air Force station also attended
the inauguration ceremony. Earlier
this was located at sector 29 on a
temporary site.
While speaking on the occasion
the Army Commander expressed
his gratitude to Air Marshal
Randhir Singh (Retd) for his valued
involvement and advice towards
Lt Gen KJ Singh, GOC-in-C, WC alongwith armed forces veteran and senior serving
officers of Army after inaugurating the new building of ECHS poly clinic, Chandigarh.
28
Sainik Samachar
making this project a success. Gen
Singh also extended his gratitude
towards Air Cmde SK Indoria, AOC,
12 Wing AF for his co operation in
getting the land and further admin
assistances in different stages as
it arised. Army Commander also
appreciated the effort of Brigadier
RS Matharu, station commander
Chandimandir and Col Sandhu Oi/c
ECHS poly clinic. He now invited
further suggestions from Veterans
towards improving and making the
polyclinic the best.
The new permanent building is
located at sector 47A on Air Force
land. A total of 3533 sq yds of
land thus made available for this
purpose. This Polyclinic at Sector
47 will enhance the reach of this
welfare health scheme to more than
39,800 ex-servicemen residing in
and around the tricity.
- Pradip Dasgupta
October 1-15, 2015
Mr Maroof Raza Addresses DSSC, Wellington
T
he Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington
is a premier Tri-Services training institution of the
Indian Armed Forces, which trains select middle level
officers in the ever evolving cardinals of joint war fighting
and nurtures the future military leadership of our nation.
Curriculum at DSSC entails lectures by eminent
speakers, which include Governors, Diplomats,
Academicians, Economists, Corporate Leaders,
Management Experts and Serving/ Retired Officers
to share professional percepts on eclectic subjects
conforming to College syllabi. As part of this, Mr
Maroof Raza, Strategic Affairs Expert visited the DSSC
on September 21,2015.
Mr Raza witnessed the multispectral transformation
that has taken shape in the pristine campus and
development of infrastructure at DSSC. He, thereafter
interacted with Lt Gen SK Gadeock, Commandant DSSC
and addressed the Faculty and students of the 71st Staff
Course and shared his perspective on ‘India-Pakistan
relations - The Troubled Past, Present Dilemmas and the
Uncertain Future’.
Mr Maroof Raza, Strategic Affairs Expert with Lt Gen SK Gadeock,
Commandant and DSSC officers at Defence Services Staff College
in Wellington.
Later in the evening, a customary ‘Cocktail’ was
hosted in honour of the visiting dignitary at the Drona
Officers’ Mess, Wellington, wherein Mr Maroof Raza
interacted with the Faculty and students and discussed
issues pertinent to this subject.
- T Shanmugam
AIFD Students Feliciated
A
rmy Institute of Fashion and Design (AIFD) students
have won the 2015 edition of the Metrolife Fashion
Show in Bengaluru.
Major General AK Singh, General Officer
Commanding, Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area and
Chairman of the Institute Felicitated the models,
choreographer’s, Designers, back stage students for their
hard work to win the prestigious trophy. In his speech,
he appreciated the team work of the institute for their
positive attitude for continuously winning the awards in
the state and national level compet
itions.
The competition is divided into two zones to allow
maximum number of colleges to participate. The two
four winners of each zone are eventually pitted against
each other in the grand finale. This year AIFD has
been outstanding, winning accolades at the first zone
selection itself, by being placed first against 20 plus
prestigious institutes. A total of 22 colleges including
the Army Institute of Hotel Management and Catering
Technology participated in the competition.
In the grand finale of eight colleges with the theme
“Page Turners”, the Army Institute of Fashion & Design
stood head and shoulders above the others, in their
creative vision with the their theme, “ Black Sparrow”.
The imaginative choreography was by Rohit Rajput of
B.Sc IIIrd Year and Apoorva Sharma of B.Sc IInd Year.
The models were Oshinla Pradhan, Nidhi Kumari,
Saumya Singh, Purva Shivkumar and Kavita of B.Sc IIIrd
year and Arpita Hota, Rachika Dahiya, Soniya, Swati
Sharma and Rimpi Parmar of B.Sc IInd Year.
- Dr MS Patil
October 1-15, 2015
Sainik Samachar
29
Blood Donation Camp
A
Blood Donation Camp is being organised at Colaba
and Kalina Military Cantonments, Mumbai from 14
to 16 Sep 2015. Mrs Naina Edwards, wife of Major
General Rajiv Edwards, Genera Officer Commanding
UM &G Sub Area, inaugurated the blood donation
camp at Central Medical Inspection Room of Colaba
Military Station this morning. Leading his men, Major
General Rajiv Edwards started the camp by donating
blood. The initiative has been taken by Headquarter,
Uttar Maharashtra & Gujarat Sub Area (UM & G Sub
Area) to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the 1965
Indo-Pak War. While the normal course, the National
Blood Donation Day is on 1st October each year.
However, this noble venture by the Army in Mumbai is
a special tribute to the valiant martyrs who made the
supreme sacrifice for the nation during the 1965 war.
The camp which is being conducted in collaboration
with the Tata Memorial Hospital and Indian Red Cross
Society is expected to be attended by over 500 serving
soldiers and families. The blood collected at the event
is being donated to the Tata Memorial Hospital, Indian
Major General Rajiv Edwards donating blood at the camp
Red Cross Society and INHS Asvini. Speaking on the
occasion Dr Sunil Rajadhyakshs, HoD Blood Transfusion
Department of Tata Memorial Hospital, said that there is
considerable shortage of blood in Mumbai and this leads
to avoidable deaths among patients especially cancer
and dengue affected patients and those undergoing
surgery.
Cdr Rahul Sinha
Medal Award Function at AIM Kolkata
A
rmy Institute of Management Kolkata – A NAAC
accredited and ISO 9001 : 2008 certified Institute
organized their 15th Medal Award Function for the
passing-out students of MBA-16 batch at the Albert Ekka
Auditorium, HQ Eastern Command on Sep 12, 2015.
established on July 28, 1997 by the Army Welfare
Education Society (AWES), New Delhi. It conducts AICTE
approved state-of-the-art management programme
(MBA) for wards of Army and general category. It is one
of the ranked A++ category B-School in the country.
Army Institute of Management Kolkata, was
The 15th Medal Award Function was inaugurated
by Gen Shankar Roychowdhury, former Chief of the
Army Staff, being the Chief Guest of the ceremony.
Medals were awarded by the Chief Guest to students for
their outstanding performances. The Chief of the Army
Staff All Round Rolling Trophy awarded to Ms Debalina
Chakraborty. Ms Sunita Shee was awarded the Army
Commander’s Gold Medal for her 2nd best all-round
performance. Ms Nikita T Jose was awarded Patron’s
Silver Medal for third best all-round performance and
Mr Sunil Gupta received the Chairman’s Silver Medal
for Best in academics within Army (OR) category.
Lt Gen AS Bedi, the officiating Chief of Staff, HQ
Eastern Command and Officiating Patron, AIM Kolkata
handed over the certificates to the successful students on
this ceremony.
- Gp Capt TK Singha
30
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015
Gunners Challenge the Zanskar River
T
o distill the spirit of the Zanskar river, Golkonda
Gunners, undertook a White Water Rafting Expedition
on the challenging Zanskar river in the Ladakh region
to celebrate the 13th Regiment of Artillery Reunion and
Sixth Raising Anniversary of the Regiment.
Zanskar River originates from high altitude plateaus
of Sarchu on the border of Himachal Pradesh and
Jammu and Kashmir. The river presents opportunities
for rafting enthusiasts by providing continuous torrents
of class II to V rapids in deep gorges enroute which are
famous amongst the river rafters world over.
The Zanskar White Water Rafting expedition
commenced on September 10, 2015 from Remala
in Padam (Zanskar) and was flagged-off by Brigadier
Ranjeet Singh Commander Top Gun Brigade. The
expedition concluded on September 14, 2015 at
Nimu The team of 20 rafters from Golkonda Gunners
successfully completed the expedition in five days
covering a distance of 160 kms.
During the journey, the rafters interacted with tourists
from all over the country and spread the leadership
qualities and espirit-de-corps of the Indian Army.
- Col NN Joshi
Visit to Parishram AWWA
M
rs Namita Suhag, President
AWWA, visited Parishram
AWWA on August 20, 2015.
Parishram AWWA deals with
manufacturing of low technology
hospital clothing and other products
such as school dresses. The
President AWWA interacted with the
Parishram AWWA team and was
happy to note that it worked as a
homogeneous unit with high work
ethos and camaraderie.
The institute is a boon for
the ladies who want to work but
President AWWA interacting with ladies of Parishram AWWA
October 1-15, 2015
have other intervening household
commitments. The facility of work
from home has ensured that the
Veer Naris, Widows, and serving
personnel wives can contribute
positively to the income of the house
and keep themselves engaged
in productive work. The products
manufactured help the hospitals and
Army Schools getting better quality
products that at cheaper rates.
The
President
AWWA
appreciated the efforts of Parishram
AWWA in providing a win win
situation for all the stakeholders. The
working ladies are being paid well
and as per their output. The quality
products with competitive rate are
being supplied timely to hospitals
and schools. The President AWWA
wished all the staff the very best and
exhorted them to continue good
work for a noble cause.
- Col Rohan Anand
Sainik Samachar
31
54th Inter Services Squash Championship-2015
T
he prestigious 54th Inter Services
Squash Championship 2015
commenced at Air Force Station
Lohegaon, Pune on September
4, 2015 with a colourful and
impressive flag hoisting ceremony.
The championship was held from
September 4, 2015 to September
7, 2015 on behalf of South Western
Air Command under the aegis of
Services Sports Control Board. The
closing ceremony was held at 1600
hrs on September 7, 2015. The Chief
Guest for closing ceremony was Air
Commodore AK Bharti, Air Officer
Commanding 2 Wing Air Force.
Commodore PK Garg, Secretary,
Sports Control Board and Arjuna
Awardee also graced the occasion.
A total of four teams, comprising
two from the Indian Army and one
each from the Indian Navy and
Indian Air Force, represented by a
total of 24 players competed for the
honours under two categories - Team
and Individual Championships.
Group Photograph of Air Commodore AK Bharti, AOC, AF Station, Pune alongwith the
winning team: IAF: and the selected players to represent Services team
The aim of the championship was
to select the best players for the
Services team.
The championship trophy was
won by Junior Warrant Officer
Sandeep Jangra of IAF in individual
category. In team category the
Indian Air Force won the event by
beating Indian Navy. The IAF team
comprised of Junior Warrant Officer
Sandeep
Jangra,
Aircraftsman
Naveen Jangra, Sergeant AS Keskar
and Sergeant G Vicky Ramavtar.
- Mahesh Iyengar
Inter-Services Handball Championship Kicks-Off
T
he 30th Inter Services Handball
Championship 2015-16 matches
commenced at INS Virbahu on
September 8, 2015. An annual TriServices event participated by all the
three Services Team i.e. Army Red,
Army Green, Indian Navy and Indian
Air Force Teams. The aim of the
championship is to select Services
Handball team to participate in
the forthcoming National Handball
Championship. Rear Admiral SV
Bhokare, Flag Officer Command
Submarines was the Chief Guest of
the opening ceremony and declared
the championship open.
- Cdr CG Raju
32
Sainik Samachar
Army Green and Air Force Team keenly contesting in the Inter Services Hand Ball
Championship matches
October 1-15, 2015
1965 War Cycling Expedition Team Flagged-In
T
he Rising Star Cycling Expedition which is being organised
to commemorate the overall victory of Indian Armed
Forces in 1965 war reached Asal Uttar on September 9,
2015 to be the part of this celebration. The team was flaggedin by the Chief Minister of Punjab Mr Prakash Singh Badal
in presence of Lt Gen KJ Singh, Army Commander, Western
Command, along with large gathering of war veterans, veer
naris and others. The chief minister interacted with the team
and applauded them for the great initiative and wished them
for the journey ahead.
The Rising Star Cycling Expedition will further continue
their journey to ultimately become the part of mega
Carnival on September 20,2015 at Rajpath, New Delhi.
- Naresh Vig
Appointments
Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at Headquarters Maintenance
Command has been appointed as Honorary ADC to the President of India. After completing
his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical Engineering (Hons) from Thapar Institute of
Engineering and Technology, Patiala in 1976, he joined the Indian Air Force in 1977 and was
commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering Branch. He is also a post graduate in Electrical
Engineering from Punjab University, Chandigarh and is a Post Graduate Diploma holder in
Management from IGNOU. He has also undergone the Technical Staff Course at IAT, Pune.
The officer has rich experience in maintenance management of aircraft and systems
and has held various field and staff appointments. He has commanded a Technical Type Training School for
fighter aircraft and a Base Repair Depot. He has also held the appointments of Chief Engineering Officer at
Air Force Academy, Command Engineering Officer at HQ SWAC and Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at HQ
CAC. The Air Officer has been Director General (Aircraft), Director General (Systems) and Air Officer-in-Charge
Maintenance at Air HQ before assuming the present appointment.
Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh is an avid sportsman and likes to play Squash and Golf. In his spare time, he loves
to read and is very fond of going for long walks. He is a religious and God fearing person and also likes to listen
to soft music. Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh has been decorated with Vishisht Seva Medal and has been commended
by the Chief of the Air Staff on two occasions.
Lt Gen Satish Kumar Dua took over as GOC, Chinar Corps on August 26, 2015. Lt Gen
Satish Kumar Dua was commissioned into the Regiment of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry
in December 1979 and has thus been associated with the soldiers and people of the state
of J&K ever since he began his journey in the Army. A Graduate of Defence services Staff
College, Higher Command Course and National Defence College, the General Officer has
held varied prestigious command, staff and instructional appointments that include command
of his Unit 8 JAK LI (Siachen) and Brigade in J&K and command of a new Counter Terrorism
Force, IGAR (East) which he raised in the North East. He has been a Commando Instructor
and has also represented the country as the Defence attaché in Vietnam, Combodia and Laos. On assuming
command, he conveyed his greeting to the Awaam of Kashmir and the entire Chinar Corps fraternity.
- Wg Cdr Samir S Gagakhedkar and Col NN Joshi
October 1-15, 2015
Sainik Samachar
33
PHOTOCALL
Mr Justice
Dilip Babasaheb
Bhosale, acting Chief Justice of
the High Court of Telangana and
Andhra Pradesh
unveiling the
plaqe to mark the inauguration
of the Circuit Bench of the Armed
Forces Tribunal, Regional Bench,
Chennai at Hyderabad at the 1
EME Centre Complex on September
14, 2015. Mr Justice Prakash
Tatia Chairperson, Armed Forces
Tribunal, New Delhi is also seen
Mountaineering Expedition: Indian
Army mountaineering expedition
to Mt Stok Kangri was flagged off
by GOC, Fire and Fury Corps on
September 9, 2015. The GOC
handed over the ice axe and flags
to the team leader and marked the
start of the expedition.
Felicitation Ceremony: Veer Naaris & Veterans at the Golden Jubilee Commemoration of 1965 Indo-Pak War at
Military Station Gandhinagar
Source: K Ramesh, Col Rohan Anand and Wg Cdr Abhishek Matiman
34
Sainik Samachar
October 1-15, 2015