Home Minister Amit Shah take on JKNC chief Farooq Abdullah ‘Pakistan has nuke’ remark and asserted that PoK is part of India. Further he attacked opposition over ‘respect Pak’ remark and said, respect Pakistan means what? Give up PoK? He said, “As far as PoK is concerned, it is not only the commitment of the BJP but also the commitment of the Parliament of the country. PoK is a part of India and we have rights over it. No one can deny that. Farooq Abdullah and Congress leaders are saying that Pakistan has an atom bomb, so respect them. Will an Atomic power with a 130 cr population Bharat, be scared of someone and give up its right? JKNC chief Farooq Abdullah said, “If the defence minister is saying it then go ahead. Who are we to stop? But remember, they (Pakistan) are also not wearing bangles. It has atom bombs, and unfortunately, that atom bomb will fall on us”.
Tag: Defence Minister
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Mehbooba Mufti: “Give 50 lakh, jobs to kin of people killed in police investigation”: PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti
Poonch: Mehbooba Mufti, the chief of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has requested Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to give compensation of 50 Lakh rupees to the people allegedly killed in the police investigation following a terror attack in Poonch last week.
Addressing a press conference, Mufti said “The people of Rajouri have supported the country’s army in all the wars that have taken place since 1947. People were picked up from their homes, killed, and beaten. This has been done with so loyal people, who guard the borders along with the army. I sincerely request that LG should tell the Defence Minister that a compensation of Rs 50 lakh should be given to the people harassed. Jobs and plots should be given on the roadside and Rs 5 lakh should be given to the injured people.”
She further said that an FIR was registered on the unknown person when everything was visible in the alleged video.”After that, the Army Chief and Defence Minister came here, then what happened? Then FIR was lodged in the name of the unknown when everything was visible in that video. If you do not catch the culprit, then in a way you are also committing crime. When I tried to come and meet their families, I was put under house arrest. People from the BJP and the National Conference were allowed. I was stopped again yesterday. Don’t know what they are trying to hide,” she added.
Further coming down heavily on the Defence Minister, she asserted that what is the benefit of his visit if people are still threatened.
“They brought so many people to stop us. We are not the people of China or Pakistan. We are among the people of our country, so why were we stopped?” Mehbooba Mufti said.Earlier, Mehbooba Mufti was stopped by the police on DKG road in Poonch (Jammu and Kashmir) due to security concerns. She was en route to meet the families of victims near the location of an anti-terrorist operation in the Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir.Following the incident, Mehbooba and her supporters staged a protest, expressing dissatisfaction with the situation.
“BJP president Ravinder Raina can come here; National Conference leaders can come but they tell us that there is some threat here. I think the biggest threat here is these people. They don’t want us to meet those families. They are trying to hide something then,” Mufti said on Saturday.
Earlier on December 27, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met the families of three civilians who were killed near the site of an anti-terrorist operation in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Rajnath Singh was accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Singh.
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India exported military hardware worth Rs 15,920 crore in 2022-23: Rajnath Singh
By PTI
NEW DELHI: India’s defence exports reached an all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore in the financial year 2022-2023, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday describing the rise as a remarkable achievement.
The country’s defence exports in 2021-22 was Rs 12,814 crore, according to official data.
“India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore in FY 2022-2023. It is a remarkable achievement for the country,” Singh said on Twitter.
“Under the inspiring leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi, our defence exports will continue to grow exponentially,” he said.
India exported military hardware worth Rs 8,434 crore in 2020-21, Rs 9,115 crore in 2019-20, and Rs 10,745 crore in 2018-19, according to details provided by Singh. The amount in 2017-18 was Rs 4,682 crore and Rs 1,521 crore in 2016-17.
Excellent! A clear manifestation of India’s talent and the enthusiasm towards ‘Make in India.’ It also shows the reforms in this sector over the last few years are delivering good results. Our Government will keep supporting efforts to make India a defence production hub. https://t.co/AL3sLknFOL
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 1, 2023
The government has set the target of manufacturing defence hardware worth Rs 1,75,000 crore and take defence exports to Rs 35,000 crore by 2024-25.In the last few years, the government has taken a series of measures to promote domestic defence production.
NEW DELHI: India’s defence exports reached an all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore in the financial year 2022-2023, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday describing the rise as a remarkable achievement.
The country’s defence exports in 2021-22 was Rs 12,814 crore, according to official data.
“India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore in FY 2022-2023. It is a remarkable achievement for the country,” Singh said on Twitter.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
“Under the inspiring leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi, our defence exports will continue to grow exponentially,” he said.
India exported military hardware worth Rs 8,434 crore in 2020-21, Rs 9,115 crore in 2019-20, and Rs 10,745 crore in 2018-19, according to details provided by Singh. The amount in 2017-18 was Rs 4,682 crore and Rs 1,521 crore in 2016-17.
Excellent! A clear manifestation of India’s talent and the enthusiasm towards ‘Make in India.’ It also shows the reforms in this sector over the last few years are delivering good results. Our Government will keep supporting efforts to make India a defence production hub. https://t.co/AL3sLknFOL
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 1, 2023
The government has set the target of manufacturing defence hardware worth Rs 1,75,000 crore and take defence exports to Rs 35,000 crore by 2024-25.In the last few years, the government has taken a series of measures to promote domestic defence production.
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India doesn’t believe in world order where few are considered superior to others: Rajnath Singh
By PTI
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Friday said India doesn’t believe in a world order where a few are considered superior to others and asserted the country’s actions are guided by the essence of human equality and dignity that is part of its ancient ethos.
In his address at the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2022 held here, he also said India has always seen security and prosperity as a “collective pursuit” of the entire humankind.
“It is my firm belief that if security becomes a truly collective enterprise, then we can think of creating a global order that is beneficial for all of us,” Singh said.
The defence minister said that now “we require to elevate the paradigm of collective security” to a level of shared interests and shared security.
“India believes in a multi-aligned policy which is realised through diverse engagements through multiple stakeholders so that views and concerns of all can be discussed and addressed for prosperity for all,” Singh said.
To talk of the security paradigm, national security should not be considered a zero-sum game, and “we should strive to create a win-win situation for all,” he added.
The defence minister also asserted that “a strong, prosperous India wouldn’t be built at cost of others. Rather, India is here to help other nations realise their full potential”.
“India doesn’t believe in a world order where a few are considered superior to others. India’s actions are guided by the essence of human equality and dignity, part of our ancient ethos and its strong moral foundation,” Singh said at the IPRD 2022.
The fourth edition of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD), an apex-level international annual conference of the Indian Navy, began here on Wednesday.
The IPRD seeks to foster an exchange of ideas and promote deliberations on regionally relevant maritime issues.
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Friday said India doesn’t believe in a world order where a few are considered superior to others and asserted the country’s actions are guided by the essence of human equality and dignity that is part of its ancient ethos.
In his address at the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2022 held here, he also said India has always seen security and prosperity as a “collective pursuit” of the entire humankind.
“It is my firm belief that if security becomes a truly collective enterprise, then we can think of creating a global order that is beneficial for all of us,” Singh said.
The defence minister said that now “we require to elevate the paradigm of collective security” to a level of shared interests and shared security.
“India believes in a multi-aligned policy which is realised through diverse engagements through multiple stakeholders so that views and concerns of all can be discussed and addressed for prosperity for all,” Singh said.
To talk of the security paradigm, national security should not be considered a zero-sum game, and “we should strive to create a win-win situation for all,” he added.
The defence minister also asserted that “a strong, prosperous India wouldn’t be built at cost of others. Rather, India is here to help other nations realise their full potential”.
“India doesn’t believe in a world order where a few are considered superior to others. India’s actions are guided by the essence of human equality and dignity, part of our ancient ethos and its strong moral foundation,” Singh said at the IPRD 2022.
The fourth edition of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD), an apex-level international annual conference of the Indian Navy, began here on Wednesday.
The IPRD seeks to foster an exchange of ideas and promote deliberations on regionally relevant maritime issues.
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Rajnath lauds heroes of 1947 war, crucial role played by J&K people
By PTI
SRINAGAR: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday heaped praises on the heroes of the 1947 war and also commended the crucial contribution made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir in driving out Pakistani infiltrators to protect the territorial integrity of the country.
In his address at an event held at the old airfield, Srinagar to mark the 75th anniversary of the Infantry Day, he also said “traits of new-born Pakistan could be seen from its nascent stage only”.
Exactly 75 years ago, troops of the Indian Army’s 1 Sikh Regiment had arrived at the old airfield of Srinagar, carried in Dakota aircraft, to protect Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistani forces, a day after its then Maharaja Hari Singh signed the ‘instrument of accession’ on October 26, 1947.
“The bloody tale of the Partition that was written in 1947, and even its ink had not dried, and a new script of betrayal began to be written by Pakistan. Shortly after the Partition, the character of Pakistan came to the fore, which could never be imagined,” Singh said.
Talks on Jammu and Kashmir integration with India was going on when on October 22, 1947, Pakistan attacked J&K.
“The Kabalis were not wearing a military uniform, but they carried guns, mortars, and other combat equipment,” the defence minister said.
“From Domal and Muzaffarabad, they moved to Peer Panjal Hills in their attacks. Maharaja Hari Singh was in a fix over the situation as these Pakistani infiltrators plundered, killed and wreaked havoc,” he said.
But, these infiltrators could not succeed against the iron grit and bravery of “our soldiers”, many of whom made the supreme sacrifice while fighting to protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country, the minister added.
Singh in his address asserted that despite a number of stumbling blocks, India has risen time and again, because of the “courage and sacrifice of our soldiers” and today the edifice of India stands tall on the strong foundation laid by them.
“The greatest glory, as they say, is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. The incident of 1947 is one such instance,” he said.
Some of the key scenes of the historic landings of the Indian Army troops were reenacted at old airfield, Srinagar, in the presence of Singh, to pay tribute to the brave soldiers and people of Jammu and Kashmir who laid down their lives, and also to honour the next of kin of war heroes who participated in the 1947-48 war.
Under command of Lieutenant Colonel Dewan Ranjit Rai, who later laid down his life at Baramulla, the course of the war changed, wherein people and soldiers of State Forces of Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian Army fought alongside valiantly, to evict Pakistani forces, driving them out of most of Jammu and Kashmir till ceasefire on January 5, 1949.
Singh also extolled the valour of the first Param Vir Chakra recipient, Maj Somnath Sharma, who despite being injured led a company and saved the Srinagar airfield from enemy clutches and in the process made the supreme sacrifice.
He also paid glowing tributes to the bravery of other gallantry award winners such as Brig Rajinder Singh and Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai.
Major Somnath Sharma, who was there with his men “till his last bullet and last breath”, and other heroes will always remain a source of inspiration for every Indian and the nation will forever be indebted to their sacrifices, the defence minister said.
“Here, I would also like to remember former Chief Minister of Odisha, Biju Patnaik, who was also a skilled pilot, and made a valuable contribution to the movement of the troops during the war.
He may have belonged to different political views, but his contribution to national security will always be remembered, ” the minister said.
He commended the crucial role played by the people of J&K who helped the armed forces in forcing the enemies to retreat, saying, the help rendered by “Kashmiri brothers and sisters deserves fulsome praise”.
Singh termed the campaign of October 27, 1947 as the one for safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity as well as the safety of the people.
It was a campaign to protect the dreams and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said.
“On October 27, 1947, Indian Army came through aerial and road routes to Budgam for saving the country’s honour and prestige,” he said.
At the venue, huge cut-outs of Brig Rajinder Singh, Brig Mohd Usman, Maj Somnath Sharma and Maqbool Sherwani were mounted, and ‘Shaurya Diwas’ posters were also put up.
“These bravehearts played ‘Holi’ with blood in fields of saffron. Three days ago, it was Diwali, so in 1947 too, it must have been near Diwali. And, many laid their lives protecting Jammu and Kashmir against Pakistani forces,” he said.
Singh also said that Pakistan is fully responsible for inhuman incidents against innocent people in PoK.
“We are moving forward with the spirit of unity. We must resolve to fight together against any divisive forces which may come in the way of our development in the future,” he said.
SRINAGAR: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday heaped praises on the heroes of the 1947 war and also commended the crucial contribution made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir in driving out Pakistani infiltrators to protect the territorial integrity of the country.
In his address at an event held at the old airfield, Srinagar to mark the 75th anniversary of the Infantry Day, he also said “traits of new-born Pakistan could be seen from its nascent stage only”.
Exactly 75 years ago, troops of the Indian Army’s 1 Sikh Regiment had arrived at the old airfield of Srinagar, carried in Dakota aircraft, to protect Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistani forces, a day after its then Maharaja Hari Singh signed the ‘instrument of accession’ on October 26, 1947.
“The bloody tale of the Partition that was written in 1947, and even its ink had not dried, and a new script of betrayal began to be written by Pakistan. Shortly after the Partition, the character of Pakistan came to the fore, which could never be imagined,” Singh said.
Talks on Jammu and Kashmir integration with India was going on when on October 22, 1947, Pakistan attacked J&K.
“The Kabalis were not wearing a military uniform, but they carried guns, mortars, and other combat equipment,” the defence minister said.
“From Domal and Muzaffarabad, they moved to Peer Panjal Hills in their attacks. Maharaja Hari Singh was in a fix over the situation as these Pakistani infiltrators plundered, killed and wreaked havoc,” he said.
But, these infiltrators could not succeed against the iron grit and bravery of “our soldiers”, many of whom made the supreme sacrifice while fighting to protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country, the minister added.
Singh in his address asserted that despite a number of stumbling blocks, India has risen time and again, because of the “courage and sacrifice of our soldiers” and today the edifice of India stands tall on the strong foundation laid by them.
“The greatest glory, as they say, is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. The incident of 1947 is one such instance,” he said.
Some of the key scenes of the historic landings of the Indian Army troops were reenacted at old airfield, Srinagar, in the presence of Singh, to pay tribute to the brave soldiers and people of Jammu and Kashmir who laid down their lives, and also to honour the next of kin of war heroes who participated in the 1947-48 war.
Under command of Lieutenant Colonel Dewan Ranjit Rai, who later laid down his life at Baramulla, the course of the war changed, wherein people and soldiers of State Forces of Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian Army fought alongside valiantly, to evict Pakistani forces, driving them out of most of Jammu and Kashmir till ceasefire on January 5, 1949.
Singh also extolled the valour of the first Param Vir Chakra recipient, Maj Somnath Sharma, who despite being injured led a company and saved the Srinagar airfield from enemy clutches and in the process made the supreme sacrifice.
He also paid glowing tributes to the bravery of other gallantry award winners such as Brig Rajinder Singh and Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai.
Major Somnath Sharma, who was there with his men “till his last bullet and last breath”, and other heroes will always remain a source of inspiration for every Indian and the nation will forever be indebted to their sacrifices, the defence minister said.
“Here, I would also like to remember former Chief Minister of Odisha, Biju Patnaik, who was also a skilled pilot, and made a valuable contribution to the movement of the troops during the war.
He may have belonged to different political views, but his contribution to national security will always be remembered, ” the minister said.
He commended the crucial role played by the people of J&K who helped the armed forces in forcing the enemies to retreat, saying, the help rendered by “Kashmiri brothers and sisters deserves fulsome praise”.
Singh termed the campaign of October 27, 1947 as the one for safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity as well as the safety of the people.
It was a campaign to protect the dreams and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said.
“On October 27, 1947, Indian Army came through aerial and road routes to Budgam for saving the country’s honour and prestige,” he said.
At the venue, huge cut-outs of Brig Rajinder Singh, Brig Mohd Usman, Maj Somnath Sharma and Maqbool Sherwani were mounted, and ‘Shaurya Diwas’ posters were also put up.
“These bravehearts played ‘Holi’ with blood in fields of saffron. Three days ago, it was Diwali, so in 1947 too, it must have been near Diwali. And, many laid their lives protecting Jammu and Kashmir against Pakistani forces,” he said.
Singh also said that Pakistan is fully responsible for inhuman incidents against innocent people in PoK.
“We are moving forward with the spirit of unity. We must resolve to fight together against any divisive forces which may come in the way of our development in the future,” he said.
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Indian Air Force inducts first indigenous Light Combat Helicopter Unit ‘Dhanush’
Express News Service
JODHPUR: The Indian Air Force inducts its first Unit of the indigenous Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) at Jodhpur, Rajasthan on Monday.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Air Force saying the role of the IAF will be more effective after this induction. “Since long the requirements of indigenous attack helicopters was felt.” He said.
Rajnath Singh said, “The LCH is capable of dodging the enemy, carrying a variety of ammunition, and delivering it to the site quickly. This LCH perfectly meets the needs of our armed forces in various terrains. In such a situation, LCH is an ideal platform for both our Army and Airforce.”
The recent Ukrainian Conflict, or the many conflicts that preceded it, teaches us that heavy weapon systems and platforms, which are unable to move rapidly in the battlefield, have low capability, and sometimes they are capable of attacking enemies. become easy targets for, Defense Minister pointed.
The Unit which will comprise of 10 Make-in-India multi-role attack helicopters based at the Jodhpur Air Force Station have been named the 143 Helicopter Unit (Dhanush). The Helicopters have been christened as Prachand. The ceremony was presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the presence of the Air Chief.
WATCH HERE:
IAF Chief VR Chaudhari said the IAF’s tryst with helicopters began in 1954 when sikorsky helicopter was inducted.
And it being the first Unit of the indigenous LCH, “The personnel of the unit have been specially selected based on their professional competence,” said ACM Chaudhari.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in March this year approved the procurement of 15 Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Limited Series Production at the cost of Rs. 3,887 crores along with Infrastructure sanctions worth Rs. 377 crores. Of these 5 LCH are to be inducted into the Indian Army.
Light Combat Helicopter Limited Series Production (LSP) is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured state-of-the-art modern combat helicopter containing approx. 45% indigenous content by value which will progressively increase to more than 55% for SP Version, says the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The Helicopter is powered by a twin Shakti Engine and has a range of 500 km and a maximum speed of 268 kmph. It is compatible for high-altitude deployment with the capability to take off and land at about 5000 metre (16,400 feet).
The weapons onboard includes Air to Air Missile Mistral 2, Anti Tank Guided Missile Dhruvastra, and 70 MM Rockets.
Speaking on the occasion HAL CMD (additional charge) CB Anantkrishnan said that the machine has been tested thoroughly in various climatic conditions including the high altitude and cold climate of the Siachen and in the process the machine clocked 2034 flights and 1500 hrs of flying.
“145 number of LCH is expected from Indian users and also international opportunities are expected.” Anantkrishnan said.
It should be noted that the IAF is yet in the process of finalising the number of LCHs to be procured. These choppers may replace the ageing Russian Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack choppers.
In June this year, the Indian Army inducted the first LCH squadron in Bengaluru. It was on 29 September the first helicopter was formally received by Director General Army Aviation Corps , Lt Gen A. K. Suri from the manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bangalore. It will be moved to Eastern Command along the Line of Actual Control (LCH) next year. It has planned to induct 95 LCHs.
As per the MoD, “This helicopter is equipped with requisite agility, manoeuvrability, extended range, high altitude performance and around-the-clock, all-weather combat capability to perform roles of Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of Enemy Air Defence (DEAD), Counter Insurgency (CI) operations, against slow-moving aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), high altitude bunker busting operations, Counter Insurgency operations in jungle and urban environments and support to ground forces and would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of Indian Air Force & Indian Army.”
State-of-the-art technologies and systems compatible with stealth features such as reduced Visual, Aural, Radar and IR signatures and crashworthiness features for better survivability have been integrated in LCH. Several key aviation technologies like Glass Cockpit and composite airframe structures have been indigenised.
The future Series Production version will consist of further modern & indigenous systems.
Production of LCH will reduce import dependence for Combat helicopters in the country. Light Combat Helicopters are already in the import embargo list.
JODHPUR: The Indian Air Force inducts its first Unit of the indigenous Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) at Jodhpur, Rajasthan on Monday.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Air Force saying the role of the IAF will be more effective after this induction. “Since long the requirements of indigenous attack helicopters was felt.” He said.
Rajnath Singh said, “The LCH is capable of dodging the enemy, carrying a variety of ammunition, and delivering it to the site quickly. This LCH perfectly meets the needs of our armed forces in various terrains. In such a situation, LCH is an ideal platform for both our Army and Airforce.”
The recent Ukrainian Conflict, or the many conflicts that preceded it, teaches us that heavy weapon systems and platforms, which are unable to move rapidly in the battlefield, have low capability, and sometimes they are capable of attacking enemies. become easy targets for, Defense Minister pointed.
The Unit which will comprise of 10 Make-in-India multi-role attack helicopters based at the Jodhpur Air Force Station have been named the 143 Helicopter Unit (Dhanush). The Helicopters have been christened as Prachand. The ceremony was presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the presence of the Air Chief.
WATCH HERE:
IAF Chief VR Chaudhari said the IAF’s tryst with helicopters began in 1954 when sikorsky helicopter was inducted.
And it being the first Unit of the indigenous LCH, “The personnel of the unit have been specially selected based on their professional competence,” said ACM Chaudhari.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in March this year approved the procurement of 15 Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Limited Series Production at the cost of Rs. 3,887 crores along with Infrastructure sanctions worth Rs. 377 crores. Of these 5 LCH are to be inducted into the Indian Army.
Light Combat Helicopter Limited Series Production (LSP) is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured state-of-the-art modern combat helicopter containing approx. 45% indigenous content by value which will progressively increase to more than 55% for SP Version, says the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The Helicopter is powered by a twin Shakti Engine and has a range of 500 km and a maximum speed of 268 kmph. It is compatible for high-altitude deployment with the capability to take off and land at about 5000 metre (16,400 feet).
The weapons onboard includes Air to Air Missile Mistral 2, Anti Tank Guided Missile Dhruvastra, and 70 MM Rockets.
Speaking on the occasion HAL CMD (additional charge) CB Anantkrishnan said that the machine has been tested thoroughly in various climatic conditions including the high altitude and cold climate of the Siachen and in the process the machine clocked 2034 flights and 1500 hrs of flying.
“145 number of LCH is expected from Indian users and also international opportunities are expected.” Anantkrishnan said.
It should be noted that the IAF is yet in the process of finalising the number of LCHs to be procured. These choppers may replace the ageing Russian Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack choppers.
In June this year, the Indian Army inducted the first LCH squadron in Bengaluru. It was on 29 September the first helicopter was formally received by Director General Army Aviation Corps , Lt Gen A. K. Suri from the manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bangalore. It will be moved to Eastern Command along the Line of Actual Control (LCH) next year. It has planned to induct 95 LCHs.
As per the MoD, “This helicopter is equipped with requisite agility, manoeuvrability, extended range, high altitude performance and around-the-clock, all-weather combat capability to perform roles of Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of Enemy Air Defence (DEAD), Counter Insurgency (CI) operations, against slow-moving aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), high altitude bunker busting operations, Counter Insurgency operations in jungle and urban environments and support to ground forces and would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of Indian Air Force & Indian Army.”
State-of-the-art technologies and systems compatible with stealth features such as reduced Visual, Aural, Radar and IR signatures and crashworthiness features for better survivability have been integrated in LCH. Several key aviation technologies like Glass Cockpit and composite airframe structures have been indigenised.
The future Series Production version will consist of further modern & indigenous systems.
Production of LCH will reduce import dependence for Combat helicopters in the country. Light Combat Helicopters are already in the import embargo list.
-
Rajnath Singh calls upon Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to fight terrorism unitedly
By PTI
NEW DELHI: Any form of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, is a crime against humanity and the menace must be dealt with unitedly, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday at a conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tashkent.
In his address, Singh also reaffirmed India’s resolve to fight all forms of terrorism and make the region peaceful, secure and stable.
“Terrorism is one of the most serious challenges to global peace and security. India reiterates its resolve to fight all forms of terrorism and make the region peaceful, secure and stable,” he said.
“We seek to develop joint institutional capabilities with the SCO member states, which, while respecting the sensitivities of each country, create the spirit of cooperation among individuals, societies and nations,” he added.
Singh asserted that terrorism in any form, including cross-border terrorism, committed by anyone and for whatever purpose, is a crime against humanity, seen as an oblique reference to Pakistan. China and Pakistan are among the member states of the SCO.
The defence minister also voiced India’s full support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan, while highlighting the need for respecting its sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, national unity and non-interference in internal affairs.
He urged all parties to encourage authorities in Afghanistan to achieve national reconciliation through dialogue and negotiation and establish a broad-based, inclusive and representative political structure in the country.
The defence minister also underlined the importance of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions in this regard. Singh also added that the Afghan territory must not be used to intimidate or attack any country by providing safe havens and training to terrorists and supporting their activities through financial assistance.
He stressed the need to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan and safeguard their fundamental rights.
Expressing India’s concern on the situation in Ukraine, Singh stated that New Delhi supports talks between Russia and Ukraine to resolve the crisis.
“India is concerned about the humanitarian crisis in and around Ukraine. We have extended our support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General, UN agencies and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to provide humanitarian assistance,” he added.
During the exchange of pleasantries with Russian Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu this morning, Singh conveyed his “deep appreciation” and thanks for arresting in Moscow a terrorist who was planning attacks in India.
The SCO comprises eight member states – India, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
NEW DELHI: Any form of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, is a crime against humanity and the menace must be dealt with unitedly, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday at a conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tashkent.
In his address, Singh also reaffirmed India’s resolve to fight all forms of terrorism and make the region peaceful, secure and stable.
“Terrorism is one of the most serious challenges to global peace and security. India reiterates its resolve to fight all forms of terrorism and make the region peaceful, secure and stable,” he said.
“We seek to develop joint institutional capabilities with the SCO member states, which, while respecting the sensitivities of each country, create the spirit of cooperation among individuals, societies and nations,” he added.
Singh asserted that terrorism in any form, including cross-border terrorism, committed by anyone and for whatever purpose, is a crime against humanity, seen as an oblique reference to Pakistan. China and Pakistan are among the member states of the SCO.
The defence minister also voiced India’s full support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan, while highlighting the need for respecting its sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, national unity and non-interference in internal affairs.
He urged all parties to encourage authorities in Afghanistan to achieve national reconciliation through dialogue and negotiation and establish a broad-based, inclusive and representative political structure in the country.
The defence minister also underlined the importance of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions in this regard. Singh also added that the Afghan territory must not be used to intimidate or attack any country by providing safe havens and training to terrorists and supporting their activities through financial assistance.
He stressed the need to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan and safeguard their fundamental rights.
Expressing India’s concern on the situation in Ukraine, Singh stated that New Delhi supports talks between Russia and Ukraine to resolve the crisis.
“India is concerned about the humanitarian crisis in and around Ukraine. We have extended our support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General, UN agencies and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to provide humanitarian assistance,” he added.
During the exchange of pleasantries with Russian Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu this morning, Singh conveyed his “deep appreciation” and thanks for arresting in Moscow a terrorist who was planning attacks in India.
The SCO comprises eight member states – India, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
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Assembly elections in J&K possibly by year-end, says Defence Minister
By PTI
JAMMU: In the first indication of a timeline for assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir since it was downgraded to a Union Territory, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said there is a possibility of holding the polls “by this year-end”.
Addressing a function here to celebrate the 200th year of the coronation of Maharaja Gulab Singh, the defence minister said the delimitation exercise has been completed following which the number of seats has gone up to 90 with Kashmir having 47 seats and Jammu 43.
Rajnath Singh, who is on a two-day visit to the Union Territory, said, “By this year-end, there is a possibility of holding assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.” The indication of a timeline comes two days after the Election Commission initiated the revision of electoral rolls in the union territory and prepare the draft rolls by August 31.
According to the officials, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey carried out a review and directed the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer to map the redrawn assembly constituencies.
During the revision exercise, citizens would be given opportunities to enrol, delete and change their particulars in the electoral rolls.
Last month, the Central government issued a notification saying the orders of the Delimitation Commission which redrew electoral constituencies and provided six additional assembly seats to the Jammu division and one to Kashmir would come into effect from May 20.
According to the orders of the Delimitation Commission, set up under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act of 2019, the Union Territory will have 90 assembly constituencies — 43 in the Jammu division and 47 in Kashmir — with nine of them being reserved for the Scheduled Tribes. The erstwhile state had 87 seats — 46 in Kashmir, 37 in Jammu and four in Ladakh.
During its reorganisation, Ladakh was declared a separate union territory without a legislature. The three-member delimitation panel was headed by Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, a retired judge of the Supreme Court.
Then chief election commissioner Sushil Chandra (now retired) and Jammu and Kashmir Election Commissioner K K Sharma were its two ex-officio members.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a meeting with Jammu and Kashmir leaders on June 24 last year, had said the ongoing delimitation exercise has to happen quickly so that polls can be held to install an elected government that gives strength to its development trajectory.
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Rajnath approves revised ‘scales of accommodation’ for armed forces; JCOs to get car garages
By PTI
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday approved revised “scales of accommodation” for defence services with an aim to ensure better standards of living and workspaces for the armed forces personnel.
The defence ministry said the implementation of scales of accommodation – 2022 would facilitate improvement in facilities and infrastructure for the stay of the armed forces personnel.
Officials said the new norms would provide for the creation of sustainable living and workspaces as the buildings will require to feature energy efficiency mechanisms, improved structural design, multi-level parking and water conservation systems among others.
Under the new Scales of Accommodation (SoA), the majority of junior commissioned officers (JCOs), as well as other ranks (OR), are set to have car garages.
As per existing norms, only officers are allowed to have car garages. “The implementation of Scales of Accommodation — 2022, would be tremendous improvement inbuilt facilities/ infrastructure and specifications commensurate to contemporary requirements,” the defence ministry said.
The SoA defines the authorisation for the construction of facilities for operational, functional, training, administrative, living and recreation facilities for the defence services, according to the ministry.
It said the new provisions would provide for having required amenities in all public buildings for persons with disabilities, adding “gender commonality” in all specifications has been ensured. “This will ensure contemporary specifications in future projects and better standards of living for the personnel of the armed forces,” the ministry said in a statement.
It said the “scales of accommodation” aimed at optimisation of defence land usage by using multi-storeyed construction and austerity measures by combining common facilities.
“These would ensure better working and living conditions for the defence personnel including defence civilians. Amenities in all public buildings for persons with disabilities have been introduced and gender commonality in all specifications has been ensured,” the ministry said.
It said these scales are applicable for all three defence services and the Indian Coast Guard. The previous SoA was approved by the government in Oct 2009.
“With the induction of new units, technological facilities and equipment profile, requirements of operational readiness, increased threat perception, the concept of sustainable development including contemporary industry standards and enhanced aspirations of users for improved living standards, there was an inescapable necessity for revision of the SoA 2009,” the ministry said.
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Armed forces want removal of AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
By ANI
GUWAHATI: Days after the Centre reduced the areas under AFSPA in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the armed forces are in favour of the withdrawal of the Act from Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at the felicitation ceremony of 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War veterans here, Rajnath Singh said it is no small thing that for the last three-four years the work of removing the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) was being done in northeastern states.
“The three wings of our defence forces want Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) to be removed from Jammu and Kashmir as soon as possible. The circumstances are responsible for the imposition of AFSPA in Jammu and Kashmir, not the Army,” Rajnath Singh said.
He said that AFSPA was removed from 15 police stations each in Manipur and Nagaland. “That in itself means a lot. This is the result of durable peace and stability in this area,” Rajnath Singh said. He said that AFSPA was recently completely removed from 23 districts of Assam. The minister said that people from all parts of the country had taken part in the 1971 war.
“We should take inspiration from the 1971 war, there were commanders from different castes, they belonged to different religions and all unitedly protected India. This social harmony of Assam should not be broken at any cost,” he said.
The minister said that the Narendra Modi government is “working to wipe out terrorism from the country” and the North East Region (NER) is moving fast on the path of development due to synergy between the Centre and the states.
Speaking about the eastern border, Rajnath Singh said that it is more peaceful and stable compared to the western frontier and noted that Bangladesh was a friendly neighbour. The Centre had last month removed AFPSA from 15 police station areas in seven districts of Nagaland, 15 police station areas in six districts of Manipur and 23 districts entirely and one district partially in Assam.
The AFSPA Act empowers the governor of the state or administrator of Union territory or Centre to issue an official notification concerning disturbed areas after which the central government has the authority to send in armed forces for civilian aid.