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2012-08-20T07:53:00.001-07:00

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18 Shakti Peeth / Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas

2012-07-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

18 Shaktipeethas

Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas

Jai Matadi
Lankayam Shankari devi, Kamakshi Kanchika pure /Pradyumne Shrinkhala devi, Chamunda Krouncha pattane // Alampure Jogulamba,

Sri shaile Bhramarambika /Kolha pure Maha lakshmi, Mahurye Ekaveerika //
Ujjainyam Maha kali, Peethikayam Puruhutika /Odhyane Girija devi,Manikya Daksha vatike //
Hari kshetre Kama rupi, Prayage Madhaveshwari /Jwalayam Vaishnavi devi, Gaya Mangalya gourika //
Varanasyam Vishalakshi, Kashmire tu Saraswati /
Ashtadasha Shakti peethani, Yoginamapi durlabham //

Sayamkale pathennityam, Sarva shatri vinashanam /
Sarva roga haram divyam, Sarva sampatkaram shubham

The background of the story is like this: There was a great king called Daksha Prajapati who was son of Lord Brahma. He had 27 daughters and Sati devi is one among them. Sati devi got married to Lord Shiva. When Dashka entered the arena of a yaga performed by Agni, every one except Lord Shiva stood up as a mark of respect. Daksha felt insulted by Lord Shiva's behaviour. Later when Daksha conducted a yaga him self , he did not invite his daughter and his son in law.As there was no invitation from her Sati felt bad. Even then she wanted to attend the yaga against the wish of Lord Shiva.When Sati, attended the yaga no body has cared for her and she felt insulted by the actions of her sisters and parents. Then when her father started abusing her husband she could not control her feelings and sacrified herself at the place of yagna by creating agni from earth with her right thumb of her foot. Knowing this Lord Shiva got angry and removed one bunch of Jhatha from his head and hit it on the earth. From that Lord Veerabhadra has born and rushed to yaga spot as dircted by Lord Siva and killed Daksha by cutting his head. (later Daksha was given life by fixing a goat head) Later Shiva went to the spot and taken the body of sati from the fire and started dancing with it. The world was terrorized from this Tandava Nritya and requested Lord Vishnu to stop this Nritya. Knowingly well that Siva would not stop the Nritya unless the body of Sati is removed from his hands, Vishnu used his Sudarshan chakra and completely cut the Sati's body in to pieces. These body parts have fallen at various places in India and Srilanka and Where ever these parts have fallen the places are called Shaktipeethas. There are 18 such places and they are called Ashta ( 8) Dasa (10 ) Shaktipeethas.The list of body parts fallen at these 18 places are given below. If you observe them carefully some of the parts are not found in that list and people say that the remaining parts have fallen at other places and as such the shakti peethas are 51 or 108
But this blog is designed based on the above shloka of Adi shankaracharya and confined to 18 peethas only
The order given below is as per the above shloka.

Shankari Devi,Trimkomali

1) Lankayam Shankari Devi:The temple of Shankari Devi supposed to be in Sri Lanka at Trimkomali. At present there is no temple availble at this place and it is said the temple was destroyed by Portugese people between 16th to 17th century. My friend who was in air force and posted in Sri Lanka has confirmed the same. As the temple is not there Shankari Devi drawn by an artist is given.

Body part : Devi's Groin has fallen here.

Goddess Kanchi Kamakshi

Kamakshi Temple, Kanchi

2) Kamakshi Kanchika pure : The goddess is famous by kanchi kamakshi. A very popular shaktipeeth. It is 70 Km from Chennai. Kanchi Kamakshi temple is situated at about 5 acres of land and has four entrances. The main entrance of the temple has a Kalabhairavar deity on its left and the Mahishasura Mardini deity on the right. On the centre of the entrance you can see a huge Dwajasthampa. Moving further to the entrance of the Kamakshi deity you can see a Vinayaga deity. Moving on a straight line further, Goddess Kamakshi is visible. Goddess Kamakshi is surrounded by deities of Ayyapan, Saraswati, Annaporani and Adisankaracharya on its outer prakaram. The Goddess also has Varahi, Arupalakshmi Kalvarperumal (one of the 108 Divya Desam of Vaishanavities), Roopalakshmi and Arthanariswarar deities surrounding the sanctorum of Goddess on its Gayatri Mandapam. There is Santhanasthampam inside the prakaram of Goddess which is called the Nabisthan of the Goddess. There is a Srichakra Yantra (Sri Kamakoti Peetam) established by Jagadguru Sri Adisankaracharya in front of the Goddess deity. There is also a temple tank inside the premises. Kamakshi temple has a close relation with the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam and its successive Sankarcharyas. The temple has a gallery of Adisankarcharya's Life history inside the temple premises itself. Goddess Kamakshi is the main deity and the temple is one of the eighteen Shakti peetas. The temple is spelled as Nabisthana - Ottiyana peetam. The temple also has a golden Gopuram on the sanctorum of the Goddess Kamakshi deity which is visible to all devotees.

Body part : Devi's Back part has fallen here.

Nabha Devi Temple ,Jammu

3) Pradyumne Sharinkhala Devi : The goddess here is called Sri Srukala Devi. The temple is supposed to be in Gujarat. But I could not find it is spite of my staying for 5 days. Some one says it is at Prabhas pattan.Where Somanath temple is there, the place is called Prabhas.It is 5Km from Veraval. One can go to Somanath by Somanath exp No 1464 which goes from Jabalpur to somanath via Bhopal, Ujjain, Ahmedabad and Rajkot. Prabhas pattan is 79 Km from Junagaudh. It is said that the temple was distroyed by Md Ghajani.

Some people say, the temple of Shrinkhala devi is near Kolkatta.It is said that it is in Hugli dist in a place by name Pandua.I had been to the place where the temple of Shrinkhala devi was supposed to be in the past.but at present there is such temple in the place. A minar was built there by muslim invaders. There were ruins of temple infront of minar.There is a temple of Hanseswari mata which is regarded as Shakti peetha which is very close to this place.

Body part : Devi's stomach part has fallen here.

As there is no temple of Devi in both theplaces one can visit Nabha Devi temple in Jammu at a place called Jindrah near Udhampur. Udhampur is 211 Km from Jammu. It is said that Devi's stomach part with navel has fallen here. As Nabhi(navel) has fallen here, the deity is called Nabha devi.

Chamundeswari Temple

4) Chamunda Krouncha pattane : The goddess here is called Chamundeswari devi. A very popular temple in Karnataka. The Chamundeswari Temple is situated on a hill in the neighborhood of Mysore. Krishnaraja III during the latter part of the 18th century built this temple tower. He gifted the Nakshatramalika jewel which has Sanskrit poesies engraved on it. The temple is adorned with various epitomes of Nandi. The colossal Nandi is 15 feet wide and 24 feet long and was made during the reign of Dodda Devaraja. It also has a seven floor ‘gopuram’. The idol of the Goddess is made of gold and the entrance with shinning silver.

Body part : Devi's head hairs have fallen here.

Goddess Jogulamba

5) Alampure Jogulamba :The temple is 24 Km from Kurnool in Andhra pradesh.Old temple of Jogulamba was destroyed by Bahamani sultans in the 14th century. The idols of Jogulamba and her two shaktis Chandi, Mundi were protected from them and placed in Bala brahmeswara swamy temple untill 2005. Now, a new temple was constructed in the same place and the godess was shifted in to it. New temple of Jogulamba is very much beautiful to see with a nice granite flooring. It is surrounded by a water pool. Villagers of Alampur tell an interesting reason for it: "Jogulamba is an Ugra rupa (highly energetic and hard to worship) and this water pool makes the atmosphere cool so that we can easily worship her".Idol of Jogulamba is typical. She is in sitting position. She has huge amount of hair with lizard, scorpion, bat and a human scull in it. Idols of Saptamatrikas, Vighneswara and Veenapani veerabhadra are also present in the temple. Original Chandi Mundi idols were left in Bala brahmeswara swamy temple and new idols are made and placed in Jogulamba temple. Alampur is called as "City of Temples". All of them are very old and famous for their sculpture. The entire temple campus was built on the bank of river Tungabhadra. Out of them, temples of Nava brahmas and the temple of Kanchi kamakshi are most important.

Body part : Devi's upper teeth row has fallen here.

Near by Places: Srisailam Jyotirlinga is 214 Km from Alampur.

Goddess Bhramarambhika

6) Sri shaile Bhramarambika : It is in Andhra Pradesh and it is well connected by road than train. One can go by bus or taxi to Srisailam from Hyderabad. The distance is nearly 232 Km .Nearest railway stations are Vinukonda(120Km), Markapur(85Km) and Kurnool(190Km). Markapur is in Guntur -Hubli route. It is said that Adi Shankaracharya has visited this temple and composed Sivananda Lahari here. The goddess is Bhramarambika Devi and the main deity is called Lord Mallikarjuna.

Body part :Devi's neck part has fallen here.

Nearest places: The famous Srisailam dam which is 512M length and 270M height and it is a major hydro power station of Andhra Pradesh. Alampur Jogulamba temple is 24 Km from Kurnool. It is one of the 18 shaktipeethas.
Airport : Hyderabad
Stay: Accommodation is available easily like Hotels /dharma salas

Maha Lakshmi Temple

Shri Maha Lakshmi Devi

7)Kolha pure Maha lakshmi : Shri Mahalaxmi Temple of Kolhapur is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the Lord resides in this area, along with the Goddess. The temple holds the distinction of being one of the Shakti Peethas in India and is held in great regard by the people of Maharashtra. One can find the mention of the Mahalakshmi Temple of Kohlapur in the various puranas (holy books) of Hindu religion. It is believed to have been built somewhere around 700 AD, by the rulers of the Chalukya Empire.The temple holds special significance for the devotees, since it is believed to be one of the six places in India, where one will either get his desires fulfilled or obtain salvation from them. The image of the deity has been placed on a stone platform. The Goddess is shown having four arms and crowned with a beautiful tiara, which has been made of precious gemstone and weighs approximately 40 kilograms. The crown has been adorned with an image of the Sheshnag, the serpent regarded as the vehicle of Vishnu.In each of the four hands of the Goddess is a different object, believed to have symbolic value. The lower right hand holds a mhalunga (a citrus fruit) and the upper right hand holds a large mace (kaumodaki). In the upper left hand is a shield (khetaka), while in the lower left hand, there is a bowl (panpatra). Besides the idol stands a stone statue of a lion, considered as the vehicle (vahana) of Goddess Mahalakshmi. The image of Goddess Mahalaxmi looks towards the west (Pashchim) direction.Unusual Phenomenon On the western wall of the Mahalaxmi Temple of Kolhapur is a small window. It has been built in such a way that every year, the light of the setting sun falls on the face of the deity for three days. This phenomenon is noticed every year and it takes place around 21st of March and September

Body part : Devi's eyes (three) have fallen here.

Ekaveerika Devi, Mahur

Renukadevi,Mahur

8) Mahurye Ekaveerika : Ekaveerika devi temple is in Mahur , Maharashtra. This place is famous for Renukadevi temple and most of the people are not knowing about Ekaveerika temple and quote Renukadevi temple as shaktipeetha. It is in Yavatmal district in Maharashtra. Kinwat is 50 and Nanded is 126 km from the temple. Nagpur is 210 km by road from Mahur. It is said that Ekaveerika Devi is the elder sister of Renukadevi.The temple is 800 years old. Here pan patta and supari offer as prasad after grinding it as a paste. Other temples which we can see here are Parashuram Temple, Jamadgni temple and Anasuya temple. Ekaveerika Devi temple is 8 km from Yavatmal in Nanded high way and 300M from the main road. We could not find and poojari in the temple. Opposite to the temple there is one Gomata samadhi. The story about this samadhi no body could tell us. Mahur assumes prominence as the birthplace of Lord Dattatraya.

60 km from Mahur there is one pracheen shiva temple at Manpur which is 850 years old.
20 km from Yavatmal Chinta mani Ganesh temple is there at Kalam. It is one of the eight Ganesh temples in Vidarbha and it faces south.
Body part : Devi's right shoulder has fallen here.

Airport :Sonegaon(Nagpur) . Kinwat railway station is the nearest rail head.

For more details please visit my new blog at the following URL address

http://ekaveerika.blogspot.com/2009/10/ekaveerika-devi-shakti-peeth.html

Hara Sidhi Mata Temple

9) Ujjainyam Maha kali : Maha kali temple is in Ujjain. Here the devi is called as Hara Sidhi Mata and if you ask by Maha kali temple people may not be able to tell about this. Though it is a shakti peetha people are not aware of this.

Ujjani is famous for Maha Kaleswar Jyothirling. The deity here is called as Mahakaleswara. Ujjain is 50Km(2hrs) from Indore. Or you can drop at Ujjain while going to Somanath by train.You are allowed to touch the jyotirlinga when rush is not there. The decoration of the linga is different in the morning and evening. One should not miss the evening decoration which is made with the clay from the river shipra. It is said that the Vibhodhi used in the temple comes from the burial ground.Body part :Upper lip of goddess sati has fallen here.
Ujjain is place of historical importance and there are many places of tourist interests like Ghat Kalika(Kalidas aradhana devi ) temple,Char Dham mandir, bethala pipale tree, temple built by king Vikramaditya and Kala Bhirava temple where liquor is offered as prasada, Bada Ganapathi mandir ,Mangalanath Temple, Gopal mandir,Iskon mandir,Sandeepani Ashram and Bhookhi mata temple. You can see the rare potriat of King Vikramadithya in the court hall near Hara Sidhi mata temple.
Stay : Mahakalewara trust Dharma sala which is neat and clean.Local tourist bus is available which takes 4 hours to cover the above places. MP tourism bus charges Rs50 and private bus charges Rs36.
Food : Pooha is availble in the break fast. Near the main temple Idlis are available in Hotel Shivam

Puruhutika Devi (AP)

10) Peethikayam Puruhutika : It is in Pithapurem in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.The temple of Puruhutika devi is located within the temple campus of Kukkuteswara swamy. Kukkuteswara swamy temple is present in the outskirts of the Pithapuram village towards Kakinada. It is a big temple. Just entering in to the temple we will see a pond which is called as Padagaya sarovaram (Pada Gaya Sarovar). Pilgrims will take holy bath in this pond. Main temple of Kukkuteswara swamy is present towards the right side of the pond. Puruhutika devi temple is present in the North-East corner of the Kukkuteswara swamy temple. It is constructed facing South. Puruhutha temple is small but looks very nice with the carvings of Ashtadasa Shakti peethas on it's walls.The idol of Puruhuthika devi has four hands. They contain bag of seeds (Beeja), axe (Parashu), lotus (Kamala) and a dish (Madhu patra) from lower-right to lower-left in order.Previously there were two sects of Upasakas in Pithapuram worshiping Puruhootika devi. The first one calling her as Puruhootha Lakshmi (Meditating on Kamala and Madhu patra) and worshiping in Samayachara and the second one calling her Puruhoothamba (Meditating on Parashu and Beeja) and worshiping in Vamachara. There is also a tale that the original statue of Puruhutika devi was buried under the temple which was worshiped by them. Pithapuram has many important temples: 1). Kukkuteswara swamy temple: It is the main temple in Pithapuram.2). Hunkruthi Durga / Humkruthi Durga: Also called as Humkarini Durga. She is present in the Garbha griha of Kukkuteswara swami towards the left.3). Rajarajeswari: She is the Deveri (wife) of Kukkuteswara swamy. Also present in the same campus.4). Sripada Srivallabha Dattatreya: This temple of Lord Dattatreya is present in the South-West corner of the temple.5). Kunthi madhava: This is an old temple of Lord Sri Krishna located in Pithapuram village.

Body part :Devi's left hand has fallen here.

Girija Devi Temple

Girija Devi

11) Odhyane Girija devi :It is in Jajpur in Orissa. The presiding deity of Jajpur Asta dasha shakti peetha is Goddess Girija Devi. Goddess Girija Devi is also worshipped with various names such as Goddess Birija Devi, Goddess Virija.
Jajpur is located at a distance of 120 Kms from Bhuvaneshwar, the capital city of Orissa. Jajpur has a rich cultural and historical reference in several hindu scriptures. This place was ruled by King Jajati Kesari in the 10th Century. Hence, the name of the town became Jajpur. Once it was the capital city of Kalinga emperors. Jajpur is also called as ‘Baithangi Theertha’ or ‘Birija Kshetram’. The whole idol of Goddess Girija Devi is decorated with flower garlands and gold jewelry. We can see only the face of Goddess Birija. The idol is decorated with silver crown full of jewels. Goddess Girija Devi blesses her devotees with her pleasant smiling face and charming looks. Another significance aspect of this temple is , a well near the main temple of Girija Devi in which devotees perform ritual rites to their ancestors. It seems the depth of the well is somewhere around 4 to 5 feet but it never dried up till now.

Body part : Devi's navel has fallen here.

Mnnikyambha,Draksharamam

12) Manikya Daksha vatike : Drakasharama is located in East Godavari district near Kakinada. Rajahmundry is the nearest airport. Draksharama constitues one of the five Arama kshetras of Andhra Pradesh, sacred to Shiva, the other four being Kumararama, Ksheerarama and Bheemarama and Amararama. Draksharama, Sree Sailam and Kaleshwar together constitute the three sacred Shivalingams of Andhra Pradesh, giving it its ancient name Trilinga Desh. Draksharama is one of the important centers of Shiva worship in Andhra Pradesh.Several legends tie together the five Pancharama temples dedicated to Shiva. Legend also has it that Vyasa installed the Shivalingam at Draksharama. Legend also has it that Draksharama was the site of Daksha yagna. Since it is believed that Sati immolated herself at the site of her father's sacrificial hall, no sacrificial yagna rituals are performed here.The Bhimeswara temple at Draksharama has two prakarams. The outer prakaram is pierced with four entrances each with a gopuram. The gopuram on the west is a five tiered one. The entrance to the inner prakaram is on the south. A pillared two storeyed verandah lines the inner prakaram (tiruchutrumaaligai in the ancient temples of Tamilnadu). The sculptural work in the mukha mandapam depicts clear Chalukyan features.There are shrines to Lakshmi Narayana, Sankaranarayana, Ganapati and the Navagrahas.The sanctum is two storeyed. The walls surrounding both levels are beautified with sculptural work. Two flights of stairs lead to the upper level of the sanctum. Bhimeswara is enshrined in the form of a ten feet high Shivalingam in the sanctum. Shiva's consort here is Manikyamba.Mahashivaratri and Navaratri are some of the festivals celebrated heHistory: This temple was built by the Eastern Chalukyan King of Vengi - Bhima, during very troubled times (9th -10th centuries), when his kingdom was under attack by the Rashtrakootas. Inscriptions reveal that he had to fight as many as 360 battles. Chalukya Bhima also built the Chalukya Bhimeswaram temple at Samalkota nearby. The Draksharamam temple contains as many as 400 inscriptions going back to the 11th century. These inscriptions can be traced back to the Eastern and the Western Chalukyas as well as the Cholas and Kalinga rulers.How to reachAir : The nearest airport to Draskharamam is in Vijayawada at Ryali Templea distance of 185 km. Rail :The nearest rail head is in Kakinada at a distance of 17 km. Road : One can easily reach Draskharam by bus from Kakinada and Rajahmundry.

Body part : Devi's left cheek has fallen here.

Kamakhya temple

13) Hari kshetre Kama rupi : This shakti peetha is in Assam near Gauhati. The deity is called Kmamkhya Devi. This temple consists of three major chambers. The western chamber is large and rectangular and is not used by the general pilgrims for worship. The middle chamber is a square, with a small idol of the Goddess, a later addition. The walls of this chamber contain sculpted images of Naranarayana, related inscriptions and other gods. The middle chamber leads to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple in the form of a cave, which consists of no image but a natural underground spring that flows through a yoni-shaped cleft in the bedrock. During the Ambuvaci festival each summer,the menstruation of the Goddess Kamakhya is celebrated. During this time, the water in the main shrine runs red with iron oxide resembling menstrual fluid.
It is likely that this is an ancient Khasi sacrificial site, and worshiping here still includes sacrifices. Devotees come every morning with goats to offer to Shakti.
The Kalika Purana, an ancient work in Sanskrit describes Kamakhya as the yielder of all desires, the young bride of Shiva, and the giver of salvation.Shakti is known as Kamakhya.

The Kamakhya Temple in Assam symbolizes the "fusion of faiths and practices" of Aryan and non-Aryan elements in Assam. The different names associated with the goddess are names of local Aryan and non-Aryan goddesses (Kakati 1989, p38).The yogini tantra mentions that the religion of the Yogini Pitha is of Kirata origin.According to Banikanta Kakati, there existed a tradition among the priests established by Naranarayana that the Garos, a matrilineal people, offered worship at the Kamakhya site by sacrificing pigs (Kakati 1989, p37).
The goddess is worshiped according to both the Vamachara (left hand path) as well as the Dakshinachara (right hand path) modes of worship (Kakati, 1989 p45). Offerings to the goddess are usually flowers, but might include animal sacrifices. In general female animals are exempt from sacrifice, a rule that is relaxed during mass sacrifices (Kakati 1989, p65).
According to the Kalika purana, Kamakhya Temple denotes the spot where Sati used to retire in secret to satisfy her amour with Shiva. According to a legend the Koch Bihar royal family was banned by Devi herself from offering puja at the temple. In fear of this curse, to this day no descendants of that family dares to even look upward towards the Kamakhya hill while passing by. Without the support of the Koch royal family the temple faced lot of hardship. By the end of 1658, the Ahoms under king Jayadhvaj Singha had conquered the Lower Assam and their interests in the temple grew. In the decades that followed the Ahom kings, all who were either devout Shaivite or Shakta continued to support the temple by rebuilding and renovating it.
Rudra Singha (reign 1696 to 1714) was a devout Hindu and as he grew older he decided to formally embrace the religion and become an orthodox Hindu by being initiated or taking sharan of a Guru, who would teach him the mantras and become his spiritual guide. But, he could not bear the thought of humbling himself in front a Brahmin who is his subject. He therefore sent envoys to Bengal and summoned Krishnaram Bhattacharyya, a famous mahant of Shakta sect who lived in Malipota, near Santipur in Nadia district. The mahant was unwilling to come, but consented on being promised to be given the care of the Kamakhya temple to him. Though the king did not take sharan, he satisfied the mahant by ordering his sons and the Brahmins in his entourage to accept him as their spiritual guru.
When Rudra Singha died, his eldest son Siba Singha (reign 1714 to 1744), who became the king, gave the management of the Kamakhya temple and along with it large areas of land (Debottar land) to Mahant Krishnaram Bhattacharyya. The Mahant and his successors came to be known as Parbatiya Gosains, as they resided on top of the Nilachal hill. Many Kamakhya priests and modern Saktas of Assam are either disciples or descendants of the Parbatiya Gosains, or of the Nati and Na Gosains. Being the centre for Tantra worship this temple attracts thousands of tantra devotees in an annual festival known as the Ambuvaci. Another annual celebration is the Manasha Puja. Durga Puja is also celebrated annually at Kamakhya during Navaratri in the autumn. This five day festival attracts several thousand visitors.

Body part : Devi's Vulva (yoni) has fallen here.

14) Prayage Madhaveshwari : It is in Prayag (Allahabad) in Uttar Pradesh. The temple here it is called as MATAJI ka temple (or LALITA ) by the locals. You can go by auto or riksha from the rail way station. Ananda bhavan and Hanuman temple are the othere place of interest. Since this temple is little away from the main road, you have to sepcify for this particualrly as it is not very famous. Evening at 7 pm every day Harati is performed. Locals are not calling the devi as Madhaveshwari.

Body part : Devi's fingers have fallen here.

JwalamukhidiviJwala mukhi Temple

15) Jwalayam Vaishnavi devi : Jwalamukhi temple is in Himachal Pradesh at Kangra
Other Deities at Kangra are Mahakali, Unpurna, Chandi, Hinglaj, Bindhya Basni, Maha Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ambika and Anji Devi.
Ancient legends speak of a time when demons lorded over the Himalaya mountains and harassed the gods. Led by Lord Vishnu, the gods decided to destroy them. They focused their strengths and huge flames rose from the ground. From that fire, a young girl took birth. She is regarded as Adishakti-the first 'shakti'.
There is a copper pipe in this temple through which natural gas comes out and the priest of the temple lights this.

Body part : Devi's head part has fallen here.

MangalaGouri Temple,Gaya

(a rare photo)

16) Gaya Mangalya gourika : The Mangalagauri temple in Gaya (Bihar) has been mentioned in Padma Purana, Vayu Purana and Agni Purana and in other scriptures and tantric works. The present temple dates back to 1459 AD. The shrine is dedicated to Shakti or the mother Goddess in the predominantly Vaishnavite pilgrimage center of Gaya. Mangalagauri is worshiped as the Goddess of benevolence. This temple constitutes an Upa-Shakti Pitha - where it is believed that a part of the body of Shakti fell - according to mythology. Here Shakti is worshiped in the form of a breast symbol, a symbol of nourishment.The temple is facing east, and is built on top of the Mangalagauri hill. A flight of steps and a motorable road lead to the temple. The sanctum houses the symbol of the Goddess and it also has some finely carved ancient relief sculptures. A small hall or mandap stands in front of the temple. The courtyard also houses a fire pit for the home. There are also two minor shrines dedicated to Shiva and images of Mahishasura MardiniGaya is one of the most famous spiritual destinations in India. Gaya is located in Bihar and stands on the bank of Falgu River. Gaya in India is held holy and pious by both Hindu and Buddhists. The narrow by lanes with age old buildings, beautiful natural surroundings with rocky hills on the three sides and river flowing by the city on the western side makes the city look beautiful and elates the spiritual atmosphere of the place.
The city derived its name from the demon, Gayasur who is said to have resided in this area. It is said that Lord Vishnu killed the demon by crushing him under his feet. On his being crushed, the demon got transformed into numerous rocky hills that form the topography of the city today. Then the deities decided to sit over the dead demon and that is the reason why one can find numerous temples over these surrounding rocky hills. It is said that any one who touched him or looked at him were fred of all sins. Mangla Gauri, Rama Shila, Brahmayoni and Shringa Sthan are the places where one can find temples on the hill tops and which comprise of the pilgrimage circuit of the city.
The Mangla Gauri shrine in Gaya, one of the most holy sites has two rounded stones which symbolizes the breasts of the Goddess Sati, who is regarded as the first wife of Lord Shiva.
Vishnupad Temple is marked by a footprint of Vishnu. This footprint is the significance of the act of Lord Vishnu crushing Gayasur under his foot. The temple that stands today was rebuilt by Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar in the 18th century. As per the Buddhist tradition and culture, this footstep mark is regarded that of Lord Buddha who is said to be the avatar of Vishnu.
The temples and the Ghats that are present by the River Falgu are also of great spiritual significance. Some trees are also held sacred by the Hindus and in Gaya one would find Pipal trees, Akshayavat and the undying Banyan which are also offered prayers and offerings in huge numbers by the pilgrims coming into the city.
Gaya is held as an important spiritual center by Hindus as a site which offers salvation to the souls. Buddhists hold Gaya as an important pilgrimage center because of the presence of the Brahmayoni or the Gayasia hill where Buddha preached the Fire Sermon or the Adittapariyaya Sutta.
Body part : Devi's breast part has fallen here.

Goddess Visalakshi

17) Varanasyam Vishalakshi : It is most famous jyotirlinga out of 12(14). It is well connected by train from New Delhi, Kolkatta, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad and other major cities. The deity is known as Lord Kasi Visweswar and goddess is known as Kasi Visalakshi. You can do abisheka yourself .Original temple was destroyed many times and finally by Auranagazeb and rebuilt byMaharani Ahilya Bai in 1776.
Stay: Many dharmasalas and hotels are available
Places of interest: The new Viswanath temple in the university complex

Body part : Devi's wrist has fallen here.

18) Kashmire tu Saraswati : The Sharda Temple is located in Kishanganga Valley just across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) in a small village called Shardi at the confluence of River Kishanganga and River Jhelum which flows from Kashmir.
In 1948, during raids by Pakistani tribal raiders, the village fell into Pakistani hands.
A famous learning centre of Kashmiris, it is identified by noted historians and chroniclers including Al Beruni (1130 ad) and M A Stein, who visited the temple in 1892, (in Rajtarangini) as one of the most important temples of the Hindus equivalent to the Shiva Lingam of Somnath, Vishnu of Thaneshwar and Surya of Multan.
Abul Fazl in Ain-i-Akbari (16th century) says that on every eighth day of the month at the time of full moon, the temple "shakes and produces the most extraordinary effect." He however does not explain the "extraordinary effect."
The temple is so vital to Kashmiris that Kashmiri language has the script of Sharda, which is little similar to Devanagari.
Kalhana in Rajatarangini has said, devotees of Durga and Shiva from all over the country would flock to the temple of Sharda which can be approached from Bandipur in North Kashmir, about 80 km from Srinagar.
Through centuries the temple had remained the object of worship and devotion of lakhs of pilgrims from all over the country. Though in ruins now, the entire temple complex inspires grandeur and awe.
The temple had a massive library attached to it which had priceless works on art, science, literature, architecture, music, humanities, medicine, astrology, astronomy, philosophy, law and jurisprudence and sanskrit etc. The library was used by scholars from even neighbouring countries.
Kashmir was also called "Shardapeeth" (the base of Sharda), the name being derived from the temple.
Body part : Devi's right hand has fallen here

Saraswathi Temple , Kashmir

As it is not possible to visit this shaktipeetha, one can visit the famous Sarwathi temple in Basara in Nizamabad district of Andhra Pradesh. Basara is 200 km from Hyderabad.

Gnana Saraswathi

Basara temple:
Located on the banks of river Godavari, the Gnana Saraswathi Temple at Basara situated about 40 kms from Nizambad district head quarters and 70 Kms from Nirmal town of Adilabad district. Situated at a distance of 205 kms (approx) from Hyderabad, the Saraswati temple at Basara is one of the two famous Saraswati temples in India, the other being in Jammu & Kashmir. Legend has it that Sage Vyasa during his stay here used to bring daily three handfuls of sand after a bath in Godavari and kept it at a place, which transformed as the images of Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali. How ever, according to Brahmandapuranam, Adikavi Valmiki installed Saraswati and wrote Ramayana here. There is a marble image of Valmiki and his samadhi near the temple. It is believed that this temple is one of the three temples constructed near the confluence of Manjira and Godavari rivers by Ashtrakutas. According to another school of thought ‘Bijialudu’ a Karnataka king, who ruled the province of Nandagiri with Nanded as his capital in the sixth century, constructed the temple at Basara. The image of Lakshmi stands besides Goddess Saraswati in the sanctum sanctorum. Due to the presence of Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali, Basara is considered as the abode of the divine trinity on the Bank of the River Godavari which is 40kms from Nizamabad on Adilabad district border.
Now a days there is heavy rush of pilgrims coming to Basara to perform “Akshara abhyasam” for the children. According to the legend Maharishi vyasa and his disciples and sage Suka decided to settle down in a cool and serene atmosphere after the kurukshetra war. In the quest for the peaceful abode, he came to Dandaka forest and pleased with serenity of the region selected this place. After his ablutions in the river Godavari Maharishi Vyasa used to bring three fistful of sand and place it in three small heaps and made images Sarada, Laxmi, Gowri with his mystic power and later conducted prayers. This idol made of sand has its face smeared with turmeric. Eating a little bit of this turmeric paste, it is believed, will enhance one’s wisdom and knowledge. Many people, in fact, take their kids to Basara for “Akshara abhyasam” before commencing formal school education. Special poojas and celebrations are held at the temple during Maha Sivarathri, beginning 15 days before (Vasantha Panchami) and continuing 3 days after the festival. Devi Navarathrulu is celebrated for ten days during Dasara. Since Maharishi Vyasa spent considerable time in prayers, the place was then called “Vasara” and turned into Basara due to the influence of the Marathi language in the region.

Ugadi 2012

2012-03-10T08:19:00.000-08:00

Ugadi is the New Year's Day for the people of Andhra Pradesh and also for the Telugu people all over the world. Those who live north of the Vindhya hills observe it as "Barhaspatyamana". People living to the south of the Vindhya hills observe it as "Sauramana" or "Chandramana".

A Unique Ritual
There is a peculiarity about the practices of the various sects of Brahmins; one who is not conversant with them finds it difficult to understand their meaning. Even though they are all Brahmins certain differences in their lineage may be traced among them. These become manifest in their distinctive calendars where the dates and months vary. Some have calculations according to the solar system, and others according to the lunar system; with the result that despite all being Brahmins the New Year differs among different sects. Thus there is a Telugu New Year's Day, a Tamil New Year's Day, and a New Year's distinct from these in the almanac of North India.

According to Chandramana, Ugadi is celebrated on the bright fortnight ('Shukla Paksha') of the first month ('Chaitra Masa') in the first season of the year i.e. Spring ('Vasanta-Ritu'). As all these important elements are present, this day has special significance marking the commencement of a New Year.

The people of Karnataka celebrate this festival with great devotion. Preparations for Ugadi begin a week in advance; homes are cleaned and decorated, new clothes are bought, and on the day of the festival itself, fresh mango leaves are strung up above doorways to denote prosperity in the New Year. Pujas and feasting are, as in almost all the other festivals of India, an important aspect of the celebrations.

Traditionally, reading literary works, poetic recitations, chanting of mantras, listening to the future predictions and hearing classical music are a part of the celebration.

‘Panchanga Sravanam’, the religious almanac for the year to come, is the most observed ritual of Ugadi. Predictions for future are organised at temples. The day is considered to be auspicious to start new ventures.

Significance

It is believed that the creator of the Hindu pantheon Lord Brahma started creation on this day - "Chaitra Suddha Padhyami" or the Ugadi day. Also the calculations of the great Indian Mathematician Bhaskaracharya proclaim the Ugadi day as the beginning of the New Year, New month and New day. The onset of spring also marks a beginning of new life with plants acquiring new life, shoots and leaves. The vibrancy of life and verdant fields, meadows full of colourful blossoms signify growth, prosperity and well-being.

With the coming of Ugadi, the naturally perfumed Jasmine's spread a sweet fragrance, which is perhaps unmatched by any other in nature's own creation. While large garlands of Jasmine are offered to Gods in homes and temples, Jasmine flowers woven in clusters adorn the braids of women.

Predictions Of The Year
Ugadi marks the beginning of a new Hindu lunar calendar with a change in the moon's orbit. On this day, people chant mantras and the pundits make predictions for the coming year. Traditionally, the "Panchangasravanam" or listening to the yearly calendar was done at the temples or at the Town square but with the onset of modern technology, one can get to hear the priest-scholar on television sets right in one's living room.

Preparing For The Occasion
Preparations for the festival begin a week ahead. Houses are given a thorough wash. Shopping for new clothes and buying other items that go with the requirements of the festival are done with a lot of excitement.

Ugadi is celebrated with festive fervour in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. While it is called Ugadi in Andhara and Karnataka, in Maharashtra it is known as "Gudipadava".

On Ugadi day, people wake up before the break of dawn and take a head bath after, which they decorate, the entrance of their houses with fresh mango leaves. The green mango leaves tied to the doorway signify a good crop and general well being. It is noteworthy that one uses mango leaves and coconuts (as in a 'Kalasam', to initiate any puja) only on auspicious occasions to propitiate gods.

People also splash fresh cow dung water on the ground in front of their house and draw colourful floral designs. This is a common sight in every household. People perform the ritualistic worship to God invoking his blessings before they start off with the New Year. They pray for their health, wealth and prosperity and success in business too. Ugadi is also the most auspicious time to start new ventures.

Special Delicacies
It is a season for raw mangoes spreading its aroma in the air and the fully blossomed Neem tree that makes the air healthy. Also, jaggery made with fresh crop of sugarcane adds a renewed flavour to the typical dishes associated with Ugadi.

"Ugadi Pachchadi" is one such dish that has become synonymous with Ugadi. It is made of new jaggery, raw mango pieces, Neem flowers and new tamarind. The inner significance of this preparation is to indicate that life is a mixture of good and bad, joy and sorrow and all of them have to be treated alike.

All experiences have to be treated with equanimity. Every one should make a resolve that he will face calmly whatever happens in this year, accepting it with good grace and welcoming everything. Consider everything as for one's own good. Men should rise above sorrow and happiness, success and failure. This is the primary message of the Ugadi festival.

In Andhra Pradesh, eatables such as "Pulihora", "Bobbatlu" and preparations made with raw mango go well with the occasion. In Karnataka too, similar preparations are made but called "Puliogure" and "Holige". The Maharashtrians make "Puran Poli" or sweet 'Rotis'.

Kavi Sammelanam
Kavi Sammelanam or poetry recitation is a typical Telugu Ugadi feature. Ugadi is also a time when people look forward to a literary feast in the form of Kavi Sammelanam. Many poets come up with new poems written on subjects ranging from Ugadi to politics to modern trends and lifestyles.

Ugadi Kavi Sammelanam is also a launch pad for new and budding poets. It is generally carried live on All India Radio, Hyderabad and the Doordarshan - Hyderabad, following "Panchangasravanam" (New year calendar) narrating the way the New Year would shape up in the lives of people and the state in general. 'Kavis' or poets of many hues - political, comic, satirical reformist, literary and melancholic make an appearance on the Ugadi stage.

Ugadi is thus a festival of many shades. It ushers in the New Year, brings a rich bounce of flora and fills the hearts of people with joy and contentment.

Ugadi Festival Food

Special Delicacies ‘Ugadi Pacchadi’ is the traditional Ugadi recipe prepared by the people of Andhra Pradesh. It is a mixture of six tastes - Neem (bitter), Raw Mango (tangy), Tamarind Juice (sour), Green Chilli/Pepper (heat), Jaggery and ripe banana pieces (sweet), pinch of salt, which symbolize life as a blend of different experiences (sorrow, joy, anger, fear, disgust, surprise), which should be accepted together. The same is known as ‘Bevu Bella’ in Karnataka.

Sometimes, only neem leaves and jaggery are eaten and they signify sorrow and joy in life.

A. R. Rahman

2012-02-28T02:07:00.001-08:00

A. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman in 2007
Background information
Birth name	A. S. Dileep Kumar
Also known as	A. R. Rahman, A. R. R.
Born	6 January 1966 (age 46)Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India^[2]
Genres	Film score
Occupations	Singer, songwriter, composer,record producer, music director, arranger,entrepreneur, philanthropist,conductor
Instruments	Vocals, guitar, percussion,drums, harpejji, continuum fingerboard, keyboard, piano,accordion, goblet drum, concert harp
Years active	1980–present
Labels	K. M. Musiq
Associated acts	Nemesis Avenue, SuperHeavy

Career

Film scoring and soundtracks

When he was nine, Rahman accidentally played a tune on piano during his father's recording for a film, which R. K. Shekhar later developed into a complete song, "Vellithen Kinnam Pol", for the Malayalam film Penpada. This track credited to his father, was sung by Jayachandranand penned by Bharanikkavu Sivakumar. His film career began in 1992, when he started Panchathan Record Inn, a music recording and mixing studio attached to the backyard of his house. Over time it would become the most advanced recording studio in India, and arguably one of Asia’s most sophisticated and high-tech studios. He initially composed scores for documentaries, jingles for advertisements andIndian Television channels and other projects. In 1987 Rahman, then still known as Dileep got his first opportunity to compose jingles for new range of watches being launched by Allwyn In 1992, he was approached by film director Mani Ratnam to compose the score and soundtrack for Ratnam's Tamil film Roja The debut led Rahman to receive the Rajat Kamal (Silver Lotus) award for Best Music Director at the National Film Awards, an unprecedented win for a first-time film composer. Rahman has since been awarded the Silver Lotus three more times for Minsara Kanavu (Electric Dreams, Tamil) in 1997, Lagaan (Tax, Hindi) in 2002, Kannathil Muthamittal (A Peck on the Cheek, Tamil) in 2003, the most ever by any composer.

Roja's score met with high sales and acclaim in both its original and dubbed versions, led by the theme song "Chinna Chinna Aasai" bringing about a marked change in film music at the time. Rahman followed this with successful scores for Tamil–language films of the Chennai film industry including Ratnam's politically charged Bombay, the urbanite Kadhalan, Thiruda Thiruda and S. Shankar's debut film Gentleman, spurred by the popular dance song "Chikku Bukku Rayile". Rahman worked with director Bharathiraaja's Kizhakku Cheemayileand Karuththamma, producing successful Tamil rural folk inspired scores and delivered the grand saxophonic score for K. Balachander'sDuet. The 1995 film Indira and the romantic comedies Mr. Romeo and Love Birds all gained him considerable notice His fanbase in Japan increased with Muthu 's success there His soundtracks gained him recognition in the Tamil Nadu film industry and around the world for his stylistic versatility incorporating Western classical, Carnatic and Tamil traditional/folk music traditions, jazz, reggaeand rock music.The soundtrack of Bombay sold 12 million copies worldwide.^[40] The "Bombay Theme"—from Ratnam'sBombay—would later reappear in his score of Deepa Mehta's Fire and various compilations and media around the world. It was featured in the Palestinian film Divine Intervention in 2002, and in the Nicolas Cage film Lord of War, in 2005. Rangeela, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, marked Rahman's debut for Hindi-language films made in the Mumbai film industry.Many successful scores for films including Dil Se and the percussive Taal followed. Sufi mysticism would inspire the track "Chaiyya Chaiyya" from the former, as well as the composition "Zikr" from his score for the film Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero for which he created large symphonic orchestral and choral arrangements.^[19] His score for the Chennai production Minsaara Kanavu garnered Rahman his second National Film Award for Best Music Direction in 1997, and a South FilmFare Award for Best Music Direction in a Tamil film, breaking a record with six consecutive wins in the latter category. Rahman would go onto win the award a further three consecutive times. Musical cues in scores for Sangamam and Iruvaremployed Carnatic vocals and instruments such as the veena with leads of rock guitar and jazz In the 2000s Rahman created hit scores for Rajiv Menon's Kandukondain Kandukondain, Alaipayuthey, Ashutosh Gowariker's Swades and Rang De Basanti. He composed songs with Hindustani motifs for Water (2005). By the end of 2003, Rahman had sold more than 150 million records of his film scores andsoundtracks for over 50 film scores worldwide.

Rahman has worked with Indian poets and lyricists such as Javed Akhtar, Gulzar, Vairamuthu and Vaali. He has consistently produced commercially successful soundtracks when collaborating with particular film directors such as Mani Ratnam who he has worked with sinceRoja, and the director S. Shankar in the films Gentleman, Kadhalan, Indian, Jeans, Mudhalvan, Nayak, Boys, Sivaji and Enthiran.

In 2005, Rahman extended his Panchathan Record Inn studio by establishing AM Studios in Kodambakkam, Chennai, thereby creating the most cutting-edge studio in Asia. In 2006, Rahman launched his own music label, KM Music.^[50] Its first release was his score to the film Sillunu Oru Kaadhal. Rahman scored the Mandarin language picture Warriors of Heaven and Earth in 2003 after researching and utilizing Chinese and Japanese classical music,^[52] and won the Just Plain Folks Music Award For Best Music Album for his score of the 2006 film Varalaru (God Father).^[53] He co-scored the Shekhar Kapur project and his first British film, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, in 2007.^[54]He garnered an Asian Film Award nomination for Best Composer at the Hong Kong International Film Festival for his Jodhaa Akbar scoreHis compositions have been sampled for other scores within India,^[56] and appeared in such films as Inside Man, Lord of War, Divine Intervention and The Accidental Husband. In 2008, Rahman scored his first Hollywood picture, the comedy Couples Retreat released the next year, which won him the BMI London Award for Best Score. Rahman scored the film Slumdog Millionaire in 2008, for which he won a Golden Globe and two Academy Awards, becoming the first Asian to do so. The songs "Jai Ho" and "O…Saya" from the soundtrack of this film met with commercial success internationally. In 2010, Rahman composed scores for the romance film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa, blockbuster sci-fi romance film Enthiran and Danny Boyle's 127 Hours. Rahman started off the year 2011 by scoring Imtiaz Ali's musical filmRockstar. The soundtrack became a phenomenal success and earned Rahman immense critical praise.

Performing and other projects

Rahman has been involved in several projects aside from film. Vande Mataram, an album of his original compositions released on India's 50th anniversary of independence in 1997, enjoyed great commercial success.Vande Mataram is the largest selling Indian non-film album to date. He followed it up with an album for the Bharat Bala–directed video Jana Gana Mana, a conglomeration of performances by many leading exponents and artists of Indian classical music. Rahman has written jingles for ads and composed several orchestrations for athletic events, television and internet media publications, documentaries and short films.He frequently enlists the Czech Film Orchestra, Prague and the Chennai Strings Orchestra.

Rahman performing at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert 2010

In 1999, Rahman partnered with choreographers Shobana and Prabhu Deva and a Tamil cinema dancing troupe to perform with Michael Jackson in Munich, Germany at his "Michael Jackson and Friends" concert. In 2002, he composed the music for his maiden stage production, Bombay Dreams, commissioned by musical theatre composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. Finnish folk music band Värttinä collaborated with Rahman to write the music for The Lord of the Rings theatre production and in 2004, Rahman composed the piece "Raga's Dance" for Vanessa-Mae's album Choreography performed by Mae and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Since 2004, Rahman has performed three successful world tours to audiences in Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, Dubai, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States and India.He has been collaborating with Karen David for her upcoming studio album. A two-disc soundtrack,Introducing A. R. Rahman (2006) featuring 25 of his pieces from Tamil film scores was released in May 2006,and his non-film album, Connections was released on 12 December 2008.Rahman also performed at the White House State dinner arranged by US President Barack Obama during the official visit of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on November 24, 2009. Rahman is one of over 70 artists who performed on "We Are the World 25 for Haiti", acharity single to raise emergency relief funds in the wake of the 2010 Haiti earthquake. In 2010, Rahman composed "Jai Jai Garvi Gujarat" in honor of the 50th anniversary of the formation of Gujarat State, "Semmozhiyaana Thamizh Mozhiyaam" as part of World Classical Tamil Conference 2010, and the official theme song of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, "Jiyo Utho Bado Jeeto". Rahman organised his first world tour, named A. R. Rahman Jai Ho Concert: The Journey Home World Tour, in 2010. The ongoing tour was kicked off on June 11 at the Nassau Coliseum in New York and will span 16 major cities worldwide.

Some of his notable compositions were performed live by the London Philharmonic Orchestra in April 2010. In February 2011, Rahman collaborated with Michael Bolton for his new studio album Gems – The Duets Collection. Rahman reworked on his song "Sajna" from the 2009 American film Couples Retreat to create the track.^[80]

On 20 May 2011, English musician Mick Jagger announced the formation of a new supergroup, SuperHeavy, which includes Dave Stewart,Joss Stone, Damian Marley, and Rahman. The band's self-titled album is slated for release in September 2011. The album will see Mick Jagger singing in Rahman's composition "Satyameva Jayate", which translates to "the truth alone triumphs".

In January 2012, it was announced the German Film Orchestra Babelsberg would join KM Music Conservatory musicians in a 100-member concert tour of five Indian cities performing Rahman's compositions. The tour, named "Germany and India 2011–2012: Infinite Opportunities'. Classic Incantations", will mark the centenary of Indian cinema and of Studio Babelsberg, the world's oldest film studio.

Awards

AR Rahman at his residence inChennai after bagging two Academy Awards for his work in Slumdog Millionaire (2009)

Rahman was the 1995 recipient of the Mauritius National Award and the Malaysian Award for contributions to music. He was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his first West-End production. A four-time National Film Award winner and recipient of six Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, fifteen Filmfare Awards and thirteen Filmfare Awards South for his music and scores. He has been conferred Kalaimamani from the Government of Tamil Nadu for excellence in the field of music, special music achievement awards from the Government of Uttar Pradesh and Government of Madhya Pradesh and the Padma Shri from the Government of India. In 2006, he received an honorary award from Stanford University for contributions to global music. In 2007, Rahman was entered into theLimca Book of Records as "Indian of the Year for Contribution to Popular Music", and theGuinness World Records in 2010 as the original composer of "Maa Tujhe Salaam", from the albumVande Mataram – the song performed in the most number of languages worldwide (265). He is the 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient from the Rotary Club of Madras. In 2009, for his score of Slumdog Millionaire, Rahman won the Broadcast Film Critics Association Award, the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score, the BAFTA Award for Best Film Music, and two Academy Awardsfor Best Original Music Score and Best Original Song at the 81st Academy Awards. Rahman has received honorary doctorates from Middlesex University and Aligarh Muslim University.Later the year Rahman was conferred the honorary doctorate from Anna University in Chennai.He has also won two Grammy Awards, for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album and Best Song Written for a Visual Media. Rahman was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian honor, in 2010. Rahman's work for the film 127 Hours garnered him Golden Globe, BAFTA, and two Academy Award nominations for Best Original Music Score and Best Original Song in 2011. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Trinity College of Music, presented to him by Trinity College London.

latest helicopters

2012-02-17T21:31:00.001-08:00

India today formally inducted its latest Mi-17 V5 armed helicopters from Russia to enhance its operational capabilities including carrying troops and cargo to high altitude areas.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is inducting Russian-made medium-lift Mi-17V5 today on 17/02/2012

“Mi-17 V5, an upgrade of Mi-17 in the medium-lift category, is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and onboard navigation systems. It is a glass cockpit variant; the first of its kind to get inducted into the IAF. It has onboard weather radar, state of the art autopilot and is compatible with the latest generation (Gen-III) night-vision goggles. With this, the helicopter can undertake all-weather, day-and-night operations in any kind of terrain. The helicopter is also equipped with a Bambi-Bucket that can be used for firefighting,”
pic courtesy:Indian Defence.

Sacrifice of an indian

2012-02-17T21:23:00.000-08:00

This is a true story, dates back to the British rule in India.

The Pamban Bridge is situated in Tamil Nadu, India. At the entrance of the bridge you can see a picture of a weeping man holding some human body parts close to his chest.

This bridge was built during the British rule in India and it was constructed in such a way that the center portion of the bridge could be lifted with the help of huge wheels, so that ships could easily pass under the bridge. On the bridge, roads and rail tracks are laid for trains and other vehicles to pass...

A middle aged man was appointed to roll the wheels up and down when ships arrive. Once he saw a train slowly approaching, while he was pulling back the bridge after a ship quietly passed beneath. He had to pull back quickly or else there would be a fatal accident and thousands would have died.

At that time his 9 year old son came with lunch. When he saw his father struggling with the wheels, he kept the lunch box down and started helping him to roll the wheels to put the bridge back. Suddenly his son's finger got caught inside the wheel and he started crying out. At this time if the father tries to save his son, the bridge could not be put back on time. He had no other option but to ignore his son's cry. With all his strength he kept on rolling the wheels to down the bridge. As the wheels rolled on, his son slowly started slipping away into the huge machine.

Tears rolled down his father's cheeks, but he ignored his son's cry. If he tried to save him, the train will surely fall into the sea and thousands of people will die. Slowly the boy's whole body fell into the machine and his father could hear his bones breaking one by one, until with a loud sound, his head cracked.

The train with thousands of passengers slowly rolled on the rails, without knowing what had happened there.

Though this man performed his duty honestly he lost his only loving son. With extreme lamentation, he pulled out his son's body parts from the machine and held it close to his chest and cried bitterly.

British Government honored him greatly and in memory of this incident they placed the picture at the entrance of the bridge...

There are selfless people still, only thing is we need to identify them

Jai Hind

DEATH OF GANDHI

2012-02-09T09:22:00.000-08:00

Godse is often a misunderstood character. He is referred to as a Hindu fanatic. It is often hard to understand Godse because the Government of India had suppressed information about him. His court statements, letters etc. were all banned from the public until recently. Judging from his writings one thing becomes very clear – He was no fanatic. His court statements are very well read out and indicate a calm and collected mental disposition. He never even once speaks ill about Gandhi as a person, but only attacks Gandhi's policies which caused ruin and untold misery to Hindus. Another interesting point to note is that Godse had been working with the Hindu refugees fleeing from Pakistan. He had seen the horrible atrocities committed on them. Many women had their hands cut off, nose cut off, even little girls had been raped mercilessly. Despite this Godse did not harm even single Muslim in India which he could easily have. So it would be a grave mistake to call him a Hindu fanatic.

Let us start by studying the motive behind Godse's act. By seeing the nature of the assassination in public space and Godse's act of turning himself over to the Police, we can see that Godse did not do this for personal reasons. He very well knew that he would be hanged and his name would be disgraced as Gandhi was considered a saint. And again Godse could have ran away and escaped punishment. But he did the reverse. He called a police officer and courted arrest. Before we proceed it would be wise to understand the backdrop of the assassination.

The central government had taken a decision — Pakistan will not be given Rs 55 crores. On January 13 Gandhi started a fast unto death that Pakistan must be given the money. On January 13, the central government changed its earlier decision and announced that Pakistan would be given the amount. On January 13, Nathuram decided to assassinate Gandhi.

Nathuram Godse was a learned man, very sharp and intelligent – editor of "Agrani" (one of the most famous newspaper of that time – with Nana Aapte). In his last editorial of "Agrani" which he changed overnight – he said "Gandhi must be stopped – at any cost" and he justified why Gandhiji's assassination was not only inevitable but also a delayed action, sth tht shud've happened LONG AGO.

In Nathuram's words - " I don't refute Gandhi's theory of non-violence. He may be a saint but he is not a politician. His theory of non-violence denies self-defence and self-interest. The non-violence that defines the fight for survival as violence is a theory not of non-violence but of self-destruction.The division of the nation was an unnecessary decision. What was the percentage of the Muslim population as compared to the population of the nation? There was no need for a separate nation. Had it been a just demand, Maulana Azad would not have stayed back in India. But because Jinnah insisted and because Gandhi took his side, India was divided, in spite of opposition from the nation, the Cabinet. An individual is never greater than a nation.

In a democracy you cannot put forward your demands at knife-point. Jinnah did it and Gandhi stabbed the nation with the same knife. He dissected the land and gave a piece to Pakistan. We did picket that time but in vain. The Father of our Nation went to perform his paternal duties for Pakistan! Gandhi blackmailed the cabinet with his fast unto death. His body, his threats to die are causing the destruction — geographical as well as economical — of the nation. Today, Muslims have taken a part of the nation, tomorrow Sikhs may ask for Punjab. The religions are again dividend into castes, they will demand sub-divisions of the divisions. What remains of the concept of one nation, national integration? Why did we fight the British in unison for independence? Why not separately? Bhagat Singh did not ask only for an independent Punjab or Subhash Chandra Bose for an independent Bengal?

I am going to assassinate him in the open, before the public, because I am going to do it as my duty. If I do it surreptitiously, it becomes a crime in my own eyes. I will not try to escape, I will surrender and naturally I will be hanged. One assassination, one hanging. I don't want two executions for one assassination and I don't want your involvement, participation or company. (This was for Nana-Apte and Veer Savarkar as they were against ghandhi's policies too, Godse wanted to assassinate gandhi all by himself and took promise from Nana Apte that he will continue helping Veer Savarkar in rebuilding India as a strong free nation.)

On January 30, I reached Birla Bhavan at 12 pm. Gandhi was sitting outside on a cot enjoying the sunshine. Vallabhbhai Patel's granddaughter was sitting at his feet. I had the revolver with me. I could have assassinated him easily then, but I was convinced that his assassination was to be a punishment and a sentence against him, and I would execute him. I wanted witnesses for the execution but there were none. I did not want to escape after the execution as there was not an iota of guilt in my mind. I wanted to surrender, but surrender to whom? There was a good crowd to collect for the evening prayers. I decided on the evening of January 30 as the date for Gandhi's execution.

Gandhi climbed the steps and came forward. He had kept his hands on the shoulders of the two girls. I wanted just three seconds more. I moved two steps forward and faced Gandhi. Now I wanted to take out the revolver and salute him for whatever sacrifice and service he had made for the nation. One of the two girls was dangerously close to Gandhi and I was afraid that she might be injured in the course of firing. As a precautionary measure I went one more step ahead, bowed before him and gently pushed the girl away from the firing line. The next moment I fired at Gandhi. Gandhi was very weak, there was a feeble sound like 'aah' (There are proof that Gandhi did NOT say "Hey Raam" at that time – it's just made up stuff ) from him and he fell down.

After the firing I raised my hand holding the revolver and shouted, 'Police, police'. For 30 seconds nobody came forward and I scanned the crowd. I saw a police officer. I signalled to him to come forward and arrest me. He came and caught my wrist, then a second man came and touched the revolver… I let it go…"

—

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INDIAN ARMY AVIATION

2012-01-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

History

Introduction

Army aviation corps was formed on 01 November 1986, the Army aviation training which was previously carried out at the 665 Army Aviation Squadron (R&O) under aegis of School of Artillery, is now carried out in an independent Combat Army Aviation Training School at Nashik Road.

The Cheetah Helicopter Simulator has been set up at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) at Nashik. It has been introduced at the initial ground training stage of the pilot training, and is expected to substantially reduce costs and risks of pilot training. The trainee pilots of the AAC will be exposed to different weather conditions like rain, snow, storms and of different terrains in addition to night flying, training in handling emergencies, tactical handling of the flying machine, its different maneuvers and more. The project to install a simulator was proposed in December 2000 and approved in April 2002, with CATS Nashik chosen as the centre for installation.

Organisation

This a partial list of the Corps' Army Aviation Squadrons. Each squadron generally consists of two to three Recce & Observation Flights, which can be interchanged depending on operational requirements. The flights do not lose their identity even when they form part of a squadron. However the term Air Observation Post (AOP) is no longer used in the Corps and has been replaced with the term Recce & Observation (R&O).

CHETAK

Origin: France (Allouette II).
Type: Light utility helicopter.
Accommodation: Two seat side-by-side seating in cockpit. Main cabin can carry up to four passengers. A bit larger and more refined than the HAL Cheetah, with a fully faired fuselage structure.
Engine: Two 870 shp Turbomeca Artouste IIIB.
Speed: 210 km/h (126 mph; 109 knots).
Service Ceiling: 3200 meters (10,496 feet).
Range: 260 nautical miles (540 km; 300 miles).

CHEETAH

Origin: France (SA 315B Lama)
Type: Light utility helicopter
Accommodation: Two seater, side-by-side. A stretcher for CASEVAC (Casualty Evacuation) can be slung underneath.
Engine: One 870 shp Turbomeca Artouste IIIB.
Speed: 192 km/h (115 mph; 100 kts.)
Service Ceiling: 6400 meters (20,992 ft.)
*Indian Cheetahs have deployed to 7500 meters (24,600 ft.)
Range: 260 nautical miles (500 km; 300 miles)
Comments: The HAL Cheetah helicopter units are used for observation, liaison and SAR duties. Army (and IAF) Cheetahs regularly support Indian Army troops at altitudes in excess of 24,000+ feet. The first Turbomeca TM 333-2B2-powered Cheetah was successfully test flown in January 2003, with a significant number of these helicopters likely to be fitted with this more powerful engine in order to modernise the Army Aviation Corps. Pushpinder Singh Chopra, in a June 2001 AW&ST issue, said a Light Observation Helicopter (LOH) program will replace the Cheetahs that HAL has built for the army and air force. At 200 kg (440 lbs), the LOH is to have three times the Cheetah's payload at 18,000 feet above sea level at 20C, the type of operating conditions needed in north-east Kashmir where the Cheetah conducts border patrols. The LOH is to be powered by a single TM 333-2B2 engine.

LANCER

Lancer is based on the airframe of the Cheetah helicopter, the Lancer featured a redesigned 'bubble' made up of smaller toughened perspex panels , two armament pods slung on either side of the aircraft with machine guns and rockets and Armour protection to critical parts of the Helicopter. The Lancer also incorporated Flare / Chaff launchers for protection against the MANPAD threat.

The Lancer is the Counter-Insurgency variant of the successful HAL Cheetah light helicopter

Within months the Lancer saw action first at the operations in Kargil.

Reports indicate that while the Lancer was sucessfulin COIN and suppression activity, an unfortunate side effect was that all Cheetah's were now considered as legitimate targets for hostile fire. Earlier the militants had the policy of leaving Casevac Cheetahs alone. But with the inability to distinguish between the Cheetah and the Lancer, all helicopters have come to be considered as 'Fair game'.

The plexiglas 'Bubble' Cabin was redesigned to incorporate faceted panels of toughened Glass resistant to small arms fire.

A few late production airframes from the Cheetah assembly were directly built as Lancers. HAL had subsequently startedconverting older Cheetah's to the configuration of the Lancer.

The Lancer sports two external fixed armament pods that incorporate one 12.7 mm Machine Gun and three air to ground rockets each.

The Pilots of the Lancer now sit in thier seats which is in a bullet resistant Steel plate enclosure. The pilot will have to swing open the Steel plate while moving from his seat.

Additional survivability features include Flare/Chaff launchers as seen in this picture immediately to the right of the Armament Pod.

A Lancer takes off from the helipad at Yelahanka.

Pilot protection is obvious here in this picture where the Steel Bucket seats are clearly visible.

The Lancer was used in conjunction with a pair of HAL Dhruv's to insert a team of Para Commandos at the Aero India show. In the background, the Dhruv lifts off the ground, as the Lancer sweeps the helipad area.

Dhruv

Origin: India.
Type: Advanced multi-role light helicopter.
Flight Crew: Two.
Length: 15.87 meters.
Main Rotor Diameter: 13.20 meters.
Height: 4.98 meters.
Weights: Empty - 2502 kg (5515 lbs.)
              Maximum - 5500 kg (12,125 lbs.)
Useful Load: 2600 kg (5731 lbs.)
Speed:    Maximum - 290 km/h (180 mph)
              Max. cruising speed 253 km/h (157 mph)
Service Ceiling: 5990 metres (19,680 feet)
Range:    With 1500 kg (3300 lbs.) payload - 216 nautical miles (414 km; 249 miles).
              With max. fuel & 20 min. reserves - 431 nautical miles (810 km; 497 miles).
Fuel Capacity: 1100 kg (2425 lbs.)

Armament: The Army's 'weapons system integrated' helicopters will feature a chin-mounted, three barrel 20mm gun from Lockheed Martin and four pylons - each having two hard points - which will enable it to carry eight Nag anti-tank guided missiles, four 68mm or 70mm rocket pods or four tube-launched air-to-air missiles.

Maximum External Stores Load: 1500 kg. (3307 lb.)
Self Defence: RWR; jammer and chaff/flare dispensers.
Important Milestones:   PT1 (Z3182): Official first flight - 30 August 1992*
                                   PT2 (Z3183): First flight - 08 April 1993.
                                   PT3/PT-A (Z3268): First flight - 26 May 1994.
                                   PT4/PT-N (IN901): First flight - 26 December 1995.
*An unofficial first flight took place on 20 August 1992.

Design Features: The Dhruv features a 'System Bolkow' four-blade hingeless main rotor with carbon fibre composite blades. The blades have advanced aero foils, swept back tips for reduced nose, and feature a ballistic tolerance against bullet hits of up to 12.7mm calibre. The fibre elastoner rotor head holds the blade between a pair of CFRP star-plates, with manual blade folding and a rotor brake provided as standard equipment. A four blade bearing-less crossbeam tail rotor is fitted on the starboard side of the pylon. Vibration damping is provided by an anti-resonance isolation system compromising four isolator elements between the fuselage and the main gearbox. An integrated drive system transmission comprises of the rotor hub, main transmission, upper controls and main rotor hydraulics. The Dhruv also features a four axis automatic flight control system, with an integrated control & stability augmentation system from France.

The airframe makes extensive use of composites (Glass Fibre, Carbon and Kevlar) and accounts for 29% of overall structural weight and 60% of surface area. The military variants include crashworthy fuel tanks, frangible couplings and infra-red suppressors for the engines. The helicopter design enables the crew to survive vertical impacts of up to 30 feet per second, due to the safety seats and a design of controlled deformation of fuselage crumple zones. The cabin was designed to seat 12 people, however 14 can be accommodated in a high-density configuration. Rearward-sliding passenger doors are featured on either end, with large clamshell doors at the rear of the cabin. The clamshell doors can be removed, in exceptional cases, to carry unusual & unwieldy loads. An underslung load hook is standard on military variants. The air ambulance variant enables the Dhruv to accommodate two to four stretchers, with a couple of attendants.

Avionics: A communication radio (U/UHF, HF/SSB and standby UHF modes), IFF & intercom, with a Doppler navigation system, TAS system, radio altimeter and ADF are standard in all military variants. A weather radar and the Omega navigation system is optional on the naval variant.

Engine: The Dhruv was originally powered by a pair of TM333-2B turbo shafts developing 746 kW (1000 shp) from Turbomeca of France. This was later switched to the LHTEC CTS800-4N turbo shaft (from the then Allied Signal of USA - now Honeywell) developing 970 kW (1300 shp). The more powerful CTS800-54 turbo shaft developing 1235 kW (1656 hp) was offered as an option. However these engines were embargoed by the US, for imposing sanctions on India for her nuclear tests in May 1998. Connections were re-established with Turbomeca and the TM333-2B2 engine was selected, developing 825 kW (1100 shp) at take-off, with growth potential to 900 kW (1200 shp) for subsequent versions and features full authority digital electronic control (FADEC). AIN Online reported in February 2004 that Turbomeca will supply 318 TM333-2B2 engines to HAL for the series production. The aviation journal also stated that Turbomeca has agreed to increase the offsets associated with this deal by transferring more work to HAL, which will now produce the engine's turbocharger and other accessories, including the fuel systems. HAL will also be securing repair licenses for the engines.

The Indian Army tested the Dhruv in the 1999 Kargil war against Pakistan. While the advantages in hot-and-high performance parameters and altitude limitations were obvious when compared to the HAL Cheetah, the Army wanted more out of the TM333-2B2 engine. Thus a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 12 September 2000 between HAL and Turbomeca to develop a turbo shaft more powerful than the TM333-2B2 engine. Called Shakti in India and Ardiden 1H in France, the engine is expected to develop 900 kW (1200 shp). The engine is set to complete its first test bed run only in mid-2005. Around 300 to 350 Shakti/Ardiden-1H engines, worth $400 to $500 million in total, are expected to be produced at Bangalore under the deal. The first engines will not be ready before 2006 and will replace the existing TM33-2B2 engines on the production line. The engine will eventually be the standard power plant on the Dhruv and earlier production examples that entered service with the TM333-2B2 engine, will be retrofitted with the new engine. HAL has a 11% stake in the overall program and Indian engineers are based at Turbomeca's headquarters at Bordes in the southwest of France to assist with the development.

Comments: From July 1984, work at HAL was supported by MBB of Germany (now Eurocopter Deutschland) to develop a helicopter for military and civilian uses in India. On 18 March 2002, the Coast Guard became the first military service to induct the HAL Dhruv (CG-851) at a ceremony in Bangalore and three examples are currently in service. The Army received its first three examples (IA-1101, IA-1102 and IA-1103) on 20 March 2002 and the Navy received its first pair (IN-701 and IN-702) on 28 March 2002. The Air Force received its first pair (J-4041 and J-4042) on 30 March 2002. The Dhruv production for the military is expected to be 120 for the Army, 120 for the Navy, 60 for the Air Force and seven for the Coast Guard over a period of of 15 years. To meet this target, HAL is expected to progressively increase production every year, going from 12 to 16 aircraft, then to 20 and finally reaching a production peak of 24 aircraft. Some sources indicate that the peak production rate could be as high as 36 aircraft per year.

The 21st production aircraft delivered to the Army, will be the first with a glass cockpit and weapons systems integrated. The Army's WSI helicopters will feature a chin-mounted, three barrel 20mm gun from Lockheed Martin and four pylons - each having two hard points - which will enable it to carry eight Nag anti-tank guided missiles, four 68mm or 70mm rocket pods or four tube-launched air-to-air missiles

Army Aviation Officers Association

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INDIAN ARMY AIR DEFENCE

2012-01-30T06:54:00.000-08:00

Army Air Defence

Lt Gen Kuldip Singh, AVSM
DG & Sr Col Comdt

Army Air Defence

The General Officer assumed the appointment of Director General & Senior Colonel Commandant of Corps of Army AD on 01 Dec 2008.

History

Pre Independence
	The history of AD Artillery in India began in 1939, during the Second World War, when the British Government was forced to raise AD units in India to counter the Japanese air threat in SE Asia. Few Indian troops were trained in the use of the 3-inch Ack-Ack gun and later the 40mm L/60 gun, as part of the Anti-aircraft (AA) Batteries of Hongkong and Singapore Royal Artillery (HKSRA) and Indian Artillery.
	From 1941 onwards, the AA units and training establishments began to be raised in India with Indian Officers and men being posted into these establishments from the Regiment of Artillery and infantry units and later through fresh commission and enrolment.

Post Independence

The policy makers in Britain decided to retain the existing AA TA units for static role tasks and to raise new regular army AA units for the field armies. Consequently, the HAA units were raised for static role against High Altitude Bombers and the LAA units were raised for mobile role against low flying fighter aircraft.

The organization of AA units and formations evolved based on gun density requirement for the protection of various Vulnerable Points and Areas. AA defence was meant to be static and was deployed ‘en masse’ to deter, if not, destroy the enemy, who was also expected to come en mass for bombing of targets. Barrage fire dictated deployment of batteries in layers and rings, providing a form of area defence.

In Jul 1940, AA and Coast Defence Wings were established at Karachi for training of Indian Officers, JCOs and NCOs in the AA techniques. In Aug 1940, an important decision was taken by the British War Office to create an AA branch of Indian Artillery on the concept of TA. On 14 Sep 1940, one Indian AA Technical Training Battery was raised at Colaba, Bombay. It included nucleus of the first AA unit of Indian Artillery - the ‘R’ (Royal) HAA Regiment. In Jan 1941, Light AA unit called the ‘U’ LAA Regiment was raised at Malir Cantt (Now in Pakistan) and was equipped with L/60 guns. In Apr 1941, both of these units were re-named and thus ‘R’ HAA became 1 Indian HAA Regiment IA and ‘U’ LAA became 1 Indian LAA Regiment IA.

By 1942, when two AA training centers (AATC) were raised, there were eighteen AA regiments (ie nine HAA Regiments and nine LAA Regiments), four HQ AA Brigades, two Independent LAA Batteries and one Independent HAA Battery. By the year 1944, there were a total of 33 AD Artillery units. However, immediately after the Second World War, a large number of these units were disbanded. At the time of partition in 1947, only two AD Artillery units i.e. 26 LAA and 27 LAA Regiments came to India. Neither of the two oldest AA Establishment in India, i.e. I Training Battery and ‘R’ HAA Regiment survived into Independent India.

The post 1971 era, saw rapid modernisation and mechanization of AD Artillery. Many a state of art and latest weapon system were introduced into service during this period, with the TigerCat Msl System in 1972, the ZSU-23-4B Schilka in 1973, the ZU-23-2B guns in 1976, and the OSA-AK system was introduced in 1985-86. Subsequently the Igla SAM and the Strela-10M missiles were introduced during 1988-89.

One of the defining periods in the Corps history was from 1987 to 1994, when the following momentous events took place, resulting in a new identity for the AD Arty :-

•Move of AD Wing from School of Artillery from Devlali to Gopalpur and the establishment of Air Defence Guided Missile School (now rechristened as Army Air Defence College) at Gopalpur Military Station in Orissa during Dec 1989.

•Fructification of the case for bifurcation from the Regiment of Artillery in Oct 1993, after protracted deliberations and dithering.

The Corps of AD Artillery came into its own on 10 Jan 1994. The Directorate General of Air Defence Artillery started functioning from the same day. Likewise, the AD Artillery branches at the various Command HQs also took birth. The ADGM School at Gopalpur started functioning as an autonomous entity and the AD Wing at Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp became the ADGM Centre.

The Corps of Air Defence Artillery has been re-designated as ‘Corps of Army Air Defence’ wef 18 Apr 2005.

The motto of Army AD is “AKASHE-SHATRUN JAHI”. The flag of Army AD has two horizontal bands of colours with sky blue colour on the upper half and the red colour at the bottom. The Sky blue colour signifies the background of blue sky against which the Army AD weapons have to operate and the Red colour symbolizes sacrifice and chivalry. The AD crest, designed by NID, Ahmedabad is placed in the centre of the flag, has a surface to air missile in the centre with two radar antennas on either side facing out-wards and emitting radiation.

Customs and Traditions

Regimental Crest

In 1994, after bifurcation of Air Defence Arty from the Regiment of Artillery, a committee was set up by Lt Gen PK Pahwa, PVSM under Maj Gen A Mukherjee, AVSM for selection of the Corps Crest. The committee appointed National Institute of Design (NID), at Ahmedabad, for designing the ADA crest. The NID, Ahmedabad, with its faculty member, Mr Vijay Singh, designed the crest. The crest of Corps of Army Air Defence reflects the neo-facet of Army Air Defence. The crest embellished in hues of silver and gold comprises a missile with radar antennae on either side. The fiery exhaust of the missile and the radar radiations emitting outward signify the ever readiness and omni-competence of the Army Air Defence gunners. The crest is emblazoned with the Corps motto, “Akashe Shatrun Jahi”, which is engraved in Devnagri script on the scroll placed below.

Regimental Flag

The tranquil sky blue and the fiery red background, the official colours of the Corps of Army Air Defence, forms an ideal setting for the AAD crest, which is the centerpiece of the flag. The sky blue colour depicts the clear sky under the reign of the gunners of Army Air Defence, using the firepower of their guns and missiles depicted by the fiery red colour.

Regimental Motto

In 1994, The appositely worded Corps motto AKASHE SHATRUN JAHI, meaning “Kill the Enemy in the Sky” was selected after due deliberations by the Colonel Commandants in Apr 96.

Guns as the Colour of the Regiment

On 2 March 1956, the honour of carrying colours was formalised in the Indian Army. The proclamation stated: "Colours would be entitled to all Corps, except the Regiment of Artillery, for whom the 'Guns' are the colours". Nothing could be more befitting. The AD Guns and Missile systems are the raison d'etre of the Corps of Army Air Defence and the symbol of its strength.

In keeping with the traditions inherited from Regiment of Artillery, a deep bond, reverence and attachment remains with the AD guns and the missile launchers. The esteem afforded to the guns and the missile launchers is evident even in peace time. The guns or the missile launcher are saluted when work starts in the morning or ends for the day. When a gun or a missile launchers passes in front of the quarter guard, it is given a “General Salute". This tradition is rigidly followed and reflects the respect that the personnel of AAD display at all times for their guns and the missile launchers.

Corps Song

The famous lyrist Dev Kohli wrote the lyrics of the corps song, based on the role and ethos of Army Air Defence. The lyrics were set to music and composed to be sung like a chorus by music director Anand Raj Anand.

The newly composed ADA Song was presented during the First ADA Reunion on 24 Dec 1998 at ADGM School and was declared as the official ADA Corps song in 2001.

The lyrics of ADA Song are as follows :-

Corps Band
	The Regimental Pipe Band is being maintained by Army AD College, Gopalpur. The Regimental Military Band was raised in 1995 at Army AD Centre. The band has taken part in various functions at national and international level. The Regimental String Band known as 'Celestial Sentinels' was raised at Army AD Centre in Nov 2001. The soldiers of Army Air Defence have contributed significantly in all the wars, with a large number of its personnel having made the supreme sacrifice of their lives. A War Memorial was constructed at Army AD College, Gopalpur in 1998 and was dedicated to the martyrs of Army Air Defence.

War Memorial

The war memorial, designed by Mr Deepak Panda, has a black granite wall with a pillar as its core design. On either side are sloping walls with names of all ranks, who have laid down their lives. The structure faces a memorial pit, conceived as a resting place for the mortals, evoking a sense of awe and reverence. The adjoining areas have been aesthetically landscaped to match the ambience.

The spade work for conceptualising the memorial culminated in a Bhoomi Puja in Nov 98, in the presence of Lt Gen A Mukherjee, PVSM, AVSM, DG AD Arty. The Commanding Officers and Subedar Majors of all ”Title Honour Units“ attended the function. The soil from the areas, where the units had won the honour titles were mixed with soil of the foundation.

The plaque at the entrance of War Memorial reads as follows : -

Army Air Defence College

Army Air Defence College, a prestigious trg institution of Army Air Defence is located in the lap of nature aside the majestic Bay of Bengal on the Eastern Sea Coast of India. The green an the pristine coastal landscape of the college is dotted with thousands of Cashew, Casuarina, Kewra, Kathal, Mango and Coconut trees giving it a delightfully unique environment.

The sprawling complex of the college, spread over more than 2700 acres of land, is brimming with state of the art training infrastructure and facilities belonging to the contemporary technologies, ably managed by a dedicated and possessed team of Instructors. In addition to Army, personnels of the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and students from friendly foreign defence forces also undergo various courses at Army Air Defence College.

The role of Army Air Defence College is to function as a "Centre of Excellence" on all matters concerning Army Air Defence.

The Army Air Defence College has an illustrious history dating back to pre independence era, when School of Artillery was located at Quetta and Anti Aircraft Wing was located at Karachi. When India gained Independence School of Artillery a nd Anti Aircraft Wing moved to Deolali. The Anti Aircraft Wing was renamed Air Defence Wing and placed under School of Artillery.

In 1955 a case was taken up to relocate Air Defence Wing due to lack of adequate ranges for gun and missile firing. In 1963 Government of Orissa offered 3000 acres of land at Gopalpur-On–Sea along with seaward firing range, which was accepted in 1968. In 1979, Government of India sanctioned the establishment of Air defence and Guided Missile School and Centre at Gopalpur –On – Sea. Gopalpur Cantonment was inaugurated by late Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi on 30 October 1984.

On 01 November 1989 Air Defence and Guided Missile School moved to Gopalpur-On-Sea. Air Defence and Guided Missile School was redesignated as Army Air Defence College in November 1998. In 2008 Army Air Defence Centre also joined Air Defence College at Gopalpur Military Station.

Army Air Defence College

1. In Sep 1940, No 1 Indian Anti-Aircraft(AA) Technical Training Battery was raised under Maj R A Ronald, Royal Arty at Colaba, Bombay. The Battery moved to Karachi in Dec 1940 and recd four AA guns. Subsequently, the Battery was renamed as No1 AA Training Centre. In Mar 1941, AA and Coastal Arty Wing was established as a part of School of Arty at Karachi. The Wing was informally ref to as AA School. In 1942, the Coastal Arty School move to Bombay, whereas AA School continued functioning at Karachi till 1947, when it move to Deolali and was amalgamated with School of Arty as one of its Wings. The AD Wing commenced with ten courses in 1948.

2.     A need was felt to have bigger firing range for AD weapons than what existed at Deolali. Accordingly, many sites were explored to relocate the AD Wing. In 1963 Government of Orissa offered 3000 acres of land at Gopalpur-On–Sea along with seaward firing range, it was finally decided to site the proposed AD Guided Missile (ADGM) School and Centre at Gopalpur-on-Sea, Orissa. It was sanctioned by Cabinet Committee for Political Affairs on 25 Jul 1978, and 2728.568 acres of land was acquired. The construction of infrastructure of Gopalpur Mil Station, which includes a Sup Depot, GE complex and KLP of AD Regt L-70 was completed prior to its inauguration by the then Prime Minister, Late Shrimati Indira Gandhi on 30 Oct 1984. Due to various reasons AD Wing could only move to Gopalpur in 1989 to become the nucleus for raising of ADGM School.   ADGM School became functional on 01 Nov 1989 with the commencement of two Officers and five NCOs courses. In Nov 1998, the ADGM School was redesignated as AADC.

3.     No of Awards (Since Raising)

            (a)       AVSM                                                 -           01
            (b)       VSM                                                   -           02.
            (c)       COAS Commendation Cards                     -           10.
            (d)       GOC-in-C Commendation Cards                -           70.

Infrastructure

Takshasila

Takshasila is an important archaeological site of Ancient India and is currently in modern-day Pakistan. It contains the ruins of the Gandharan city of Takshasila (also Takkasila or Taxila) an important Vedic/Hindu and Buddhist centre of learning from the 6th century BC to the 5th century.

The `seat of learning` for all students. This new training block provides state-of -art facilities for conducting classroom training. it encompasses state of art class room, training labs and faculty offices. it acts as a central hub for controlling all training actives.

Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra is a place of myths, legends, great battles, empires and the canvas of the epic Mahabharata. It is also the birth place of the most sacred text of the Hindus, the Bhagwad Gita. For centuries it has been considered the battle ground of the brave.

The complex where theoretical and practical knowledge amalgamate. It has training ground, simulators, equipment stripping rooms, and classrooms. Essentially the 'On Ground' training is imparted here.

AIMA Auditorium

The auditorium has been named after late Maj Sushil Aima, KC who sacrificed his life while fighting militants in a dense forest near village Kopra, District Poonch, J& K to repulse an attack on army post. The fully air conditioned auditorium is being used extensively for conduct of Central Lectures, Guest Lecture and Presentations under Knowledge Development Programme.

Srikumar Hall

The conference hall at Army Air Defence College has been christened on the name of Late Maj P Srikumar, KC, who sacrificed his life while leading a Ghatak Platoon in 'OP SCORPION' undertaken by 27 RR Battalion. The hall is equipped with state of art environment control and high resolution projection system. All seminars and conferences are held here.

Partap Hall

Partap Hall is the Motivational Hall of Army AD College. All major events like opening and closing address of all courses of instruction being conducted at Army AD College are held here. The names of winners in various courses are written in golden letters on the honour boards.

Chandragupta Hall

Chandragupta Maurya, known simply as Chandragupta was the founder of the Maurya Empire. Chandragupta succeeded in bringing together most of the Indian subcontinent. As a result, Chandragupta is considered the first unifier of India and the first genuine emperor of India.

A state of the art Sand Model Discussion Room aptly named Chandragupta Hall has been made in the Kurukshetra Training Complex, which is equipped with the latest audio-visual training aids.

Class Room Variants

Space has always been a constraint to impart training on Army Air Defence Radars. Army Air Defence College Boasts of first of its kind fully functional CRVs of USFM, Schilka, Flycatcher and REPORTER radars. These CRVs are being extensively used to impart realtime training to the entire class Simultaneously.

Simulators

Extensive use of simulators is being made to impart training to students. The simulators of Tunguska Gun Missile System and L/70 Gun Systems have been recently installed at Kurukshetra.

Equipment Stripping Room

Working models, cut sections, sectionised parts and actual parts of the gun systems are available in the ESRs of L/70 and Zu 23mm gun systems to enable students to get hands down training

Computer Lab

Consisting of 30 work stations to provide a one to one student to machine ratio. Internet and LAN facility is available. Sectionised models of hardware are displayed to teach configurations of computers.

Electronic Lab

Equipped with state of the art experimental equipments and demonstrators for radar system, electronic warfare systems, digital and analogue electronics, fibre optics and communication systems including satellite communication.

Control & Reporting Complex

It provides training on the Tactical Air Defence Integrated Display System. Here an operator gets trained to carry out threat evaluation, target prioritization, weapon designation and to pass data duly corrected for parallax.

Combat Simulator Room

Combat Simulator Room is an integrated simulation and training package incorporation Control and Reporting and Electronic Warfare (Non Communication) functions. It is used to provide training to radar and weapon system operators for engagement of multiple aircrafts in intense Electronic Warfare environment.

Low Power Jammer

Two state of the art and automated Low Power Jammers to provide jamming signal to various radars held by Army Air Defence, by employing different noise and deception jamming techniques. The system is used to train radar operator to work under Electronic Counter Measure environment.

Gopalpur Seaward Firing Ranges

Army Air Defence College had an excellent Seawards Firing Range where all types of Army Air Defence Weapon System can be fired. Its availability as a part of the campus enables live firing practice to validate the theoretical knowledge imparted. The range has been recently re-notified and extended to 75 kms, to facilitate the firing of all types of Army Air Defence Weapon Systems.

Target support for various Air Defence Weapon System is provided by indigenously development Inter Services Pilotless Target Aircraft (ISPTA) Lakshya.

Nalanda Library

Nalanda was a Buddhist center of learning from 427 BC to 1197 BC. It has been called "one of the first great universities” in recorded history. Nalanda was one of the world's first residential universities. The university was considered an architectural masterpiece. The library was located in a nine storied building where meticulous copies of texts were produced. Hence the library in the college is called the Nalanda Library.

'Reading Maketh A Man ' so goes an old age adage. Books and reference material on a plethora of topic catering to myriad requirements have been made available at the Central Library 'Nalanda'. For the cyber savvy internet connections are also available.

Adventure Activities

Army Air Defence College is also an Aqua Node of Army Adventure Cell. Chattarpur Lake (20 Kms) from the college campus is the hub centre for all aqua adventure activities to include Sailing, Water Skiing , Rowing, Water Scooters and Para Sailing.

How to Reach

Gopalpur has an invigorating climate which adds freshness to the soul. There is a perpetual sea breeze blowing through out the day. Generally the climate is moderate and pleasant. The temperature varies between 27 to 44 degrees in summers. The place receives an average rainfall of 120 cm.

So, if you are interested read on to know how to reach Gopalpur On Sea.

Location and Connectivity

Army Air Defence College is located at Gopalpur, in Ganjam district of Orissa on the Eastern Coast of India.

The nearest town is Berhampur, which lies on the Howrah Madras railway line as well as NH-5, at a distance of about 15 kms. It is a major commercial town and also the nearest railway station to Army AD College. Bhubaneshwar the capital of Orissa state is around 180 kms from Gopalpur NH-5. Bhubaneswar is connected to most Indian Metros by air.

Educational Facilities

Gopalpur Mil Station has the following educational facilities :-

A Nursery school upto UKG
Army school upto Class X
Kendriya Vidyalaya upto Class XII with Commerce

Behrampur Town has the following educational facilities :-

St Vincent'S Convent ( upto Cl - X ) With ICSE Syllabus.
Kendriya Vidyalaya ( upto Cl XII ) WITH CBSE Syllabus.
De Paul English Medium School ( upto Cl X ) WITH ICSE Syllabus.

Banking Facilities

Gopalpur Mil Stn has the following banking facilities :-

SBI (code-4721 ).
Syndicate bank (code- 76000).

The banks in Berhampur town are State bank of India, UTI Bank, ING Vysya bank, Punjab National Bbank, Bank of Baroda, Indian Overseas Bank, Andhra Bank, Allahabad Bank, Syndicate Bank, Bank of India, ICICI Bank.

About Gopalpur

LOCATION
Gopalpur is amongst the popular beaches in Orissa. Gopalpur-on-Sea is a beautiful and small beach resort located along the Bay of Bengal in the eastern Indian state of Orissa. Gopalpur extends from latitude 19°16' in the North to longitude 84°57' in the East. The place is 16 km away form Berhampur, on the Howrah-Chennai main line.

HISTORY OF GOPALPUR

Originally a small fishing village on the coast of Orissa, it was so named when a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna was constructed some time in the 18th century. Apart from its temple, Gopalpur was distinguished for its magnificent beach and was discovered as a perfect winter resort. Soon hotels and guesthouses lined its seafront. The East India Company built huge warehouses and godowns because the trade with Burma had picked up and Gopalpur had become a trading point for rice from Rangoon. In those days, there were dances and parties that continued until the early hours and wealthy Bengalis from Calcutta made it their holiday home. Till today Gopalpur is amongst the popular beaches in Orissa.

Gopalpur's importance dwindled when trade with Burma abruptly ceased during the war and never revived again. When the British left India, even members of rich Bengali homes preferred to holiday in other places and Gopalpur reverted to what it originally was, a fishing village.

With an increase in tourist trade in the late seventies, and the opening of luxury hotels, a slow revival began and today Gopalpur-On-Sea is one of the foremost beach resorts in India. Though now there are many popular beaches in Orissa.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS

Gopalpur is a bewitching seaside resort and there can be no better option than to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Walk around the beach, collect shells and first-sized peal-white conch, and remember all the beautiful moments of your life. One may not be able to do it again.

BEST TIME TO VISIT GOPALPUR

Being a beach resort, the place has a uniform temperature throughout the year. Temperature in the summer months touches a high of 35°C and a low of 23°C, respectively. Winter months are relatively cold with a maximum and minimum temperature of 27°C and 16°C, respectively. Average annual rainfall is 118.7 cm. Thus, you may plan your trip to Gopalpur, beaches in Orissa accordingly.

PLACES AROUND GOPALPUR

Chilka Lake
Situated at a distance of 45 km from Gopalpur. Spreading over an area of 1100 sq km, this is the largest brackish water lake in the country and attracts large number of migratory birds hemmed between the blue capped mountains and creamy blue water of the Bay of Bengal this pear shaped lake provides nesting, watering and breeding grounds to many local and migratory birds from as far off as Siberia. Boating facilities are available here. A Naval Eastablishment, INS Chilka is located here.

Sun Temple - Konark

The language of stone defeats the language of the man in this towering chariot of the Sun God, famous through out the world as the `Black Pagoda’. Exquisite artistic images register pure body forms of the classical Odissi dance of Orissa. Its life- size images are unique in the World.

Shri Jaganath Temple - Puri

One of the four `Dhams’ of India and abode of Lord Jagannath, it is situated on the shore of the Bay of Bengal and has been Centre of Pilgrimage since the days of history. This 65 meters high temple was constructed in 12th Century AD.

Tapta Pani

The sulphur spring here is bang on the state highway about 60 km from Army AD College. The hot water is channelised to a pond nearby to facilitate sulphur bathing for visitors. There exists State Guest House near the spring besides a well constructed Tree-House

Taratarini

The Temple of Goddess Taratarini adorns this hill top from where the natural panorama is enjoyable. It is located about 30 km from Army AD College.

MILITARY AWARDS

2012-01-30T06:36:00.000-08:00

Victoria Cross

The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest military decoration which is, or has been, awarded for valour "in the face of the enemy" to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries, and previous British Empire

In the Kalian valley in Burma, on 15 Dec 1944 Hav Umrao Singh was incharge of a gun in an advance section of his battery when it was subjected to heavy fire from 75 mm guns and mortars for 1-1/2 hours prior to being attacked by two companies of Japanese. When the attack came he so inspired his detachment by his personal example and encouragement that they were able to beat off the attack. Though twice wounded by grenades he beat off the four attacks by the resolute action and great courage. When the final attack came – the other gun had been over run and all his ammunition expended he seized a gun rammer and closed with the enemy in furious hand to hand fighting. He was seen striking down Japanese in a desperate effort to save his gun until he was knocked unconscious. Six hours later, when a counter attack restored the position, he was found in an exhausted state beside his gun and almost unrecognizable with seven severe wounds and ten dead Japanese around him.

Havildar (Late Sub Maj, Hony Capt) Umrao Singh, VC
Date of Birth : 21 Nov 1920
Date of Award : 15 Dec 1944

Ashok Chakra

The Ashok Chakra is an Indian military decoration awarded for valor, courageous action or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield. It is the peace time equivalent of the Param Vir Chakra, and is awarded for the "most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent valour or self-sacrifice" other than in the face of the enemy. The decoration may be awarded either to military or civilian personnel and may be awarded posthumously.

On 23 Oct 08, at 1730hrs after obtaining explicit intelligence regarding presence of 10-15 armed terrorists at village Heingang Heibi Makhong, Imphal East Distt, Maj D Sreeram Kumar launched ops to eliminate the terrorists. Reaching the site, he laid multiple ambushes on the escape routes of the terrorists.

Around 1830hrs, the section under Maj D Sreeram Kumar observed suspicious movement of armed terrorists moving towards the the nearby ridge on being challenged, the terrorists opened indiscriminate heavy automatic fire and pinned down the section. The offr miraculously missed certain death but showing exemplary courage and presence of mind, engaged the terrorists with accurate fire and killed two terrorists on the spot.

In the ensuring fierce encounter upholding the traditions of the Indian Army, showing leadership of the highest order and unmindful of personal safety, Maj D Sreeram Kumar directed his buddy to provide covering fire and with utter disregard to his own safety dashed down and closed in crawling and killed the two terrorists at point blank range. A fifth terrorists was killed by his buddy after vigorious search.

For displaying inspirational leadership, conspicuous gallantry under hostile fire and single handled eliminating four terrorists, Maj D Sreeram Kumar was awarded ‘Ashok Chakra’ on the occasion of the Independence Day 09.

Mahavir Chakra

The Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) is the second highest military decoration in India and is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea or in the air. It may be awarded posthumously. Literally Maha Veera Chakra means extraordinarily bravery award.

IC-1857 Captain Mistry Dara Dinshaw, MVC Posthumous
Date of Birth : 14 Oct 1921
Date of Commission : 05 July 1942
Date of Award : 15 Dec 1948

Captain Mistry as OP officer stuck to his post and pin pointed and destroyed the hostile Guns and Tanks in that sectors, till a 75MM shell hit his position killing him instantaneously.

IC 12665 2/Lt (Late Maj) Shyamal Dev Goswamy, MVC
Date of Birth : 06 Nov 1938
Date of Commission : 11 Jun 1961
Date of Award : 18 Nov 1962

During the battle of Chusul in the Indo-China operations of 1962, directed accurate fire on repeated attacks by Chinese, till he was grievously wounded and fell unconscious.

IC-6622 Major (Late Maj Gen) Mathur Sushil Kumar, MVC
Date of Birth : 01 July 1934
Date of Commission : 13 Dec 1953
Date of Award : 15 Apr 1965

On 15 Apr 1965 Major Mathur effectively engaged a convoy of intruders in the Kanjarkot area end destroyed three vehicles and damaged others. Again on30 Apr he directed artillery fire towards intruders in the Biar Bet area and compelled them to withdraw in haste. In the action, a field ammunition dump and three vehicles belonging to the intruders were damaged.

IC- 524 Maj Gen(Retd) Mohindar Singh, MVC,MC
Date of Birth : 20 Dec 1914
Date of Commission : 06 Oct 1940
Date of Award : 09 Sep 1965

During the period from 9 to 23 Sep, Maj Gen Mohindar Singh displayed sound operational planning and indomitable courage which enabled the infantry brigades under his command to capture Ichhogil, Uttar Brigade and Dograi.

IC 4128 Brigadier (Retd) Pande Kailash Parsad, MVC
61 Mountain Brigade Group
Date of Birth : 04 Jul 1925
Date of Commission : 25 Aug 1946
Date of Award : 06 Dec 1971

Brig K P Pande Cdr Mtn Bde was assigned the task of clearing a well fortified posn in the Eastern Sector during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The task was successfully completed mainly due to Brig Pande’s inspiring leadership. The bde gp adv forty miles in 72 hrs, effectively bottling up the enemy and capturing key posts. Against all the relentless pressure of the enemy, the bde held on to the def until surrender by the enemy cdr.

IC-16177 Captain Gour Pradip Kumar, MVC (Posthumous)
Date of birth : 15 Apr 1945
Date of Commission : 02 Aug 1964
Date of Award : 14 Dec 1971

Throughout the operations, he flew round the clock missions deep inside enemy territory, directing artillery fire and obtaining vital information about the enemy.

Captain Pratap Singh, MVC (Posthumous)
Date of Birth : 17 Jan 1960
Date of Commission : 27 Aug 1983
Dare of Award : 26 Jan 1989

On 18 May 1988 Captain Pratap Singh who was deployed as OP officer on a post volunteered with the help of a Jawan to cut the ropes fixed by the enemy which wound have been used by them again in their fresh attempts to take the post. After descending down the ice wall, he successfully cut the ropes however in the bargain set off a booby trap and was injured grievously and succumbed to his wounds.

Vir Chakra

Vir Chakra is an Indian gallantry award presented for acts of bravery in the battlefield. Award of the decoration carried with it the right to use Vr.C. as a postnominal abbreviation (note the care to distinguish this abbreviation from that for the Victoria Cross (V.C.). It is third in precedence in the war time gallantry awards and comes after the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra.

Ser No

Rank

Name

Awards

Remarks

1947-48

1.	Brig	S Man Singh	VrC
2.	Brig	K Venugopal	VrC
3.	Maj	Shivaji Wasudev Shahane	VrC
4.	Maj	SW Shahane	VrC
5.	Maj	Bhagwan Singh	VrC
6.	Capt	Gopal Singh	VrC
7.	Capt	AP Sharma	VrC
8.	Capt	Lachman Singh	VrC
9.	Capt	Sreedhar Man Singh	VrC
10.	Capt	Risal Singh	VrC
11.	Lt	Kartar Singh Sandhu	VrC	Posthumous
12.	Lt	RL Chouhan	VrC
13.	Hav	Ishwar Singh	VrC
14.	Hav	Ramnath	VrC
15.	L/Hav	Deputy Lal	VrC	Posthumous
16.	Gnr	Veil Muthu	VrC
17.	Gnr	Joseph E	VrC
18.	NK	Kishan Chand	VrC

1962

19.	2^ND LT	Pradeep Singh Bhandari	VrC
20.	Gnr (TA)	Gurdip Singh	VrC

INDO-PAK CONFLICT-1965

21.	Lt/Col	Chajju Ram	VrC
22.	Maj	Pravhakar Shantaram Deshpande	VrC
23.	Maj	Jagdish Singh	VrC
24.	Maj	Adarsh Kumar Kochhar	VrC
25.	Maj	Kannimel Thekkathil Madusudan Pillai	VrC
26.	Maj	Sarvjit Singh Ratra	VrC
27.	Capt	Chitoor Subramaniam Krishnan	VrC
28.	Capt	Murty Durindra Naidu	VrC
29.	Capt	Sushil Chandra Sabharwal	VrC
30.	Capt	MD Naidu	VrC
31.	Capt	CS Krishnan	VrC
32.	2^ND Lt	Arun Singh Khanna	VrC
33.	2^ND Lt	Bhupender Kumar Vaid	VrC
34.	Hav	Ram Ujagar Pandey	VrC
35.	Hav	Athanikal Basil Jesudasan	VrC
36.	L/Hav	Fidoo Ram	VrC
37.	L/NK	Madalai Muthu	VrC

1967

38.	Maj	SS Ratna	VrC
39.	Capt	Satish Kumar Sood	VrC

INDO-PAK CONFLICT-1971

40.	Lt Col	Narendra Nath Rawat	VrC
41.	Lt Col	NG O Connor	VrC
42.	Maj	Harish Kumar Chopra	VrC
43.	Maj	Kitkule Prakash D	VrC
44.	Maj	Manjit Singh Dugal	VrC
45.	Maj	Atma Singh Hansra	VrC
46.	Maj	Virender Singh Ruhil	VrC
47.	Maj	PK Sharma	VrC
48.	Capt	RN Anand	VrC
49.	Capt	RP Chaturvedi	VrC
50.	Capt	V Oomen Cherian	VrC
51.	Capt	Sukhwant Singh Gill	VrC
52.	Capt	Jagdish Chander Gosain	VrC	Posthumous
53.	Capt	Jitendra Kumar	VrC
54.	Capt	Harbant Singh Kahlon	VrC
55.	Capt	AK Karkare	VrC	Posthumous
56.	Capt	Ravinder Kaura	VrC	Posthumous
57.	Capt	Madan Pal	VrC	Posthumous
58.	Capt	Pannikote Madhavan	VrC
59.	Capt	B Rama Chandra Naik	VrC
60.	Capt	SS Parmar	VrC
61.	Capt	BC Pathak	VrC
62.	Capt	GS Punia	VrC
63.	Capt	IJ Reddy	VrC
64.	Capt	PPS Sangha	VrC
65.	Capt	UP Sathe	VrC
66.	Capt	SC Sehgal	VrC	Posthumous
67.	Capt	Rabindra Nath Sen Gupta	VrC
68.	Capt	DK Sharma	VrC
69.	Capt	Madan Lal Sharma	VrC
70.	Capt	Sheo Ganesh Singh	VrC	Posthumous
71.	Capt	GS Sihota	VrC
72.	Capt	RN Sen Gupta	VrC
73.	Capt	Vijay Pratap Singh	VrC
74.	Capt	IA Yusufji	VrC
75.	2 Lt	GS Bajwa	VrC
76.	Hav	Ajmer Singh	VrC
77.	L/Hav	Kans Raj	VrC
78.	Gnr (ORA)	Ajit Singh	VrC
79.	Gnr	Bhadreswar Pathak	VrC
80.	Gnr	Tek Ram	VrC
81.	Gnr (TA)	S Pakkir Mohammed	VrC
82.	L/NK	Shreepati Singh	VrC
83.	Lt Col	HS Kahlon	VrC
84.	Col	PS Sangha	Vrc

OP MEGHDOOT

85.	Capt	TS Chehal	VrC
86.	NK	S Jay Prakash	VrC	Posthumous

OP VIJAY -1999

87.	Col	AS Kasana	VrC
88.	Capt	RJ Prem Raj	VrC	Posthumous
89.	Capt	SB Ghildiyal	VrC
90.	Gnr	Sajeev Gopala Pillai	VrC

TRAINING OF INDIAN ARMY

2012-01-30T06:30:00.000-08:00

Training Curriculum

Pattern of Courses

1. The School conducts about 45 courses of instruction every year with an average of 15 to 20 courses running concurrently. In addition, the School also trains a large number of Officers and NCOs from the armed forces of friendly foreign countries.

2. In the training of JCOs and NCOs the stress is on turning out good Unit Instructors. Different courses are run for different types of equipment. In fact the diverse nature of such training can be gauged from the fact that instruction is imparted on twelve different types of artillery weapons in Faculty of Gunnery alone.

3. From the Young Officers (YOs) course onwards, officers keep returning to Devlali for further training at different stages in their career. The most prestigious course is the Long Gunnery Staff Course (LGSC) which is conducted for officers as well as personnel below Officers rank. The aim of the course is to train Instructors in Gunnery (IsG). IsG are posted in School of Artillery as instructors and are distinguished by the coveted Red Band around their peak caps and turbans. The extremely high calibre of instructors in the School can be judged from the fact that the Gunner Officers who are nominated for the Staff College course every year, 80 to 90 percent either are, or have been, IsG in the School of Artillery.

4. The pattern of courses has been evolved with meticulous care so that training is progressive and in conformity with the service group and level of Officers, JCOs and NCOs. A periodic review of courses ensures that the syllabi are up-to-date and effective.

Conduct of Training

1. The officer instructional staff is suitably supplemented in various faculties/wings by Assistant Instructors in Gunnery (AIG) and Technical Instructors Fire Control (TIFC), appointed from selected JCOs and NCOs.

2. The most modern media of instruction are used to impart training in the School. Sophisticated audio-visual and electronic training aids and simulators are extensively used. Free and frank discussions are promoted, originality of thought is encouraged, mutual learning and sharing of experiences are emphasised. Instruction encompasses practical training on all equipment and fire control instruments, tutorials and sand model discussions, indoor and outdoor exercises, demonstrations, training films and individual project assignments.

Field Firing Ranges

The Devlali Field Firing Ranges are located only a few kilometers away from the School for live firing practices where teaching of classroom and gun-drill grounds are tested and reinforced. The permanently acquired Ranges are spread over an area of about 26,498 acres. The School also has two small arms classification ranges, complete with 30 electronic targets and three control panels. These ranges are utilised by the Devlali garrison and NCC units for small arms firing practices.

Vision, Mission, Role

	Vision To galvanize gunners towards synergized employment of all artillery resources across the full spectrum of conflicts in a combined arms battlefield environment.
Mission To develop School of Artillery as the centre of excellence in all disciplines of Artillery Warfare.

Role

1.     To train artillery personnel in the methodology of employment of artillery resources in the combined arms battlefield of the future.

2.     To provide advisory training support to all artillery formation headquarters and units.

3.     To play a proactive role in the evolution of new artillery doctrine and concepts.

Wings and Units

Faculty of Doctrine and Tactics (FDT)

The faculty functions under a Maj Gen and is responsible for imparting tactical knowledge to the YOs and the LGSC (O) courses.

Faculty of Gunnery

Gunnery Wing imparts training of gunnery, rocketry and missiles. It conducts courses for all ranks. Its responsibilities include keeping abreast with the latest technological developments in the Field Branch of artillery.

Surveillance and Target Acquisition (SATA) Wing

The SATA Wing conducts training of Officers, Junior Commission Officers and Non Commission Officers. The major courses being run are Technical Instructors Fire Control (TIFC) Course and Long Gunnery Staff Course. SATA legs for all courses of the Faculty of Gunnery is also run at this wing. The high-tech equipment available, and being inducted, will assist in providing valuable information about the enemy.

Information Technology Division

This Division is a part of the Faculty of Gunnery and imparts training to Officers and Persons below Officer Rank in the field of Information technology. State of the Art cilities exist in the division to impart real time training in cyber matters.

Basic Military Training


Vision. The centre is dedicated to being an institution of excellence in all Fds of Arty Rect Trg, wherein an environment of learning and motivation exists to facilitate imbibing of basic comb skills, absorption of modern technology to attain a high tech threshold, Regimental ethos, and the devp of character.

Recruit Passing Out Parade

PARADE REVIEWED BY CDR ARTY CENTRE HYDERABAD - 04 JAN 11

PARADE REVIEWED BY MAJ GEN AS DEO, MG ARTY SOUTHERN COM - 12 APR11

PARADE REVIEWED BY CDR ARTY CENTRE HYDERABAD - 07 JUL11

YOS Orientation Capsule


11 - 24 OCT 10

03 - 15 JAN 11

11 - 24 APR 11

04 -17 JUL 11

Arty Records

1 The Artillery Records was raised at Deesa in 1920 alongwith Depot and re-designated as the Royal Artillery Training Centre (RATC). In 1925, the Royal Artillery Training Centre alongwith its Record Office moved to Mathura. On 15 Dec 1942, the following Records Offices were amalgamated and re-organised as Artillery Centre and Records, Mathura :-

(a) Record Office Field Artillery Training Centre, Mathura. (b) Record Office No 1 Anti Aircraft Training Centre, Malir Karachi. (c) Record Office Coastal Artillery Training Centre, Colaba Bombay.

2. In Jul 1943, Anti Aircraft Records and Coastal Artillery Records also joined the Artillery Centre and Records at Mathura. With effect from 21 Feb 1944, the Artillery Centre and Records was re-organised as Indian Artillery Records and Depot. In Jan 1945, the Indian Artillery Records and Depot was split into two independent units :-

(a) Indian Artillery Records. (b) Indian Artillery Depot.

3. In Nov 1945, the Indian Artillery was conferred the title of 'Royal' and it was christened as Royal Artillery Records. When the country achieved independence on 15 Aug 1947, the Royal Artillery Records was re-christened as Artillery Depot and Records. Artillery Depot and Records moved to the present location on 12 Apr 1966 and started functioning separately with independent identity. The present Establishment of Artillery Records is functioning on the Peace Establishment common to all Record Offices. With effect from 10 Jan 1995, Air Defence Artillery Records has been separated from Artillery Records.

1. Commanding Officer and Colonel Records. The Commanding Officer and Colonel Records is responsible to assist the Officer-in-Charge Records in carrying out the laid down duties. He will be assisted by the three CROs, Adjutant and other Officers for effective and efficient functioning of the establishment.

2. Chief Record Officers. Each group will be headed by a Group Officer (Lt Col) who will be directly responsible to the Commanding Officer for efficient and smooth functioning of his group. He will ensure that Standing Operating Procedures are designed for carrying out routine work by task clerk in his group. CRO, will be assisted by Section Officers viz Senior Record Officer (Major), Record Officer (Capt) & Assistant Record Officer (Lt and CGO) as authorised.

3. Adjutant. An officer of the rank of Major/Captain appointed as Adjutant at the discretion of the Commanding Officer.

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Arty Centre, Hyderabad

2012-01-30T06:22:00.000-08:00

Home

1. To overcome deficiency due to the wastage rate and requirements of new raisings, an idea to establish a second Artillery Centre was mooted by Major General KP Candeth, the then Director General of Artillery, in March 1961. Sanction was accorded by the Government of India in June 1961. In June 1962 Hyderabad was accepted as the second Artillery Centre by the Government of India and it eventually came into being at its current location on 15 August 1962.

2. The centre is located in and around Golconda Fort, famed for its historical Guns and Cannons. Today, the centre is spread over an area of more than 1,700 acres with an authorized capacity to train 2,900 recruits at any one time though training 4200 recruits. It is equipped with scientifically designed training areas, spacious living accommodation, play grounds and facilities for all sports and games including an athletics stadium and one of the biggest drill squares in the country. Various other allied facilities to cater for the needs of recruits and the permanent staff at the centre is also available.

History

Arty Centre, Hyderabad was raised on 15 Aug 62 as the sec rect Trg Centre fot the Regiment of Artillery. The Centre was initially raised with three Trg Regts with a designed capacity to train 3000 rects. The Centre then was commanded by a Col. The first Comdt was Col Gurpartap Singh. The present Comdt, Brig Prakash S Nair, assumed comd on 26 Feb 10.
To cater for the incr in intake of rects, a fourth Trg Regt was raised on 22 Nov 65. An addl fifth Trg Regt was raised in Feb 66 as the rect str had incr to nearly 8500. In Feb 81, the comd of the Centre was upgraded to Brig. In 1989, the fourth and fifth Trg Regts were disbanded due to decrease in intake of rects and the Centre was brought back to its PE of three Trg Regts with a designed capacity of 3000 rects.
The PE of the Centre was further revised wef 01 Oct 95 to train 2650 rects. According to the present PE (revised wef 01 Apr 05), the Centre is designed to train 2900 rects (incl 250 rect clks) at a time, and the infrastructure provided caters for the same.
The Centre is loc in and around the historic Golconda Fort. Gnrs passing out from the portals of Arty Centre, Hyderabad have excelled themselves in discharging various ops, trg and adm resps. Arty Centre, Hyderabad has been awarded the GOC-in-C Southern Comd Unit Appreciation on 15 Aug 08 for its significant contribution in various spheres of activity, especially in the conduct of 4th CISM Mil World Games in Oct 07.
The Centre has won a Bronze Medal in Commonwealth Games 2010 at Delhi in Oct 10 also with proficient management and quality training this centre has produced one “ARJUNA AWARDEE” in Rowing. Since the inception of the WTC, an attractive tally of medals has been hooked by our sailors. Five players represented the country in Rowing & Kayaking during 16th Asian Games at China.

Sub Satish Joshi honoured with 'ARJUNA AWARD' in Aug 2009

Commandant Message

• I deem it an honour to be the Commandant of Artillery Centre, Hyderabad. Over the last few years, modernization, automation and development of infrastructure have been undertaken to improve the quality of training, as well as the quality of life of all ranks. The Centre has also vigorously pursued its motto as the Centre of Excellence in recruit training and sports activities.

• The Centre has been instrumental in the conduct of the prestigious 4th CISM Military World Games, and this has definitely enhanced our reputation. Expanding across sprawling and state-of-the-art training areas and infrastructure, and set in the backdrop of the fastest growing hi-tech city of the country, the Centre offers a unique location for training recruits to meet the requirements of modern day Artillery.

• I am sanguine that the facilities provided at the Centre will pave the way for an improved quality of training imparted to the recruits, as well as sportsmen of our glorious Regiment.

Facilities

Training and Sports

Training

Artillery Centre, Hyderabad is dedicated to being an institution of excellence in all fields of Artillery Recruit Training wherein a focused environment of learning, motivation, imbibing of basic combat skills and absorption of modern technology to attain a high technical threshold, regimental ethos and development of character is ensured.

Sports

The Centre has simultaneously excelled in International, National, Services, Army, Command and State level important sports events. The contribution has been made possible by the dedicated efforts of Sports Battery, Boys Sports Company and Watermanship Training Cell. The sports facilities of the Centre are given at Annexure 3 attached. Apart from the foregoing, the Centre has organised conduct of Area, Command, Army and Services level annual events for Athletics, Marathon, Cross Country, Handball and Military Pentathlon. The Artillery Centre is also the Army Node for Hand Ball, Athletics, Cross Country, Marathon and Military Pentathlon. It is also the Node for the National Hobby Class Sailing Association conducting National events since 2004.

Additional Facilities, Assets and Infrastructure

Additional facilities in the form of Hobby Centre expressing creativity, an inspiring Motivation Hall called RANBIR HALL, an Office Complex and Officers Mess blending tradition and modernity, state of the art Conference Halls, Health Clubs including Sports Medicine Centre, self reliant Printing Press etc are depicted pictorially.

Improvement in Quality of Life

Improvement in the quality of life of recruits has been an area of special focus. Some aspects are represented pictorially.

Miscellaneous

Gun House

Building No 12 IB Lines was constructed in 1943 for the ‘Kiledar’ of Golconda Fort. It is the biggest amongst all the houses of Ibrahim Bagh Lines. The masonry work consists of gypsum, lime and stone.

The Kiledar, being the senior most appointment of the fighting forces, had his house built at a distance from othe houses and of a better construction. From 1947 to 1961, it was used by the state government officials and was subsequently handed over to Artillery Centre in 1962. Since then it has the honour of being the residence of the Commandant.

The first Commander, Col Gurpartap Singh occupied the House from 14 Sept 1962 to 19 Oct 1965. The original building has undergone various modifications at different stages, even a change of name to ‘Tope Mahal’ (though temporarily). The Gun House is an important landmark of the Centre.

RANBIR HALL

The Motivation Hall is named after one of the most renowned soldiers of the Regiment of Artillery, Late Maj Gen Ranbir Bakshi, MC. Ranbir Hall stands proud, as a source of inspiration to every Gunner and recruit to imbibe a sense of history and pride. Ranbir Hall is a tribute to the rich heritage and its soldiers of the Regiment of Artillery

Firishta, the renowned historical chronicler, records explicitly the emphatic use of Artillery in the battle between the Bahamani King Mohammed Shsh Bhamani and the Raja of Vijaynagar in 1368. It is assumed that this was the defining moment of use of Artillery in India. Later Artillery became an integral part of all major battles and evolved as the winning factor.

The influence of the guns could be inferred from the lines of the “Ain-i-Akbari”…

“Guns are wonderful locks for protecting the august edifice of the state and befitting key for the door of conquest”

The glorious cannons which decided the fate of dynasties are now mute spectators to the ravages of time and man. They recall the aura and glory of those dynasties and the monarchs that decreed the fate of Hyderabad. It is believed that if one keeps one’s ear to the muzzle of these cannons, one could well hear the roar of the battlefield.

First Commandant and First Recruit

FIRST COMMANDANT

COL GURPARTAP SINGH - 14 SEP 62 TO 29 OCT 62

1^st RECRUIT

HAV BAHADUR SINGH

• Out of a total of 59 recruits of the first batch, the first recruit - gunner Bahadur Singh was received by the first Commandant, Colonel Gurpartap Singh personally in October 1962 at the railway station with a band and fanfare

• The first recruit Hav Bhagadur Singh interacts with Smt Pratibha Devi Singh Patel, Honorable President on 02 Feb 08.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF INDIAN ARMY

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chievements

	KARGIL GATE The erstwhile Devlali Gate was renovated and renamed as Kargil Gate, to commemorate the outstanding performance of the Regiment of Artillery during Op VIJAY 1999. It is dedicated to the Heroes of Kargil, the martyrs, those disabled in action and all those who made victory possible. Inaugurated by Lt Gen RS Nagra, VSM**, Director General Artillery and Colonel Commandant on 11th Nov 2002, this is the main entrance to the Centre from Devlali and stands out as a major landmark. The gate has been renovated in Mar 2008.
	MVC PARK MVC park have been developed near the New MAP Complex, of Artillery Centre Nasik Road Camp.
	MANGO GROVE Mango grove was inaugrated on 21 June 08 by Brigadier S S Chohan, Commandant Artillery Centre. A total 624 mango saplings of the following varities were planted : (a) Amarpali (b) Dashari (c) Langra
	JATROPHA PLANTATION The Indian Government has taken major initiatives to encourage Jatropha Plantations with a view to manufacture Bio-Diesel from Jatropha Oil. Not to be left behind, Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp intiated steps to participate in appropriate capacity to ___ the "Go-Green Project". Approx 125 Hectares of alnd has now been planted with Jatropha plants at this centre. The Government has targeted to bring 11 Million hectares of land under Jatropha cultivation by 2011 to Manufacture 13 million tonnes ___ Diesel. This Centre aims to make a significant contribution to this nobel intiative from its own resources.
	STEAM COOKING SYSTEM Steam Cooking system was procured during the process of modernization of Cook Houses which has several advantages. It is fuel efficient and saves LPG. It reduces the time taken to cook the food for larger strength and thus, is being adopted as an efficient alternate to achieve best results while minimizing the use of non-renewable resources.
	LAUNDERETTE PLANTS Details of Launderette Plants : (a) Heavy duty launderette (b) Washing machine (c) Tumble drier (d) Launderette machine (e) Industrial type washing machine and hydro extrator
	ARCHERY An archery range was established in the Centre in 2003. With passage of time, proficient management, qualitative training and above all the individual efforts of the archers had an impact and the Centre was designated as the Army Archery Node for 'FITA Round' in 2005. Since the establishment of the node a tally of medals has been bagged by our archers. Hav Ratan Kumar national ranking 2nd and Hav L Haridas national ranking 4th represented nation in 3rd Grand Prix Archery Championship at Isfahan in 2000 Iran where Hav L Haridas won silver medal in team event. He also represented India in Asian Archery Championship held at Xian China in 2007. Hav Ratan Kumar represented the Country in 1st and 2nd world cup in the year 2008. Nb Sub Richpal Singh coach of the Node was nominated coach of Archery team of the country in all these events.
	WEIGHT LIFTING. When it comes to pure test of muscle and spirit against iron and gravity, the Regiment of Artillery Weight Lifters have always given spectacular performances. Weight Lifting as a sport came to the Centre in 1966. From the formative days till date these robust gunners have done proud to the Regiment Centre by winning 11 gold, 21 silver and five bronze medals at services and National Championship. Presently four weightlifter are in the Army team aspiring to represent services team and also in the ensuing national games.
	WRESTLING Wrestling, an age old sport of the nation and favorite of the Indian Army, has fast caught up in the Centre. The sport came into the Centre in the sixties. From a humble beginning with wins at Command Level, these wrestlers have scaled heights upto the Commonwealth Games. Havildar Manoj Kumar of this Centre won gold medal in the Commonwealth Games in 2007. Another feather was added to the cap when Havildar Manoj Kumar bagged the 4th position in the 24th Military World Game at Hyderabad. Gnr (OpR) Bansi Lal Bishnoi won Bronze medal in Junior Asian Greeco Roman style wrestling championship held in Doha (Qatar) and Nk (OpR) Suresh with silver medal in CISM World wrestling championship Zegrots (Croatia) are proud wrestlers of this establishment.
	BEST PHYSIQUE The Regiment proves itself well when comes to the test of brawn. Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp is responsible for training the Regiment of Artillery, Best Physique Team. We can boast of some major achievement in this sport. Havildar Avijit Dawn, who was Mr India 2004, is from our team. He also stood 3rd in the National Best Physique Championships in the 90 Kg category in the year 2006. The team is presently under rigorious training for the ensuing trials for the serious team to bag medals in the nationals.
	POLO Amongst the equestrian sports in India, polo is regal sport, which is more or less dominated by army establishments. Army teams have always been proving their worth in this sport. Coming to the Regiment of Artillery, the age old relationship of the gunners with their mounts can be witnessed once the Regimental Polo Team is seen in action blazing prestigious polo turfs across country. Among the ace national riders are Lt Col Shukla went and Maj Raj Sangram Singh, Hav John Duhari U and Nk Gyaneshwar Sanap. Regiment of Artillery Polo team participated in Hyderabad Polo season conducted at Bison riding and Polo Institute (BRPI). The Bison riding and Polo Institute and the Regiment of Artillery/Himpshire plaza combined team won the AP Tourism Trophy.
	SHOOTING Sub (OpR) R Pandian qualified International Cl 'B' judge and national gold medal winner is the coach of the young blood Sarvatra Club of the Centre which has produced five shooters in the Army team and out of them Gnr Shaji K has won silver medal in the Pt 22 Rifle Team event in the National Shooting championship 2007.

Depot Regiment

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1.     All gunners are conversant with the history of Regiment of Artillery, but only a few really now about the Artillery Depot Regiment, an important constituent of the Regiment. This link is an endeavour to give a brief resume on the history, charter and the achievements of Artillery Depot Regiment.

2.     The roots of the Artillery Depot Regiment originates from the period when the Indian Mountain Artillery and the Royal Artillery were reorganised in 1859 consequent to the administration of India being transferred to the crown. The Depots then were responsible for holding heavy baggage of units which moved for field service, holding the umeedwars and conduct of training.

3.     The history of the Depot, Centre and Records are deeply intertwined. The recorded history of the Artillery Depot Regiment draws on the legacy from the Royal Artillery and that of the Indian Artillery thereafter.

4.     Artillery Depot moved to present location on 12 Apr 1966 and started functioning with independent identity.

History

Pre-Independence

The Depots of the Indian Artillery and the Royal Artillery were separate. The artillery training for Indian troops was streamlined by Lord Horatio Herbert Kitchener in 1905. The lack of reserves available to the Mountain Artillery, which were the foundation of the Indian Artillery brought out the necessity of sequestering a portion of the Mountain Batteries at strategically located depots to hold baggage as well as serve as feeder organisations

The locations were influenced by opening of the frontier railways and Mountain depots were raised at Rawalpindi, Abbotabad, Baushera and Kohat. The major earthquake at Quetta made resiting of Artillery Depots necessary. The Rawalpindi Depot was moved to Dehradun and was designated as Pack Artillery Training Centre (PATC). Keeping in view the requirement of the raising new Mountain Batterys, depots at Abbotabad and Quetta were also merged with the PATC and the Centre was designated as Mountain Artillery Training Centre (MATC) wef 15 Aug 1920. In Oct 1921, the MATC was moved to Lucknow and again to Ambala in 1928.

At the end of WW I, the Royal Artillery in India had seven depots located at Ahmednagar, Belgaum, Dehradun, Jabalpur, Kirkee, Lucknow and Roorkee. In 1919, these were amalgamated into one central Royal Artillery Depot at Jabalpur. In 1920, this Depot with its Records Office moved to Deesa where it was re-designated as Royal Artillery Training Centre (RATC). In 1925, the RATC moved to Mathura and was re-designated as the Field Artillery Training Centre (FATC). On its formation, there were 9 Depots (4 Field & 5 Anti-Tank Regiments). By Jul 1943, the number of depots had increased to 38. On 21 Feb 44, the Artillery Centre Records expanded and were re-organaisation as Indian Artillery Depot and Records. In Jan 1945, Indian Artillery Depot and Records were split into independent units. On conferring of the title Royal in Aug 1945, the Depot and Records were referred to as Royal Indian Artillery Depot and Records. In Apr 1946, the FATC was moved to Pollachi (Coimbatore) and became Royal Indian Artillery Centre (South) but the Royal Indian Artillery Depot & Records continued to be at Mathura.

Post Independence

On 07 Apr 1948, Royal Indian Artillery Centre North was amalgamated with Royal Indian Artillery Centre South at Deolali and its Records were merged with Royal Indian Artillery Depot and Records Mathura. On 26 Jan 1950, on proclamation of India as Republic, the title of 'Royal' was dropped.

The Artillery Depot & Records which continued to be located at Mathura due to administrative reasons were finally co-located with Artillery Centre, Nasik wef 12 Apr 1966.

The Peace Establishment of Artillery Depot was revised and once again the Artillery Depot Regiment came into being as a separate entity wef 01 Feb 1968.
The Air Defence Artillery which formed part of Regiment of Artillery were separated with the creation of a separate Corps. The Artillery Depot Regiment continued to function as hitherto fore till Apr 2005 where upon the Air Defence elements bifurcated and formed their own Air Defence Depot Battery.

Consequent to the mov of Army Air Defence Centre to Gopalpur, the unit was relocated at its present location in May 2008

Charter

The roles assigned to this unit are as under :-

(a)     Demobilisation of upto 800 personnel per month.

(b)     Hold and manage upto a maximum of 280 Low Medical Category Personnel Below Officers Rank at any point of time.

(c)     Provide administrative support to 850-900 combatant personnel of Artillery Records and to   individuals attending resettlement vocational courses.
(d)     Perform the function of the local Army Placement Satellite Node.

Achievements

		General The Artillery Depot Regiment has discharged 2,15,727 Personnel Below Officer Rank till date since it commenced functioning on a separate Peace Establishment wef 01 Feb 68
Resettlement Resettlement training is being imparted to retiring Personnel Below Officer Rank at this unit under the aegis of Directorate General of Resettlement. In addition lectures Interactive serious are organised on various subjects to increase awareness. Administration (a) Handling of discharge drill of approx 350-800 retiring person per month with excellent satisfaction level. (b) Holding and management of approx 280 person attached on X-2 list. (c) Administrative support to approx 900 person of Artillery Records. (d) Automation of discharge drill documentation procedure.

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Arty Centre, Nasik Road

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Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp

History

The RIA Centre South, was moved from Pollachi to Nasik Road soon after partition under Colonel TWM Johnson. On 07th April 1948, the erstwhile Mountain Artillery Training Centre (RIA North) was amalgamated with RIA Centre South, to form the Royal Indian Artillery Training Centre, Deolali North. Thus this date was adopted as the 'Raising Day' of the Centre in its present location.Due to the heavy intake of recruits required for the new raisings and the operations in Jammu & Kashmir, the peace establishment of the Centre was also revised with effect from 14 Jul 1948.

The Centre was accommodated in temporary pre war Nissan huts and barracks of the erstwhile transit area for British troops, a state which would remain till 1957. Areas for the Drill Square and the Weapon Training (WT) ground were developed and cleared. Plantation and landscaping of the area was also initiated despite water shortages. The training period of recruits varied depending upon whether they were being trained as gunners or drivers. Further the period of training of gunners depended on the type of equipment for which they were destined.

On an average the training period was about six months before recruits were drafted to newly raised units. Colonel TWM Johnosn, relinquished his appointment in February 1949 after 31 years in India and the first Indian Commandant Colonel KK Bhandari assumed command.

Commandant Message

1. It is indeed a matter of great pride and honour to be at the helm of the oldest and biggest Centre of the Indian Army. Artillery Centre Nasik Road is closely linked with the history and glorious past of the Regiment itself.

2. The Centre has a dual responsibility of training the recruits as well as being the custodian of our Regimental heritage. This Centre with the training capacity of approximately three thousand recruits at a time has evolved as one of the finest training institutions of the Country. The Mission of the Centre is to train Young men in to professionally sound, mentally robust and technically proficient Gunners, who are capable of effortless integration with Artillery units on completion of training. We, at this Centre are constantly endeavouring to keep our commitment towards the Regiment and the Indian Army. The infrastructural developments over the past have been immense and the training, administration and recreational facilities at the Centre now match the highest standards anywhere.

3. Our Vision is to establish Artillery Centre, Nasik Road as an Institution of Excellence by creating world class infrastructure, conducive environment and dynamic professional skills for training of recruits and development of human resources dedicated to laying the foundations of competence, patriotism and regimental ethos. The Team at the Centre is committed to fulfilling this vision and to feed the Indian Army with the finest Gunners.

Brig RK Sharma, Comdt,
Artillery Centre, Nasik Road

War Memorial Hostel

The aim of War Memorial Children's Hostel is to provide residential accommodation, messing, clothing & education in the local Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV), Nasik Road including issue of books and stationary to the wards of Gunners/Non Gunners killed or disabled in war/counter insurgency operation including casualties attributable to military service.

The above facilities due to security reasons and administrative constraints are available only to boys between class VI to X studying in Kendriya Vidyalaya, NRC.

Eligibility Criteria

Admission is open to all children between the age group of 11 to 16 years for class VI to X. Admission is offered as per following priorities:-

(a) Priority I. Sons Gunner Martyr officerwho had pre-commissioned service, Junior Commission Officers/Other Rank killed in operations/counter insurgency and internal security duties.

(b) Priority II. Sons of Junior Commission Officers/Other Rank other than Gunners killed in operation / counter insurgency and internal security duties belonging to Maharashtra state.

(c)     Priority III. Sons of Gunner Junior Commission Officers/Other Rank who dies while performing military duties.

(d)     Priority IV. Children of serving/Ex-servicemen Gunners who dies due to other reasons.

(e)     Priority V. Scholarship seats to brilliant wards of Gunners.

(f)     Discretionary Category of the Director General, Artillery. To help children of destitute Gunners not falling in any of the above cat on approval by the Director General, Artillery.

Fee Structure

The fees structures is classified as under:-

(a)     Attributable cases Rs 9,000/- per annum.

(b)     Non attributable cases Rs 9,000/- per annum.

(c)     All other cases Rs 15,000/- per annum.

Eligibility

Eligibility criteria may be amended from time to time to increase the scope and strength of the hostel depending on the state of funds. Certain cases where in the widows are living in abject poverty or for those who have been abandoned or become destitutes, the case will be considered on its merit by the selection board.

During January every year, wide publicity is given through letters to Formation Headquarters, Zila Sainik Welfare Boards and Artillery News for admission to the Hostel.

Guardians of Candidates apply in duplicate on a prescribed form (Download available) duly recommended by Zila Sainik Welfare board and verified by Artillery Records, by 15th March every year to chief warden c/o Artillery centre Nasik Road Camp. The recommendations can be endorsed by the COs of units.

Applications for scholarship vacancies are required to be forwarded to Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp immediately after announcements of results or latest by 05 May every year alongwith following documents:-

(a)     80% and above marks in previous class in case of priority V candidate.

(b)     Sports achievements.

(c)     Extra curricular participation.

Selection

All the applications are scrutinized by the warden who after allotting priorities place them for consideration by the board for the final approval. A separate board is detailed to ensure the following:-

(a)     Organise written test in English, Maths and GK.

(b)     Physical and Medical test.

(c)     Interview.

(d)     Prepare merit lists.

ABCBM Cell

Artillery Battle Casualty Benefit Monitoring Cell (ABCBMC)

1. Artillery Battle Casualty Benefit Monitoring Cell was established at Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp on 20 Oct 1999 and was inaugurated by Brigadier PSS Rajan, then Commandant Artillery Centre. The Battle Casualty Benefit Monitoring Cell was established with the 'AIM':-

(a)     To ensure that Next of Kins of those killed/disabled/boarded out soldiers receive their financial benefits from Central/State Government in time.

(b)     To advise the widows on safety and investment of cash awards and render necessary assistance in this regard.

(c)     To establish liaison with respective Formation Headquarter nominated to look after the welfare of the Next of Kin.

(d)     Invest lump sum amount received from Army Headquarter for children education. Ensure timely remittance of income so generated to the Next of Kin for children and payment of principal amount on attaining the age of 21 years for boys and 18 years for girls.

(e)     Invest lump sum amount received from Army Headquarter for dependent parent grant. Ensure remittance of income so generated to the parent on periodic basis. After demise of parents payment of principal amount to their nominees.

(f)     To collect, collate and create data bank of battle casualties, including those wounded/ invalided out consequent to the injuries sustained in various post independence operations. The record office will provide basic data for the purpose.

(g)     To liaise with the Zilla Sainik Welfare Boards to assist the Next of Kin and disabled soldiers to complete their documents required for release of ACWF and NDF grants.

2. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

(a) Disbursement of financial benefits to Next of Kins of Fatal Case & Invalid Medical Board (IMB) Cases from National Defence Fund (NDF) and Army Central Welfare Fund (ACWF) is a major task performed by this cell. The details of financial assistance provided are :-

PRE-OPERATION VIJAY	OPERATION VIJAY	POST-OPERATION VIJAY
ACWF Rs 50,000/- to each Next of Kin.	Dwelling Unit Grant Rs 5 lacs. (ACWF)	ACWF Rs 30,000/- to Next of Kin of Battle Casualties after 01 may 99.
NDF (BC) Rs 50,000/- to each Next of Kin.	Parents grant Rs 2 lacs.	ACWF Grant Rs 20,000/- to 60,000/- based on percentage disability for those retained in service. In case of "Board Out" with same disability, additional balance amount of Rs 1 Lac will be paid.
Rs 1 lac to each IMB/ RMB Cases (ACWF).	Children Education Grant Rs 1 lac per child (max two child)	(i)ACWF Rs 30,000/- to Next of Kin of each Physical Casualty (Fatal) after 01 Apr 2001. (ii)ACWF Rs 1,00,000/- to Next of Kin of each Physical Casualty (Fatal (for not attributable to Military service cases only)) on or after 15 Jan 2009.
Rs 1 lac to each IMB/ RMB Cases (ACWF).	IMB Cases 03 to 06 lacs based on % disability and serial number 1 and 3 above

(b) OP Vijay

(i) OP Vijay (Kargil)

Ser No	Type of Field	Amount per head	Total Amount	Remarks
(aa)	Children Education Grant (Fatal Cases).	1 Lac per Child.	30 Lacs	Yearly interest forwarded to Next of Kin. Principal amount paid Yearly interest forwarded to Child on attaining upper age limit .
(ab)	Children Education Grant (Non Fatal Cases).	1 Lac per Child.	11 Lacs	-do-
(ac)	Parent Garent.	2 Lacs	46 Lacs each	Interest on quarterly basis forward to parent. Principal amount being paid to nominee in the event of death of both parents.

(ii) Post OP Vijay (Kargil)

(aa)	ACWF Grant.	30,000/-	1,30,000/- (05 Cases).	Yearly interest fwd to Next of Kin. Principal amount paid to child on attaining upper age limit.
Total 89.30 Lacs

3. PROCEDURE

(a)     FOR NDF (BC) & ACWF OF RS 50,000/- EACH

(i)     Step 1. Death Intimation received from Records (Non Effective -1(B).

(ii)     Step 2. Following documents are required by Battle Casualty Benefit Monitoring Cell from records :-

(aa)     Extract of Sheet Roll.(ab)     BC Part II Order.(ac)     Pension Payment Order Number.

(iii)     Step 3 . Battle Casualty Benefit Monitoring Cell confirms the following from ZSB/Parent Unit :-

(aa)     Living Next of Kin (Aliveness Certificate from District Treasury Office).
(ab)     Obtain Bankers Details.

(iv)     Step 4 . Claim forward to Rehabilitation & Welfare Section (R & W) . Pre-receipt forward to Next of Kin through ZSB/Parent Unit.

(v)     Step 5 . On receipt of pre-receipt. Draft is forwarded to Next of Kin with acknowledgement due.

(vi)     Step 6 . On receipt of mandatory confirmation receipt from Next of Kin receipt forward to R & W Section, Army Head Quarter for their audit.

(b) ACWF OF BC CASES RS 30,000/- EACH Next of Kin

(i)     Step 1 - Death Intimation received from Records alongwith following documents : -

(aa)     Death Part II Order.(ab)     Next of Kin details.(ac)     Bank details.(ad)     Pre-receipt from Next of Kin countersigned by witness (Sarpanch).

(ii)     Step 2. Claim forward to R&W Sec, Army Headquarter (Ceremonial & Welfare Directorate).

(iii)     Step 3. On receipt of amount, draft deposited to Account Branch.

(iv)     Step 4. Pre-receipt forward to Next of Kin. On receipt of Pre-receipt, draft forward to Next of Kin with acknowledgement due.

(v)     Step 5. On receipt of mandatory confirmation receipt from Next of Kin receipt forward to R & W Sec, Army Headquarter for their audit.

RAA

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History

1. The Regiment of Artillery Association formed on 01 Jun 1964, was initially started on 01 Apr 54 as the Artillery Benevolent Association with only Persons Below Officer Rank as members. However, with establishment of RAA, Officers were included with the aim of fostering friendship between serving and retired gunners and to assist them and their families. The broad aims and objectives of the Association are:-

(a)     To provide assistance to the serving and retried gunners and their families.
(b)     To provide distress relief to the members or their next of kins.
(c)     To provide scholarship to the children of the members who are studying in professional colleges.
(d)     Maintain archives and museum.

2. Initially RAA was established in School of Artillery, Devlali. The present building of Artillery Association was called the "Artillery House" and was established on a 15.275 acre plot near Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp. The building presently houses 'Artillery Museum' and is named now as such. The foundation stone of the erstwhile Artillery House was laid by General PP Kumaramangalam, DSO, the then Senior Colonel Commandant of the Regiment of Artillery on 26 Nov 1968. The building was finally completed in Sep 1970.

3. In year 2000 it was decided to establish the Artillery Museum in the premises of RAA. The renovation was completed on 11 Dec 2004 and the Artillery Museum was opened to the public on 16 Jan 2005.

Organisation

Charter

1.   Title. Regiment of Artillery Association (RAA)
2.   Patron in Chief. The President of India.
3.   Patron. The Chief of the Army Staff.
4.   Trustees.

(a) President. The Senior Colonel Commandant of the Regiment of Artillery.(b) Members. All other Colonel Commandants of the Regiment of Artillery.

5. Secretariat:-
(a) Secretary. (b) Treasurer. (c) Curator. (d) Staff as authorized from time to time by the Central Committee.

6. Membership. Every serving gunner is eligible to become a member by voluntary donation to the RAA trust at the rate of Rs 5000/- per Officers and Rs 2500/- per Other Rank at the beginning of his service in Artillery. The donations will contribute to the “Trust Corpus” and annual interest derived from this Corpus will be utilized for various activities of the Trust. The donations made are non-refundable. Erstwhile Artillery Benevolent Association (ABA) members are also treated at par with RAA members.

Terms and Definitions.

7. Unless changed otherwise.

(a)    Gunner. It means an attested/commissioned Regiment of Artillery man of any rank, serving, discharged or retired.
(b)    Family. It means wife, children including step children and adopted children-male children upto the age of 21 and female children upto the age of 25, if unmarried.
(c)    Dependent. It means parents, brothers below 21 years, unmarried sisters below25 years and any other near relative who, on verification, is established to be solely dependent on the member.
(d)    Distress. It means the state of monetary difficulty caused due to one or more of the following reasons :-

(i)     Natural calamities such as scarcity, drought, flood, fire, earthquake, landslide, cyclone or the like.(ii)    Physical incapacitation such as disablement (total or partial), old age and so on.(iii)    Monitary distress/pecuniary, not able to maintain one self.

(e)     Relief. It means assistance given as a grant, or gift for relief from distress. It may be given by paying money in lump sum or by instalments, spread over periods as prescribed by the concerned authorities or supplied in kind such as sewing machine, hosiery machine, artificial limb/device/surgical appliances and so on.

(f)     Member. It means an admitted gunner to RAA on conditions as laid down in this Charter and includes one who is deemed to have agreed, at the time of his entry, to accept the Governing Body of RAA, as the paramount and appellate body in governing the entire affairs of RAA, acting on his behalf and representing him all along in taking decision or dealing with any matter whatsoever concerning RAA. Members of erstwhile ABA will also be treated at par.

(g)     Donation. Donation from a gunner means money voluntarily given by him to the ‘Trust Corpus’ of the RAA with the express desire of the contributor to become a life member of the RAA and so receipted. Donations may also be received from well wishers of the Trust. Such donations to the RAA by well wishers attract deductions in income tax, under IT Act 1961, Sec. 80(G) vide Commissioner of Income Tax, Nasik letter No PRO/80G/2000-01 dated 30 Mar 2001 subject to the aggregate donation being more than Rs 250/-.

8. Aim. The aim of the Association is to look after the interest of all members and their families, both while in service and after retirement.
9. Objectives. The objectives of the Association are :-

(a)     Provide ex-gratia relief to Next of Kin in the event of death of a memeber.(b)     Provide distress relief to members, their families or dependents in the event of natural calamities, physical incapacitation, destitution, poverty and so on.(c)     Extend medical relief to paraplegic cases (not in receipt of pension) for treatment of physical and mental ailments and convalescence.(d)     To undertake welfare projects for common benefit of a large cross section of members.(e)     Provide scholarship to deserving children of members in professional colleges.(f)     Honouring outstanding achievers with exceptional merit of the Regiment of Artillery.(g)     To promote the eficiency of the RAA by:-

(i)     Maintaining contact with the members of the RAA and look after their welfare. (ii)     Fostering 'esprit de coprs', comradeship and preserving its traditions.

(h)     To help members in post retirement settlement through networking.(j)     Provide for upkeep of Artillery Museum and library.(k)     To maintain archives.
(l)     Through web site keep in touch with all Gunners, provide greater transparency and information relating to RAA.

Trust Management

Governing Body.
1. Composition. The Governing Body will consist of the following :-

(a) Senior Colonel Commandant – President. (b) Remaining Colonel Commandants.(c) Director General Artillery, in case he is not a Colonel Commandant.(d) Commandant, School of Artillery, if he is not a Colonel Commandant.(e) MGs Artillery.(f) Additional Director General Artillery (B) – Secretary.(g) Major General/Brigadier Army Air Defence (AAD), to be nominated by Director General (DG) AAD till existing AAD members remain in RAA.(h) Deputy Director General (Coord and Personnel).(j) Commandant, Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp. (In attendance only)(k) Commandant, Artillery Centre, Hyderabad. (In attendance only)(l) Director Artillery (Dir, Arty-10) (In attendance only)(m) Secretary RAA.(In attendance only)

Executive Committee
2. Composition. The Executive Committee will consist of the following :-
(a) Director General Artillery - Chairman. (b) Additional Director General Arty (B)/ - Vice Chairman. nominated MG Arty. (c) Commandant Artillery Centre, - Deputy Chairman. Nasik Road Camp. (d) Deputy Director General - Secretary. (Coord and Personnel). (e) Representative from Army Air Defence. (f) Director Artillery (Arty-10). (g) Secretary RAA. (The quorum will be four members with the presence of either the Chairman or Vice Chairman being mandatory).
UNIT COMMITTEE.

3. Each Regimental Headquarters/Independent Battery/Formation Headquarters has one committee each, to function as initiating/recommending authority for cases from among gunners serving under them. Every unit must maintain detailed records of their personnel including RAA membership number, details of next of kin, home address and employment address.

4.    Composition. The Unit Committee will consist of the following :-
     (a) Second-in-Command (Chairman).     (b) One Battery Commander/BK/Staff officer.     (c) One other officer.     (d) Subedar Major.     (e) One JCO.
5.    The quorum will be three members.
6.    Functions.

(a) To consider cases received from both serving and in some cases retired personnel for medical relief, distress relief and financial grant. If required, to ascertain the veracity of the claim of the member.
(b) Give recommendations to the Commanding Officer of the unit.

7.    Assembly..The Unit Committee will assemble on as required basis.
8.    Applications duly recommended by the Commanding Officer will be forwarded to Headquarters Command Artillery Branch.
COMMAND COMMITTEE.
9.    Composition.

(a) Brigadier Artillery – Chairman (in absence of the Brigadier Artillery, MG Artillery to act as Chairman).(b) One Staff Officer of Headquarters Artillery (Command).(c) One Officer/JCO of an Artillery unit within the Command.The quorum will be of three members.

10. Functions.

(a) Command Committee will consider cases forwarded by units and Formation Headquarter in respect of both serving and retired personnel and sanction relief from the budgeted allotment to the Headquarter Command (Artillery) upto a maximum of Rs 10,000/- per individual for distress relief.

(b) Routine cases and the cases requiring assistance over and above provided by the MG Artillery will be forwarded along with recommendation of the MG Artillery to the Secretary RAA for consideration by the Sub Committee of the Executive Committee.

11. Command Committee will assemble on as required basis.

SUB COMMITTEE OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (SCEC).

12. The Sub Committee of the Executive Committee will consist of the following :-

(a) Commandant Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp / a Brigadier of School of Artillery / Chairman. (b) One Commanding Officer of cooperating unit detailed by School of Artillery. (c) Secretary RAA. (d) Representative of Army Air Defence. (e) Two Junior Commission Officer Members ( as nominated by Commandant Artillery Centre, Nasik Road Camp). (f) Treasurer RAA will be in attendance. The quorum will be four members including the Chairman which is mandatory.

13. Functions.

It will consider the following :-

(a) Cases relating to medical relief to paraplegic officers/Junior Commission Officers/Other Ranks.(b) Cases relating to distress relief of Junior Commission Officers/Other Ranks.(c) Cases for grant of relief to officers. The JCOs and AAD representative will not be part of the quorum.

14. Assembly. The Sub Committee of the Executive Committee will meet at RAA once in a quarter to sanction relief. Board proceedings will be forwarded to the Chairman Executive Committee for information and scrutiny.

Officers assistance and Welfare Fund

1. Title. The title of the fund shall be OFFICERS ASSISTANCE AND WELFARE FUND. The fund will form a sub fund of the RAA Fund.

2. Objective. The fund is constituted for providing relief and financial assistance to serving and retired officer members and to the families of deceased members.

3. Finance. The following are the main sources of income to Officers Assistance and Welfare Fund :-

(a) Rs 100/- donation initially from Artillery Officers.(b) Interest from Officers Assistance and Welfare Fund Investments.(c) Share of income of RAA funds, to be decided during the annual budgeting based on the Officers to JCOs/OR ratio.

RELIEF/GRANTS.

4. Rules for Officers Assistance and Welfare.

(a) Grants for distress / medical relief may be sanctioned from this fund to serving and retired members of the fund. The quantum of grants will generally be given as under:-

(i) Normally upto Rs.20,000/-. (ii) Ex Gratia - Rs.5,000/-.

5. Officers and their families are eligible for grant when extreme financial hardship is established. As the resources are limited they should normally obtain authorised assistance from Government sources and Army Officers Benevolent fund at Army Headquarters. When assistance from these agencies is not available or is inadequate then only grants will be given from this fund.

6. Procedure for Relief and Grants.

(a)   Serving officers will forward their applications to the Secretary RAA through departmental channels.

(b)   Officer serving on staff (other than Army Headquarters), ERE and in the Artillery Centres will forward their application to the Secretary RAA through their superior officers (not below the rank of Col) and Headquarters Command(Artillery).

(c)   Officers serving in the School of Artillery will forward their applications to the Secretary RAA through their Commandant.

(d)   Officers serving at Army Headquarters will forward their applications to the Secretary RAA through their Superior Officers (not below the rank of Col) and the Additional Director General Artillery (B).

(e)   Retired Officers and families of deceased Officers will forward their application to the Secretary RAA through the nearest Artillery Formation Headquarters or Zila Sainik Board. The application will be sent on the form prescribed by the RAA.

7. Sanctioning Authority. The Secretary RAA will put up all the applications in the meeting of Sub Committee of Executive Committee/Executive Committee for sanction.

Army Welfare

General

1. Education Scholarship will be given on yearly basis to wards of members who are studying in professional colleges. The eligibility will be determined on merit cum means basis. Scholarship will be a maximum of Rs 15,000/- per year per student.

Eligibility Conditions

2. Scholarship will be awarded for regular (not correspondence) professional Courses mentioned below :-

(a) Engg Deg Course from recognised Engg Colleges / IITs/RECs/AIT.(b) MBBS/BDS Courses from recognised Medical/Dental Colleges.(c) MBA Deg Course/Post Graduate Diploma/Degree from any of the recognised Management Institutes.(d) Degs (NOT DIPLOMA) being awarded by all Army Institutes.(e) Awards will not be given for Diploma Courses.

3 Priorities for Award.

(a) Priority I - Wards of deceased officers, JCOs and OR, not in receipt of liberalised family pension.(b) Priority II - Wards of injured officers, JCOs and OR who are boarded out due to disability (with or w/o disability pension).(c) Priority III - Wards of serving /retired JCO and OR excluding honorary commissioned JCOs.(d) Priority IV - Wards of honorary commissioned JCOs, both serving and retired.

Procedure of Applying.

5. Application as per format att as Appendix C shall along with relevant certificates will be forwarded through the unit/formation HQ to the Arty Records by the serving persons. In case of retired persons, the application shall be directly forwarded to the Arty Records, which after due scrutiny and vetting shall forward the same to the Dte Gen of Arty. A Board of Officers under ADG Arty (B) shall examine all the applications and submit the Board Proceedings to the Chairman Executive Committee who shall approve them. On approval the Board proceedings shall be forwarded to RAA for issue of cheques to the concerned candidates. Applications must reach Arty records by 15 Oct and the Dte Gen of Arty latest by 31 Oct.

ARMY QUOTES

2012-01-30T06:04:00.000-08:00

Gunner Quotes

Renown awaits the commander who first restores
Artillery to its prime importance on the battlefield.

-Winston Churchill

"Artillery adds dignity, to what would
otherwise be an ugly brawl"

- Frederick the Great, king of Germany, 1740 to 1786

   A Toast to the Guns By them we live,
      For them we would die. Whatever the Mission,
   We'll give it a try. We'll serve them with Honor
      For they are the ones; That make us 'Gunners',
   So here's to the Guns: TO THE GUNS!!

-Unknown

   "You can't describe the moral lift,
      when in the fight your spirits weary
   hears above the hostile fire,
      Your own Artillery.
   Shells score the air like wavy hair
      from a forward battery.
   As regimental cannon crack
      While from positions further back,
   in bitter sweet song overhead
      crashing discordantly
   Division's pounding joins the attack;
      Mother like she belches shell;
   Glorious it flies, and well,
      As, with a hissing screaming squall,
   A roaring furnace, giving all,
      she sears a path for the infantry...."
   - Aleksander Tvardovskiy,
       from the poem "Vasily Tyorkin" 1943

         "St Barbara of the Artillery Corp, Be at the
            bursting of the doors of doom, and in the dark deliver us, Amen."

                                                                    -Irish field Artillery poem

         Cannon to the right of them, Cannon to the left of them,
                Cannon in front of them, Volley'ed and thundered.

                                                            -The Charge of the Light Brigade


           Ultima ratio regum. (The final argument of kings)

                              - Inscription on french cannons, on order of Louis XIV

   "The Artillery was my strongest tool. Often it was my only reserve ....
      I repeatedly said it was more a matter of the Infantry
   supporting the Artillery than the Artillery supporting
      the Infantry.... I wish I knew the countless times that
   positions were taken or held due solely to TOT's ...."

                                                        -Major General R. 0. Barton

    Commanding US 4th Infantry Division World War II
      (Reminiscing with his division Artillery Commander) CANNON,
    (n). An instrument employed in the rectification of national boundaries.

                                                                         - Ambrose Bierce

   The first shot is for the Devil, the second for God,
      and only the third for the King."

   Nothing is more destructive than
      the charge of Artillery on a crowd.

   The best generals are those
      who have served in the Artillery.

   God fights on the side with the best Artillery.
      With Artillery, War is made.

   Leave the Artillerymen alone,
      they are an obstinate lot. . .

                                           -Napoleon Bonaparte

The thanks of the Infantry, in my opinion, must be
   treasured more by every Artilleryman than all decorations and citations."

                                                                       lonel Georg Bruchmuller

"If you don't have enough Artillery, quit."

                                                     -General Richard Cavasos

  The speed, accuracy and devastating power of American Artillery
    won confidence and admiration from the troops it supported and
        inspired fear and respect in their enemy.

                                                        -Gen Dwight D. Eisenhower

   "Do not forget your dogs of war, your big guns,
      which are the most-to- be respected arguments of the rights of kings."

                                                                          -Frederick the Great

     Artillery conquers and infantry occupies.
                                                                    -J.F.C. Fuller

   "Guns will make us powerful, butter will only make us fat."

                                                               -Hermann Goering

   "Too much praise cannot be bestowed on
       those who managed my Artillery"

                                              - General Andrew Jackson

    "The Guns, Thank God, The Guns. . ."

                                                  - Rudyard Kipling

   No one accuses the gunner of maudlin affection
       for anything except his beasts and his weapons.
   He serves as least three jealous gods--his horse and
      all its sadlery and harness; his gun, whose least detail of
   efficiency is more important than men's lives; and,
      when these have been attended to,
   the never-ending mystery of his art commands him.

                                                                         - Rudyard Kipling

   In many situations that seemed desperate,
      the Artillery has been a most vital factor

                                         -Gen Douglas MacArthur

     "Artillerymen have a love for their guns
         which is perhaps stronger than the feeling
    of any soldier for his weapon or any part of his equipment."

                                                                      -Brigadier General S. L. A. Marshall

   The harder the fighting and the longer the war,
      the more the infantry, and
   in fact all the arms, lean on the gunners.
                                    -Field Marshal Montgomery

   I do not have to tell you who won the war.
       You know, the Artillery did.

                                            -Gen George S. Patton

   The World War demonstrated the importance of Field Artillery.
       The majority of casualties were inflicted by the arm.

                                                    -Gen John J. Pershing

   "Where a goat can go, a man can go,
       where a man can go, he can drag a gun"
                                             - COL William Phillips 1777

"Our Artillery . . . The Germans
         feared it almost more than anything we had."

                                          - Ernie Pyle "Brave Men", 1944

   "If, after the battle is over,
      your Infantry don't like you,
   you are a poor Artilleryman."

                                        -Captain Henry Reilly

   A battery of field Artillery is worth a thousand muskets.

                                   - General William Tecumseh Sherman

   "There is no other arm of the service
      whose efficiency is so directly dependent
    upon its officers as is the field Artillery."

                                                -Major General William J. Snow

     Artillery is the god of war.

                                            -Stalin

   The work for giants...to serve well the guns!

                                                                    -Walt Whitman

MESSAGES

SR COL COMDT

In keeping with our moto ‘Sarvatra Izzat-O-Iqbal’, the Regiment has expanded its footprints to the realms of shaping battle fields, destruction and all that must be done for a decisive Victory by any Army of reckoning. We are indeed poised as an ‘Arm of Decision’. The achievements of the Regiment must, therefore, be propagated to the environment to reinforce our contribution.

This platform of ‘Gunners’ website reinforces the transcending covenant that must exist between our past, present and the future, and reach out to every member of the gunner fraternity. We must share views and maximise purposeful exploitation of this site.

“Good Shooting”

                                                                   Lt Gen VK Ahluwalia, AVSM**,YSM,VSM, ADC
                                                                   GOC-in-C Central Comd and
                                                                   Senior Colonel Commandant

DG Arty

The Regiment of Artillery has indeed evolved through the ages, creating its own history, customs and traditions. The Regiment has to its credit tremendous achievements earned in battlefields in India and the world over. These achievements instil a sense of pride in every gunner who has manned our guns over the ages.

As we stand at a period of transition, the medium of propagation of these triumphs via an interactive website is apt in the context of the expanding influence of information technology. This portal will serve to bind generations of gunners irrespective of service, rank and age. I am sure it will invite appreciation from every corner of the extended Gunner fraternity.

'Good Shooting'

Lt Gen Vinod Nayanar, AVSM
Director General of Artillery and Colonel Commandant

STRENGTH OF THE INDIAN ARMY

2012-01-30T05:52:00.000-08:00

INTRODUCTION

Grit and experience affect the growth of an institution. Fighting four major wars, insurgency and other low intensity wars has indeed made the Indian Army an eminently and efficient battle trained, war machine.

Changing times bring changing needs. Battle training must tell also on the structuring of the army, for it is this function that extracts the most from the assets available, both men and material. A look at the command and structuring of the Indian Army shows how finely these have been tuned to meet India's threat perceptions, based on the experience of the major wars that it has fought and the present-day geo-political context.

The largest standing volunteer Army in the world has never had to scour the populace for draft or conscription. There are always more men eager to don olive green than the demand at any one time. But this does not reflect a situation where a large unemployed workforce would get into uniform to keep body and soul together. More to the point is the basic attitude of our people to the call of arms, discovered also by the British, some three centuries before. There are very many who join up for long service tenures under the colours, by inclination and choice - also familial habit and honour. If a young man or woman, sound of body and mind, and of Indian origin, is inclined to spend most of his useful working years in the kind of desolation that the country's Field areas' adjoining the borders provide, can he or she cannot be refused.

For the purpose of recruitment, the country is divided into recruiting zones. Every zone is allotted a quota for recruitment based on a percentage of its population and ethnic grouping. A legacy, slowly being diluted, is that of combat arm units or regiments recruiting from a particular zone or mixture of ethnic groups.

Once a man has joined up, it is for keeps. Many fall out at the basic training stage when they find that there is much more to it than getting into a smart uniform. The one who hear the sound of the trumpet clearly without missing a note, take their oath and for the greatness of the nation go into service - not servitude.

Indian Army Headquarters began its life in the Red Fort - Delhi. Imposing edifice that it is, it was hardly suitable to house a complex entity such as this. Supreme Headquarters at that time retained its seat in South Block and refused to share space. Mercifully, it was wound up in short order. Today Army Headquarters occupies portions of South Block along with a gigantic, architecturally modern Sena Bhavan adjacent.

In the Indian context, Command Headquarter can be likened to a Field Army or even an Army Group Headquarter with a General Officer Commanding-in-Chief presiding over matters in the rank of a (three-star) Lieutenant General. Next the line are the Corps Headquarters, which are Field Army Headquarters elsewhere. The Indian Army's combat formations are now grouped and tailored under many such Corps Headquarters (with some forces being retained under static Area Commands).

The static Areas, Sub Areas, or Independent Sub Areas span the length and breadth of the country. These look after infrastructural (and lines of communications) assets, relieving field formations from the tedium of administering a multiplicity of support installations located in an area. Area boundaries conform to state (or a group of states) administrative boundaries. All Headquarters are tasked also to maintain full civil-military liaison. Static Areas (or even field formations in some cases) set up Station Headquarters whose area of responsibility usually coincides with a district or a group of districts. Field formations located in Areas are always contingently tasked to assist the civil administration through these static Headquarters. Strangely enough, this system works.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) wears multiple hats. To the entire army, now some 1.1 million men and women strong, he is the Chief. A number of Staff Officers assist him, such as Principal Staff Officers (PSOs), Heads of Arms and Services, etc. It would take a book of considerable length to even set down their designations and functions.

Until the 1960s, staff coordination was a one-man affair in the form of a three-star General Officer designated the Chief of the General Staff, with direct access to the Chief available to 'some' - the PSOs. Today a Vice Chief and two Deputy Chiefs of Army Staff handle coordination. The command channel is absolutely one to one between the Chief and his Army Commanders -with no one - but no one authorized even to say hold the line'.

PSOs at Army Headquarters (and others down the line) have retained their nineteenth-century designations, not having succumbed to new managerial nomenclatures or alpha-numeric designations. The Quartermaster General, Master General of Ordnance, Adjutant General, Military Secretary, Engineer-in-Chief, Signal Officer-in-Chief, therefore, find traditional mention. At the sharp end a brigade-level General Staff Officer and his logistic equivalents are still called Brigade Major, Deputy Assistant Adjutant General and Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General respectively.

The field force is grouped into Corps. Some of these are defensively oriented and have, over the years, acquired an unofficial - 'Holding'. The others are called reserve or, unofficially again, 'Strike' Corps. The former is really a misnomer since these contain ample offensive potential.

Corps Headquarters are designed to handle an all-arms field army- of three to five divisions or their equivalents. Army Headquarters reserves could be mammoth-size or small, but powerful in either case. Heavy-tracked-Corps are an instance of the former, and the three parachute commandos (battalion-size units), which perform special-forces duties, of the latter. Airborne, Air Assault or Parachute troops are usually held centralized. The mounts', in all cases, are provided by the Indian Air Force.

The Army has in its Order of Battle, mountain divisions, infantry divisions, armoured divisions (in which tank units predominate) and mechanized divisions (in which mechanized infantry units predominate). Independent brigade groups may be armoured, mechanized, air defence (missile or gun), parachute, engineer, field artillery, electronic warfare or even standard infantry and mountain. These form 'Corps/Army troops', that is, they are held at Corps and Army levels for balancing out missions and task forces. At these levels, one would find heavy logistic support units in terms of supply, transport, field ordnance depots, and medical facilities.

Organizationally, the field forces have never been static. Reorganization and creation of new field forces is the norm, prompted by constant rethinking on threats and the emergence of new technology. To put it simply, if our organizations are basically triangular, there is no bar on making them square or pentagonal for a given mission.

Piecemeal 'modernisation' is of no use to anyone. All arms have gone through two and a half modernisation cycles since independence. For people with less than the usual quota of a sense of humour it amounts to a three-legged arms race in which the Joneses are driving the Javeds, Joshis and Jiangs to follow suit.

At least with the Indian Army it is not really so. It is conscious of working out an edge or even proximate ability to see that a catastrophic disadvantage does not undermine operational viability. Even the most articulate and vehement critic would agree that the army is appreciative of what the country has provided to it in material, though it is somewhat hard pressed to do so.

The Underpinning The timeless creed of the warriors and their feeling of comradeship in war and pestilence. The individual styles of the arms actually complement each other in combat.

The pivot The ability of our field commanders to accept organizational, doctrinal, and equipment changes (not in that order) plus a finer perception of the strategic issues involved. With that, is their ability to mix individual assets into a combined arms and logistics team of very high combat worth.

Technology and Equipment It is in this narrow area that modernization is usually talked about. By themselves, 'equipment' may just remain well-produced ironmongery or an intricate series of integrated circuits. But when these are synthesized in a complementary mix, they come to life - and present a threat out of all proportion to their arithmetical aggregate on inventory.

Overall, the Indian Army is adequately equipped. There certainly remain areas where improvements or 'modernization' is pending, but that does not, in any way, detract from the fact that overall the Army has achieved a dissuasive quality, in which a potential aggressor will go into lip-biting conclave before deciding upon a violent course of action.

The mechanized armies in the Western Sector are mobile, balanced groupings of high striking power. The fine synthesization of cutting-edge weaponry into high-value, capital-intensive combat groups is seen at its best here. The T-72, BMP series Infantry Combat Vehicle, Anti-tank Guided Missiles of many varieties, Aviation, fast reconnaissance vehicles, the FH-77/B-02 Medium Gun together with a number of other field pieces indigenously designed and developed, varieties of self-propelled air defence missile and gun systems, Black' Electronic Warfare arrays, first-class assault bridging for dry and wet crossings are found together in supportive mixes. Here, all ballyhoo of ‘We are the queens/kings of the battlefield' is easily given a quiet burial.

In the mountains, it is light infantry and artillery, supported by engineers, signals, helicopters and animals, which make for the combined-arms approach. The most visible manifestation of modernization in equipment is in Siachen, which without these assets, cannot be garrisoned much less defended. This includes a combative logistical infrastructure to prevail 'AGAINST ALL ODDS'. Two things remain to be stated without equivocation.

The Indian Army gives due respect to its adversaries and finds no need to cozen itself with whistling in the dark about 'One of US is equal to ten of them.’

It does not accept being considered second to anyone - anywhere.

LEADERSHIP

The officer corps strength versus commanded strength averages 7 to 8 per cent. After independence there was only one period (1963-65) when a need arose to offer short-term emergency commissions. That was when a pre-1962 planned expansion was compressed in terms of time leading to this call. The main brunt of the fighting in 1965 and 1971 at junior command levels was taken up by this group. Just as in the Second World War, they, along with their regular counterparts, responded with traditional elan. Over the years, a number of Commission streams had merged together. The last of the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, graduates retired in 1969. The Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehra Dun, graduates, as well as the Short Service/Emergency Commissioned Officers of the Second World War formed the overwhelming bulk filling the fighting command slots in 1947-49; the King's Commission Indian Officers taking over the higher command appointments.

In 1949 a unique experiment was launched - that of cadet-level training for all the three Services together for three years and thereafter moving on to Service academies for pre-Commission training. This was the Joint Services Wing (Dehra Dun), which in later years became the National Defence Academy (NDA) Khadakvasla.

At present, the Army officer intake is from four distinct streams, namely the NDA; the graduate direct entry stream (IMA); cadets chosen from the ranks and initially trained at the Army Cadet College - an adjunct of the IMA; and a five-year Short Service Commission stream from the Officers Training Academy, Madras. A few selected Junior Commissioned Officers (a grade existing only in the Indian and Pakistan Armies) are offered Regimental Commissions. The Short Service stream is offered Regular Commissions by choice and reassessment. Officers of the NDA have now reached three-star rank in all three Services. A common indicator of the type of leadership extent in the Army are casualty ratios. In all our wars, officer casualties have been high. This is an internal assessment criterion. Management experts point out that high casualties bespeak of poor command. The point, however, is that Officers of the combat arms lead from the front and do not manage from the rear.

The sacrificial content of the leadership ethos built up over decades has served the country well. But far more important, the ranks know for certain that there will be no directive commands by electronics or remote control.

A common perception of the army officer is that of a large, moustachioed, Neanderthal with overhanging brows getting very physical round the clock. Another is that the real creme de la creme of the high school levels would never think of joining up. It never strikes the common observer that neither a gorilla nor a budding CV Raman, nor a future chief executive of, say, an ice cream manufacturing company may necessarily have combat leadership traits. Academic brilliance is just one plus point, and that is all that has been displayed by a teenager prefering to move into the civilian professional life at that point. If a young man cannot translate his manifest intelligence and brilliance into fast life-and-death decision-making in the field - or wishes to preserve his attributes for 'better' occasions when faced with a sticky situation, he is better utilized in an office, college or laboratory than on a battlefield. That is where he naturally belongs.

The training of the Indian army officer is meant to subsume his persona under a very demanding but explicit code. It is the code given by FM Chetwode cited earlier.

As the young officer grows in services he obtains professional training which helps to slot him into his increasing responsibilities. These training institutions were created from scratch. At their apex stands the National Defence College. In between are the professional All Arms and Services 'colleges' and special managerial expertise is provided by Corps and Service schools and colleges. Standing at the top here is the College of Defence Management. At the Higher Command levels the leader and the manager merge imperceptibly.

The phrase teeth and tail has been hounding the Army ever since a manager with a piquant turn of phrase slotted it into the military lexicon some forty years ago. Someone will have to decide that if the teeth, (meaning the arms) are really to be effective, should not the tail (the logistic corps and services) be more aptly called the gums?

The underpinning of any force is the support services especially in the context of the terrain that we fight in. it is also an unfortunate fact that the more modern and sophisticated a field force, the logistic back-up rises exponentially to maintain it in reasonable shape. When a 50-tonne tank trundles past a saluting base, having replaced a 40-tonne tank, the general populace are appreciative of this new war machine not realizing that, probably, the logistic support to it has gone up 2.5 times. This needs to be known.

The Army Medical Corps gives pride of place in protocol and otherwise to the Military Nursing Service. Together with the Army Dental Corps, the medical services provide a composite, wide-spectrum, morale-boosting blanket of comfort. The men of this corps commence work from the forward-most line of contact. Their war record citations and awards bear testimony to their crucial function. 60 (Parachute) Field Ambulance became a favourite not only in the Commonwealth Division but with all formations of the United Nations Army in Korea. They brought home a Presidential Unit Citation.

The Army Service Corps (ASC) handles all supply and transport aspects while the Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) holds and issues close on half a million items held on inventory. The troika is formed by the Electrical and Mechanical Engineers who provide light to factory-level repairs to everything the Army uses. With their forward repair teams based on customized armoured vehicles, they function within a battlefield, recovering equipment casualties from their point of collapse. In Chhamb - 1971, six medium guns became immobile when their lyres burnt out. The enemy was sweeping the area with machine guns, at line of sight; yet working against time and hostile fire the guns were refitted, recovered, given a quick thump on the barrel and put back in action in less than 24 hours. Back at base workshop, they strip and rebuild anything that the Army owns be it fighting vehicles, electronics, or data processing equipment.

The Red Caps - the military police - are really not providing a service. It is a mix of service and combat visibility, the men being chosen for their presence'. They are the most visible form of military discipline and they do so even-handedly right to brigade levels.

Another keeper of the Army's morale is the Postal Corps. Today they dispense insurance, and other facilities of a standard post office of the Indian Union at any point where a unit of the Indian Army is sent. Mail and smiles go together.

The Infantry

The least spectacular of all arms, but without which you can do nothing, nothing at all". True to these words, Infantry has been the foremost fighting arm from the days of yore. History is testimony to the fact that the ultimate victory in any war is decided by the Infantry. It is the infantryman who pushes the enemy out of his bunker and forces him to accept defeat; or, resolutely holds ground against the assaults of the enemy till the "last man last round". Like all armies the world over, Infantry is the prime arm of the Indian Army. It is with the Infantry at the core that the rest of the Army is configured, both during war and peace. If Army is the last bastion of National security, Infantry remains its penultimate strength.

All wars since 1947 have been witness to the heroic deeds of Infantry troops who have performed their tasks successfully in adverse climatic conditions and terrain to protect the Nation's integrity and sovereignty. The Indian frontiers remain in the hands of infantrymen, from the staggering high altitudes of the Siachen Glacier, the impregnable jungles of the north-east to the scorching heat of the Thar Desert. The low-intensity conflict operations have been a constant, and perhaps the most prolonged operation for the Army. Insurgencies in the North - East, Jammu and Kashmir and, in the past, Punjab have been live examples of Infantry centric operations which are characteristically complex, delicate and sensitive. The Infantrymen have invariably performed well. Besides, the world over in various United Nations peace-keeping operations, our Infantry has earned tremendous good-will and carved a niche for itself and the Nation.

The Gunners

The Gunners are a breed apart. A phlegmatic bunch of men, they are not given to any uncertainties. Their professional attitude, work ethics and training regimen prepares them to face any contingency which may evolve in their flexible fire plan. Gunners exude confidence and infuse the same among others. This ability is reflected in their motto SARVATRA, IZZAT - O - IQBAL to provide fire-power for all eventualities, where-ever required, in whichever form required.

Army Aviation

Ability to observe deep into the enemy area has always been one of the quintessential pre-requisites of warfare and 20th century saw a major revolution in warfare when the advent of airpower added a third dimension to the battlefield on land and in sea. Building from those days, Army Aviation Corps, the youngest Corps in the Indian Army has notched up an enviable record of successes, awards and decorations. It is an amalgamation of diverse influence and traditions of the ‘Aviation’ and the ‘Army’. The motto ‘Suveg Va Sudrid’ clearly narrates the daily ongoing epic of Army Aviation’s ceaseless operational involvement across diverse terrains, in contrasting weather and climatic conditions in a variety of difficult situations. Nothing describes the omnipotence of Aviation’s reach and presence better than it’s ubiquitous round the clock application in the present day context. To add to this are the inborn demands of the environment as Aviation requires enormous reserves of physical, mental and moral stamina. The men and machines, of the Army Aviation Corps, have done yeoman service during the two major wars and innumerable missions of mercy in peace-time for which they have earned accolades far out of proportion to their small numbers.

Army Air Defence

The Corps of Army Air Defence, though a nascent arm, has evolved into a highly professional and modern arm of Indian Army. The personnel of Corps of Army Air Defence perform their duty with speed and flexibility; with utmost zeal and enthusiasm. In the contemporary battlefield characterized by versatile aircraft, flying at speed well beyond that of sound, the Air Defence men have to be capable of real time monitoring and rapid decision making, to live up to the Corps motto of AKASHE SHATRUN JAHI (Kill the Enemy in the Sky). The Corps of Army Air Defence is always "First In and Last Out" in the gamut of operations and in addition to attacking the enemy's critical assets, provides credible air defence cover to vital assets of strategic importance and to critical assets of field forces.

The Corps of Engineers

The Corps of Engineers with their motto of SARVATRA (Ubique in Latin, or 'Everywhere' in common parlance) are a league apart. The officers of the Corps of Engineers are armed with a degree in engineering. The 'Sappers' (as the Engineers are commonly known) are adept at a wide variety of important operational tasks ranging from minefield laying and clearing, bridging, road construction, handling of explosives etc. Mobility and counter-mobility can be termed as some of the important aspects of warfare in which the Engineers play a major role.

The Corps of Signals

The Corps of Signals is responsible to provide, deploy and leverage the strength of communication networks and ensure cyber security, both during peace and war. The vast Information Communication and Technology (ICT) infrastructure created by the Corps of Signals brings about the necessary synergy amongst various arms/ services by providing voice, video and data connectivity to units and formations thus fulfilling the motto TEEVRA CHAUKAS. They also connect soldiers deployed at far flung remote locations to their kith and kin. The Information Warriors, as they are popularly known, are more fortunate than others since they are constantly on the job, thus ensuring high state of training and morale. The importance of their role inculcates a sense of pride, confidence and sophistication that is unmatched. All said and done a Signaller's life is worth living and dying for.

The Army Medical Corps

The Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) relentlessly pursues professional excellence, and immensely dedicated to maintaining the morale of fighting forces both in war and peacetime by quality medical care and treatment. AFMS is a model of inter-service integration wherein all the three services are jointly committed to the task of providing comprehensive health care services to its clientele.

The ethos of the Army Medical Corps, are reflected in the Corps flag and its crest, with the three colours as "Dull Cherry, Old gold with Black, in-between. The flag and crest, denote positive health, succour, freedom from diseases, creativity, intellect and magnanimity, which epitomizes the Corps Motto SARVE SANTU NIRAMAYA - may all be free from disease and disability.

The AFMS delivers quality curative and preventive services and practice of social hygiene on a large scale. The Corps has some of the highest qualified super-specialist, specialists and medical officers in all branches of medicine. The AFMS not only implements all National Health Programmes to provide efficient preventive and curative services but has specialized treatment facilities for heart, lung, kidney diseases and cancer treatment. The Army Medical Corps (AMC) takes care of all the service personel, their families and pays equal importance in providing medical care to the Ex Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents through ECHS, or by various medical camps conducted in remote areas, including Nepal.

The AFMS have always been at the forefront in providing medical relief in times of disasters and natural calamities and has formed a very important integral part of UN Peace Keeping Forces. The rapid technical changes in the past two decades and the commitment of the Corps to provide a cradle-to-grave service, has led to advances in medical science and technology. AFMS has excelled in almost all branches of medicine and surgery especially in cardiology, cardio-thoracic surgery, neurology & neuro surgery, renal transplantation, malignant diseases treatment, joint replacement etc.

The Ordnance Corps

The Army Ordnance Corps today is an organization that has been transformed into a well connected logistic chain capable of withstanding all challenges. True to their motto of SHASTRA SE SHAKTI, they ensure that the fighting troops receive intimate and state-of-the-art support on the battlefield.

The 'Tuskers' ensure that the required wherewithal is delivered at the right time, right place, and of the right quality. Perfection is striven for so that the fighting soldier does not have to look over his shoulder for his needs. The great challenge today is that of balancing economy with effort and getting the 'best bang for the buck'. With automation and modern material management techniques, this is always the ultimate goal.

The Corps of EME

In sync with its motto, 'Work is Supreme Duty', the 'Soldier-Craftsman' of the Corps of Electronics Engineers (EME) popularly called Eagles have been rendering yeoman services by providing integrated engineering support to the entire range and depth of Army's equipment, be it vehicles, tanks, telecommunication devices, radars or any other conceivable equipment of the Army, right from design to discard i.e. support from 'womb to tomb'. Wars involve the employment of a great deal of modern and sophisticated equipment and the EME plays a major role in assisting the Army's operational preparedness status and combat effectiveness to win any war.

It ensures operational fitness of the entire range of equipment. It also spearheads the management of technology transition for advancing the force modernization programme. If combat arms are the teeth of the Army then EME has a vital function of keeping them sharp, fulfilling the motto: KARM HI DHARM.

The Army Dental Corps

Army Dental Corps is a family of dedicated professionals committed to maintaining the dental health of Armed Forces Officers, personnel and their families which in turn contributes to optimum force utilization and enhances operational capability.

The Core Values of the Corps are patient focused & comply with clinical and contemporary governance protocols; value each individual and their contribution; provide directed military & professional development and promote tri-service ethos.

The Corps Ethos have also been imbibed into the Corps Crest which has a laurel wreath enclosing elephant tusks and a lotus flower at the base. The beauty of the crest is highlighted by the noble Ashoka Lions at the top. The right tusk represents wisdom and the left, emotion.

Rashtriya Rifles

Rashtriya Rifles is a specialist elite force raised in 1990 to combat insurgency in the country and is the premier counter insurgency force of the Army, today. The Rashtriya Rifles is an excellent classical example of Olive Green integration with its rank and file drawn from all arms and services. Its efficacy is reflected in its phenomenal operational success which is the result of a stringent selection process, training, enhanced mobility, surveillance, fire-power and protection capabilities. Rashtriya Rifles adopts a relentless approach with human touch in the execution of tasks, true to its motto of DRIDTA AUR VEERTA which means Determination and Valour.

The Army Service Corps

"War is first and foremost a matter of movement; in the second place, a matter of supply.... and in the third, a matter of destruction". This quote aptly describes the function of the Army Service Corps. This is the Corps, which moves and sustains everything that is required for warfare i.e. from a soldier to any kind of equipment, big or small. Moving by vehicles, mules and porters, it ensures flawless logistics support to match up with the operational plans.

The Pioneer Corps

The oldest and least glamourous of all services, yet it is omnipresent in all stages of warfare. Pioneer Corps units provide disciplined and well trained manpower, where civilian labour is either not available, or its employment is not desirable for reasons of security. Pioneer units are mostly committed in forward and operational areas. They may also be employed as guards and escorts for headquarters, installations, ammunition trains and convoys.

"Through all major wars the contribution of the Pioneer has been tremendous. He is an important element in all spheres of activities with the engineers he builds bridges, repairs railways, maintains roads; with the service corps he brings up vital supplies and stores; with the ordnance corps he keeps up the flow of guns and ammunition; he works in hospitals or acts as stretcher bearers with frontline troops ".

True to these words, the Pioneers have been there to support the operations of all arms and services, both in war and peace. Their resilience and eagerness to undertake all type of duties is aptly summed up in their motto; SHRAM SARVA VIJAYEE -meaning 'With Labour, everything can be won'. The Pioneer Soldier is always true to his tasks.

Territorial Army

The concept of Territorial Army in India was introduced way back in the year 1897, when it was raised as 'Volunteers'. Since its raising on 9th October 1949 by Shri C Rajagopalachari, the then Governor General of India . The Territorial Army also known as TERRIERS has come a long way and earned a place for itself in the hearts of the people by its selfless devotion to duty, truly justifying the motto SAVDHANI VA SHURTA. The conceptual framework for the Territorial Army is based on the fundamental idea that it should exist for war time employment and should be maintainable at the lowest cost during peace time.

The concept encompasses the employment of disciplined, trained and dedicated citizens from all walks of life to support, supplement and augment the resources of the regular Army. The primary objective of raising the Terriers was to create a Citizens Army capable of augmenting and relieving the Regular Army of their static duties during national emergencies and for providing aid to the civil authorities in dealing with natural calamities and maintenance of essential services. TA is a vital adjunct of the Regular Army with the ability to augment the regular army. It is a flexible and dynamic system capable of resurrection from complete dormancy to full operational capability in an efficient manner within an operationally acceptable time-frame, as has been proved time and again.

The Ethos

The infusion of high technology based precision weaponry has enhanced the lethality of future warfare manifold. The spectrum of threat ranges from the nuclear to the conventional and the assymetric, with terrorism emerging like a hydra-headed monster. Add to this the rigours of climate i.e. the glacial heights and extreme cold, dense mountainous jungles and the heat and simoom of the deserts. Such are the trying environs in which a soldier operates. However, to a soldier facing such challenges and going beyond the call of duty is but second nature. Life's turbulences and turmoils have a special flavour for him. For those not exposed to a war or war like environment, this flavour is beyond the realms of imagination. The Indian Army soldier is infused by a set of values that make the soldier willingly face a plethora of challenges and difficulties, and when the call may come, to give the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the Nation. The ethos of the Army is ingrained in all soldiers with an unwavering will to succeed, accepting their grave responsibility and an unbridled ability to give their lives for others; confident that in return the nation will look after them and their families. The values of the army infused in the soldier through the years of training are enumerated below

Espirit-de-Corps The spirit of comradeship and brotherhood of the brave, regardless of caste, creed or religion. The motto is, "One for all and all for one"!
Spirit of Selfless Sacrifice The tradition is never to question, but to do or die for the three "Ns"; Naam, i.e. name-honour- of the unit/Army/Nation, 'Namak'(salt) i.e. loyalty to the Nation, and 'Nishan', i.e. the insignia or flag of his unit/regiment/Army/Nation which the soldiers hold afloat willingly.
Valour Fearlessness in combat and in the face of the enemy even when fighting against great odds or even when facing sure death.
Non-discrimination The Indian Army does not discriminate on account of caste, creed or religion. A soldier is a soldier first and anything else later. He prays under a common roof. It is this unique character, which makes him bind in a team despite such diversity.
Fairness and Honesty The spirit of honesty and fair play. He fights for a just cause that extends even to the enemy (prisoner or wounded).
Discipline and Integrity Discipline and integrity impart the feeling of patriotism, honesty and courage under all circumstances, however strong be the provocation otherwise.
Fidelity, Honour and Courage He is a man on whose shoulders lies the honour and integrity of his nation. He knows that he is the last line of defence and he cannot fail the Nation.
Death to Dishonour A close bond amongst soldiers forces them to choose death to dishonour. The concept of 'IZZAT' (HONOUR) in the clan / unit enables them to shun the fear of death; to be called a coward in the peer group is worse than death.
Forthrightness A soldier has to be forthright, for on his word the men he leads are going to lay down their lives without questioning why.
These values stoke the attitude of Service before Self in every soldier. The famous credo of Chetwode Hall is deeply imbibed in the men in Olive Green. It is the spirit of this credo, imbibed in every officer that binds him with his men in an unshakeable bond of camaraderie.

The safety, honour and welfare of your country comes first
always and every time.
The honour, welfare and comfort of the men you command come next.
Your own ease, comfort and safety come last always and every time.

Organisation (Arms and Services ) of the Army

The greatest binding force in the Indian Army remains unit cohesion and tradition. Truly heady is this mixture of Unit identification and traditions of sacrificial valour, handed down through centuries. At one point, victory or defeat becomes irrelevant. What matters is - Has the unit measured up?

The Indian Army has time and again lived up to its tradition of valour, heroism, sacrifice and fortitude. It stands vigil along the border, watchful, prepared for any sacrifice so that the people of the country may live in peace and with honour. The Indian Army is that and much more.

ORGANISATION

Arms and Services

Armoured Corps

The Armoured Corps

Armoured Corps, successor to the erstwhile cavalry, retains the elan of the horse borne warrior of old, along with that infuriatingly languid air of confidence, of never being seen as perturbed in public. This is a necessity and not a facade. The mechanised battlefield is exceptionally demanding and requires enormous reserves of physical, mental and moral stamina to get through the 'noise and dust'. The Armoured Corps ethos reflects professional competence and makes demands on individual soldiers far beyond those necessary in other vocations. The Indian Armoured Corp's operational success continues to be founded on moral strength and martial spirit, and it takes tremendous pride in the achievements of the past, seizes the demands and opportunities of the present, and focuses always on the challenges of the future. At the core lies the enduring principles of the Fire Power and Shock Action, the application of which will always have a most devastating effect on the enemy.

Artillery

Home

This website has been inspired by the requirement to reach out to the extended ‘Gunners’ exemplaire. With the development of this forum a platform has been created to allow the active participation of every member of the Topchi family.

The site serves to create and foster bonds of camaraderie, irrespective of rank, between all gunners who are serving or those who have served the Regiment of Artillery. It reinforces the tenets we share to maintain and promote the proud traditions of the ‘Sarvatra’ family.

By establishing this communication bridge amongst members an interactive medium has been introduced to instantly update the fraternity with the activities of the Regiment including its premier institutions.

THE HISTORY OF INDIAN ARTILLERY


One of the earliest tactical lessons learned by mankind on the field of battle was that the greater be the distance from which one could strike at one's enemy, the greater the degree of flexibility one could achieve in field maneuvers. Thus, even in the days of the the Greek phalanx on the Roman legion, when armies faced each other in parallel order in single lines of ordered masses varying in depth and engaged in close-quarter combat there was always an attempt to gain initial tactical advantage by the early commitment of the auxiliaries - the archers, slingers and darters -who, in fact, num-manual projectiles, however, were not sufficient decisive to have a marked effect on the mass tactics of those days.

Even after mechanical projectiles were invented and used in battle-the Balista, the catapult, the trebuchet, the cross-bow-the tactics of massed confrontation continued to be the main pursuit of commanders for a long time to come. There was only one great and that was the growing use of the engines of war (both projectile and engineer contrivances) in siege operations. During this classic age investment was regarded as the main purpose of warfare.

Although the gun made its first appearance on the battlefields of Europe in the fourteenth century, the gustatory period of artillery was long and its development slow. The gun gradually came to replace the engines of war, but it look nearly four centuries before artillery tactics as we know it began to emerge from the tactics of medieval siege craft.

The first man to appreciate the correct role of artillery in battle was the Swedish King Gustavus Adolphus. He realised the importance of mobile artillery-and invented the first light field piece-weighing 650 lbs and shot, so light mounted that two men could handle it in battle. This was a momentous achievement, because it is from the mobile use of the light field piece that artillery tactics as we understand it today eventually emerged- though it took nearly two more centuries before the fullest tactical use could be made of artillery on the battlefield. It is to Napoleon that we owe the modern concept of the artillery in battle.

It is difficult to pinpoint the first use of artillery in the Orient because of imprecise historical records. According to Trevanier, gunpowder was first discovered in Assam in ancient times. From there it travelled by way of Burma to the Far East and from there, eventually, to the west. The "gun" in those early days consisted of a metal pipe or nalika two and a half cubits in length, with a hole in the rear through which the charge was ignited. The missiles were usually stones and, later, even metal balls. This knowledge of the use of gunpowder for battle seems to have been forgotten during later centuries for we find no record of the employment of artillery until the second half of the fourteenth century.

Although the Moghul Emperor Babur is popularly credited with the introduction of the artillery in land warfare in India, evidence is now available that it was the Bahmani Kings who first used artillery-in the Deccan in their wars against the Vijaynagar kingdom. The persian historian Ferishtah (who served in the armies of the rulers of both Ahmednagar and Bijapur during the sixteenth century) records that the battle of Adoni in 1368, Mohammed shah Bahmani I had collected a train of artillery ( he used the Protuguese word tope)- the guns being served by Persians, Abyssinians and Arabs, Truks and Europeans being attached to the trains as advisers. The tactics was to open battle with a cannonade, which disrupted the formation of the Vijayanagar troops, followed by the coup de grace of a cavalry charge.

This evidence of the use of artillery by the Bahmani kings is not accepted by all historians, but there is no doubt that by the end of fifteen century, King Mohammed Shah of Gujarat was using artillery both as naval guns and for siege craft in land operations. Then came the Portuguese, who for the first time introduced the man -o'-war armed with cannon- and introduced the concept of "command of the seas" to Indian Ocean strategy. By the early sixteen century, Zamorin, ruler of Calicut, had begun to emulate the Protuguese and to arm his ships with naval pieces.

It was the early contact with Europeans -based on Surat- or with the Persian and Arab lands across the Arabian sea that was the main reason for the first appearance of the gun in Central and South India. North India remained innocent of the use of this arm for nearly a Century and half longer.

Moghul Artillery

It Was the first battle of Panipat, 1526, that the Moghul Emperor Babur first used the artillery in North India - when he decisively defeated Ibrahim Lodi, the Afghan kings of Delhi. The main cause of the latter's defeat was effective use of artillery'" estimated to be nearly 300 guns, manned by Rumi and persian gunners who had learned the art from Osmali gunners. Lodi's forces were estimated by Babur to be about 100,000-including infantry, cavalry and about a thousand armoured elephants, but containing no artillery.

Babur's fire- arms in the battle consisted of hand -guns and light guns resting on wooden falconets. He had no mortars because their carriage was heavy and " required four to five hundred men to haul"( Later, however, some mortars were cast by his Persian ordnance chief at Agra and used in the battle of Kanwaha in 1527).

At Panipat, Babur's forces were deployed in five divisions namely, vanguard, right wing, left wing, center and rear guard. Besides, there were two flanking parties for making taughama that is, going around the enemy's flanks and attacking his rear; and two small but mobile bodies of easily dispensable reserves called It Mish. The vanguard or " park of artillery " was deployed in the front along with matchlock men in support. It was commanded by two expert gunners- the right wing under Ustad Ali and the left under Mustafa. To provide adequate protection to musketeers and artillery - men, 700 baggage carts was formed up in front, the wheels of every two being tied together with twisted bull-hides in Turkish fashion. Between every two carts (about 16 yards) five or six shields (called mantles) on wooden tripods were set up behind which matchlock men were to stand and fire. At the regular intervals gaps were left for the small cavalry parties to advance though and charge.

Babur's main plan during the battle was to roll the Afghan wings on to the centre and thus create a worth- while target for his artillery men who "could inflict deadly blows if faced with a concentrated target." He wanted to hold the enemy mass in front and then deal a mortal blow to it. So, while the enemy advanced towards the front-line, Babur's enveloping troops (cavalry) out-flanked the Afghans from the sides and attacked the enemy's rear. Simultaneously, the left and the right wings engaged the enemy from close quarters. Surrounded from all sides and hard-pressed the Afghan wings rolled on to the front. "And now Babur's gunners Ustad Ali and Mustafa engaged the lucrative target with their guns; Afghans fighting valiantly fell in their thousands." As described by Lane Poole, "The master gunner, Ustad Ali, made pretty practise with his firangi pieces, infront of the line and was admirably seconded by Mustafa, the cannoneer on the left centre." Frightened by gun-fire, Lodi's elephants turned and went through their own troops trampling and causing confusion. Thus, by means of his superior tactics and an effective combination of his highly trained cavalry and the new artillery arm Babur was able to wipe out the numerical superiority of his adversary whose mighty army "in the space of half a day was laid in dust."

Next came the battle of Kanwaha (Khanwa) fought between Babur and Rana Sanga of Chittor on 16th March 1527, in which once again the strong artillery fire coupled with superior tactics and efficient cavalry charges won victory for the Mughals. To face an adversary far superior in numbers Babur had to rely on his mortars and matchlocks. Babur deployed his forces in the same manner as in Panipat, that is the baggage carts (700 at Panipat, probably 1000 at Kanwaha) tied together in Turkish fashion and arranged in front, five or six shields fixed to wheeled tripods and placed between every two carts and space left at regular intervals for horsemen to sally forth. Behind the carts were the mortars, falconets, and foot-musketeers. Ustad Ali was posted in front of the centre with the mortars and other wheeled guns (called Jinsi Topkhana by the Mughals) while his colleague Mustafa Khan stood apart from him in front of the centre of the right wing with his musketeers and swivel guns (Zamburak) or the Dasti Topkhana. Babur's plan at the battle of Kanwaha was to reduce the numerical superiority of the Rajput assailants through his defensive matchlock fire and stone -hurling mortars, and to take to the offensive when the enemy's strength was decimated and worn out. The battle opened by the Rajputs attacking Babur's right wing. Bodies of reserve were rushed to its assistance, when Mustafa Rumi, who commanded one portion of the artillery (and matchlocks) on the right of the centre, opened fire upon the attackers.

The Artillery of the Marathas

The Marathas were weaker in the artillery arm than any of their contemporaries - mainly because they depended almost on exclusive purchases from other sources for their cannon. Although Shivaji had a regular department of Topkhana and he was well aware of the effectiveness of artillery, he never had a foundry of his own. He managed to obtain some guns from the foundries at Surat, while others had been captured from the muslim rulers of the south-but by and large his Topkhana was described as a collection of "old and defective' guns palmed off by the European merchant companies which carried on a regular trade in arms and ammunition.

Besides cannons of European manufacture, Shivaji possessed some light pieces of Indian make called Tijala or Zamburak or Shuternal. The furthest he ever went toward ensuring a regular supply of artillery was to allow a French company to build a factory at Rajapore.

In the Peshwa period, some efforts were made by the Marathas to manufacture their own Artillery. Baji Rao started his own foundry. A Cannon ball factory was established at Ambegavan in 1765-66 during the administration of Madhav Rao I and four years later another factory was established at Poona for manufacturing cannons. These factories, however, produced a number of anti quoted guns of a style notoriously crude and clumsy, and the Marathas still steadily looked towards the Europeans for the supply of arms and ammunition.

The guns used by the Marathas in the third battle of Panipat against Abdali's mobile Artillery are described by Kasi Raj Pandit as ''very large and heavy and their level not easily altered, their shot began to pass over our (Abdali's) troops, and fell a mile in the rear." The fire arms used by the gardis who accompanied Parshram Bhau Patwardhan on his Mysore expedition are described by Lieutenant Moore to be "as usual defective."

The Artillery of Tipu Sultan

Like all other Indian rulers of the 18th century, Tipu aimed to organise his Army on the western model- based on the predominance of Infantry and Artillery. Primarily an infantry soldier, he relied more on his Artillery than Cavalry- an Arm which he often neglected. The Artillery took an active part in all the battles he fought against the Marathas and the British. To face the British Army, which has highly modernised Artillery, Tippu had to improve the standard of his guns. After the siege of Seringapatam by Lord Cornwallis, Tipu paid greater attention to the casting of better quality guns and also acquired some from France. Guns were cast (both in iron and brass) by his workmen under the supervision of French technicians. Tipu improvised a technique of smelting iron in clay furnaces with bellows of buffalo hide, and hammered it into gun shots. Buchanan says that Tipu had a Frenchman (probably Manoud) in his employ who devised an engine driven by water power for boring cannons. An observer said that the ornamental finishing of the brass guns and mortars had been "brought to some perfection".

The Artillery of the Sikhs

Guru Govind Singh first conceived the idea of forming the Sikhs into a militaristic commonwealth to fight the Moghuls. The earlier Sikh Armies, however , were composed almost entirely of irregular Infantry and horsemen - the famous Misls or the Dal Khalsa. Subsequently, the proportion of horsemen increased considerably- so that at one time the strength of the Misls rose to ten thousand infantry and any where between one to three hundred thousand horsemen.

The Sikh used Artillery for the first time when Banda Bahadur fought the Subedar of Sirhind. Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Khan tells us that at Gurdaspur in 1715, the Sikhs had Light Artillery which they had captured from Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind. The Department of Artillery was organised into two sections Topkhana Kalan (siege guns) and Topkhana Khurd (field guns) and was placed under a separate Darogha as early as 1804. Topkhana Jinsi or mixed batteries comprising aspi, gavi and hobath guns and Zambyrjgaba ir swivel batteries.

Participations in World War II

The Campaigns in Malaya, Burma, East Africa, the Middle East and Italy blooded the Indian Artillery during World War II. Its role in that war, however, was a limited one because its units were employed as a part of the Royal Artillery which was responsible for the provision of Artillery support. The Indian Artillery never really came into its own as a separate identity during that war.

The Indian Artillery's participation in the fighting began in East Africa. As a precautionary measure against the possibility of Italy joining the war on the side of Germany, 22 Mountain Battery was dispatched to Kenya on 1 September 1939- two days before Britain declared war on Germany. This unit thus became the first Indian Artillery unit to see action in the Second World War. Subsequently, when Italy came into the War, this mountain battery was allotted to the East African Brigade which drove back the Italians from the southeast. An Indian State l Force (ISF) Artillery unit, namely, 1 Jammu and Kashmir Battery, also fought against the Italians. 1 J and K and 22 Indian Mountain Batteries were the Indian element of the Artillery in support of the operations which brought about the surrender of the Italians at Amba Allagi. After its executes at Keren and in Abbyssinia, 1 J & K Battery fought with the French and the Allied Forces which liberated Syria from Vichy France.

Two other Indian Mountain Artillery Units, namely, 27 and 18 Indian Mountain Batteries, went overseas to Aden earmarked for a special role. The Indian Mountain Batteries in the Middle East were regimented under 26 Indian Mountain Regiment in the latter part of 1941. This Regiment returned to India in April 1942 and served thereafter on the North West Frontier.

Of the Indian Artillery units raised during the War, the first to go overseas was a battery of 1 Indian Anti-Tank Regiment. It was rushed to Iraq early in 1941 in support of the force detailed for the quelling of the Rashid Ali rebellion. The remainder of the Regiment moved to Iraq by the end of 1941. In March, 1942, 1 Indian Anti-Tank Regiment formed part of 10 Indian Division. 2 Indian Field Regiment accompanied 6 Indian Division to Persia and Iraq Command (PAIC).

2 Indian Field and 1 Indian Anti-Tank Regiments found themselves in the Desert and took part in the Libyan battles against Rommel, winning distinction at Bir Hacheim. These two regiments suffered heavy casualties. 1 Indian Anti-Tank Regiment suffered so heavily that it had to be broken up temporarily and reformed later in India. The following account of the action at Bir Hacheim testified to the gallantry and the professional skill of 2 Indian Field Regiment. On 26 May, 1942, 3 Indian Motor Brigade Group which included 2 Indian Field Regiment, moved to an area south of Bir Hacheim which was held by a Free French Brigade. At six 'O' clock that by armour in strength early next 6 morning.

The morning of the 27th May confirmed the previous evening's information. German armour equivalent to about two armoured divisions could be seen in harbor 3000 yards from the Indian Motor Brigade's forward defended localities. The Commanding Officer ordered all batteries to engage the German armoured concentration. Their fire scattered the soft vehicles while the German tanks formed up for an attack. The troops of 3 and 7 Field Batteries engaged the tanks at a range of 300 yards and hit some of them with the very first shots. Then the German tanks came up in greater strength. The orders were to fight to the last man and the last round. The forward troops kept fighting the seemingly unending number of tanks. Some German armour came round the flank to attack 4 Battery and the rear troops. The last tank disabled by C Troop 7 Field Battery came to a stop ten yards from No 3 Gun. The gun position officer and a gun detachment commander were killed and the No 1 wounded severely. In 3 Battery gun area, a shell landed in a gun pit in 'B' Troop position and killed three of the detachment. The gun was brought into action quickly and the troop knocked out another 5 tanks. "A" Troop destroyed 7 tanks. This was a good performance by any standards.

The Statesman of 29 August, 1942, published a press note under the heading "Awards for Indian Artillerymen", concerning three of the Distinguished Service Medals won at Bir Hacheim. Two of them were won by Anti-Tank Detachment Commanders and the other by a Non Commissioned Officer in the Field Regiment. In the first case, the Detachment Commander was moving his gun when the German tanks made a determined attack. " He at once brought his gun into action and hit two tanks. Forced to withdraw to a new position he hit another tank", showing great courage and coolness during the action. The second award was won during a fierce engagement with German tanks. The detachment commander set a fine example before his men, who fought magnificently and knocked out two tanks. The great courage displayed in directing fire against a number of advancing tanks earned the third.IDSM.

The Statesman of 30 August, 1942, notes the award of the DSO to Major PP Kumaramangalam who was in command of 7 Field Battery at Bir Hacheim. On 2 September 1942, it carried the story of Havildar Manoj Lakshmi Narasu's great courage and devotion to duty which was an inspiration to his men. "During the action, he ignored bursting shells in order to go from gun to gun, encouraging the crews and maintaining morale at a high pitch". At the end of the battle it was found that both the troops officers were missing. Havildar Major Narasu collected the survivors and led them to safety.

The performance of the Indian Artillery was praised by Mr Winston Churchill himself in the floor of the House of Commons of the British Parliament, on the day following the action Bir Hacheim. Such recognition was not earned without sacrifice. Naik Jagannathan who knocked out 8 tanks, was wounded and died while laying his gun. As soon as what was left of 2 Indian Field Regiment could be reassembled and reorganised, the Regiment was back fighting with the various columns trying to resist Rommel's dash to EI Alamein. More casualties were sustained and more taken prisoners-of-war. Among the officers taken prisoner there were four Indian Artillery Officers including Major Kumaramangalam.

At the time of the action at Bir Hacheim, the Japanese offensive in Burma had taken them to the eastern gates of India, on the Burma-Assam border. Many of the gunner units of the Indian Army Returned to India. 1 Indian Anti Tank Regiment returned from PAIC, 5 (Maratha) Anti-Tank Regiment from the Middle East (with 5 Infantry Division) 2 Indian Field Regiment also returned to India. The only Indian Artillery unit left in the Middle East, was 4 (Maratha) Anti-Tank Regiment. The Maratha anti-tank gunners of this Regiment later took part in every operation of 8 Indian Infantry Division in Italy. They participated in the river crossing operations at Sangro and at Senio. The guns and the jeeps of 4 (Maratha) Anti-Tank Regiment were slung across the river over a steel cable-way erected by the Maratha anti-tank gunners themselves. 4 (Maratha) Anti-Tank Regiment won a DSO, a Military Medal and an IDSM in that operation. Later still, 4 (Maratha) Anti-Tank Regiment functioned also in a mortar role. The support given by the Maratha mortar gunners on the assault on the Gothic Line earned praise from the Divisional Commander.

The Artillery in Malaya

The first Indian Artillery unit to see action in the war against the Japanese was 22 Mountain Regiment, which had sailed from India for Malaya in August, 1939, and was mechanised. On arrival 21 mountain Battery of this Regiment was deployed in support of 8 Infantry Brigade on 6 December, 1941, (in the Kota Baru area) and shelled the Japanese ships within range on the day of the invasion , 8 December. 2 Mountain Regiment fought all down the Peninsula in small detachments. The batteries were employed in a secondary anti-tank role. The men of 4 (Hazara) Mountain Battery, in particular, did some good work as anti- tank gunners.

1 Indian Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment and 1,4 and 5 Indian Light Anti-Aircraft Batteries were deployed on the airfields and at Singapore together with the Hong Kong and Singapore Royal Artillery (HKSRA) and other Royal Artillery units. The Japanese Air Force kept the anti-aircraft gunners in practice with continuous raids every day. Casualties were suffered but all ranks faced their tasks with courage and coolness. 22 Mountain Regiment and 1 Indian Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment were captured in Malaya.

Operations in Burma

After the Japanese war broke out, 17 Indian Infantry Division was ordered to Burma. The HQ Royal Artillery attached to this Division sailed in the same ship. By the time the President Doumer docked at Rangoon, Malaya was being over- run and Singapore was threatened. HQ RA was disembarked and accompanied 17 Indian Infantry Division to Moulmein, where it assumed command of 5 and 12 Indian Mountain Batteries and of the Moulmein garrison. HQ 27 Mountain Regiment, which had arrived in Burma towards the end of 1941, retained command over 23 Mountain Battery. 27 Mountain Regiment less 5 and 12 Mountain Batteries operated under 1 Burma Division.

A section of 5 (Bombay) Mountain Battery supported a battalion of the Baluch Regiment at the Paan ferry. A perimeter camp was organized. The battery transport was outside the perimeter of the camp, which was attacked heavily for 48 hours. When the infantry withdrew, two guns had to be left behind but HQ RA Burma Army sent the replacements immediately. In support of 16 Infantry Brigade box, the artillery observation post of 5 Battery was cut off. The battery commander fired a barrage to enable the infantry to link up. 5 and 12 Mountain Batteries supported 17 Infantry Division at the battle of the Sitting.

Operations on the Indo-Burma Border (May 1942 - September 1944)

Back in India, Army formations were hastily rushed up to the Arakan and Imphal fronts to hold the Japanese on the border. In the spring of 1943, an offensive was launched by 14 Division in an attempt to recapture Akyab (in which 23 Mountain Regiment took part). 15 Corps had been raised for the Arakan operations and 14 Corps made responsible for the Imphal front-under Fourteenth Army (General "Bill" Slim). In the Tiddim area, 17 Indian Light Division was in close contact with the Japanese. 21, 28 and 29 Indian Mountain Regiments supported that formation. Bitter fighting took place in the Chin hills particularly in the Kennedy Peak area.

The following Indian Artillery units participated in World War II

Date	Name of the Regiment	Remarks
1 September 39	22 Mountain Regiment	Embarked for Malaya less animals- for mechanization arrival at destination
1 December 39	22 Mountain Battery	Embarked for Kenya
23 October 40	27 Mountain Battery	Embarked for Aden & earmarked for special role
Mid 1941	Two Batteries of 1 Indian Anti-Tank Regiment	Sent to Iraq to help quell the Rashid Ali rebellion.
20 March 41	12(P) Mountain Battery	Embarked for Burma
14 June 41	23 Mountain Battery	Embarked for Burma
19 July 41	1 Indian Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment	Embarked for Malaya less one battery, on special establishment. Equipment was to be provided from UK
19 July 41	Battery 1 Indian Anti-tank Regiment	Sent to Iraq
05 November 41	2 Indian Field Regiment	Embarked for Iraq less Madras Battery
22 November 41	1 Indian Anti-tank Regiment less two batteries	The Regimental Headquarters and the remaining two batteries embarked for Iraq.
25 November 41	27 Indian Mountain Regiment	Regimental Headquarters and 5 Mountain Battery embarked for Burma.
27 November 41	1 Indian Coast Regiment	Embarked for Adu Atoll
28 December 41	3 Indian Light Craft Battery	Anti-Air-Embarked for Burma
Latter half 41	26 Indian Mountain Regiment	Regimental Headquarters raised to command the mountain batteries in East Africa and Middle East
9 February 42	28 Indian Mountain Regiment	Regimental Headquarters, 15 and 28 Mountain Batteries embarked for Burma, Mulees and Drivers failed to land and were returned to India.
9 February 42	2 Indian Anti-Tank Regiment	Embarked for Burma. Guns and vehicles sent in separate ships.
25 February 42	1 Indian Field Regiment	Embarked for Burma
Early July 42	3 Indian Anti-Tank Regiment	Sent to Ceylon as one of the units relieving the artillery of the Australian Division.
19 August 42	4 (Mahratta) Indian Anti-Tank Regiment	Embarked for Iraq as a static 18 pr anti-tank regiment. Intended for reorganisation a a mobile unit equipped with 2 pr anti-tank guns
19 August 42	5 (Mahratta) Indian Anti-tank Regiment	To Middle East. Returned to India with 5 Indian Division in May 1943.
12 September 42	12 Indian Coast Battery	Sailed for Diego Gracia
27 November 42	3 Indian Coast Battery	Sailed for Adu Atoll.
7 December 42	13 Indian Coast Battery	Sailed for Ceylon for a month's training en route to Cocos Islands
1 February 44	4 Indian Coast Battery (Cochin)	Exchanged with 7 Indian Coast Battery at Abu Atoll.


The Regiment of Artillery constitutes a formidable operational arm of Indian Army. Historically it takes its lineage from Moghul Emperor Babur who is popularly credited with introduction of Artillery in India, in the Battle of Panipat in 1526. However evidence of earlier use of gun by Bahmani Kings in the Battle of Adoni in 1368 and King Mohammed Shah of Gujrat in fifteenth century have been recorded.

Regiment of Artillery in India was raised on 28 September 1827 with the raising of Bombay Artillery which was later renamed as 5 Bombay Mountain Battery. This day is celebrated by the Regiment of Artillery as the “Gunners Day”. The first Indian War of Independence was sparked off at Meerut on 10 May 1857, primarily by native artillery of Bengal Army. This resulted in total ban on Indian artillery units except mountain artillery batteries till British Government later relented on this order and thus on 15 January 1935, `A’ Field Brigade was formed, which later became 1st Indian Field Regiment.

Battle of Bir Hacheim

The advent of the First World War gave Indian Artillery an opportunity to show their real mettle. Fighting as far apart as East Africa, Gallipoli, Mesopotamia and Palestine, Indian gunners acquitted themselves with rare courage and enterprise. The Second World War saw Indian Gunners in action in East and North Africa,Middle East when Havildar Umrao Singh took on Japanese soldiers with his gun rammer in an effort to save his gun. Individual honours apart, it was the collective valour and dedication of Indian gunners that caused Sir Winston Churchil to rise from his seat in the House of Commons to pay tribute to them for their decisive role in the Battle of Bir Hachiem against Rommel’s Panzer Army.

By the end of Second World War Indian gunners had won one Victoria Cross, One George Medal, 15 Military Crosses, two IOMs, 22 IDSMs, 18 Military Medals, five OBEs, One MBE, three BEMs, 13 Burma Gallantry Medals and 467 “Jangi Inams”. In acknowledgement of their contribution Indian Artillery earned the coveted title of `Royal’ in 1945. Indian Artillery during independence consisted of Field, Air Defence, Counter Bombardment, Coastal, Air Observation Post branches and was allotted eighteen and half all types of artillery regiments while remaining nine and half units went to Pakistan.

Jammu & Kashmir Operation (1947 - 48)

Participation of Indian Artillery in Jammu and Kashmir operations during 1947-48 commenced with the first flights of civil and Royal Indian Air Force Dakotas, which transported 1 SIKH Battalion to Srinagar on the morning of 27 October 1947. Personnel of 2 Field Regiment (SP) and 13 Field Regiment donned uniform of 1 SIKH and proceeded as a composite company of the battalion under Capt RLChauhan of13 Field Regiment. It operated as infantry till first week of November1947 when four 3.7 inch howitzer reached the area. Thereafter they took over the guns and assisted the infantry to drive out the infiltrators along Srinagar - Baramula road. Later artillery proved to be battle winning factor in defence of Srinagar airfield and subsequent route of Pakistani tribesmen in Jammu region and Kashmir Valley. Artillery played a dominant role in recapture of Poonch, Rajauri,Thangdar,Tithwal, Dras and Kargil during 1947-48.


Battle of Poongli Bridge

The 1971 Indo-Pakistan War was more challenging for the Regiment of Artillery than ever before. It was for the first time that Indian Army was fighting full fledged war on two fronts. In the Eastern Sector, artillery had to improvise extensively to get guns ammunition and vehicles across various major and minor rivers. It ensured that not once did infantry or armour had to look over their shoulders for artillery support.

During these operations Para Field Battery took part in para drop with Para Battalion to capture Pongli bridge on Lohaganj river near Tangail which expedited surrender by Pakistani Army in East Pakistan. Para was first to enter Dacca around 11.30 AM on 16 December 71 followed by Light Battery. Soon 563 Mountain Battery also entered Dacca. With this a new nation was born. In the Western sector artillery played major role in capture of important Pakistani piquets in Ladakh, Kashmir, Rajauri, Jammu, Punjab and Rajasthan. It was also instrumental in defeating Pakistani designs to capture large Indian territories in the Western Sector

Tiger Hill

Battlefield Kargil was a challenge for the Regiment of Artillery of dimensions unknown. Critical was the situation for Indian Army and the Nation. What was needed was exacting- the enemy had to be dislodged from its defenses in high mountains and destroyed, so that infantry could launch its fury and regain our territory. It was then that the Regiment of Artillery was called up to deliver, and with this the unique saga in the history of mass employment of artillery in high mountains emerged, a watershed in military warfare.

Tryst of Gunners in unconventional operations commenced with its employment to control violent insurgency movement in the North-East Indian states in the infantry role. Gradually the artillery got to be used extensively in an infantry role in counter insurgency operations in Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and elsewhere. What started as subunit level employment developed into regimental and brigade level employment. Gunners have performed exceedingly well in Rashtriya Rifles and Assam Rifles units also. Effectiveness of artillery units in counter insurgency tasks has been well accepted and recognized. Twelve units have been awarded the prestigious Chief Of The Army Staff unit citation and twenty units have been awarded the GOC-In-C Unit Appreciation. Many more units have achieved commendable results.

Artillery units have undertaken large number of diverse tasks like flood and earthquake relief, rescue operations, assisting in building schools and sheds in inaccessible areas, road opening tasks in militant ridden territories, organizing public awareness campaigns and ex- servicemen rally from time to time. It definitely goes to the credit of the gunners that they undertook such diverse commitments in their stride with élan despite being fully involved in their primary tasks.

The Regiment of Artillery initially consisted of the Coastal Artillery , the Air Observation post and Air Defence Artillery branches however due to expansion and ever increasing commitments, these branches bifurcated and became fully operational arms of their own . The Coastal Artillery merged with the Indian Navy in 1964, the Air Observation Post bifurcated in 1986 and renamed Army Aviation, and the Air Defence branch bifurcated and became the Corps of Army Air Defence in 1994.

CHIEF OF THE INDIAN ARMY

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General Sir Mcgregor Macdonald Lockhart KCB, CIE, MC (15 Aug 1947 to 31 Dec 1947)

1. Born on 23rd Jun 1893, General Sir Robert McGregor Macdonald Lockhart, KCB, CIE, MC was commissioned in the British Indian Army and joined 51 Sikhs Frontier Force on 08th Mar 1914. He served as Military Attache to Kabul from Mar 1934 to Dec 1935 and DSD of India from Dec 1939 to Dec 1941. In Apr 1945 he was posted to Southern Army. The General Officer relinquished the appointment of General Officer Commanding - in - Chief, Southern Army in Jun 1947. He was appointed Commander in Chief of the Indian Army from 15th Aug 1947 to 31st Dec 1947.
2. After the World War he served on the World Scout Committee of the World Organisition of the Scout movement from 1953 to 1959. He was awarded the Bronze Wolf Award, the only distinction of the World Organisition of the Scout Movement, awarded by the World Scout Committee for exceptional services to world scouting, in 1961.


General Sir Francis Robert Roy Bucher, CB, OBE, MC (01 Jan 1948 to 15 Jan 1949)

1. Born on 31^st Aug 1895, General Sir Francis Robert Roy Bucher, CB, OBE, MC was commissioned in the British Indian Army on 15^th Aug 1914. The General officer has held various appointments including Assistant Adjutant General from Jan 1941 to Jun 1941 and Additional Quartermaster General, in Iraq , from Jun 1941 to Mar 1942. He was appointed as General Officer Commanding Bengal and Assam Area in 1946 and latter took over as General Officer Commanding - in - Chief, Eastern Command, in 1946 to 1947.
2. Later, the General Officer took over as Chief of Staff, Army Headquarters, and was appointed Commander in Chief and Chief of General Staff of the Indian Army from 31^st Dec 1947 to 15^th Jan 1949.

Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, OBE
(16 Jan 1949 to 14 Jan 1953)

1. Field Marshal K M Cariappa, fondly known as 'Kipper', was born on 28^th January 1900 in Mercara state, now called Karnataka. He received the King's Commission in 1919 with the first group of Indian cadets, and in 1933, was the first Indian officer to join Staff College, Quetta. In 1942, Lt Col K M Cariappa raised 7^th Rajput Machine Gun Battalion (now 17 Rajput). In 1946, as a Brigadier, he joined the Imperial Defence College, UK. Recalled from the UK to serve as a member of the Army Sub Committee of the Forces Reconstitution Committee, during the partition, he achieved an amicable settlement for the division of the army between India and Pakistan.

2. On 21^st November 1947, Lieutenant General Cariappa took over as Army Commander, Eastern Command.On 20^th January 1948, he took over as Army Commander, Delhi and East Punjab Command (now Western Command). Finally on 15^th January 1949, General Cariappa became the first Commander - in - Chief of the Indian Army. He was appointed Colonel of the Rajput Regiment from 1949 to 1959. A veteran soldier, he has served with 2/125 Napier rifles, 1/7 Dogra and 1/7 Rajput. He had campaigned in Iraq, Syria and Iran. He won the award of OBE in 1945 while serving as the Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General with 26 Indian Division in the Arakans. He also commanded the Bannu Frontier. General K M Cariappa relinquished his office of the Chief of the Army Staff on 14^thJanuary 1953.
3. He was the Indian High Commissioner to Australia for two and a half years. In 1986, General K M Cariappa was honored with the rank of Field Marshal by the President of India. Finally on 15^th May 1993, a glorious chapter of the Rajput Regiment and the Indian Army came to an end with the passing away of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, OBE

General Maharaj Shri Rajendra Sinhji, DSO
(15 jan 1953 to 14 may 1955)

1. General M R Sinhji belonged to the house of Nawanagar. Born at Sarodar in 1899, he had his education at Rajkumar College , Rajkot , Malvern College , UK and Royal Military College , Sandhurst . In 1921, he was commissioned into the 3rd Bn the 60^th Rifles (KRRC British Army) and the 2^nd Royal Lancers a year later. During World War II in 1941 he went to North Africa as a Squadron Commander where, for his courageous leadership and determined actions he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO).

2. In 1943 he was appointed Commandant of the 2^nd Royal Lancers. In May 1945 he went to Washington as the firstMilitary Attache to that country. During this tour of duty he was decorated by President Truman with the order of American Legion of Merit.

3.    In September 1946 he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier and commanded a Sub Area. In 1947 he was promoted to the rank of Major General and took over command as GOC Delhi and East Punjab Area. He rendered valuable and effective service in controlling the disturbances in Delhi and the Punjab . Subsequently, In Jan 1948 he became General Officer Commanding -in- Chief Eastern Command, thereafter moved as General Officer Commanding -in- Chief Southern Command in May 1948, where he directed the swift police action in Hyderabad in September of that year.

4.    The General Officer was selected to succeed General Cariappa as C - in - C and assumed office on 15^th January 1953. The General Officer was awarded Queen Elizabeth II's Commendation Medal in June 1953. The Order of Yugoslavia Army Class I was bestowed on him by HE Marshal Tito.   The General Officer was appointed as Chief of Army Staff from 1^stApril 1955 to 14^th May 1955. He passed away on 1^st Jan 1964.

General Satyawant Mallana Srinagesh
(15 May 1955 to 07 May 1957)

1. Commissioned as an officer in 19 Hyderabad Regiment (now Kumaon Regiment) on 30^thAug 1923, he commanded 6/19 Hyderabad Regiment from 17^th Dec 1942 to 28^th Aug 1945. He was the first Indian Commandant of The Kumaon Regiment Centre from 2^nd Oct 1946 to 12^th Dec 1946.
2. Later, he was Commander of 268 Infantry Brigade British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) in JAPAN in 1946-47. He was also Brigade Commander of the famous Lushai Brigade in Burma in 1947. In Dec 1947 he was appointed General Officer Commanding Madras Area and was Adjutant General at Army Headquarters from Jan 1948 to Aug 1948. Later he commanded 5 Corps. He was Chief of the Army Staff from 14^th May 1955 to 7^th May 1957.

3. He was Governor of Assam from 1959 to 1962, Governor of Andhra Pradesh from 1962 to 1964 and Governor of Mysore (now Karnataka) from 1964 to 1965. He passed away on 27^th Dec 1977.

General Kodandera Subayya Thimayya, Padam Bhushan, DSO
(08 May 1957 to 07 May 1961)

1. Commissioned as an officer in 19 Hyderabad Regiment (now Kumaon Regiment) on 4^thFeb 1926, he took over Command of 8/19 Hyderabad Regiment during World War II in Arakan (Burma) from 19^th May 44 to 24^th Mar 1945.
2. He was Brigade Commander in World War II in Burma Campaign and awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). He was also Commander of 268 Infantry Brigade in Japan (The British Commonwealth Force) in 1945. He was Commander of Indian Force Jammu & Kashmir in 1948. He earned international fame as Chairman of the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission in Korea in 1953, and for his services there the government conferred on him Padma Bhushan in 1953. He had the privilege of being the General Officer Commanding in Chief (over separate tenures) of all the three Commands that existed at the time i.e. Southern, Eastern and Western. He was the first Indian Colonel of the Kumaon Regiment from 1^st Jan 49 to 8^th May 1961.

3. He was Chief of Army Staff from 7^th May 1957 to 7^th May 1961. During his tenure as Chief of the Army Staff, the Military Academy was set up with Indian aid in Ethiopia . In appreciation of which, the Emperor of Ethiopia conferred upon him the Grand Cordon of Menelik II in Feb 1961. He retired from Army on 8^th May 1961. He was Commander of UN Peace Keeping Force in Cyprus from Jun 62 to Dec 1965 and died in Cyprus while on active duty on 18^th Dec 1965.

General Pran Nath Thapar
(08 May 1961 to 19 Nov 1962)

1. General Thapar was born on 8^th May 1906 and was educated at Government College, Lahore . He was commissioned into the 1st Punjab Regiment from Sandhurst in 1926. As a regimental officer, he spent nearly ten years with the 1^st Punjab Regiment and later attended and qualified on staff courses at Quetta and Minlay-Manor in England.
2. During the Second World War in 1941, he saw service in Burma , followed by a tenure in 1943-44 in the Middle East and Italy. In 1945 he was appointed as the Assistant Military Secretary, General Headquarters in India . Later on he was selected to serve on the Army Reorganization Committee.

3. In 1946, after victory over Japan , he commanded the 1^st Battalion of his parent Regiment in Indonesia during the national trouble in that country. Later he commanded the 161 Indian Infantry Brigade in East Bengal . On the advent of partition and during its first turbulent months, General Thapar was Director of Military Operations and Intelligence at Army Headquarters, India from August to December 1947. In November 1947, he was promoted to Maj General and officiated for a few months as Chief of the General Staff and later appointed as Military Secretary which post he held till Aug 1949. This was followed by his appointment as Master General of Ordnance from Aug 1949 to Apr 1950. He served as the Colonel of The Rajputana Rifles from 18^th Jul 49 to 20th Jul 63.
4. He commanded an Infantry Division for about four years and was promoted to the rank of Lt Gen in 1954 as Commander of a Corps. He held this appointment till Dec 1955 when he was selected to attend the Imperial Defence College , London , from Jan to Dec 1956. On successful completion of the course he was appointed as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, and later took over Western Command on 25^th May 1959. General PN Thapar took over as Chief of the Army Staff on 8^th May 1961 and served till 19^th Nov 62.
5. General Thapar who hails from a distinguished family brought to his high office a wealth of experience and knowledge gained on various fronts during his thirty five years service. A keen tennis and golf player, General Thapar was at one time services tennis Champion. After retirement he was appointed as Indian Ambassador to Afghanistan from Aug 64 to 1^stJan 69. He passed away on 23^rd Jan 75 at the age of 69 yrs and 01 month.

General Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri, OBE
(20 Nov 1962 to 07 Jun 1966)

1. General JN Chaudhuri, was born on 10^th Jun 1908 and received his early education in Calcutta and the High Gate School, London. He obtained a nomination to the Royal Military College, Sandhurst and was commissioned in February 1928 into the 7 Light Cavalry.

2. During World War II he went overseas with the famous 5 Indian Division and saw active service in Sudan, Eritrea, Abyssinia and the Western Desert and was awarded the OBE and Mentioned in Dispatches thrice. In August 1944, he took over command of the 16 Light Cavalry, to become the first Indian Commanding Officer to lead an armoured Regiment into battle and won great renown for fighting in Central Burma. At the end of the Burma campaign, he saw service in French Indo-China with his regiment in Java.

3. In January 1946 he was appointed as Brigadier-in-Charge, Administration, Malaya Command, and was the third Indian to become a Brigadier in the Indian Army. A year later, he went to England to attend a course at the Imperial Defence College and on his return to India he became Brigadier (Plans) and later Director of Military Operations and Intelligence at Army HQ. In February 1948, he was promoted Major General and became officiating Chief of the General Staff. In May 1948, Gen Chaudhuri took over command of the 1 Armoured Division which played a major role in the Hyderabad Operations, and then was appointed Military Governor of the Hyderabad State for over a year. In January 1952, he became Adjutant General, Army HQ and in January 1953, he again took over as Chief of the General Staff.

4. Gen Chaudhuri served as the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army from 20^th Nov 1962 to 7^th Jun 1966 with great distinction. He passed away on 6^th Apr 1983.

General Paramasiva Prabhakar Kumramangalam, DSO
(08 Jun 1966 to 07 Jun 1969)

1. Born on 1^st Jul 1913, he was commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery on 29^th Aug 1933. He was the second Indian Officer to be commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery. During World War II, as a Major, he took part in the operations in the Middle East and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for an outstanding action in Libya on 27^thMay 1942.
2. General Kumaramangalam took over as General Officer Commanding-in - Chief, Eastern Command in May 1963. In Nov 1964 he was appointed Deputy Chief of the Army Staff and on 15^th Jan 1965 he became Vice Chief of the Army Staff. General Kumaramangalam took over as the Chief of the Army Staff on June 8^th 1966, the first Indian gunner officer to reach this coveted appointment. The tenure of General Kumaramangalam as Chief of the Army Staff was marked by an unpublicised but exhaustive re-organisation of the service, up gradation of weapons, training and tactics based on the lessons learned from the 1965 war.

3. General Kumaramangalam was a keen cricketer, horseman, show jumper and an avid polo player. He was a member of the MCC, a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society, President of Indian Polo Association and Equestrian Federation of India. He was Senior Colonel Commandant of Regiment of Artillery from 5^th Jul 1959 to 4^th Jul 1969 and Honorary Colonel Commandant from 5th Jul 1969 to 30^th Jun 1975. He passed away on 13^th Mar 2000.

Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, MC
(08 Jun 1969 to 15 Jan 1973)

1. Known to his friends as SAM, Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, Militry Cross, was born on April 3rd, 1914. He had his early schooling in Amritsar and Sherwood College Nanital. Manekshaw belonged to the first batch of 40 cadets to be selected for the Indian Military Academy and was commissioned into the 12 FF Rifles on 4th Feb 1934.

2. In the first Burma campaign, he took part in several actions against the Japanese. On the Sittang river when he came to grips with the Japanese, during the push towards Pegu and Rangoon , Field Marshal (then Capt) Manekshaw led his company with courage and tenacity, despite being wounded. He was awarded the Military Cross (MC) for his gallantry and leadership. Later he was again wounded a second time and evacuated to India .

3. Later Manekshaw commanded an Infantry Brigade for two years. The Field Marshal is also a graduate of the Imperial Defence College . He was later awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1968 for his distinguished service. He commanded a Division in the J&K for a short duration and took over the command of a Corps on the Eastern Frontier in November 1962. On 4th December 1963, then Lt General Manekshaw became the first Indian Commissioned Officer to become an Army Commander and became the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Command before taking over as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Command in November 1964. Field Marshal Manekshaw was appointed the Chief of the Army Staff on 8th Jun 1969.

4. Manekshaw was appointed the Colonel of the Regiment 8 Gorkha Rifles and 61 Cavalry on 24th May 1953 and continues to be the Honorary Colonel of the Regiment of the 8 Gorkha Rifles and 61 Cavalry till his death.

5. As Chief of the Army Staff, he rendered yeoman service to the Nation by forging the Indian Army into an efficient instrument of War. In his capacity as the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, he welded the Army, Navy and Air Force into a well knit team working in perfect harmony which resulted in the capitulation of the Pakistani Army in the Eastern Front. The decisive results achieved by the Indian Army during the 1971 conflict with Pakistan under the able military leadership of Manekshaw gave the nation a new sense of confidence and his services were recognized by the President of India when in January 1973, he was elevated to the rank of Field Marshal.

6. The Field Marshal passed away on 27 Jun 2008 after a long illness at age of 94. The knight shall be missed forever.

General Gopal Gurnath Bewoor, Padam Bhushan, PVSM
(16 Jan 1973 to 31 May 1975)

1. General GG Bewoor, PVSM was born at Seoni, Madhya Pradesh on 11^th Aug 1917. He is an alumini of Royal Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun and the Indian Military Academy . He was commissioned in 2 Green Howards Regiment on 15^th July 1937 during operations in Waziristan . Later, he was transferred to 5th Baluch and served with them till July 1945. He attended Staff College course at Quetta and was specially selected as Under Secretary (Military) to the Viceroy's Co- ordination Council - the only Indian officer to be given this coveted appointment. He took over command of 2 Dogra in Oct 1947. With a view to imparting basic military training to school and college student, he became the First Director General of NCC in April 1948.

2.    On promotion to the Rank of Brig in July 1951, he was initially appointed as Commander 'Chand Sector' and later as Commander of an Inf Bde located in J&K. This time he commanded of an Inf Bde located at Ambala. He was the First Chief of Staff , HQ Western Command, Shimla in Feb 1959 and had the unique distinction of becoming the youngest Major General of the Indian Army at   the age of 42 years and six months. He assumed the appointment of   the Colonel of the 11 Gorkha Rifles on 25^th May 1960.
3.    After about two year's tenure as Chief of Staff, he was appointed General Officer Commanding of an Inf Div in Feb 1961 at Jalandhar. Later he moved this division to Kalimpong in the wake of Chinese Aggression of 1962. After finishing the command of the Mountain Division in May 1963, he was posted to Army HQ, New Delhi as Director of Military Training and remained there till Nov 1964.
4.    He was   promoted   as General Officer Commanding Corps in Nov 1964. After the command of the Corps, he moved to Army HQ, as Deputy Chief of the Army Staff, Where he was awarded Param Vishist Seva Medal (PVSM) for meritorious services. In July 1969 he assumed the appointment of General Officer Commanding -in- Chief Southern Command. In 1971, he was awarded Padam Bhusan for conducting successful operations in Rajasthan Sector. In Jan 1973, he was appointed Chief of Army Staff.
5.    He retired from the Army in May 1975. In Feb 1976, he was appointed as Ambassador of India to the Royal Court of Denmark where he served till Feb 1978. The General remained a member of the Senate of the University of Pune for two years with effect from Aug 1979. Also, he was on the Board of Directors of Kirloskar Oil Engines & Vickers Sperry of Pune. Besides, he was often invited to give talks on leadership and military matters by various educational societies. He passed away on 24^th Oct 1989.

General Tapishwar Narain Raina, Padam Bhushan, MVC
(01 Jun 1975 to 31 May 1978)

1. Commissioned as an Officer in The Kumaon Regiment on 12^th Apr 1942, he took part in World War II (Burma Campaign) and was Mentioned -in- Despatches for gallentry. He commanded an Infantry Brigade from 1959 to 1962 during INDO-CHINA Conflict-1962 and was awarded Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) for showing great courage and leadership qualities in organizing the defences of Chushul. He later commanded Infantry Division and held higher staff appointments.
2. He was Deputy Adjutant General at Army Headquarters. He commanded a Corps in 1971 during liberation of Bangladesh. He was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1971. He was General Officer Commanding-in- Chief of Western Command from 1974 to 1975. He was Chief of the Army Staff from 1^st Jun 1975 to 31^st May 1978. He was Colonel of the Kumaon and Naga Regiments from 16^th May 1971 to 31^st May 1978.

3. He was appointed Indian High Commissioner to Canada in Feb 1979 after his retirement, where on 19^th May 1980 he died in Ottawa (Canada).

General Om Prakash Malhotra, PVSM
(01 Jun 1978 to 31 May 1981)

1. Born in August 1922, General Malhotra was commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery in November 1941. He commanded different Artillery Regiments between November 1950 and July 1961, besides being an instructor at the Defence Service Staff College , Wellington . He was the Military Attache at the Indian Embassy in Moscow for over three years from June 1962.
2. He commanded an Artillery Brigade from August 1965 to January 1966 and there after took over a Mountain Brigade. He was promoted as Major General in September 1967 and commanded an Infantry Division for two years. He was posted as the Chief of Staff in a Corps Headquarters in the Eastern Sector in September 1969 till May 1972, when he took over a Corps in the Western Sector. In 1974, General Malhotra was appointed General Officer Commanding - in - chief Southern Command and in Jan 1977, he was appointed as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff. General OP Malhotra, assumed the office of the Chief of the Army Staff in June 1978.

3. After completing his three year tenure as the Chief of Army Staff, he was appointed as the Indian Ambassador to Indonesia in March 1982 and continued in that appointment for three years. In December 1990, he was appointed as the Governor of Punjab, a post he held till August 1991 when he resigned from this assignment. He was the President of the Equestrian Federation of India for nearly nine years. In 1994, the University of Jammu conferred the Degree of Doctor of Letters (Honours Causa) upon him.

General Kotikalapudi Venkata Krishna Rao, PVSM
(01 Jun 1981 to 31 Jul 1983)

1. Born on 16^th Jul 1923, General KV Krishna Rao was commissioned into the Mahar Regiment on 9^thAug 1942. He commanded a brigade in Ladakh Sector during the 1965 war.
2. During 1969 -70, the General commanded a Mountain Division in Jammu . After the 1971 war with Pakistan , he was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) for his most laudable command of the Mountain Division. In 1974, he took over a Corps in Jammu and was later appointed Deputy Chief of Army Staff in 1978. Subsequently he served as General Officer Commanding - in - Chief Western Command in 1979. General Rao attained the ultimate in his military career when he became Chief of Army Staff in 1981.

3. General KV Krishna Rao was the Colonel of the Mahar Regiment from June 1968 to June 1983. After his retirement in July 1983, General Rao served as Governor of Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura from June 1984 to 1989 and subsequently as Governor of Jammu and Kashmir till January 1990. Presently, he is the Honorary Colonel of the Mahar Regiment.

General Arunkumar Shridhar Vaidya, Padam Vibhushan, PVSM, MVC, AVSM
(01 Aug 1983 31 Jan 1985)

1. Born on 27^th January 1926, General AS Vaidya was commissioned in the Armoured Corps in 1945 and saw battle during the Second World War. During Indo-Pak war of 1965 as Commandant, of an Armoured Regiment in the Khemkaran Sector, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) for conspicuous bravery. In 1971 as Brigade Commander in Shakargarh Sector, he again displayed gallantry and leadership qualities of a very high order and was awarded a Bar to the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC).
2. Elevated to the rank of Major General in 1973, he held the appointments of Director Military Operations, Chief of Staff at Headquarters Command and as Commandant Armoured Corps Centre and School.

3. Promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in January 1980, he held the appointment of Master General of Ordnance and later as General Officer Commanding of a Corps before being elevated to the appointment of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command in Jun 1981. His tackling of the insurgency problems in his command has been particularly praiseworthy. He was awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) in 1983 for distinguished service of the most exceptional order.
4. General Vaidya took over as Chief of the Army Staff from 1^st August 1983 to 31^st January 1985. An outstanding military leader, General Vaidya gave the Indian Army a very sound leadership and brought with him an aura of gallantry and valour and remarkable reservoir of combat experience befitting the head of the Army. He had the distinction of being among the most decorated soldiers in the Defence Services of the country. He passed away on 10^th Aug 1986.

General Krishnaswami Sundarji, PVSM
(01 Feb 1985 to 31 May 1988)

1. General Sundarji was born on 30^th Apr 1928 and was Commissioned into 2 MAHAR in April 1946.
2. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) at Wellington he also attended the General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth (USA) in 1967-68 and subsequently the Senior Officers Preventive Maintenance Course at Fort Knox (USA). He was also a graduate of NDC, New Delhi .

3.     General Sundarji held a number of coveted staff and instructional appointments with distinction. He was Brigade Major of an Indian Independent Brigade Group Congo in 1962-63 as part of UN Peace Keeping Force where he was awarded Mentioned - in - Despatches and Brigadier General Staff (BGS) of a Corps in Eastern Sector.

4.     He commanded a mountain Brigade, an Infantry Division, an Armoured Division and a Corps. He was the Commandant, College of Combat and later General Officer Commanding - in - Chief, Western Command. He was Vice Chief of Army Staff prior to reaching the pinnacle of his career as COAS in 1985.
5.     General Sundarji conducted 'Operation Brasstacks' in Rajasthan in Dec 1986 to test new concept of mobilisation with precision. He was also awarded the PVSM in 1978 in recognition of his distinguished service of the most exception order. He passed away on 8^thFeb 1999.

General Vishwa Nath Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, ADC
(30 Jun 1988 to 30 Jun 1990)

1. General VN Sharma belongs to a distinguished military family that has served the Armed Forces for two generations and produced three Generals. He is the younger brother of late Major Som Nath Sharma, PVC, who was awarded Independent India's first posthumous Param Vir Chakra (PVC) on 3^rd Nov 47 for the battle of Badgam in Kashmir.
2. General Sharma was educated at Sherwood College, Nainital and Prince of Wales' Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehradun. He joined the 5^th Regular Course at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun and was commissioned on 04 Jun 1950 into the 16 Light Cavalry. As a Major he saw action during the 1965 Indo-Pak War in the Lahore Sector. He commanded Armoured Regiment and held important staff and instructional appointments.

3.     On promotion to the rank of Brigadier, he commanded a Mountain Brigade in an insurgency affected area and was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 1977 for distinguished service. Later he commanded an Armoured Brigade in the Rajasthan desert.
4.     In 1980, he was elevated to Major General and commanded a Mountain Division in the Western Sector. He was elevated to Lieutenant General and took over command of a Corps in the Western Sector in 1984 and was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) for rendering distinguished service of the most exceptional order.
5.     General Sharma took over as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Command, on 1^st Jun 87. He was appointed Honorary Army ADC to the President on 25^th Jul 87. General Sharma served as the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army from 30^th Jun 88 to 30^th Jun 90.

General Sunith Francis Rodrigues, PVSM, VSM
(01 Jul 1990 to 30 Jun 1993)

1. Born on 19th Sep 1933 in Bombay, he was educated at St Xavier's High School, Bombay. He joined the Joint Services Wing of the Indian Military Academy in 1949 and was commissioned in Dec 1952 into the Regiment of Artillery. In 1972, he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for distinguished service. He commanded a Mountain Brigade in high altitude sector from 1975 to 1977 and then attended the 1978 Course at Royal College of Defence Studies in the UK. Later he commanded a Division also in a high altitude area. He was the Chief of Staff of a Corps from 1983 to Sep 1985, and then took over as Director General Military Training (DGMT) post. He also took over Command of a Corps in the Northern Sector.

2. He was Vice Chief of Army Staff from Nov 1987 to Apr 1989 and then General Officer Commanding in Chief of Central & Western Commands from Apr 1989 to Oct 1989 and from 1^st Nov 89 to 30^th Jun 1990 respectively. He became the Chief of Army Staff in 1990 and retired on 30^th Jun 1993.

3. The General was Director of the International Centre, Goa for nearly six years after retirement. He served two terms in the National Security Advisory Board. He has been continuously engaged in social and literary pursuits and has also been delivering talks on strategic issues. He was on the Executive Council of Goa University for seven years and in the Managing Committee of the Goa Chamber of Commerce. He is also a long standing Member of the Goa Planning Board and in the Board of Governors of the Goa Institute of Management. General SF Rodrigues, PVSM, VSM was appointed as the Governor of Punjab and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh on 8^th Nov 2004.

General Bipin Chandra Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, ADC
(01 Jul 1993 to 19 Nov 1994)

1. Commissioned in Dec 1954 in the Armoured Corps, General BC Joshi has held important command and staff appointments which include staff officer in the UN Force in Gaza , Brigadier General Staff in a Corps Headquarters and Military Advisor in Australia from May 1973 to October 1976. He commanded a Corps in the Eastern Sector and was also the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command.
2. General Joshi commanded an Armoured Regiment in the Western Sector during the 1971 Indo-Pak operations. He has also commanded an Independent Armoured Brigade and an Infantry Division.

3.     General Joshi also held the appointment of Additional Director General of Perspective Planning (ADG PP) and Director General Military Operations (DGMO) at the Army Headquarters. He had three tenures as an Instructor in the Armoured Corps Centre and School Ahmednagar and was also a Directing Staff in the College of Combat , Mhow.
4.     General B C Joshi has been a recipient of Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) for distinguished service of the most exceptional order.
5.     The General officer died in harness on 19th Nov 1994.

General Shankar Roy Chowdhury, PVSM, ADC
(22 Nov 1994 to 30 Sep 1997)

1.     General S Roy Chowdhury, PVSM, ADC was born on 6th September 1937 at Calcutta and was educated at Calcutta and Mussorie. He joined the Joint Services Wing, Dehradun in 1953 and was commissioned into 20 Lancers on 9th June 1957. He participated in the Indo-Pak conflict in 1965 and 1971 including operations for the liberation of Bangladesh.

2.     He commanded an Independent Armoured Brigade from December 1980 to July 1983 and Armoured Division from May 1988 to May 1990. He subsequently commanded Corps in Jammu and Kashmir in 1991-92.

3.     He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and held several staff andinstructional appointments, including that of Director General Combat Vehicle dealing with the Indian Main Battle Tank 'Arjun'.

4. The General Officer was awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) for distinguished service and valuable contribution. He took over as General Officer Commanding - in - Chief, Army Training Command (ARTRAC) in August 1992, and was the Chief of Army Staff from 22nd Nov 94 to 30th Sep 97.

5. Post retirement the General has taken to active politics. As a member of the Rajya Sabha he has highlighted and taken up Defence related issues with great passion and vigour in the Parliament.

General Ved Prakash Malik, PVSM, AVSM
(01 Oct 1997 to 30 Sep 2000)

1. General VP Malik was born on 1st Nov 1939 at Dera Ismail Khan, NWFP, now in Pakistan . Alumni of the National Defence Academy , Khadakwasla and the Indian Military Academy , Dehradun, he was commissioned into 3 SIKH LI on 7th Jun 1959. He commanded Infantry Brigade in Jammu & Kashmir where he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM).
2. In Dec 1989, he was appointed General Officer Commanding, Mountain Division and in Aug 1992, he assumed command of Corps in Punjab, where he oversaw anti-militancy operations in the state.

3.     In Jul 1995, he was appointed General Officer Commanding -in- Chief Southern Command before moving to Army Headquarters as Vice Chief of Army Staff in August 1996. He was decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) in 1996.

4.     He assumed the charge of Indian Army as the 19th Chief of Army Staff on 1st Oct 1997. Concurrently with the appointment, he took over as Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee of India with effect from 1st Jan 1999. He coordinated and oversaw the planning and execution of Operation Vijay to successfully defeat Pakistan's attempted intrusion in Kargil sector during May to Jul 1999.

5.     He was felicitated with the 'Excellence in Leadership' award by the Atur Foundation, Pune and also the `Distinguished Fellowship' of the Institute of Directors, New Delhi in 1999. The Doon Citizens' Council gave him the 'Pride of the Nation' award in Jul 2000. He was Colonel of the Sikh Light Infantry from 1990 to 1998, and continues to be Honorary Colonel of the Regiment for life.

6.     General V P Malik retired on 30th Sep 2000, and has settled in Panchkula, near Chandigarh .

General Sundararajan Padmanabhan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
(01 Oct 2000 to 30 Dec 2002)

1. Born on 5th Dec 1940, General S Padmanabhan was commissioned in the Regiment of Artillery on 13th Dec 1959. He served as Instructor Gunnery at School of Artillery , Deolali and attended the Staff Course at DSSC, Wellington in 1973. He commanded an Independent Light Battery from Aug 1975 to Jul 1976, and then commanded a Mountain Regiment from Sep 1977 to Mar 1980. He served as Colonel General Staff of a Mountain Division from Jan 1983 to May 1985 and was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.
2. The General Officer commanded an Independent Artillery Brigade and a Mountain Brigade before attending the prestigious NDC course at Delhi . He commanded an Infantry Brigade from Dec 1988 to Feb 1991 at Ranchi and Punjab and then was appointed as General Officer Commanding of an Infantry Division in Punjab from Mar 1991 to Aug 1992. He served as Chief of Staff, Corps from Sep 1992 to Jun 1993 and commanded Corps from Jul 1993 to Feb 1995 where he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM). He held the appointment of Director General Military Intelligence (DGMI) after the successful culmination of which he took over the challenging command of the Northern Army followed by Southern Army before assuming command of the Indian Army on 1st Oct 2000.

3. The General Officer is a prolific writer and has authored two books titled 'The Writing on the Wall, India Checkmates America-2017' and 'A General Speaks'. The General presently resides in Chennai.

General Nirmal Chander Vij, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM
(31 Dec 2002 to 31 Jan 2005)

1. General NC Vij, PVSM,UYSM, AVSM (Retd) passed out in December 1962 from the Indian Military Academy at Dehra Dun and was commissioned into 4 Dogra. During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, his company was the first one to occupy the 'Chicken Neck' and also captured the 'Chhote Chak' post of Pakistan in Miran Sahib Sector. He became the Colonel of the Dogra Regiment and Dogra Scouts on 1st April 2002 and continued to hold that office till his retirement in Jan 2005.
2. General Vij commanded Mountain Brigade; Infantry Division (RAPID); two Corps and Southern Command. He was Deputy Director General of Perspective Planning.

3.     He was decorated with the AVSM in 1996, and PVSM while he was the General Officer Commanding Corps. He was conferred with an Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM) while he was serving as Director General Military Operations during Operation Vijay.
4.     On 31st December 2002, General N C Vij, took over as the Chief of the Army Staff.
5.     General Nirmal Chander Vij, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM (Retired) is presently Honorary Colonel of the Dogra Regiment & Dogra Scouts and also Vice Chairman of National Disaster Management Authority, Govt of India.

General Joginder Jaswant Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC
(01 Feb 2005 to 30 Sep 2007)

1. General (Retd) Joginder Jaswant Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM was born on 17 Sep 1945 in Bahawalpur (now in Pakistan). An alumnus of the National Defence Academy and was commissioned in The 9 MARATHA Light Infantry on 02 Aug 1964.
2. The General Officer is a third generation soldier; an ace shooter and a mountaineer. During his tenures with his battalions, he has served in Jammu & Kashmir, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. During one of these tenure he was wounded in a counter insurgency operations. Later, he was India's first Defence Attache to Algeria (1987-1990).

3.     After his return from Algeria, the General officer commanded a Mountain Brigade in Baramulla Sector, Jammu & Kashmir, with the insurgency at its peak, in 1991-92. He attended the National Defence College in 1993 and later commanded Infantry Division from 1996 to 1998.
4.     General J J Singh commanded Corps and in Jan 2003, he was appointed as the General Officer Commanding - in - Chief of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC). The General officer took over as Army Commander Western Command in Feb 2004.
5.     On 31st Jan 2005, General Joginder Jaswant Singh assumed the office of Chief of Army Staff. As the Chief of Army Staff, it was his constant endeavour to modernise the Army, enhance its combat potential and reach, as also strengthen the welfare of all ranks and their families. The General officer retired on 30 Sep 07 and is presently the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

GENERAL DEEPAK KAPOOR, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ADC
(30 sep 2007 to 30 Mar 2010)

1. General Deepak Kapoor, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ADC was commissioned from the Indian Military Academy into the Indian Army and the Regiment of Artillery on 11 June 1967. He took over as the Chief of Army Staff on 30 September 2007 and as Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee on 31 August 2009.

2. In a distinguished career spanning over four decades, he has held important command and staff appointments. The General Officer has taken active part in the Indo-Pak War of 1971 in the operations for Liberation of Bangladesh. As Commanding Officer of 74 Medium Regiment he oversaw its conversion from heavy mortars to medium guns. His performance as Chief Operations Officer for all United Nations forces deployed in Somalia was recognized by the award of the Vishisht Seva Medal.

3. Besides commanding a Line of Control Mountain Brigade in Jammu & Kashmir for which he was awarded the Sena Medal, he has steered an Infantry Division which is part of the Strike Corps, during mobilization of Indian Army on the Western borders in Operation PARAKRAM. The General Officer was conferred the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal for his inspiring command of a Corps deployed on the Indo-China border in the North East.

4. On promotion as Army Commander, he initially commanded the Army Training Command, and then the Northern Command. His strategic guidance and astute handling led to stabilization of the situation in the State of Jammu & Kashmir; which was recognized by the award of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal. Prior to his present appointment, he has served as Vice Chief of Army Staff. He has been appointed Honorary ADC to the Honorable President of India.

5. The General Officer has schooled at Sainik School, Kunjpura and is an alumnus of National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College and National Defence College. He has an abiding interest in self education, self improvement and acquisition of knowledge. He is an excellent sportsman and has played hockey, basketball, tennis and golf at various levels. The General officer retired on 30 Mar 10.


GENERAL VK SINGH, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC

General Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC is a third generation officer of the RAJPUT Regiment. An alumnus of Birla Public School, Pilani and National Defence Academy, the General was commissioned in 2 RAJPUT (KALI CHINDI) in 1970 and commanded the same battalion with distinction from June 1991 to May 1994. General Singh has seen action in the liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971 and Op. Pawan in Sri Lanka in 1987 where he was awarded Yudh Seva Medal. He has vast operational experience in Counter Insurgency Operations, LC, LAC and HAA environment. He has had an illustrious career with outstanding performance on all the courses that he has attended. He is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington with a competitive vacancy. He is also a graduate of US Army Rangers Course at Fort Benning, USA and US Army War College, Carlisle. The General has wide-ranging experience of various high profile commands, staff and instructional appointments. He commanded his battalion in an active LC environment and brigade in an operationally sensitive area. While in command of a Counter Insurgency Force in J&K, he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal for his distinguished service as General Officer Commanding. On staff, he has served in MO Dte at Army HQ, Col GS of an Infantry Division and BGS of a Corps during OP PARAKRAM. The General Officer has also commanded the Prestigious Strike Corps in Western Sector, before taking over the command of the Eastern Army in March 2008. He has been an instructor at Inf. School, Mhow and Chief Instructor at JLW (Commando Wing) at Belgaum. He has also served as an Instructor at HQ IMTRAT. The General Officer has also been awarded with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India in recognition of his exceptional and distinguished services on the eve of Republic Day 2009. The General is also a keen sportsman and plays almost all troop games as well as Tennis, Badminton and Golf. His hobbies include Trekking and Photography. The General Officer has taken over as the Chief of the Army Staff on 31 Mar 2010.

INDIAN ARMED FORCES

2012-01-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

Indian Armed Forces

Indian Armed Forces भारतीय सशस्त्र सेनाएं
Emblem of India
Service branches	Indian Army Indian Navy Indian Air Force Indian Coast Guard Strategic Nuclear Command Integrated Space Cell
Leadership
Commander-in-Chief	President Pratibha Patil
Ministry of Defence	A. K. Antony
Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee	Admiral Nirmal Kumar Verma
Manpower
Military age	17.5 years of age
Conscription	None
Available for military service	319,129,420 males, age 16–49 (2010 est.), 296,071,637 females, age 16–49 (2010 est.)
Fit for military service	249,531,562 males, age 16–49 (2010 est.), 240,039,958 females, age 16–49 (2010 est.)
Reaching military age annually	12,151,065 males (2010 est.), 10,745,891 females (2010 est.)
Active personnel	1,325,000 (ranked 3rd)
Reserve personnel	1,155,000 paramilitary: 2,287,000
Expenditures
Budget	$36.03 billion (FY11)(ranked 10th)
Percent of GDP	1.83% (2011 est.)
Industry
Domestic suppliers	Heavy Vehicles Factory Bharat Electronics Limited Gun Carriage Factory Jabalpur Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Ishapore Rifle Factory Ordnance Factories Organization Tata Motors Heavy Alloy Penetrator Project Mazagon Dock Limited Cochin Shipyard Bharat Dynamics Bajaj Auto - Joint Venture -Rolta India Ltd Mahindra & Mahindra Ashok Leyland Shaktiman truck Maruti Suzuki
Foreign suppliers	Russia Israel United Kingdom
Annual imports	Russia
Annual exports	Sri Lanka, Ecuador, Maldives
Related articles
History	Military history of India British Indian Army Indian National Army
Ranks	Air Force Army Navy

The Indian Armed Forces (Devanāgarī: भारतीय सशस्त्र सेनाएं, Bhāratīya Saśastra Sēnāēn) are the military forces of the Republic of India. They consist of the Army,Navy and Air Force, supported by three paramilitary forces(the Coast Guard,Assam Rifles, and Special Frontier Force) and various inter-service institutions such as the Strategic Forces Command.

The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian Armed Forces are under the management of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), which is led by the Union Cabinet Minister of Defense.

As of 2010, the IAF have a strength of 1.32 million active personnel and 1.15 million reserve personnel. In addition there were 2.28 million paramilitary personnel. Making the IAF one of the world's largest military forces in terms of personnel.

The Indian defense budget was US$36.03 billion during FY2011, at about 1.83% of GDP,with additional spending on infrastructure in border areas and for paramilitary organizations.

The Indian armed forces are undergoing rapid modernization,with investments in such areas as a missile defense system and a nuclear triad. India's arsenal includes nuclear weapons with a triad of delivery mechanisms. In 2010, India was theworld's leading arms importer accounting for 9% of global imports and ranked among the top ten in arms export. Israel, Russia and the United States are the primary suppliers to India's armed forces.The country’s capital expenditure for defense equipment may reach US$112 billion between 2010 and 2016.Since 1962, the IAF has maintained close military relations with Russia, including cooperative development on programs such as the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft(FGFA) and the Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA).

As of 2011, the major military operations of the Indian armed forces have included the Indo-Pakistani wars of 1947, 1965 and 1971, the Sino-Indian War, the 1987 Sino-Indian skirmish, the Kargil War, and the Siachen conflict among others.

India honours its armed forces and military personnel annually on Armed Forces Flag Day, 7 December.

Military history of India

The Maurya Empire at its largest extent under Ashoka the Great.

Chola Empire during Rajendra Chola I, c. 1030.

The Pala Empire

The Maratha Empire at its largest territorial extent, c.1760.India has one of the longest military histories, dating back several millennia. The first reference of armies is found in the Vedas as well as the epics Ramayanaand Mahabaratha. There were many powerful dynasties in India: Maha Janapadas, Matsya Kingdom, Shishunaga Empire, Gangaridai Empire,Nanda Empire, Maurya Empire, Sunga Empire,Maha-Megha-Vahana Empire, Kuninda Kingdom,Chola Empire, Chera Empire, Pandyan Empire,Satavahana Empire, Western Satrap Empire, Kushan Empire, Vakataka Empire, Kalabhras Kingdom,Gupta Empire, Pallava Empire, Kadamba Empire,Maukhari Empire, Western Ganga Kingdom,Vishnukundina Empire, Chalukya Empire, Maitraka Empire, Harsha Empire, Rajput States, Shahi Empire, Eastern Chalukya Kingdom, Pratihara Empire, Pala Empire, Rashtrakuta Empire, Paramara Kingdom,Yadava Empire, Solanki Kingdom, Western Chalukya Empire, Hoysala Empire, Sena Empire, Eastern Ganga Empire, Kakatiya Kingdom, Kalachuri Empire, Delhi Sultanate, Deccan Sultanates, Gajapati Kingdom, Ahom Kingdom, Vijayanagar Empire, Mysore Kingdom, Mughal Empire, Maratha Empire, Sikh Empire, etc. Classical Indian texts on archery in particular, and martial arts in general are known as Dhanurveda.

India has a maritime history dating back 5,000 years. The first tidal dock is believed to have been built at Lothal around 2300 BCE during the Indus Valley Civilization, near the present day Mangrolharbour on the Gujarat coast. The Rig Veda written around 1500 BCE, credits Varuna with knowledge of the ocean routes and describes naval expeditions. There is reference to the side wings of a vessel called Plava, which give stability to the ship under storm conditions. A compass, Matsya yantra was used for navigation in the fourth and fifth century AD.

The earliest known reference to an organization devoted to ships in ancient India is to the Mauryan Empirefrom the 4th century BCE. Emperor Chandragupta Maurya's Prime Minister Kautilya's Arthashastra devotes a full chapter on the state department of waterways under navadhyaksha (Sanskrit for Superintendent of ships). The term, nava dvipantaragamanam (Sanskrit for sailing to other lands by ships, i.e. Exploration) appears in this book in addition to appearing in the Buddhist text, Baudhayana Dharmasastra as the interpretation of the term, Samudrasamyanam.

Sea lanes between India and neighboring lands were the usual form of trade for many centuries, and are responsible for the widespread influence of Indian Culture on other societies. Powerful navies included those of the Maurya, Satavahana, Chola, Vijayanagara, Kalinga, Mughal and Maratha empires. The Cholas excelled in foreign trade and maritime activity, extending their influence overseas to China and Southeast Asia.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Maratha and Kerala fleets were expanded, and became the most powerful Naval Forces in the subcontinent, defeating European Navies at various times (See the Battle of Colachel). The fleet review of the Maratha navy took place at the Ratnagiri fort in which the ships Pal and Qalbat participated.The Maratha Kanhoji Angre and Kunjali Marakkar, the Naval chief of Saamoothiri were two notable naval chiefs of the period.

1857 to 1947 era

The British Royal Indian Navy was first established by the British while much of India was under the control of the East India Company. The first Indian to be granted a commission was Sub Lieutenant D. N. Mukherji, who joined the Royal Indian Marine as an engineer officer in 1928.

Indian sailors started a rebellion known as the Royal Indian Navy mutiny in 1946, on board ships and in shore establishments which spread all over India. A total of 78 ships, 20 shore establishments and 20,000 sailors were involved in the rebellion.

When India became a republic on 26 January 1950, the navy became known as the Indian Navy, and its vessels as Indian Naval Ships (INS). On 22 April 1958 Vice Admiral R. D. Katari assumed office as the first Indian Chief of the Naval Staff.

1947 to 2000

21st century

The beginning of the 21st century saw reorientation for India in the global stage from a regional role in the subcontinent to a major role in the Indian ocean region stretching from Gulf of Aden to Malacca strait. The year 2011 saw the rise of India's interests far beyond the Indian Ocean region. This necessitated for the reorientation of the armed forces to play a global role to protect India's interests at the global stage.

Today

Personnel

Soldiers of the Sikh Light Infantry

As of 2010

Component	Active	Reserve
Indian Army	1,129,900	960,000
Indian Navy	58,350	55,000
Indian Air Force	127,200	140,000
Indian Coast Guard	9,550
Indian Paramilitary Forces	1,300,586	987,821

Structure

The headquarters of the Indian Armed Forces is in New Delhi, the capital city of India.The President acts as de jure Commander in chief of the Armed Forces. while de facto control lies with the executive. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is the ministry charged with the responsibilities of countering insurgency and ensuring external security of India.

Command organisation

Gen V K Singh is the Chief of the Army Staff [COAS], Admiral Nirmal Kumar Verma is the Chief of the Naval Staff [CNS] and Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne is the Chief of the Air Staff [CAS].The Indian armed force are split into different groups based on their region of operation. The Indian Army is administratively divided into 7 tactical commands, each under the control of different Lieutenant Generals.The Indian Air Force is divided into five operational and two functional commands. Each Command is headed by an Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief with the rank of Air Marshal. The Indian Navy operates three Commands. Each Command is headed by a Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief in the rank of Vice Admiral. There are two joint commands whose head can belong to any of the three services. These are the Strategic Forces Command and the Andaman and Nicobar Command.

Doctrine

The Armed Forces have six main tasks:

To assert the territorial integrity of India.
To defend the country if attacked by a foreign nation.
To send own amphibious warfare equipment to take the battle to enemy shores.
Cold Start which means Indian Armed Forces being able to quickly mobilise and take offensive actions without crossing the enemy's nuclear-use threshold.
To support the civil community in case of disasters (e.g. flooding).
Participate in United Nations peacekeeping operations in consonance with India’s commitment to the United Nations Charter.

There is a semi-official book called "Customs and Etiquette in the Services", written by retired Major General Ravi Arora, which details how Indian personnel are expected to conduct themselves generally. Arora is an executive editor of the Indian Military Review.

Service branches

Soldiers of the, 1 Gorkhas Rifles in a training exercise

124 Arjun MK1 tanks are in service with the Indian Army.

Indian Army

It is a completely voluntary service, the military drafthaving never been imposed in India. The army has rich combat experience in diverse terrains, due to India's diverse geography, and also has a distinguished history of serving in United Nations peacekeeping operations. Initially, the army's main objective was to defend the nation's frontiers. However, over the years, the army has also taken up the responsibility of providing internal security, especially in insurgent-hit Kashmir and north-east.

The force is headed by the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, currently General V K Singh. The highest rank in the Indian Army is Field Marshal, but it is a largely ceremonial rank and appointments are made by the President of India, on the advice of the Union Cabinet of Ministers, only in exceptional circumstances. (See Field Marshal (India)). Late General S.H.F.J. Manekshawand the late General K.M. Cariappa are the only two officers who have attained this rank.

The Indian Army has seen military action during the First Kashmir War, Operation Polo, the Sino-Indian War, the Second Kashmir War, the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, the Sri Lankan Civil Warand the Kargil War. Currently, the Indian army has dedicated one brigade of troops to the UN's standby arrangements. Through its large, sustained troop commitments India has come in for much praise for taking part in difficult operations for prolonged periods. The Indian Army has participated in several UN peacekeeping operations, including the ones in Cyprus,Lebanon, Congo, Angola, Cambodia, Vietnam, Namibia, El Salvador, Liberia, Mozambique and Somalia. The army also provided aparamedical unit to facilitate the withdrawal of the sick and wounded in Korea. Currently, the Indian Army is seeking to massively modernize its equipment through various procurement programs. In addition, it has also embarked on an infantry modernization program known asFuturistic Infantry Soldier As a System (F-INSAS).

Indian Navy

INS Shivalik the first indigenous modern frigate of the Indian navy.

The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the armed forces of India. With 58,350 men and women, including 7,000 naval aviation personnel and 1,200 Marine Commandos (MARCOS), it is the world's fourth largest navy in terms of personnel.

In recent years, the Indian Navy has undergone extensive modernization and expansion with an intention to increase its capabilities as a recognized blue-water navy It is fairly advanced in terms of technology and is in control of one of two Asian aircraft carriers. Two more aircraft carriers are currently being produced. The ships of the Indian Navy are of Indian and foreign origin.In addition, three ballistic missile submarine are to enter service by 2010 end. It is also only one of the six navies in the world that has nuclear capabilities. Others include US, Russia, China, France and the UK. In addition it is in command of the BrahMos which is the fastest cruise missile in the world with speeds of 2.8 Mach.

Indian Navy's marine commandos during a training exercise in the Philippine Sea. The force has acquired a reputation for its tough professionalism over the two decades it has been in existence. Now it is considered amongst the finest maritime special forces in the world and one of the few units qualified to jump in the water with a full combat load.

In its maritime doctrine, the Indian Navy establishes its role in providing support to maritime neighbours during natural disasters. This was demonstrated during the Asian tsunami crisis during which the Indian Navy sent 35 ships to support relief efforts in neighbouring countries. The Indian navy has taken part in UN missions in the coast of Somalia and has provided security to an African Union summit held in Mozambique. The Indian Navy is increasing its capabilities as a trueblue-water navy; the Indian Navy's doctrine states that this is for the collective good of nations.

The Indian Navy is expected to spend about US$40 billion on military modernization from 2008 to 2013. The modernization program includes the Russian-built aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, indigenously built Vikrant class aircraft carriers, Lease of Akula-II class submarine, indigenously built Arihant class nuclear-powered submarines, Shivalik class frigate, Kolkata class destroyer,Scorpène class submarine, Improved Talwar class frigate and eight P-8 Poseidon .

Indian Air Force

An IAF Sukhoi Su-30 MKI Taxies to the runway, during its performance at Aero India 2011. Sukhoi Su-30 MKI is IAF's prime air superiority fighter (Tip Of The Spear), jointly developed by Russia's Sukhoi and India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

IAF engineers conduct post-flight maintenance on Su-30 MKI fighters following a Red Flag mission in Nevada.

In recent years, the IAF has undertaken an ambitious expansion and modernization program and is increasingly used for India's power projection beyond South Asia. Historically, the IAF has generally relied on Soviet, British, Israeli and French military craft and technology to support its growth. In recent times however, India has manufactured its own aircraft, including the HAL Tejas, a 4th generation fighter, and the HAL Dhruv, a multi-role helicopter, which has been exported to several countries, includingIsrael, Burma, Nepal and Ecuador. India also maintainsUAV squadrons which can be used to carry out ground attacks and aerial surveillance.

India is testing its own long range BVR air to air missile named Astra and also building a Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) called Rustom. India and Russia are building number of next generation aircraft like 5th generation stealth aircraft called Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft(also called as Perspective Multi-role Fighter) and medium-lift military transport aircraft called Multirole Transport Aircraft.

Indian Coast Guard

HAL Dhruv naval variant.

The Indian Coast Guard is the maritime Military Force created to guard Republic of India's vast coastline. It was created on 18 August 1978 as an independent entity as per the Coast Guard Act. its primary objective is to guard India's vast coastline and operates under the effective control of the Ministry of Defense.

The coast guard works closely with the Indian Navy and the Indian Customs Department, and is usually headed by a naval officer of the rank of Vice-Admiral. India's coast guard has a large number of fast craft including hovercrafts and hydrofoils. They patrol the seas and river mouths. The coast guard has performed a number of commendable tasks of rescuing distressed personnel. It has also apprehended pirates on high seas and cleaned up oil spills. Heavy patrolling of sensitive areas such as Karnataka, Gujarat, West Bengal and Mumbai have resulted in the nabbing of a large number of smugglers and illegal immigrants.

Nuclear Command Authority

Agni missile range.

Agni-II

India possesses an arsenal of nuclear weaponsand maintains a no-first use, non-use against non-nuclear nations and a credible nuclear deterrence policy against nuclear adversaries. India's nuclear missiles include the Prithvi, the Agni, the Shaurya,Sagarika, Dhanush, and others. India has long range strategic bombers like the Tupolev Tu-22 M3and Tupolev Tu-142 as well as fighter jets likeSukhoi Su-30MKI, Dassault Mirage 2000,MiG-29 and HAL Tejas capable of being armed with nuclear tipped bombs and missiles. Since India doesn't have a nuclear first use against an adversary, it becomes important to protect from a first strike. Presently, this protection is provided by the two layered Anti-ballistic missile defense system. The first test of Agni-V, which is a MIRVed ICBM is expected in the year 2011. India's Strategic Nuclear Command controls its land-based nuclear warheads, while the Navy controls the ship and submarine based missiles and the Air Force the air based warheads. India's nuclear warheads are deployed in four areas:

Ship based mobile, like Dhanush. (operational)
Land-based mobile, like Agni. (operational)
Submarine based, like Sagarika. (operational)
Air-based warheads of the Indian Air Forces' strategic bomber force (operational)

Indian Ballistic Missile Defense Program

The Indian Ballistic Missile Defense Program is an initiative to develop and deploy a multi-layered Ballistic missile defense system to protect India from missile attacks.

Development

Phase 1

Launching of Advanced Air Defense (AAD) missile

Development of ABM System began in 1999. Around 40 public and private Companies were involved in the development of ABM System. They include Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Ltd, Astra Microwave, ASL, Larsen & Toubro, Vem Technologies Private Limited and KelTech. Development of LRTR (Long Range Tracking Radar) and MFCR (Multi-function Fire Control Radar) was led by Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (ERDE).

For the AAD Missile System, Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) developed the mission control software. Research Centre, Imarat (RCI) developed navigation, electromechanical actuation systems and Active Radar Seeker. Advanced System Laboratory (ASL) provided the motors, jet vanes and structures for the two missiles. High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) supplied the propellants for the missile.

Phase 2

Two new anti-ballistic missiles that can intercept IRBM/ICBMs are being developed. These high speed missiles (AD-1 and AD-2) are being developed to intercept ballistic missiles with the range of 5000 km. The test trials of these two systems is expected to take place in 2011. The new missile will be similar the THAAD missile deployed by the U.S.A. These missiles will have to travel at hypersonic speeds and will require radars with scan capability of over 1500 kilometers to successfully intercept the target.
India is also planning to develop a laser based weapon system as part of its Ballistic Missile Defence to intercept and destroy missiles soon after they are launched towards the country. DRDO's Air Defence Programme Director V K Saraswat says its ideal to destroy a ballistic missile carrying nuclear or conventional warhead in its boost phase. Saraswat further added that it will take another 10–15 years for the premier defence research institute to make it usable on the ground.

Security pacts and Overseas Bases

India and Russia share an extensive economic, defence and technologicalrelationship. Shown here is PresidentPratibha Patil with President Dmitry Medvedev.

In 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, India made obligation to actively assist Nepal in national defence and military preparedness, and made both nations not to tolerate threats to each others security. In 1958, the then-Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru visited Bhutan and reiterated India's support for Bhutan's independence and later declared in the Indian Parliament that any aggression against Bhutan would be seen as aggression against India.. India started the process to bring the island country Maldives into India's security grid. India is also one of three countries with whom Japan has a security pact, the others being Australia and the United States. India and Russia have a military cooperation pact until 2010 which is likely to be extended or renewed. In 1951,India and Burma signed a Treaty of Friendship in New Delhi. Article II of the treaty stipulated that "There shall be everlasting peace and unalterable friendship between the two States who shall ever strive to strengthen and develop further the cordial relations existing between the peoples of the two countries". India had signed a pact to develop ports in Myanmar and various bilateral issues, including economic cooperation, connectivity, security and energy. India and Israel have increased cooperation in military and intelligence ventures since the establishment of diplomatic relations. While India and Israel were officially "rivals" during the Cold War, the fall of the Soviet Union and the rise of Islamic terrorism in both countries have generated a solid strategic alliance. India has maritime security arrangement in place with Oman and Qatar. In 2008, a landmark defense pact was signed, under which India committed its military assets to protect "Qatar from external threats".

Budget

Military spending of the world

India has the world's 10th largest defense budget. In 2011, India's official military budget stood at 164,425.19 crore (US$32.89 billion). In 2004, the GlobalSecurity.org estimated India's budget to be around US$100 billion in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP). According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India's military budget (PPP) stood at US$72.7 billion in 2007. A major portion of India's current defense budget is devoted to the ambitious modernization program of the country's armed forces. Between 2007 and 2012, India is expected to spend about US$50 billion on the procurement of new weapons. India boosted defence spending by 21% in 2009.

Gallantry awards

The India Gate is the largest war memorial in India

The highest wartime gallantry award given by the Military of India is the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), followed by the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) and the Vir Chakra (VrC). Its peacetime equivalent is theAshoka Chakra. The highest decoration for meritorious service is the Param Vishisht Seva Medal.

Ex Servicemen (ESM)

According to military sources, more than 55,000 armed forces personnel retire from the army every year, most of them at a relatively younger age.^{[citation needed]} A total of 1,567,390 ex servicemen are registered with the Indian Army, majority of them hailing from UP (17.35%), Punjab (12.23%), Haryana (10.57%), Maharashtra (9.18%), Kerala (8.16%), TN (6.58%), Rajastan (6.42%) and HP (5%). Many of them are re-employed in various Central government sectors.

Future

Analysis of the Central Intelligence Agency indicates that India is projected to possess the fourth most capable concentration of power by 2015. According to a report published by the US Congress, India is the developing world's leading arms purchaser.

Ongoing efforts at modernization of the armed forces, however, unless accompanied by significant political reforms, may fail to change India's military-strategic position, particularly with respect to Pakistan. Despite importing large numbers of conventional weaponry over the last three decades, if India wishes to effectively confront critical security challenges it must address a civil-military imbalance that hampers coordination and an illegitimate procurement process that threatens to further entrench government corruption.

India is investing 9,970.16 crore (US$2 billion) to build a dedicated and secure optical fiber cable (OFC) network for exclusive use of the Army, Navy and Air Force. This will be one of the world's largest closed user group (CUG) networks.

Recruitment and training

An Indian Army officer from the 7th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, prepares U.S. Army Sergeants from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, for the jungle range during range training at Exercise Yudh Abhyas.

Recruitment is through four military-related academies. These include the National Defence Academy, Pune, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Air Force Academy,Hyderabad and Officers Training Academy, Chennai. For entrance, one must display that they are both physically and mentally fit to be in the military by written examinations, physical endurance tests and passing medical fitness tests. After being commissioned,these officers are posted and deputed. They are at the helm of affairs not only inside the nation but also at abroad. The officers are appointed and removed only by the President of India. These officers are accorded high status of the nature of the officers of theIndian Administrative Service. The complete list of institutions training Indian army were listed in Military academies in India section.

Indian Peace Keeping And Anti-piracy Mission

In November 2008, an Indian navy warship destroyed a suspected Somali pirate vessel after it came under attack in the Gulf of Aden. India is regular contributor to United Nations and other Peacekeeping missions. The troop-contributions to UN peacekeeping operations as of March 2007 were 9,471. It also suffered 127 soldier deaths while serving on peacekeeping missions. India also provided army contingent performing a peacekeeping operation in Sri Lanka between 1987 and 1990 as Indian Peace Keeping Forceand in November 1988, India also helped restore government of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in Maldives underOperation Cactus.

Anti-piracy Mission

India sought to augment its naval force in the Gulf of Aden by deploying the larger INS Mysore to patrol the area. Somalia also added India to its list of states, including the U.S. and France, who are permitted to enter its territorial waters, extending up to 12 nautical miles (22 km; 14 mi) from the coastline, in an effort to check piracy. An Indian naval official confirmed receipt of a letter acceding to India's prerogative to check such piracy. "We had put up a request before the Somali government to play a greater role in suppressing piracy in the Gulf of Aden in view of the United Nations resolution. The TFG government gave its nod recently. India also expressed consideration to deploy up to four more warships in the region.And in response increased activity of the INS Tabar. On 2010-09-06 A crack team of Indian marine commandos(MARCOS)from INS Delhi boarded the boat and overpowered the pirates - seven heavily-armed Somalians and one Yemeni national. A cache of arms, several drums of fuel and ship boarding equipment was also found.As part of the Indian response to the piracy menace in the area, the Indian Navy has escorted over 1,200 ships so far.

Relief Operation of IAF

Indian Air Force provides regular relief operation for food and medical facility around the World by its Cargo aircraft most notably Ilyushin Il-76.The most recent relief operation of IAF was in Kyrgyzstan. During the Leh floods Two Ilyushin Il-76. and four Antonov-32 aircraft of the IAF carried 30 tonnes of load, which include 125 rescue and relief personnel, medicines, generators, tents, portable X-ray machines and emergency rescue kits.A MI-17 helicopter and cheetah helicopters had been pressed to increase the rescue operations.

IAF Efforts In Eclipse Study

The Indian Air Force successfully undertook sorties to help Indian scientists study the total solar eclipse that took place on July 23. Two separate missions from Agra and Gwalior were flown along the path of the moon's shadow, a mission that was deemed hugely successful by scientists associated with the experiment. While one AN-32 transport aircraft carrying scientific equipment, cameras and scientists that took off from Agra landed back after a three-hour flight, a Mirage-2000 trainer from Gwalior took spectacular images of the celestial spectacle from 40,000 feet. With weather being clear at the altitudes and coordinates planned by the IAF pilots, both AN-32 and Mirage-2000 pilots were able to accomplish the mission successfully.

Paramilitary forces of India

For police forces formerly considered paramilitary forces, see: Central Armed Police Forces and State Armed Police Forces

Special Frontier Force training

According to the official definition adopted in 2011, "Paramilitary Forces" refers to three organisations which assist the Indian Armed Forces particularly closely and are led by officers of the Indian Army or Indian Navy. They are

The Assam Rifles (AR) 50,000 personnel
(led by Indian Army officers responsible to the Ministry of Home Affairs)
The Special Frontier Force (SFF) 10,000 personnel
(led by Indian Army officers responsible to Indian Intelligence)
The Indian Coast Guard 5,400 personnel (29 stations)
(usually led by Indian Navy officers and responsible to the Ministry of Defence).

The term "paramilitary forces" was previously used to refer to a variety of armed services that aid the operations of the law enforcement agencies of India and the Indian Armed Forces. No single official definition existed, so the term normally included central armed police and often included state armed police.

In March 2011, at the request of the Indian Army, the Indian government authorized the Indian Army to provide definitive terminology. An extremely narrow definition of "paramilitary" was adopted which excluded services now known as the "Central Armed Police Forces" (CAPF) (e.g. the Central Reserve Police Force) and services now known as the "State Armed Police Forces". The Indian government's new terminology does not necessarily coincide with the existing terminology of the states of India; for example, the state of Bihar calls its state armed police force "Military Police". It is not yet clear how (or whether) such discrepancies will be resolved.

The Rashtriya Rifles are not a paramilitary force but part of the Indian Army.

Former usage

Paramilitary Forces was a term previously used without strict definitions and could include not only the current three forces, any of theCentral Armed Police Forces and State Armed Police Forces and other organisations such as the Home Guard.

In the absence of central government terminology, many forces adopted their own terminology. In addition to the use of the word "paramilitary", other terms included Central Police Organisations (CPO), Central Paramilitary Forces (CPMF or CPF), Paramilitary Forces (PMF), and Central Police Forces (CPF).(CISF)Central Industrial Security Force The Indian Army claimed the use of such terms was motivated by self-aggrandisement and using vague terms to avoid accountability. A very limited definition of "paramilitary" was therefore introduced on the army's initiative.

Assam Rifles

The Assam Rifles can trace their lineage back to a paramilitary police force that was formed under the British in 1835 called Cachar Levy. Since then the Assam Rifles have undergone a number of name changes before the name Assam Rifles was finally adopted in 1917. Over the course of its history, the Assam Rifles and its predecessor units have served in a number of roles, conflicts and theatres including World War I where they served in Europe and the Middle East, and World War II where they served mainly in Burma. In the post World War II period the Assam Rifles has expanded greatly as has its role. There are currently 46 battalions of Assam Rifles under the control of the IndianMinistry of Home Affairs (MHA) and they perform many roles including the provision of internal security under the control of the army through the conduct of counter insurgency and border security operations, provision of aid to the civil power in times of emergency, and the provision of communications, medical assistance and education in remote areas. In times of war they can also be used as a combat force to secure rear areas if needed.

Special Frontier Force

The Special Frontier Force (SFF) is a paramilitary unit of India. It was conceived in the post Sino-Indian war period as a guerrilla force composed mainly of Tibetan refugees whose main goal was to conduct covert operations behind Chinese lines in case of another war between the People's Republic of China and India.

Based in Chakrata, Uttarakhand, SFF is also known as the Establishment 22. The force was put under the direct supervision of theIntelligence Bureau, and later, the Research and Analysis Wing, India's external intelligence agency.

Indian Coast Guard

The Indian Coast Guard (Hindi: भारतीय तटरक्षक) (ICG) is a branch of the Indian Armed Forces. Its mission is the protection of India's maritime interests and maritime law enforcement with jurisdiction over both territorial and international waters.

ICG was formally established on 18th August 1978 as an armed force of the Union by the Coast Guard Act, 1978. It operates under theDepartment of Defence of the Union Ministry of Defence.

The Coast Guard works in close cooperation with the Indian Navy, Department of Fisheries, Department of Revenue (Customs) and the Central and State police forces. The ICG is usually and currently headed by a naval officer of the rank of Vice-Admiral on deputation, although one of the Director Generals (the 16th), Prabhakaran Paleri, was a Naval officer on permanent secondment to the Coast Guard. Subsequent Director Generals have again all been from the Indian Navy.

Equipment of the Indian Army

Indian Army

Headquarters

New Delhi
History and traditions
Indian military history British Indian Army Indian National Army Army Day (15 January)
Equipment
Equipment of the Indian Army
Components
Regiments
Personnel
Chief of Army Staff Ranks and insignia

This is a list of some of the modern & historical equipment used by Indian Army. Most of the army equipment is of foreign design and license produced in India but efforts are on to progressively design and manufacture equipment indigenously. About 40 Ordnance Factories under control of Ordnance Factory Board manufacture most of Army equipment like small arms, ammunition, combat vehicles, artillery, etc.

Modern Equipment

Infantry Weapons

Small Arms

Name	Type	Caliber	Origin	Notes
Pistol AUTO 9 mm 1A	Semi-automatic pistol	9mm Parabellum	India	Standard issue side-arm of the Indian Army.Licensed copy of the Canadian Inglis 9mm pistol.
Glock 17	Semi-automatic pistol	9mm Parabellum	Austria	Standard issue Special Forces pistol.
Beretta 92	Semi-automatic pistol	9mm Parabellum	Italy
SIG Sauer P226	Semi-automatic pistol	9mm Parabellum	Germany\ Switzerland
SAF Carbine 1A	Sub-machine gun	9mm Parabellum	India	Indian made Sterling L2A1 SMG. To be replaced by the MSMC.
SAF Carbine 2A1	Sub-machine gun	9mm Parabellum	India	Silenced Carbine.To be replaced by the MSMC.
Micro-Uzi	Sub-machine gun	9mm Parabellum	Israel	For use by Special Forces.Micro-Uzi variant used.
Heckler & Koch MP5	Sub-machine gun	9mm Parabellum	Germany	MP5A3, A5, SD3 and SD6 models in service.
Heckler & Koch MP5K	Sub-machine gun	9mm Parabellum	Germany	Shortened version of the MP5 used by Special Forces.
1B1 INSAS	Assault rifle	5.56mm NATO	India	Standard issue weapon of the Indian Army.Replaced the 1A SLR.Folding 1B2 and fixed butt 1B1 variants used.Insas AR with full-auto selector lever along with the burst lever and black polymer furniture also being procured.
1A SLR	Battle rifle	7.62mm NATO	India	Was the standard issue rifle of the Indian army.Now being replaced by the INSAS.1C full automatic variant used by mechanized infantry battalions as a firing port weapon on the BMP-2S Sarath Infantry fighting vehicle.
A7	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	India	Indian AKM clone.Distinguished from the AKM by using the polymer furniture of the INSAS instead of wood.Both fixed and folding stock versions used.
AKM	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	Soviet Union	AKM fixed stock and AKMS under-folding stock variants used.
Arsenal Co. AR	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	Bulgaria	Bulgarian produced AK-47.Imported for police and paramilitary forces used in some quantities by Army as well.AR fixed stock and AR-F under-folding stock variants used.
MPi-KM	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	East Germany	East German produced AKM.MPi-KM-72 fixed stock and MPi-KMS-72 side-folding stock variants used.Both bakelite and wooden lower handguard variants used.
Pistol Mitralieră model 1990	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	Romania	Romanian version of the AKM.Palmswell lower handguard versions in use.
AK-103	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	Russia
Vz. 58	Assault rifle	7.62x39mm	Czechoslovakia	Vz. 58 P fixed stock and Vz. 58 V side-folding stock variants used.
IMI Tavor TAR-21	Assault rifle	5.56mm NATO	Israel	3070 purchased for the Special Forces from Israel,
M4A1 Carbine	Carbine	5.56mm NATO	United States	Bought under foreign military sales.For use by Indian Army Special Forces.
Dragunov SVD59	Sniper rifle	7.62x54mmR	Soviet Union	Standard sniper rifle.
IMI Galil 7.62 Sniper	Sniper Rifle	7.62mm NATO	Israel	For use by Indian Army Special Forces.
Mauser SP66	Sniper rifle	7.62mm NATO	Germany	Standard bolt-action sniper rifle.
Vidhwansak	Anti-material rifle	12.7x108mm,14.5x114mmand20x82mm	India	Manufactured by OFB.In service with Border Security Force (BSF).
Denel NTW-20	Anti-material rifle	20x82mm and20x110mm Hispano-Suiza	South Africa	Bought in small numbers.
Gepard GM6 Lynx	Anti-material rifle	12.7x108mm & 14.5x114mm	Hungary	For use by the Indian Army Special Forces.
INSAS LMG	Light machine gun	5.56mm NATO	India	Light machine gun derivative of the INSAS assault rifle.Both fixed and folding butt variants used.Newer INSAS LMG with black polymer furniture being procured.
MG 1B	Light machine gun	7.62mm NATO	India	Indian made Bren.Currently being withdrawn from service.
MG 2A1	General purpose machine gun	7.62mm NATO	India	Indian made MAG 58. Also in service as the MG 5A (Co-axial) and MG 6A (Commander's gun) with some armoured vehicles.
PKM	General purpose machine gun	7.62x54mm	Soviet Union	PK machine guns used as co-axial weapons in Russian produced T-90S Bheeshma , T-72M Ajeyaand BMP-2S Sarath and used as general purpose machine gun.Also used by Special Forces.
Browning M2	Heavy machine gun	.50 BMG	United States
NSV	Heavy machine gun	12.7x108mm	Soviet Union
KPV	Heavy machine gun	14.5x114mm	Soviet Union
AK-103 IMI Tavor TAR-21.jpg IMI Tavor TAR-21 INSAS rifle

Explosives, rockets and missile systems

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Grenade 36mm	Hand Grenade		India	Fragmentation grenade which can be hand thrown or rifle launched from 1A SLR.
Multi Mode Grenade Shivalik	Hand grenade	1.8 million ordered	India	This modular grenade is available in Hand mode offensive, hand mode defensive and rifle mode. Types can be interchanged by changing outer sleeve.
Multi Grenade Launcher 40mm	Grenade launcher(40mm)		India	Semiautomatic six shot 40mm x 46mm low velocity grenade launcher.
AGS-17 Plamya	Automatic grenade launcher(30mm)		Soviet Union
RCL Mk II	Recoilless rifle(84mm)		India	Carl Gustav Recoilless Rifle produced by OFB.
RCL Mk III	Recoilless rifle(84mm)		India	Lighter, updated version of the RCL Mk II.
RPG-7	Rocket propelled grenade (40mm)		Soviet Union
Shipon	Rocket launcher(82mm)		Israel
SA-16 Gimlet	Man-portable air-defense system		Soviet Union
SA-7 Grail	Man-portable air-defense system		Soviet Union	To be phased out.
AGS-17 Plamya Carl Gustav SA-16 Gimlet

Vehicles

Utility and miscellaneous vehicles

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Jonga	Light Utility Vehicle		India	Being phased out.
Mitsubishi Pajero	Light Utility Vehicle		Japan	Unknown numbers, deployed at the Indo-Chinese Border
Maruti Gypsy	Light Utility Vehicle		India
honda activa	Light Utility Vehicle		India
Windy	Fast attack vehicle	700	India	In service from 2005.
Tata 407	Light 4x4 truck		India	1 Ton truck
Tata LPTA 713 TC	Medium 4X4 truck		India	2.5 Ton truck
Super Azad	Medium 4x4 truck		India	3 Ton truck
Ashok Leyland Topchi	Medium 4x4 truck		India	3 Ton truck
Shaktiman trucks	Medium 4x4 truck	7,000	India	4 Ton truck, in a wide range of configurations
Rampar	Medium Amphibious truck		India	Amphibious conversion of the Shaktiman truck.
Tata Model 1210SD	Medium truck		India	4 Ton truck.
Stallion Mk III Stallion Mk IV	Medium 4x4, 6x6 Truck	60,000	India	5 Ton trucks, in a wide range of configurations
Tata LPTA 1621	Medium 4x4 truck		India	5 Ton truck
BEML Tatra	Heavy 4x4, 6x6, 8x8, 10x10, 12x12 trucks		India	License produced Tatra Force heavy truck. Various models. Used for carrying sensitive equipment like Radars as well as vehicle for Pinaka and Smerch MBRL systems.
Maruti Gypsy BEML Tatra

Engineering and support vehicles

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Kartik ABL	Armoured vehicle-launched bridge	34	India	Based on a Vijayanta chassis
T-72 ABL	Armoured vehicle-launched bridge		India	T-72 based Multi-Hop or Extended Span Assault bridge
Sarvatra	Vehicle launched bridge		India	8x8 truck-mounted bridging system
BMP-2	AERV		India	BMP-2 based engineering and reconnaissance vehicle (Amphibious Engineer Reconnaissance Vehicle)
BMP-2	Amphibious Armoured Bulldozer		India	BMP-2 with turret removed and bulldozer blade and other engineering equipment added.
Vijayanta ARV	Armoured recovery vehicle	200	India	Being replaced by VT-72B.
WZT-2	Armoured recovery vehicle	196	Poland
WZT-3	Armoured recovery vehicle	352	Poland/ India	204 on order.
VT-72B ARV	Armoured recovery vehicle	200+	Slovenia/ India	Armoured recovery vehicle replacing the Vijayanta ARV
WZT-3 Armoured recovery vehicles based on T-72-chassis.

Mine protected and mine clearing vehicles

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Casspir	Armoured personnel carrier	255	South Africa
Hydremma	Mine clearing vehicle		India	Manufactured by OFB India
Aditya	Mine protected Vehicle	300+	India	OFB India. 1400 to be produced. 20/month manufactured at HVF, Medak
DRDO Daksh	Bomb disposal robot	6	India	The Army has placed orders for 20 Dakshs."
Casspir DRDO Daksh

Combat vehicles

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Arjun MBT Mk1	Main battle tank	170	India	With a total of 248 to be built.This to be followed by the Arjun MK-II and the FMBT.
T-90S "Bhishma"/T-90M	Main battle tank	807	Russia/ India	Initially contract for 310 "T-90S" signed in 2001.A contract, worth $800 million, was signed on October 26, 2006, for another 330 T-90M MBTs that were to be built with locally-sourced raw materials.A third contract, worth $1.23 billion, was signed in December 2007 for 347 upgraded T-90Ms, the bulk of which will be licence-assembled by HVF.The Indian Army would begin receiving its first T-90M main battle tank (MBT) in completely knocked-down condition from Russia’s Nizhny Tagil-based Uralvagonzavod JSC by the end of 2009. In all, India plans to have 310 T-90S and 1,330 T-90M tanks in service by 2020 (total of 1,657 tanks by 2020).
T-72M1 "Ajeya"	Main battle tank	2418	Soviet Union/ India	968 T72M1 have been upgraded by the Heavy vehicles factory (HVF), While requests for proposal for upgrading approximately 1,000 other T-72's have been sent to various firms in Israel, Russia, Poland and France.
T-55	Main battle tank	550	Soviet Union	Up to 200 additional T-55s are kept in storage. T-55s were to be phased out in favour of T-90.Some T-55s may be converted into Tarmour AFV's
BMP-2 "Sarath"	Infantry fighting vehicle	1,500+	Soviet Union/ India	Additional Being modernized with TISAS (thermal imaging stand alone sights), better fire control, and more modern ATGM armament (Konkurs M). BMP-1 has been phased out and the upgraded BMP-2 is BMP-2 M with two thermobaric missiles and two tandem warhead Konkurs missiles. Its also has an integrated TI sight, an LRF, and has an AGL mounted on the turret which is also stabilised in the horizontal plane. 100 gets added each year. To enhance the rate to 125 a year.Currently more than 900 are in active service.
BMP-1	Infantry fighting vehicle	700	Soviet Union	700 are in active service
NAMICA	Tank destroyer	13	India	BMP-2 based Nag missile carrier.
CMT	Mortar Carrier	198	India	BMP-2 based mortar carrier. Produced by CVRDE.
FV432	Armoured personnel carrier	80	United Kingdom	Purchased from British Army surplus
OT-64 SKOT	Armoured Personnel Carrier	157	Czechoslovakia/ Poland
BRDM-2	Reconnaissance vehicle	255	Soviet Union
Ferret	Reconnaissance vehicle	100	United Kingdom	Relegated to internal security roles.
PRP-3	Battlefield surveillance system		Soviet Union	1RL126 "Small Fred" Battlefield Surveillance Radar based on BMP. NATO designation was BMP M1975
Arjun Mk II T-90 Bhishma T-72 Ajeya BMP-2 Sarath

Artillery

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Haubits FH77/B	Howitzer	410	Sweden	155 mm gun made by Bofors. 100 are not in good repair, and therefore not in service.
M-46	Howitzer	140	Soviet Union/ Israel	M-46 field guns to be upgraded to 155mm howitzers by Soltam. 220 more upgrade kits to be ordered.
D-30	Howitzer		Soviet Union	Being replaced by the M-46.
M-46	Field gun	450	Soviet Union	130 mm field gun. 550 purchased. 100 used with the Catapult self-propelled gun. Some to be upgraded to M-46 howitzers.
Indian Field Gun	Field gun		India	105mm gun Being replaced by the M-46122 mm
Light Field Gun	Field gun		India	105mm gun. Being phased out.
FV433 Abbot SPG	Self-propelled artillery	~80	United Kingdom	105 mm howitzer. To be replaced following selection of new system.
M-46 Catapult	Self-propelled artillery	~20	India
Smerch 9K58 MBRL	Multiple rocket launcher	62	Soviet Union	300 mm multiple rocket launch system.
Pinaka MBRL	Multiple rocket launcher	80	India	214 mm multiple rocket launch system. Replacing the 122 mm BM-21.
BM-21	Multiple rocket launcher	150	Soviet Union	Modernized rockets with range of 40 km was purchased from Russia. To be replaced by Pinaka.
9A52-2 "Smerch" launch vehicle A Haubits FH77 Pinaka MBRL

Missile systems

Anti-tank guided missiles

Name	Type	Origin	Notes

Nag missile	Anti-tank guided missile	India	On order.
MILAN	Anti-tank guided missile	France/ India	MILAN 30,000 produced under license in India. MILAN 2Ts purchased from France^[23]
9M113 Konkurs (AT-5 Spandrel)	Anti-tank guided missile	Soviet Union
9M133 Kornet (AT-14 Spriggan)	Anti-tank guided missile	Russia
9M111 Fagot (AT-4 Spigot)	Anti-tank guided missile	Soviet Union	In process of being phased out
FGM-148 Javelin	Anti-tank guided missile	United States	On order.
Spike (missile)	Anti-tank guided missile	Israel	On order(8,356 Spike anti-tank missiles with 321 launchers, 15 training simulators and associated equipment.).
9M119 Svir (AT-11 Sniper)	Anti-tank guided missile	Soviet Union	For use with the T-90S.
Lahat	Anti-tank guided missile	Israel	For use with the Arjun.
Nag missile and the Nag missile carrier (NAMICA) MILAN, 2007 9M133 Kornet

Ballistic and cruise missiles

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Brahmos	Cruise missile	500	India/ Russia	300 km range.
Prithvi-I, II, III,IV	Short-range ballistic missile	135	India	150/ 250/ 350 km range.
Agni-I	Medium-range ballistic missile		India	700 – 800 km range.
Shaurya	Hypersonic Glide Missile		India	700 – 1900 km range.
Prahaar	Tactical Ballistic Missile		India	150 km range.
Agni-II	Intermediate-range ballistic missile		India	2000 – 3500 km range.
Agni-III	Intermediate-range ballistic missile		India	3500 – 5000 km range.
Agni-II

Air defence missiles and Systems

Name	Type	Quantity	Origin	Notes
Prithvi Air Defense (PAD)	Anti-ballistic missile		India	Exoatmospheric (outside the atmosphere) interceptor system
Advanced Air Defence (AAD)	Anti-ballistic missile		India	Endo atmospheric (within the atmosphere) interceptor system
S-300PMU-2	Strategic Surface-to-air missile	6 systems(288 missiles)	Soviet Union	Still not officially acknowledged.
SA-5 Gammon	Strategic SAM system	2 systems(24 missiles)	Soviet Union	It is designed to defend large areas from bomber attack or other strategic aircraft. Still not officially acknowledged.
Akash	Surface-to-air missile		India	Indigenously developed surface to air missile to replace SA6.
SA-6 Gainful	Surface-to-air missile	25 systems(1500 missiles)	Soviet Union	The Indian Army has sought to upgrade its SA-6 Kvadrat and SA-8 Missile systems whilst the Akash enters service. The Indian magazine "Strategic Affairs " (No. 0011/ Issue: December 16) noted: "Poland has won an order worth $200 m from India to upgrade 100 Kvadrat (SA6) and 50 OSA-AKM (SA8) mobile surface to air missiles. The contract made public in August, is to be completed by 2002. The upgrades include integration of new radars, communications and control systems, improvements to the launch vehicle including new power packs. The Kvadrat upgrade includes new electronics for better electronic counter measures, passive infra-red search and track sensors."
SA-8 Gecko	Surface-to-air missile	3170 missiles	Soviet Union
SA-13 Gopher	Surface-to-air missile		Soviet Union
Bofors L/70	Anti-aircraft artillery		Sweden	40mm gun. Upgraded L/60.
ZSU-23-2	Anti-aircraft artillery	800	Soviet Union	Twin 23 mm AA guns
Tunguska M1	Self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon	108	Soviet Union
ZSU-23-4M 'Shilka'	Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun	100	Soviet Union	To be upgraded.
9K35 Strela-10 Akash SAM SA-6 Gainful SA-8 Gecko

Aircraft

This is a list of aircraft of the Indian Army. For the list of aircraft of the Indian Air Force, see List of aircraft of the Indian Air Force.

Aircraft	Origin	Type	Versions	In service	Notes
HAL Dhruv	India	attack/utility helicopter		40+	To acquire 105+ more Dhruv in next 5 years.
Aérospatiale Alouette III	India	utility helicopter	SA 316B Chetak	85+	built by HAL
Aérospatiale Lama	India	utility helicopter	SA 315B Cheetah	66+	built by HAL
IAI Searcher	Israel	reconnaissance UAV	IAI Searcher II	50+	Exact amount still not declared but Total 100 IAI Searcher operated by both Indian Navy and Indian Air Force
IAI Heron	Israel	reconnaissance UAV		100+
DRDO Nishant	India	reconnaissance UAV		18	Delivery of 12 UAV's in 2007.

Future Procurements

Vehicles

Mahindra AXE

Mahindra Axe - Light utility vehicle to be purchased.
Kroton - Possible sale of 80 mine laying vehicles from Poland.
Light Tank - 300 tanks (200 tracked 100 wheeled) to be deployed on china border
AHS Krab - Possible sale of 110 from Poland. Part of the deal that would also see the purchase of the Kroton and Loara.
PZA Loara Possible sale of 100 from Poland. Part of the deal that would also see the purchase of the Kroton and 2S1 Gvozdika.
BMP-2 based AKASH SAM carrier production started.
BMP-2 based 105mm Light tank to be manufactured
BMP-2 based NBC protected recon vehicle to be manufactured
TATA Light Specialist Vehicle - LSV with LMG, MMG to be purchased

Artillery and missile systems

Under the Field Artillery Rationalization Plan, Indian Army plans to procure 3000 to 4000 155 mm Towed, Wheeled and Tracked Artillery Systems.The requirement for artillery guns to be met with indigenous development and production.
M777 howitzer - 145 British designed howitzers were planned to be acquired, but the procurement process was restarted in July 2010. It is not now clear which howitzer the Indian government will purchase.
Agni-V - Intercontinental version of the Agni missile system. Under Development.

Infantry equipment

The TATA Groups contribution to F-INSAS.

Modern Sub Machine Carbine
Futuristic Infantry Soldier As a System(F-INSAS) is the Indian Army's principal modernization program from 2012 to 2020.In the first phase, to be completed by 2012,the infantry soldiers will be equipped with modular weapon systems that will have multi-functions.The Indian Army intends to modernize its entire 465 infantry and paramilitary battalions by 2020 with this program.
Indian Army has requirement for 300,000 modular body armour and ballistic helmets primarily for their Infantry regiments.RFI's have been issued.
1000 Anti materiel rifles are to acquired for which global RFI's have been issued by the MOD.
Army has issued RFI's for multi-caliber assault rifles probably to be used as the weapon system in the F-INSAS program.
Indian army is looking for a heavy machine gun, RFIs for a new HMG have been sent to agencies that include Rosoboronexport for the Degtyarev Kord 12.7mm HMG, General Dynamics for the still in-development M806 HMG and also the Browning M2E50

Aviation

Light Utility Helicopter: The Indian army has projected a requirement for up to 197 light helicopters to replace its aging fleet of Chetaks and Cheetahs. The Indian Army chose theEurocopter AS 550 under a US$550 million contract in summer of 2007. Under this contract 60 helicopters were to be supplied from Eurocopter in fly-away condition and the rest were to be assembled by HAL in India. This order was later scrapped due to allegations of unfair field trials from competing company Bell Helicopters.

Five global helicopter majors are in the fray to sell India 197 multi-role, light helicopters, in a deal worth 3,000 crore (US$600 million).Eurocopter AS550 Fennec; Kamov Ka-226, Agusta A109 Power or A119 Koala and McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Systems (MD 520N) have been given time till 19 December 2008 to submit proposals.

Weighing less than three tonnes when armed, these multi-role, light turbine helicopters will replace the 1970s vintage Chetak and Cheetah helicopters operated by the Army Aviation Corps and the Air Force. They will undertake tasks such as reconnaissance and observation,casualty evacuation, electronic warfare, escort duties, anti-insurgency operations and ferrying personnel to and from the battlefield.

Of the 197 helicopters, which are to be bought in a fly away condition and via knock down kits, 133 are for the Army, while 64 will be delivered to the Air Force. The helicopter deal is part of a mega modernisation programme which will see the Army eventually receiving 197 helicopters and the Indian Air Force getting 188. The deal also includes an offset clause, under which the successful vendor must source defence-related goods and services to the value of 50 per cent of the deal from Indian companies.

The process — including discussions on offset proposals, technical evaluation, short-listing by the Defence Ministry, hot weather and winter trails — is expected to be completed by the middle of 2010.

Light Combat Helicopter:The LCH is a derivative of the HAL Dhruv, which was inducted into the Indian armed forces. Using a successful and proven helicopter as the base platform is expected to conserve the project costs for the LCH, which is pegged at.HAL Dhruv weaponised version (WSI) also be inducted in indian army. Lancer is also inducted in indian army 3.76 billion (US$75.2 million).The LCH was expected to be ready for the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) by December 2010 with the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) in 2011. However, the revised timeframes hold that the 5.5-tonne LCH should be ready for induction into IAF by 2012-2013. The first prototype of LCH completed its first ground run on February 4. HAL has a firm order to deliver 65 LCH to the IAF and 114 to the Army.

Gallery

Indian Army artillery gun
Indian Army Ambulance
BEL Battlefield Surveillance Radar-Short Range (BFSR-SR)
T-90 tanks during firing inThar Desert.
A soldier tests a Beretta 92.
Indian Army T-72 witn ERA
Indian Army Armoured Corps during a trainingexercise
Vijayanta Mk 1 MBT
T-72's belong to the Indian Army with UN markings.

A GREAT WOMEN OF INDIA AGRICULTURE CEO OF USA COMPANIES

2012-01-29T03:31:00.000-08:00

An Enlightening Inspiration…….. JYOTHI REDDY

Every successful story has a painful beginning
and every painful beginning has a successful ending ..... Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam...

Do you think it is just a common statement. It is not a mere statement. A philosophy of life. It is not even a mere philosophy of life, It is an alarming, compassionate, soothing and profound answer to all the questions that always chant in your mind. A right and correct response to the pains that you experience in the early phases of life. It is said No pains ,No gains. Multimillionaire Bill gates has rightly said ' If you are born poor, it is not your mistake but if you die poor it is your mistake.’

Let me elucidate , narrate and bring into lime light of an eye opening , mesmerizing and inspiring life story of a lady who was just an agricultural labour, worked for Rs. 5 per day until 1989 now became CEO of Keys software solutions in USA and making millions of money and serving the grass roots of Indian society. Is it awe striking and jaw dropping for you ? but you need to believe and accept because you are all going to witness her, listen to her and even talk to her very soon. She is none other than Mrs. D. Anil Jyothi Reddy.

I know You become more enthusiastic and eager to know how a mediocre village woman could surpass all the obstacles of domestic as well as financial and made her dreams realized. Her success is not limited to her or her own family, the social service that she renders to the needy folk of society inspires many corporate giants to extend their hand with her to help the needy. The financial support that she renders is not a big issue when it is compared to her life story which has become a living example for millions to take her as inspiration and face the challenges with brave heart. Now many women take her as an example and coming out with courageous hearts to brake the limiting believes as well as glass ceiling which condense their actual growth according to their innate potential.
Now here are some of the important phases in her much instigating story of her life. I know many of you even feel the warmth in your heart and wet your eyes and burst into tears by becoming panic. No, If you intend to become so, it is not liked by either Jyothi Reddy or us ,
CHILDHOOD:
Anila Jyothi Reddy was born in Narasimhula Gudem in Hanumakonda mandal, Warangal District as eldest of four children to a common peasant who has lost his employment during emergency. Her father was joined in Army but could not continue because of his attachment with the family. The military training that he had, the attitude that he developed, was given to her as inheritance. As it was very difficult for the family to meet the both the ends, he was forced to join Jyothi Reddy at BALASADAN, a government orphanage at Hanumakonda as a mother less child.
From 5th class to 10th class Jyothi Reddy stayed in orphanage by having solitary life away from home. She used to await if anyone would come and render some help. Particularly during winter season when she used to shiver like anything as her blankets were torn. May be this had a strong influence in her sub conscious and drive her to orphanages often and help the children with all that they require among all the love and feeling of belongingness. Even during summer she never used to go to her village, she used to stay in warden’s house and did all the house hold work for which she was fed.
The empathy that she shows on all the orphans is gained through her own bitter experiences. Recently she made a representation to the Government of India with all her allies to legislate the Rights of the Orphans. She strongly believes the words of Mother Teresa… “ The worst disease in the world is neither poverty nor other, lack of feeling of belongingness, being unwanted is the worst ”. Whenever she visits the Orphanages in India she prefers to spend more time with the orphans. Even they rejoice her company… “ she is more than mother to me’’ says Ranjitha, an orphan who is being sponsored by Jyothi. If you see many college students keep on blaming their environment and parents when they fail to satisfy their wants. A sincere advice to them to visit any orphanage at least once in a year. You better understand the real pain of the life and appreciate what you really have.
MARRIAGE: Mrs Jyothi Reddy passed 10th class with good marks and she dreamed to continue her education. But her parents have contrary plans. At the age of just 16 they performed her marriage with Mr. SangiReddy because of their dire financial position. It is quiet common in rural India, many parents of girl child treat them as burden and try to remove the burden as soon as possible and perform marriage at an early stage. She was innocent and not knowing much about marital life.. time passed ..by the age of eighteen she became mother of two girls. It was very difficult for her to provide the basic needs of her children to feed them and to look after.
EARLY CAREER :
Strong determination to take care of her children made her to persuade her mother-in-law and husband to work in the agriculture to work for money. She worked for Rs. 5 per day as agriculture labour. Many other people who worked along with her on field were impressed by her attitude taught her the basics of hard work of peasants. She worked from 1986 to 89 on field till she got an interesting turn in 1989. Nehru Yuvak Kendra (NYK) started a night school in the village to teach the basic education for adults. As there was no graduate from the village and Jyothi was the only available option, they appointed her as the volunteer to educate the adults after giving some training. It fetched her Rupees 150 per month. She gathered all the co workers in the evenings to the Centre and taught them the basic education with unique play way methods. The Inspection authorities were very much impressed by the initiative and dedication of Jyothi as the volunteer and appointed her Mandal Prerak of Hanumakonda.
ACADEMIC PURSUIT :
After being appointed as Mandal Prerak Jyothi had to visit all the centres of the Warangal district and realized the importance of education and without higher education she can not grow to next levels in life. She completed her graduation and post graduation Distance Mode from Ambedkar Open University. Even University authorities were impressed by her urge for education. She did B. Ed from Anna University and become a
government teacher. But it was not a cake walk for her. She had to cross over all obstacles at home as well as in society. Leaving her village and staying at her work place with her children and husband and balancing family and work and making money by doing all alternative sources as the salary was not sufficient etc,, these were all the different problems higher than the Everests for any rural Indian women. Patience, perseverance and commitment are the secrets of her energy behind this passionate effort.
AMERICAN DREAM :
If the story stopped here there would be nothing much to inspire others. When Jyothi was working as inspector of schools, a relative of her who settled in America came to her place. Jyothi accompanied her during her stay and observed how much change had been taken in the life style of her America settled relative. The way her American relative was spending money for her daughters laid seeds of desires in her. She thought even she could give great future to her daughter if she would go to America and earn there. That time onwards she made up her mind and learnt computers and started saving money for her passport and visa. After series of early failures she could get a visiting visa and flew to America with a little amount but heart filled dreams.
EARLY TRAILS IN AMERICA: As soon as she landed in America she realized it was not an easy task to settle in America. The people whom she believed would give her shelter and support turned off their faces. As money she brought from India was running off she joined as a salesperson in “ Movie Time ’’ a video shop in New Jersey. She stayed as paying guest in gujarathi family. While she was working iin Video Time a known Indian from Warangal saw her and recommended her name to his brother who owned a company called “ CSAMERICA” and she was appointed as recruiter after being trained. Later a well know company ICSA offered her a good job with handsome salary. Again she faced some problems as her visa was not approved and she went for H1 visa. She had to resign her job in ICSA and again had to work for $5 per hour in nominal jobs till she got her H1 visa.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP: She went to Mexico for her VISA stamping. All the hardships of obtaining visa gave her an idea of establish her first entrepreneurship to assist the people to get their Visas. Thus Keys software solutions was initiated. It extended it services like developing software solutions and recruitment and other job providing areas. Jyothi came to America in May 2OOO and by September, 2001 she became entrepreneur. She made her cousin as partner as his partner and extended her business to become more profitable.
FULFILMENT OF DREAMS:
Her hard work, commitment and dedication fetched her the success she dreamed for. She made enough money to take care of her children and her near relatives. Her two daughters could finish higher education in America from prestigious universities and got married to well settled bridegrooms. Her dream to provide good living conditions to her daughters was fulfilled. But she thought it was not here mere responsibility. She has been always thankful to all the people who supported her. She never forgets the pains that she had throughout her life. So she decided to start helping all the needy. She wants to shed tears from the needy orphans who suffer from all inadequacies. She wants to give warmth heart to the pain tinted lives. These thoughts ushered her to take an inspiring turn to extend her service to the humanity.
SERVING HUMANITY:
It is not just a lady went to America and making some money.. and people started calling it as success. It is the attitude and humbleness of Jyothi Reddy which really made the people to notice her and started extending their service to fellow human kind. Jyothi Reddy never forgot her roots. In every visit to India she visits Orphanages, Old age homes and spends time with them, provides them financial assistance. She visits Women’s colleges and empowers them with her life experience. She stands for the orphans and represented to the government to make a legislation to safeguard their rights. She takes her success to heart and not to head. She helped many Indians to settle in America by providing initial shelter and guidance.
FUTURE VISION :
Jyothi Reddy has a vivid and constructive vision to extend her service to needy people. She wants to provide educational facilities and long term result oriented service activities. Everyone should accept the self responsibility and try to be courageous enough to face the challenges. Struggle in life strengthens the caliber of the people. She visits colleges and inspire girl students to take up the self responsibility to empower themselves. She strongly feels that every individual should stop blaming the environment and start helping themselves. God always sends his hidden helping hand through different unexpected sources. We need not to look back when we realize we are responsible for our lives. This is the message that she wants to share with everyone she meets.
LIFE PRINCIPLES OF JYOTHI REDDY
ACCEPT AND ADAPT TO THE REALIT Y
NO CONDITION IS PERMANENT
TAKE UP THE SELF RESPONSIBILITY
WORK FOR CONTINUOUS GROWTH
ASSOCIATE WITH GOOD PEOPLE
NEVER WAIT FOR MIRACLE ;
NEVER LOOSE COURAGE
GOD ANSWERS OUR PRAYERS'
GIVE BACK WHATEVER YOU GOT
INSPIRE AND GIVE HOPE
When you read the above, it is sure you feel motivated and start appreciating the efforts of Jyothi Reddy. It is not that we expect you to appreciate. Just stop thinking all limiting believes and implement whatever you have learned from her.
Napoleon Hill says “ Whatever human mind believes and conceives human mind can achieve” So just believe ..believe .. believe .. you can do it…. Have you goal clear and start working on it.
Wish you all the best…JAI HIND

THE INDIANS PRIDE

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A. R. Rahman

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DEATH OF GANDHI

Wireless cell phone video surveillance solution is here adding a sense of personal security and safety it offers you real-time video monitoring.

You can see your room, business, babysitter, parents, pets, etc.

How does cellular security work:

INDIAN ARMY AVIATION

You can connect to your home, business, babysitter, parents, pets, etc.

How does cellular surveillance work:

INDIAN ARMY AIR DEFENCE

The role of Army Air Defence College is to function as a "Centre of Excellence" on all matters concerning Army Air Defence.

Kurukshetra is a place of myths, legends, great battles, empires and the canvas of the epic Mahabharata. It is also the birth place of the most sacred text of the Hindus, the Bhagwad Gita. For centuries it has been considered the battle ground of the brave.

The complex where theoretical and practical knowledge amalgamate. It has training ground, simulators, equipment stripping rooms, and classrooms. Essentially the 'On Ground' training is imparted here.

Partap Hall is the Motivational Hall of Army AD College. All major events like opening and closing address of all courses of instruction being conducted at Army AD College are held here. The names of winners in various courses are written in golden letters on the honour boards.

Chandragupta Maurya, known simply as Chandragupta was the founder of the Maurya Empire. Chandragupta succeeded in bringing together most of the Indian subcontinent. As a result, Chandragupta is considered the first unifier of India and the first genuine emperor of India.

A state of the art Sand Model Discussion Room aptly named Chandragupta Hall has been made in the Kurukshetra Training Complex, which is equipped with the latest audio-visual training aids.

Extensive use of simulators is being made to impart training to students. The simulators of Tunguska Gun Missile System and L/70 Gun Systems have been recently installed at Kurukshetra.

Working models, cut sections, sectionised parts and actual parts of the gun systems are available in the ESRs of L/70 and Zu 23mm gun systems to enable students to get hands down training

Consisting of 30 work stations to provide a one to one student to machine ratio. Internet and LAN facility is available. Sectionised models of hardware are displayed to teach configurations of computers.

It provides training on the Tactical Air Defence Integrated Display System. Here an operator gets trained to carry out threat evaluation, target prioritization, weapon designation and to pass data duly corrected for parallax.

Two state of the art and automated Low Power Jammers to provide jamming signal to various radars held by Army Air Defence, by employing different noise and deception jamming techniques. The system is used to train radar operator to work under Electronic Counter Measure environment.

Target support for various Air Defence Weapon System is provided by indigenously development Inter Services Pilotless Target Aircraft (ISPTA) Lakshya.

'Reading Maketh A Man ' so goes an old age adage. Books and reference material on a plethora of topic catering to myriad requirements have been made available at the Central Library 'Nalanda'. For the cyber savvy internet connections are also available.

Army Air Defence College is also an Aqua Node of Army Adventure Cell. Chattarpur Lake (20 Kms) from the college campus is the hub centre for all aqua adventure activities to include Sailing, Water Skiing , Rowing, Water Scooters and Para Sailing.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONSGopalpur is a bewitching seaside resort and there can be no better option than to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Walk around the beach, collect shells and first-sized peal-white conch, and remember all the beautiful moments of your life. One may not be able to do it again.

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Arty Centre, Hyderabad

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Depot Regiment

Arty Centre, Nasik Road

RAA

ARMY QUOTES

STRENGTH OF THE INDIAN ARMY

CHIEF OF THE INDIAN ARMY

INDIAN ARMED FORCES

Indian Armed Forces

Military history of India

1857 to 1947 era

1947 to 2000

21st century

Today

Personnel

Structure

Command organisation

Doctrine

Service branches

Indian Army

Indian Navy

Indian Air Force

Indian Coast Guard

Nuclear Command Authority

Indian Ballistic Missile Defense Program

Development

Phase 1

Phase 2

Security pacts and Overseas Bases

Budget

Gallantry awards

Ex Servicemen (ESM)

Future

Recruitment and training

Indian Peace Keeping And Anti-piracy Mission

Anti-piracy Mission

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS

Gopalpur is a bewitching seaside resort and there can be no better option than to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Walk around the beach, collect shells and first-sized peal-white conch, and remember all the beautiful moments of your life. One may not be able to do it again.