Terrorists opened fire on two vehicles, one of which belonged to the Indian Air Force (IAF), in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, injuring five security personnel.
Tag: IAF
-
Work on to restore connectivity in flood-hit Sikkim, evacuation of tourists to continue
By PTI
GANGTOK: Work is on to restore connectivity in areas isolated by flash floods in north Sikkim by setting up temporary bridges and other means while evacuating stranded tourists will continue on Wednesday, officials said.
Troops of the Army and various government agencies people are working to send essential commodities to the distressed people.
Out of the approximately 1700 tourists stranded in north Sikkim, a total of 690 tourists, including 26 foreigners, have been rescued by air from Lachen and Lachung towns by the Indian Air Force (IAF) since Monday.
The remaining travellers will be shifted on Wednesday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast clear weather.
Tourists evacuated by the Indian Air Force from flood-affected Lachen arrive at Ringhim Helipad, Mangan in Sikkim | PTI
At Chungthang, the area worst affected by the flash flood, Army and BRO personnel cleared the sludge on the road through the town. A log bridge was completed with the help of ITBP and locals.
More than 500 people including tourists crossed over the log bridge on Tuesday, officials said adding that army engineers are working on strengthening the bridge.
Braving difficult terrain and inclement weather, a team of the army assisted 11 civilians isolated in the Chaten area with immediate food and medical aid. A helipad was created and they were rescued later, officials said.
Earlier, a foot track had been opened to the isolated village of Rabom where 245 people had been stranded. Out of them, 129 are employees of the Kundan Hydel power project.
Mobile phone connectivity has been restored in Lachung while that in Lachen Valley will be made soon.
The IAF helicopters also transported nearly 58 tonnes of relief materials to North Sikkim for locals, and the Army and ITBP personnel posted there, the chief secretary said.
A week after the flash flood, which happened in the early hours of October 4, 76 people are still missing.
READ MORE | Soldier killed in Sikkim relief operations laid to rest
So far, 36 bodies have been found in Sikkim, while 41 bodies have been found at various places along the river in neighbouring West Bengal, according to officials in the two states.
A cloudburst in the Lhonak glacial lake led to the discharge of a huge quantity of water, which triggered a flash flood in the Teesta River, flooding towns and villages and affecting about 87,300 people.
GANGTOK: Work is on to restore connectivity in areas isolated by flash floods in north Sikkim by setting up temporary bridges and other means while evacuating stranded tourists will continue on Wednesday, officials said.
Troops of the Army and various government agencies people are working to send essential commodities to the distressed people.
Out of the approximately 1700 tourists stranded in north Sikkim, a total of 690 tourists, including 26 foreigners, have been rescued by air from Lachen and Lachung towns by the Indian Air Force (IAF) since Monday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
The remaining travellers will be shifted on Wednesday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast clear weather.
Tourists evacuated by the Indian Air Force from flood-affected Lachen arrive at Ringhim Helipad, Mangan in Sikkim | PTI
At Chungthang, the area worst affected by the flash flood, Army and BRO personnel cleared the sludge on the road through the town. A log bridge was completed with the help of ITBP and locals.
More than 500 people including tourists crossed over the log bridge on Tuesday, officials said adding that army engineers are working on strengthening the bridge.
Braving difficult terrain and inclement weather, a team of the army assisted 11 civilians isolated in the Chaten area with immediate food and medical aid. A helipad was created and they were rescued later, officials said.
Earlier, a foot track had been opened to the isolated village of Rabom where 245 people had been stranded. Out of them, 129 are employees of the Kundan Hydel power project.
Mobile phone connectivity has been restored in Lachung while that in Lachen Valley will be made soon.
The IAF helicopters also transported nearly 58 tonnes of relief materials to North Sikkim for locals, and the Army and ITBP personnel posted there, the chief secretary said.
A week after the flash flood, which happened in the early hours of October 4, 76 people are still missing.
READ MORE | Soldier killed in Sikkim relief operations laid to rest
So far, 36 bodies have been found in Sikkim, while 41 bodies have been found at various places along the river in neighbouring West Bengal, according to officials in the two states.
A cloudburst in the Lhonak glacial lake led to the discharge of a huge quantity of water, which triggered a flash flood in the Teesta River, flooding towns and villages and affecting about 87,300 people.
-
IAF must be one of best, if not best when it completes 100 years in 2032: Air Chief Marshal
By PTI
PRAYAGRAJ: The Indian Air Force must remain ever vigilant in the face of “new and emerging threats”, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said on Sunday even as he asserted that the IAF will continue to protect the nation’s territory and deter potential adversaries, in comments that came amid the eastern Ladakh border row.
In the current complex and dynamic strategic environment, refining the IAF’s strategy, building robust capabilities and developing a flexible mindset to “prosecute future wars” will prove decisive, the Chief of Air Staff said.
In an address to air warriors on the occasion of Air Force Day, he said joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the “sine-qua-non” of future wars and added, “we must reform, or become a relic; we must innovate, else become mundane and we must transform, else become irrelevant.”
“If India is on the path to becoming a developed nation by 2047, then the IAF must be one of the best, if not the best, by the time we complete 100 years in 2032,” he said, highlighting the importance of air power in the changing global security matrix.
The Indian Air Force was officially established on October 8, 1932.
The IAF Chief said, “We need to understand the nuances of evolving air power, setting the pace to preserve peace and if and when necessary, to fight and win wars.”
“First and foremost, I would like to urge you to strive for excellence in everything you do. This is non-negotiable,” he asserted.
The Air Chief Marshal also batted for “candidly” assessing the IAF and address any inhibitions to change. “The force structure that we need to develop must be future-ready. Joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the sine-qua-non of future wars,” he said.
Without referring to specifics, the IAF Chief, talking about the last year, said the force has not only “circumvented” challenges but turned them into opportunities, adding the current geopolitical landscape has provided it an opportunity to reduce dependency on imports by developing indigenous capability.
“In this complex and dynamic strategic environment, refining our strategy, building robust all-round capabilities and more importantly, developing a flexible mindset to prosecute future wars will prove decisive,” he said.
“In our quest for becoming an air and space force, we must recognise the importance of the space domain and continue developing our space capabilities,” he said.
The Air Chief Marshal also highlighted the need for the IAF to become an “agile and adaptable air force that provides decisive aerospace power in furtherance of our national interests.”
“The world is changing at a rapid pace and we must meet all new challenges coming our way. We must continue to foster a culture of discipline, integrity and remain ever vigilant in the face of emerging threats,” he said.
“Our commitment to the defence of our nation remains steadfast and we will continue to protect our territory, deter potential adversaries and ensure the safety and security of our people,” he added.
Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari said the IAF is not just a military force but also a symbol of India’s collective strength and determination. “The last year had brought its fair share of challenges our way. I am happy to note that the IAF has performed exceedingly well and passed every test with flying colours,” he said.
On the IAF’s vision as laid down in its doctrine, the Air Chief Marshal said it is to be “an agile and adaptable air force that provides decisive aerospace power in furtherance of our national interests.”
“From multi-domain operations to hybrid warfare, the air force needs to recognise that modern warfare transcends traditional boundaries. We must seamlessly integrate air, space, cyber and ground capabilities to dominate the battle space,” he said.
“The question we must ask ourselves is, ‘what more can I do’? Do not limit yourselves to the needs of today. Think beyond today and you will realise that there is so much more to be done,” he said.
The IAF Chief said innovation must become a part of IAF’s DNA, enabling it to easily adapt to emerging threats and challenges.
“There is a need for us to candidly assess ourselves and address any inhibitions to change. The force structure that we need to develop must be future-ready. Joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the sine-qua-non of future wars,” he said.
“Developing unique tactics, carrying out realistic training and incorporating relevant lessons learnt will go a long way,” he added.
On Angiveers, the Chief of Air Staff said, “We have successfully inducted the first batch of Agniveers and subsequent batches, including women Agniveers, are presently undergoing basic training.”
The rigour of training has been increased across the board for all training curriculums with more emphasis on self-learning and self-education, he noted.
Detailing the exercises carried out by the IAF, he said, “In this year alone, the IAF has carried out eight exercises across the globe with friendly foreign countries and performed exceptionally well.”
“For the first time, our indigenously built LCAs (light combat aircraft) have participated in an overseas exercise, showcasing our professional acumen and enhancing our stature as a potent Air Force. IAF carried out extensive operations in Turkiye, Sudan and Syria airlifting critical supplies and rescuing stranded Indian nationals. As first responders, we have always maintained a high state of alert and taken on all emerging situations,” he said.
The Air Force Day parade was held in Prayagraj.
The parade was traditionally held at the Hindon airbase near Delhi till 2021 before the event was taken outside the national capital. It was held in Chandigarh last year.
PRAYAGRAJ: The Indian Air Force must remain ever vigilant in the face of “new and emerging threats”, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said on Sunday even as he asserted that the IAF will continue to protect the nation’s territory and deter potential adversaries, in comments that came amid the eastern Ladakh border row.
In the current complex and dynamic strategic environment, refining the IAF’s strategy, building robust capabilities and developing a flexible mindset to “prosecute future wars” will prove decisive, the Chief of Air Staff said.
In an address to air warriors on the occasion of Air Force Day, he said joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the “sine-qua-non” of future wars and added, “we must reform, or become a relic; we must innovate, else become mundane and we must transform, else become irrelevant.”googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
“If India is on the path to becoming a developed nation by 2047, then the IAF must be one of the best, if not the best, by the time we complete 100 years in 2032,” he said, highlighting the importance of air power in the changing global security matrix.
The Indian Air Force was officially established on October 8, 1932.
The IAF Chief said, “We need to understand the nuances of evolving air power, setting the pace to preserve peace and if and when necessary, to fight and win wars.”
“First and foremost, I would like to urge you to strive for excellence in everything you do. This is non-negotiable,” he asserted.
The Air Chief Marshal also batted for “candidly” assessing the IAF and address any inhibitions to change. “The force structure that we need to develop must be future-ready. Joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the sine-qua-non of future wars,” he said.
Without referring to specifics, the IAF Chief, talking about the last year, said the force has not only “circumvented” challenges but turned them into opportunities, adding the current geopolitical landscape has provided it an opportunity to reduce dependency on imports by developing indigenous capability.
“In this complex and dynamic strategic environment, refining our strategy, building robust all-round capabilities and more importantly, developing a flexible mindset to prosecute future wars will prove decisive,” he said.
“In our quest for becoming an air and space force, we must recognise the importance of the space domain and continue developing our space capabilities,” he said.
The Air Chief Marshal also highlighted the need for the IAF to become an “agile and adaptable air force that provides decisive aerospace power in furtherance of our national interests.”
“The world is changing at a rapid pace and we must meet all new challenges coming our way. We must continue to foster a culture of discipline, integrity and remain ever vigilant in the face of emerging threats,” he said.
“Our commitment to the defence of our nation remains steadfast and we will continue to protect our territory, deter potential adversaries and ensure the safety and security of our people,” he added.
Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari said the IAF is not just a military force but also a symbol of India’s collective strength and determination. “The last year had brought its fair share of challenges our way. I am happy to note that the IAF has performed exceedingly well and passed every test with flying colours,” he said.
On the IAF’s vision as laid down in its doctrine, the Air Chief Marshal said it is to be “an agile and adaptable air force that provides decisive aerospace power in furtherance of our national interests.”
“From multi-domain operations to hybrid warfare, the air force needs to recognise that modern warfare transcends traditional boundaries. We must seamlessly integrate air, space, cyber and ground capabilities to dominate the battle space,” he said.
“The question we must ask ourselves is, ‘what more can I do’? Do not limit yourselves to the needs of today. Think beyond today and you will realise that there is so much more to be done,” he said.
The IAF Chief said innovation must become a part of IAF’s DNA, enabling it to easily adapt to emerging threats and challenges.
“There is a need for us to candidly assess ourselves and address any inhibitions to change. The force structure that we need to develop must be future-ready. Joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the sine-qua-non of future wars,” he said.
“Developing unique tactics, carrying out realistic training and incorporating relevant lessons learnt will go a long way,” he added.
On Angiveers, the Chief of Air Staff said, “We have successfully inducted the first batch of Agniveers and subsequent batches, including women Agniveers, are presently undergoing basic training.”
The rigour of training has been increased across the board for all training curriculums with more emphasis on self-learning and self-education, he noted.
Detailing the exercises carried out by the IAF, he said, “In this year alone, the IAF has carried out eight exercises across the globe with friendly foreign countries and performed exceptionally well.”
“For the first time, our indigenously built LCAs (light combat aircraft) have participated in an overseas exercise, showcasing our professional acumen and enhancing our stature as a potent Air Force. IAF carried out extensive operations in Turkiye, Sudan and Syria airlifting critical supplies and rescuing stranded Indian nationals. As first responders, we have always maintained a high state of alert and taken on all emerging situations,” he said.
The Air Force Day parade was held in Prayagraj.
The parade was traditionally held at the Hindon airbase near Delhi till 2021 before the event was taken outside the national capital. It was held in Chandigarh last year.
-
Indian Air Force pushes for indigenisation, keen to induct 100 LCA Tejas fighters
Express News Service
NEW DELHI: In a major push for indigenous fighters, the Indian Air Force is working on a proposal to induct the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
Sources confirmed that the IAF is keen on inducting close to 100 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters for which a plan is being worked out within the air force.
The proposal is to be presented before the government subsequently.
This IAF plan is to increase the profile of indigenous combat platforms. It is part of a long term plan to not only add resources for HAL to keep its assembly lines alive but also add more indigenously manufactured combat systems, sources added.
These aircraft will replace the ageing squadrons of MiG 21 fighter jets.
Once this order is completed in the stipulated 15 years, the IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mark-1A and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 planes.
The decision followed the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari’s review of the status of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme at the Air Headquarters on Wednesday. Also in attendance were senior functionaries from the Ministry of Defence, DRDO, HAL and ADA.
ALSO READ | LCA Tejas successfully test-fires ASTRA
The Air Force chief had brought out that the LCA has been the flag bearer of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) efforts towards indigenisation of its aircraft fleet. Given the nature of this project of national importance, it is required that all stakeholders adopt a collaborative approach towards its success,” he said.
The first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) was inducted in July 2016. The first IAF Squadron to induct the Tejas was No 45 Squadron, the ‘Flying Daggers’. Over the years, the squadron progressed from Vampires to Gnats and then onto the MiG-21 Bis, before being equipped with Tejas.
Tejas is a multi-role platform designed to undertake the air defence, maritime reconnaissance and strike roles. The LCA Mk-1A will have updated avionics, as well as an Active Electronically Steered Radar, updated Electronic Warfare suite and a Beyond Visual Range missile capability. The new variant will be capable of firing a number of weapons from increased stand-off ranges.
As per the IAF, during the review, representatives of HAL assured the CAS of the timely delivery of the contracted twin-seaters in the coming months. Further to the LCA Mk 1, 83 LCA Mk-1A aircraft have also been contracted by the IAF in 2021. The Chairman & Managing Director of HAL assured those present that the deliveries of this advanced variant of the LCA would commence by February 2024.
While complimenting HAL, the Air Force chief indicated that based on these assurances, the LCA Mk 1A could be inducted in a newly raised squadron in one of the IAF’s operational bases, early next year.
“With timely deliveries of the more capable variant, the LCA Mk 1A is likely to see increased deployments at forward bases, besides participation in international exercises in the days to come,” he added.
NEW DELHI: In a major push for indigenous fighters, the Indian Air Force is working on a proposal to induct the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
Sources confirmed that the IAF is keen on inducting close to 100 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters for which a plan is being worked out within the air force.
The proposal is to be presented before the government subsequently.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
This IAF plan is to increase the profile of indigenous combat platforms. It is part of a long term plan to not only add resources for HAL to keep its assembly lines alive but also add more indigenously manufactured combat systems, sources added.
These aircraft will replace the ageing squadrons of MiG 21 fighter jets.
Once this order is completed in the stipulated 15 years, the IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mark-1A and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 planes.
The decision followed the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari’s review of the status of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme at the Air Headquarters on Wednesday. Also in attendance were senior functionaries from the Ministry of Defence, DRDO, HAL and ADA.
ALSO READ | LCA Tejas successfully test-fires ASTRA
The Air Force chief had brought out that the LCA has been the flag bearer of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) efforts towards indigenisation of its aircraft fleet. Given the nature of this project of national importance, it is required that all stakeholders adopt a collaborative approach towards its success,” he said.
The first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) was inducted in July 2016. The first IAF Squadron to induct the Tejas was No 45 Squadron, the ‘Flying Daggers’. Over the years, the squadron progressed from Vampires to Gnats and then onto the MiG-21 Bis, before being equipped with Tejas.
Tejas is a multi-role platform designed to undertake the air defence, maritime reconnaissance and strike roles. The LCA Mk-1A will have updated avionics, as well as an Active Electronically Steered Radar, updated Electronic Warfare suite and a Beyond Visual Range missile capability. The new variant will be capable of firing a number of weapons from increased stand-off ranges.
As per the IAF, during the review, representatives of HAL assured the CAS of the timely delivery of the contracted twin-seaters in the coming months. Further to the LCA Mk 1, 83 LCA Mk-1A aircraft have also been contracted by the IAF in 2021. The Chairman & Managing Director of HAL assured those present that the deliveries of this advanced variant of the LCA would commence by February 2024.
While complimenting HAL, the Air Force chief indicated that based on these assurances, the LCA Mk 1A could be inducted in a newly raised squadron in one of the IAF’s operational bases, early next year.
“With timely deliveries of the more capable variant, the LCA Mk 1A is likely to see increased deployments at forward bases, besides participation in international exercises in the days to come,” he added.
-
‘Wrong facts’: Sachin Pilot calls out Amit Malviya for lying that his father Rajesh ‘bombed Mizoram’
By Online Desk
Congress leader Sachin Pilot fact-checked BJP’s IT department in-charge Amit Malviya on Tuesday after the latter attempted to spread disinformation over the 1966 IAF bombings in Mizoram.
The issue stems from Malviya’s claim that Sachin’s father Rajesh Pilot had “dropped bombs” as an air force pilot in the northeast state on March 5, 1966 — which was rebuked by the Congress leader.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Malviya had claimed that Rajesh Pilot and Suresh Kalmadi were flying the Indian Air Force planes that bombed Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram.
“Later both became MPs on Congress tickets and ministers in the government. It is clear that Indira Gandhi gave a place in politics as a reward, gave respect to those who carried out air raids on their own people in the Northeast,” Malviya had said in the post in Hindi.
In response, Pilot called out Malviya’s lies saying the facts and dates are wrong as his father was commissioned into the force only in October of that. He also shared a certificate that shows Rajesh Pilot had been commissioned in the Indian Air Force on October 29, 1966 — nearly eight months after the bombings.
“@amitmalviya You have the wrong dates, wrong facts. Yes, as an Indian Air Force pilot, my late father did drop bombs. But that was in erstwhile East Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak war and not as you claim, on Mizoram on the 5th of March 1966. He was commissioned into the IAF only on 29th October 1966! (Certificate attached). Jai hind and a happy Independence Day,” Pilot wrote back on X.
.@amitmalviya – You have the wrong dates, wrong facts…Yes, as an Indian Air Force pilot, my late father did drop bombs. But that was on erstwhile East Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak war and not as you claim, on Mizoram on the 5th of March 1966.He was commissioned into the… https://t.co/JfexDbczfk pic.twitter.com/Lpe1GL1NLB
— Sachin Pilot (@SachinPilot) August 15, 2023
While Suresh Kalmadi did serve in the IAF between 1964 and 1972, Malviya’s claim alleging the former Union minister’s involvement in the Aizawl bombings is unsubstantiated. In fact, there are no records under the air force database or the Gazette of India that conclusively shows whether Kalmadi piloted the Toofani fighters (Dassault Ouragan) which had been used in the Aizwal bombings.
Notably, the Congress last week hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his criticism of then PM Indira Gandhi’s decision to use the Indian Air Force in Mizoram in 1966, saying he “twisted decisions” taken by his predecessors out of their political and historical context to score “petty debating points.”
Responding to the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha, Modi had referred to the Aizawl bombings saying incidents such as the use of the Air Force to “attack the people in Mizoram” had shown the Congress party’s “neglect” for the region.
(With additional inputs from PTI)
Congress leader Sachin Pilot fact-checked BJP’s IT department in-charge Amit Malviya on Tuesday after the latter attempted to spread disinformation over the 1966 IAF bombings in Mizoram.
The issue stems from Malviya’s claim that Sachin’s father Rajesh Pilot had “dropped bombs” as an air force pilot in the northeast state on March 5, 1966 — which was rebuked by the Congress leader.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Malviya had claimed that Rajesh Pilot and Suresh Kalmadi were flying the Indian Air Force planes that bombed Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
“Later both became MPs on Congress tickets and ministers in the government. It is clear that Indira Gandhi gave a place in politics as a reward, gave respect to those who carried out air raids on their own people in the Northeast,” Malviya had said in the post in Hindi.
In response, Pilot called out Malviya’s lies saying the facts and dates are wrong as his father was commissioned into the force only in October of that. He also shared a certificate that shows Rajesh Pilot had been commissioned in the Indian Air Force on October 29, 1966 — nearly eight months after the bombings.
“@amitmalviya You have the wrong dates, wrong facts. Yes, as an Indian Air Force pilot, my late father did drop bombs. But that was in erstwhile East Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak war and not as you claim, on Mizoram on the 5th of March 1966. He was commissioned into the IAF only on 29th October 1966! (Certificate attached). Jai hind and a happy Independence Day,” Pilot wrote back on X.
.@amitmalviya – You have the wrong dates, wrong facts…
Yes, as an Indian Air Force pilot, my late father did drop bombs. But that was on erstwhile East Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak war and not as you claim, on Mizoram on the 5th of March 1966.
He was commissioned into the… https://t.co/JfexDbczfk pic.twitter.com/Lpe1GL1NLB— Sachin Pilot (@SachinPilot) August 15, 2023
While Suresh Kalmadi did serve in the IAF between 1964 and 1972, Malviya’s claim alleging the former Union minister’s involvement in the Aizawl bombings is unsubstantiated. In fact, there are no records under the air force database or the Gazette of India that conclusively shows whether Kalmadi piloted the Toofani fighters (Dassault Ouragan) which had been used in the Aizwal bombings.
Notably, the Congress last week hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his criticism of then PM Indira Gandhi’s decision to use the Indian Air Force in Mizoram in 1966, saying he “twisted decisions” taken by his predecessors out of their political and historical context to score “petty debating points.”
Responding to the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha, Modi had referred to the Aizawl bombings saying incidents such as the use of the Air Force to “attack the people in Mizoram” had shown the Congress party’s “neglect” for the region.
(With additional inputs from PTI)
-
‘Please come back, papa’, pleads 10-year-old daughter of soldier killed in Rajouri blast
By PTI
DALPAT: “Why are you not getting up? I don’t want anything, papa. Please come back,” 10-year-old Pawana Chib cried as she stretched out her hand to touch the face of her father, paratrooper Neelam Singh, who lay in a coffin before her on Saturday.
Standing next to her, Chib’s mother Vandana is staring in disbelief at her husband’s lifeless face held between her hands before she breaks down.
The paratrooper’s seven-year-old son Ankit is also inconsolable.
READ MORE| Blast during ops in Rajouri: Three more Army men succumb to injuries, death toll now five
Singh was among the five soldiers who died in an explosion triggered by terrorists on Friday in the thickly forested Kandi area in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district where an operation is underway to flush out terrorists.
As Singh’s mortal remains reached his Dalpat-Chak Kripalpur village here in a Tricolour-wrapped coffin, some wept and others tried to make their way through a crowd of hundreds who had gathered to catch one last glimpse of the “brave son of soil”.
The mortal remains were brought in a cavalcade from the Indian Air Force station in Jammu, where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, among other top Army, police and administration officials, paid homage to the slain soldier at a wreath-laying ceremony.
Chants of “Neelam Singh Amar Rahe” echoed through the village as Vandana saluted her husband one last time.
Singh was cremated with full military honours. His brother and CISF jawan Angad Singh lit his pyre amid chants of “Jai Shaheed, Jai Army, Jai Hind”.
Recalling the last time Singh visited home, his father Hurdev Singh Chib said he is proud of his son.”I am proud of my son. He was a brave commando who laid down his life-fighting terrorists. He was born a warrior. As a child, he always wanted to join the Army,” Hurdev told PTI.
A few days ago, he had come home for a while, the distraught father recalled, adding,
“He was so dutiful that he just had tea and left. According to Hurdev, Singh was inducted into the Army in 2003. Singh’s father-in-law Captain Raghvir Singh Bhau (retd) echoed Hurdev’s sentiments.”He was brave and never feared anything. He was part of dozens of successful operations in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir. He brought laurels to the para unit and the Army,” he said.
Singh’s cousin Suresh, however, was angry.”There is an attack every six months. How many homes will be destroyed? The forces retaliate and there will be a lull but then there will be another attack and another family will lose its son,” he said.
Villagers described Singh as a helpful man. “I joined the armed forces just because Singh encouraged and helped me. I am indebted to him,” said a villager, Rameshwaram Singh.
Another villager Sarita Devi recalled that Singh brought her medicines and other items whenever she was in need.
DALPAT: “Why are you not getting up? I don’t want anything, papa. Please come back,” 10-year-old Pawana Chib cried as she stretched out her hand to touch the face of her father, paratrooper Neelam Singh, who lay in a coffin before her on Saturday.
Standing next to her, Chib’s mother Vandana is staring in disbelief at her husband’s lifeless face held between her hands before she breaks down.
The paratrooper’s seven-year-old son Ankit is also inconsolable.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
READ MORE| Blast during ops in Rajouri: Three more Army men succumb to injuries, death toll now five
Singh was among the five soldiers who died in an explosion triggered by terrorists on Friday in the thickly forested Kandi area in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district where an operation is underway to flush out terrorists.
As Singh’s mortal remains reached his Dalpat-Chak Kripalpur village here in a Tricolour-wrapped coffin, some wept and others tried to make their way through a crowd of hundreds who had gathered to catch one last glimpse of the “brave son of soil”.
The mortal remains were brought in a cavalcade from the Indian Air Force station in Jammu, where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, among other top Army, police and administration officials, paid homage to the slain soldier at a wreath-laying ceremony.
Chants of “Neelam Singh Amar Rahe” echoed through the village as Vandana saluted her husband one last time.
Singh was cremated with full military honours. His brother and CISF jawan Angad Singh lit his pyre amid chants of “Jai Shaheed, Jai Army, Jai Hind”.
Recalling the last time Singh visited home, his father Hurdev Singh Chib said he is proud of his son.”I am proud of my son. He was a brave commando who laid down his life-fighting terrorists. He was born a warrior. As a child, he always wanted to join the Army,” Hurdev told PTI.
A few days ago, he had come home for a while, the distraught father recalled, adding,
“He was so dutiful that he just had tea and left. According to Hurdev, Singh was inducted into the Army in 2003. Singh’s father-in-law Captain Raghvir Singh Bhau (retd) echoed Hurdev’s sentiments.”He was brave and never feared anything. He was part of dozens of successful operations in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir. He brought laurels to the para unit and the Army,” he said.
Singh’s cousin Suresh, however, was angry.”There is an attack every six months. How many homes will be destroyed? The forces retaliate and there will be a lull but then there will be another attack and another family will lose its son,” he said.
Villagers described Singh as a helpful man. “I joined the armed forces just because Singh encouraged and helped me. I am indebted to him,” said a villager, Rameshwaram Singh.
Another villager Sarita Devi recalled that Singh brought her medicines and other items whenever she was in need.
-
IAF aircraft with 360 Indians evacuated from Sudan lands in Delhi, more flights to follow
Express News Service
NEW DELHI: The first flight with 360 Indians evacuated from Sudan has landed in Delhi.
Around 534 Indians have so far been evacuated from Sudan and reached Jeddah. From there, they are being sent to India through Indian Air Force C130 J aircraft.
“Another 250 evacuees are likely to board a flight to India from Jeddah and we are optimistic that around 300 more Indians will be brought into Jeddah from Sudan by Thursday morning. This is an ongoing and continuous process and we are doing our best to get our citizens back to safety,” said the Ministry of External Affairs.
“Happy to see off 360 Indians at Jeddah airport in a Delhi-bound flight. The government is working relentlessly to evacuate Indian nationals from Sudan and bring them home safely,” said Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan. The minister is in Jeddah to personally oversee the evacuation of Indians stranded in Sudan.
ALSO READ | First batch of 278 Indians reach Jeddah from Sudan
Meanwhile, the rescued Indians have shared their ordeal through videos that have been shared on social media.
“The fight was intense and we were struggling for food. The tent of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) was installed near our company. However, we were looted and held hostage for eight hours. Our mobiles were taken away and they had aimed rifles at us,” said one evacuee.
They kept in touch with the Embassy in Khartoum and requested it to arrange for buses. Once the Navy took over, the evacuated Indians heaved a sigh of relief as there was food to eat and a safe ship to travel on (INS Sumedha).
Meanwhile, India has to make the most of the 72-hour ceasefire and evacuate as many people as they can. Nearly 3000 Indians were based in Sudan before the conflict began. Indians are boarding ships from Port Sudan to Jeddah. Port Sudan is around 835 km from Khartoum and the journey takes nearly 12 hours. The journey from Port Sudan to Jeddah by sea takes another 12 hours.
India is focused on moving its nationals from conflict zones to safe zones before transporting them to Port Sudan. Indian authorities are also exploring other places to evacuate Indians from Khartoum including the use of military airbases. In Jeddah, India has set up a control room and transit facility to facilitate evacuation. The transit facility has beds, fresh meals, medical aid and wi-fi.
NEW DELHI: The first flight with 360 Indians evacuated from Sudan has landed in Delhi.
Around 534 Indians have so far been evacuated from Sudan and reached Jeddah. From there, they are being sent to India through Indian Air Force C130 J aircraft.
“Another 250 evacuees are likely to board a flight to India from Jeddah and we are optimistic that around 300 more Indians will be brought into Jeddah from Sudan by Thursday morning. This is an ongoing and continuous process and we are doing our best to get our citizens back to safety,” said the Ministry of External Affairs.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
“Happy to see off 360 Indians at Jeddah airport in a Delhi-bound flight. The government is working relentlessly to evacuate Indian nationals from Sudan and bring them home safely,” said Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan. The minister is in Jeddah to personally oversee the evacuation of Indians stranded in Sudan.
ALSO READ | First batch of 278 Indians reach Jeddah from Sudan
Meanwhile, the rescued Indians have shared their ordeal through videos that have been shared on social media.
“The fight was intense and we were struggling for food. The tent of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) was installed near our company. However, we were looted and held hostage for eight hours. Our mobiles were taken away and they had aimed rifles at us,” said one evacuee.
They kept in touch with the Embassy in Khartoum and requested it to arrange for buses. Once the Navy took over, the evacuated Indians heaved a sigh of relief as there was food to eat and a safe ship to travel on (INS Sumedha).
Meanwhile, India has to make the most of the 72-hour ceasefire and evacuate as many people as they can. Nearly 3000 Indians were based in Sudan before the conflict began. Indians are boarding ships from Port Sudan to Jeddah. Port Sudan is around 835 km from Khartoum and the journey takes nearly 12 hours. The journey from Port Sudan to Jeddah by sea takes another 12 hours.
India is focused on moving its nationals from conflict zones to safe zones before transporting them to Port Sudan. Indian authorities are also exploring other places to evacuate Indians from Khartoum including the use of military airbases. In Jeddah, India has set up a control room and transit facility to facilitate evacuation. The transit facility has beds, fresh meals, medical aid and wi-fi.
-
Military court recommends dismissal of IAF officer over shooting down of Mi-17 chopper
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force’s General Court Martial (GCM) instituted to look into the accidental shooting down of an Mi-17 V5 in February 2019 has recommended dismissal of a Group Captain related to the incident.
Sources said the GCM ordered the dismissal of Group Captain Suman Roy Chowdhury, who was serving then as the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Srinagar Air Force Station.
As per the Court of Inquiry, the attack helicopter was struck by the IAF’s own surface-to-air missile on February 27, 2019 — the day Indian and Pakistani air forces were engaged in a dogfight.
However, it is yet to be sent to the IAF chief as the matter is sub judice in the High Court of Punjab and Haryana.
“The verdict of the GCM is subject to confirmation by the competent authority. Hence, the officer has not been dismissed from service till the said confirmation,” a defence source said.
ALSO READ | India’s defence exports rise ten-fold in six years, reach all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore
Sources said the IAF can only act on the GCM’s recommendation after a decision on a case relating to the incident by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
As per the sources, last month the High Court of Punjab and Haryana allowed the GCM to pronounce its verdict while stating that it must not be implemented till it disposes of the case, which is awaited.
According to laid down norms, the Chief of Air Staff has to give an approval on the recommendation of the GCM for sacking of the official.
On the morning of February 27, 2019, a day after the Balakot air strike, fighter jets of India and Pakistan were involved in a duel over the Naushera sector of Jammu and Kashmir near the Line of Control (LoC). The Mi-17V5 had crashed in the Budgam area shortly after take-off from Srinagar killing all six personnel on board and one civilian on the ground.
The Court of Inquiry ordered to investigate the crash had put the responsibility on at least four officers, including a Group Captain.
NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force’s General Court Martial (GCM) instituted to look into the accidental shooting down of an Mi-17 V5 in February 2019 has recommended dismissal of a Group Captain related to the incident.
Sources said the GCM ordered the dismissal of Group Captain Suman Roy Chowdhury, who was serving then as the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Srinagar Air Force Station.
As per the Court of Inquiry, the attack helicopter was struck by the IAF’s own surface-to-air missile on February 27, 2019 — the day Indian and Pakistani air forces were engaged in a dogfight.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });
However, it is yet to be sent to the IAF chief as the matter is sub judice in the High Court of Punjab and Haryana.
“The verdict of the GCM is subject to confirmation by the competent authority. Hence, the officer has not been dismissed from service till the said confirmation,” a defence source said.
ALSO READ | India’s defence exports rise ten-fold in six years, reach all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore
Sources said the IAF can only act on the GCM’s recommendation after a decision on a case relating to the incident by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
As per the sources, last month the High Court of Punjab and Haryana allowed the GCM to pronounce its verdict while stating that it must not be implemented till it disposes of the case, which is awaited.
According to laid down norms, the Chief of Air Staff has to give an approval on the recommendation of the GCM for sacking of the official.
On the morning of February 27, 2019, a day after the Balakot air strike, fighter jets of India and Pakistan were involved in a duel over the Naushera sector of Jammu and Kashmir near the Line of Control (LoC). The Mi-17V5 had crashed in the Budgam area shortly after take-off from Srinagar killing all six personnel on board and one civilian on the ground.
The Court of Inquiry ordered to investigate the crash had put the responsibility on at least four officers, including a Group Captain.
-
PM lays foundation stone of country’s first military transport aircraft manufacturing unit in Vadodara
Express News Service
VADODARA: In a major step, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday laid the foundation stone of the joint manufacturing facility of the Airbus and TATA Consortium of Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) led by TASL here.
The facility will manufacture C-295 medium transport planes for the Indian Air Force, the first time that the C-295 aircraft will be manufactured outside of Europe and by a private company. The total cost of the project is Rs 21,935 crore.
The manufacturing unit will also cater for the export of the premier transport aircraft as well as for additional orders by the Indian Air Force.
Calling it transformative, the Prime Minister said, “The transport aircraft that will be manufactured here will not only give power to our Armed forces but also develop a new ecosystem of manufacturing aircraft… Soon, India will witness the passenger aircraft that will be made with the tag of ‘Make In India’.”
“Today, India is one of the fastest-developing aviation sectors. We are soon to enter the list of the top three nations in terms of air traffic. In the coming 10-15 years, India will require over 2000 passenger and cargo aircraft. This reflects how fast we’ll be developing.” PM Modi added.
Over 100 MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) spread over seven states will be linked to this project said Prime Minister Modi.
Under the agreement, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in ‘fly-away’ condition from its final assembly line in Seville, Spain within four years and the subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured in India.
The first 16 fly-away aircraft are scheduled to be received between September 2023 and August 2025.
The first Made in India aircraft is expected in September 2026 and the remaining 39 will have to be produced by August 2031. Every year, a total of 8 aircraft will be produced at the facility.
There are 34 other countries which operate the C-295 aircraft. Till date, more than 200 aircraft have been delivered.
The approval of the Cabinet Committee on Security for the procurement of fifty-six C-295 MW transport aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space SA, Spain for the Indian Air Force was accorded in September 2021.
The aircraft can be used for civilian purposes as well.
The foundation laying ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel among others.
Speaking on the occasion, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons said, “With the setting up of the Final Assembly line (FAL) in Vadodara, the Tata Group will now be able to take aluminium ingots at one end of the value stream and turn it into a C-295 aircraft for the IAF.”
After the completion of the delivery of 56 aircraft to the IAF, Airbus Defence and Space will be allowed to sell the aircraft manufactured in India to civil operators and export to countries which are cleared by the Government of India.
Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar three days back said the indigenous content in the plane will be the highest ever in India, and that 96 per cent of the work that Airbus does in Spain to produce the plane will be done at the manufacturing unit in Vadodara.
Officials said the project offers a unique opportunity for the Indian private sector to enter into the technology-intensive and highly competitive aviation industry.
(Photo | PTI)
ALSO READ | Pact to set up Tata-Airbus aircraft project in Gujarat inked during MVA rule: Maharashtra minister
The C-295MW aircraft has a 5-10 tonne capacity and possesses contemporary technology that will replace the ageing Avro aircraft of IAF.
The aircraft has a rear ramp door for quick reaction and para-dropping of troops and cargo. The short take-off/land from semi-prepared surfaces is another of its features.
The aircraft has a maximum speed of 480 kmph.
The aircraft will strengthen the logistic capabilities of the IAF. It can carry either 71 passengers or 44 fully equipped paratroopers or 24 stretchers.
More than 13400 detail parts, 4600 sub-assemblies and all seven major component assemblies, including nose fuselage, outer wings, centre wing box, centre fuselage, rear fuselage, doors and empennage will be manufactured at this facility.
Final assembly work like integration of systems and assembly of aero systems of the C-295MW will also be carried out at the facility.
IAF officials said the C-295 aircraft would be able to operate from Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) and even unprepared runways.
All 56 aircraft will be fitted with an indigenous electronic warfare suite to be developed by the state-run Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited.
The project is expected to generate 600 highly skilled jobs directly, over 3,000 indirect jobs and an additional 3,000 medium-skill employment opportunities with more than 42.5 lakh man-hours of work within the aerospace and defence sector.
Nearly 240 engineers will be trained at the Airbus facility in Spain for the project.
(With online desk inputs)
VADODARA: In a major step, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday laid the foundation stone of the joint manufacturing facility of the Airbus and TATA Consortium of Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) led by TASL here.
The facility will manufacture C-295 medium transport planes for the Indian Air Force, the first time that the C-295 aircraft will be manufactured outside of Europe and by a private company. The total cost of the project is Rs 21,935 crore.
The manufacturing unit will also cater for the export of the premier transport aircraft as well as for additional orders by the Indian Air Force.
Calling it transformative, the Prime Minister said, “The transport aircraft that will be manufactured here will not only give power to our Armed forces but also develop a new ecosystem of manufacturing aircraft… Soon, India will witness the passenger aircraft that will be made with the tag of ‘Make In India’.”
“Today, India is one of the fastest-developing aviation sectors. We are soon to enter the list of the top three nations in terms of air traffic. In the coming 10-15 years, India will require over 2000 passenger and cargo aircraft. This reflects how fast we’ll be developing.” PM Modi added.
Over 100 MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) spread over seven states will be linked to this project said Prime Minister Modi.
Under the agreement, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in ‘fly-away’ condition from its final assembly line in Seville, Spain within four years and the subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured in India.
The first 16 fly-away aircraft are scheduled to be received between September 2023 and August 2025.
The first Made in India aircraft is expected in September 2026 and the remaining 39 will have to be produced by August 2031. Every year, a total of 8 aircraft will be produced at the facility.
There are 34 other countries which operate the C-295 aircraft. Till date, more than 200 aircraft have been delivered.
The approval of the Cabinet Committee on Security for the procurement of fifty-six C-295 MW transport aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space SA, Spain for the Indian Air Force was accorded in September 2021.
The aircraft can be used for civilian purposes as well.
The foundation laying ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel among others.
Speaking on the occasion, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons said, “With the setting up of the Final Assembly line (FAL) in Vadodara, the Tata Group will now be able to take aluminium ingots at one end of the value stream and turn it into a C-295 aircraft for the IAF.”
After the completion of the delivery of 56 aircraft to the IAF, Airbus Defence and Space will be allowed to sell the aircraft manufactured in India to civil operators and export to countries which are cleared by the Government of India.
Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar three days back said the indigenous content in the plane will be the highest ever in India, and that 96 per cent of the work that Airbus does in Spain to produce the plane will be done at the manufacturing unit in Vadodara.
Officials said the project offers a unique opportunity for the Indian private sector to enter into the technology-intensive and highly competitive aviation industry.
(Photo | PTI)
ALSO READ | Pact to set up Tata-Airbus aircraft project in Gujarat inked during MVA rule: Maharashtra minister
The C-295MW aircraft has a 5-10 tonne capacity and possesses contemporary technology that will replace the ageing Avro aircraft of IAF.
The aircraft has a rear ramp door for quick reaction and para-dropping of troops and cargo. The short take-off/land from semi-prepared surfaces is another of its features.
The aircraft has a maximum speed of 480 kmph.
The aircraft will strengthen the logistic capabilities of the IAF. It can carry either 71 passengers or 44 fully equipped paratroopers or 24 stretchers.
More than 13400 detail parts, 4600 sub-assemblies and all seven major component assemblies, including nose fuselage, outer wings, centre wing box, centre fuselage, rear fuselage, doors and empennage will be manufactured at this facility.
Final assembly work like integration of systems and assembly of aero systems of the C-295MW will also be carried out at the facility.
IAF officials said the C-295 aircraft would be able to operate from Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) and even unprepared runways.
All 56 aircraft will be fitted with an indigenous electronic warfare suite to be developed by the state-run Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited.
The project is expected to generate 600 highly skilled jobs directly, over 3,000 indirect jobs and an additional 3,000 medium-skill employment opportunities with more than 42.5 lakh man-hours of work within the aerospace and defence sector.
Nearly 240 engineers will be trained at the Airbus facility in Spain for the project.
(With online desk inputs)
-
IAF jets scrambled after ‘bomb threat’ onboard China-bound Iranian passenger jet over India
By ANI
NEW DELHI: Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets were scrambled to intercept an aircraft with its origin in Iran and headed to China, which was moving towards New Delhi airspace.
According to sources, inputs were received at 9:20 am by Delhi Police about a bomb threat on board a Mahan Air flight headed to Guangzhou in China from Tehran in Iran.
It triggered an alert and permission was not granted for the plane to land in Delhi and the plane was instructed by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to divert to Jaipur. Reportedly the pilot refused to divert the plane following which Indian Air Force jets were scrambled to intercept and escort the plane.
The aircraft was headed to China as its final destination, had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane, sources told ANI.
Data from Filghtradar24 showed the plane reducing altitude over the Delhi-Jaipur airspace for a brief period before it was seen making its way out of Indian airspace.
According to ATC sources, Mahan Air requested for immediate landing at Delhi airport but Delhi ATC directed it to head to Jaipur Airport. The pilots of the Iranian carrier did not do so and eventually left Indian airspace.
The nature of the bomb threat is still unclear. The plane was seen continuing on its flight path towards China.
NEW DELHI: Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets were scrambled to intercept an aircraft with its origin in Iran and headed to China, which was moving towards New Delhi airspace.
According to sources, inputs were received at 9:20 am by Delhi Police about a bomb threat on board a Mahan Air flight headed to Guangzhou in China from Tehran in Iran.
It triggered an alert and permission was not granted for the plane to land in Delhi and the plane was instructed by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to divert to Jaipur. Reportedly the pilot refused to divert the plane following which Indian Air Force jets were scrambled to intercept and escort the plane.
The aircraft was headed to China as its final destination, had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane, sources told ANI.
Data from Filghtradar24 showed the plane reducing altitude over the Delhi-Jaipur airspace for a brief period before it was seen making its way out of Indian airspace.
According to ATC sources, Mahan Air requested for immediate landing at Delhi airport but Delhi ATC directed it to head to Jaipur Airport. The pilots of the Iranian carrier did not do so and eventually left Indian airspace.
The nature of the bomb threat is still unclear. The plane was seen continuing on its flight path towards China.