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INS Teg to Continue Surveillance Operations in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Mauritius

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
11-July-2015 14:23 IST

INS Teg to Continue Surveillance Operations in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Mauritius
INS Teg, a stealth frigate of the Indian Navy is currently on a two-month long deployment in the South Indian Ocean with an aim to provide surveillance support in the region. This is in keeping with India's national objective of ensuring a secure and stable regional environment to allow unhindered economic and social development, not just in India, but also in the entire Indian Ocean Region. The Indian Navy, while shouldering its security responsibilities, is committed to these objectives and has been contributing in capacity building and capability enhancement of friendly foreign countries as and when requested by them.

INS Teg is scheduled will visit Port Louis, Mauritius from 13 - 17 Jul and 23 - 26 Jul 15. During the deployment, the ship will undertake joint patrolling and surveillance operations with the Mauritian National Coast Guard ships. The joint patrolling is aimed at preventing piracy and illegal fishing and would help reinforce maritime security in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Mauritius. In addition, INS Teg would also assist local authorities in providing assistance in terms of logistics and medical support to the outer islands of Agalega and St Brandon.

The Indian Navy has been deploying ships to Mauritius bi-annually since 2009 to assist in patrolling the vast EEZ of the country. These deployments have facilitated varied professional interactions with the Mauritian NCG, which have fostered seamless maritime interoperability between the two maritime nations and helped develop a strong bond of friendship and mutual trust that underpin Indo-Mauritian partnership. These visits also reinforce the cultural and ethnic ties of the two countries and are a testimony to the joint commitment towards maritime security in the region.

It may be recalled that the ship reached Port Victoria, Seychelles on 26 Jun 15 as part of its mission to carry out joint EEZ surveillance in the Seychellois EEZ in areas selected by Seychelles Coast Guard, with SCG personnel embarked onboard till 09 Jul 15. The ship also carried items required for maintenance of SCG ships. A technical team of the ship also provided necessary assistance for minor defect rectification on various SCG ships. Additionally, the ship's team also visited the Missionaries of Charity Old Age Home at Anse Etoile and interacted with the inmates as well as provided medical support and other assistance. The visit also coincided with Seychelles' National Day celebrations on 29 Jun 15, in which a 25-man marching contingent and Naval Band participated in the prestigious annual military parade. This deployment added another chapter to the strong defence and maritime cooperation between India and Seychelles.

INS Teg is a state-of-the-art guided missile frigate of the Indian Navy and is based at Mumbai. With a displacement of 4000 tons and speed of 30 knots, she is armed with the latest weapons and is capable of accomplishing a wide variety of missions. At the helm of the ship is the Commanding Officer, Captain AY Sardesai who is assisted by a team of professional and highly motivated men of the Indian Navy.

DKS/CKP
46/15

DEBRIS of Missing Coast Guard Dornier Located

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
10-July-2015 18:43 IST

DEBRIS of Missing Coast Guard Dornier Located
Indian Naval Submarine Sindhudhavaj, whilst on task for locating the missing aircraft, picked up a barrage of transmissions in a depth of 996 meters on 06 Jul 2015. This information was a vital source for deployment of the Reliance vessel, M/v Olympic Canyon to localize the search.

Consequently, the unrelenting and uninterrupted search which, included 693 hours of surface effort and 196 hours of air effort finally yielded positive results. The state of the art Multifunctional Support Vessel (MSV) of M/s Reliance India Limited with integrated Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) was able to locate and recover the Flight Data Recorder (FDR )and one Line Replacement Unit (LRU) from a depth of 950 mtrs in a unique and first ever salvage at such depths.

The FDR could provide vital inputs towards establishing the cause of the incident. This is a major accomplishment to the unprecedented search operation which was launched about 30 days back.

The Dornier aircraft went missing on June 8, 2015 after a routine maritime surveillance sortie along the Tamil Nadu coast.

Nampi/RAJ

“Yoga Aross the Oceans” - International Yoga Day Observed Throughout Indian Navy

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
21-June-2015 13:22 IST

“Yoga Aross the Oceans” - International Yoga Day Observed Throughout Indian Navy
The strength of the Indian Navy is its highly motivated, disciplined and well trained personnel who are ever-ready to serve the nation even in the most demanding situations. Naval personnel sail onboard ships and submarines at sea for extended durations in challenging conditions. This inevitably leads to physical and mental stress, which gets compounded due to the prolonged separation from their families during operational deployments. The challenge gets accentuated as naval personnel onboard warships and submarines at sea do not have the luxury of open space and equipment to perform regular physical fitness activities. The Indian Navy, therefore, pays special emphasis on the physical well being and mental alertness of its personnel.

The human system is a seamless blend of body, mind and spirit. It is a well documented fact that Yoga is a science of well being, youthfulness which integrates the mind, body and soul and a few minutes of Yoga on a daily basis helps increase the energy levels and uplifts the spirit. Conduct of Yoga, in addition to improving the immunity of a person, also enhances mind-body coordination, thereby resulting in a higher degree of concentration, which is of utmost importance for men in uniform. Consequently, Yoga forms an integral part of daily physical training at sea. Physical Training Instructors (PTIs) in the Indian Navy are imparted training in both the practice and teaching of Yoga and are appointed to every ship and submarine at sea. The PTIs oversee the daily conduct of physical training onboard ships, including Yoga, which has gained tremendously in popularity over the years.

Recognising the benefits of Yoga, the Indian Navy has declared ‘Yoga across the Oceans’ as its theme for the first International Yoga Day and various benefits of Yoga were amply demonstrated by the conduct of Yoga onboard all Indian Naval ships deployed from the South China Sea in the East to the Mediterranean Sea in the this morning.

Indian Navy has worked very proactively for the success of the International Yoga Day Celebration on 21 Jun 15and for imbibing the Yoga culture amongst its personnel. Multi-focal activities were organised for the benefit of all personnel and their families across all the naval stations and units including onboard ships and submarines.

In New Delhi, a week long Yoga camp was held from 14 -21 Jun 15 at INS India and residential area of naval families. Similar exercise was also carried out in all other naval stations spread across the country. In addition to the various Yoga camps, a Yoga workshop was conducted on 19th Jun 15 for the naval personnel along with their families and children. The workshop witnessed participation by personnel from all age groups including the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral RK Dhowan. During his interaction with the media after the yoga workshop, the Naval Chief highlighted the importance of yoga for the well-being of naval personnel as the life at sea is very challenging and stressful. He also said that the Indian Navy is actively involved in spreading the message about Yoga and its benefits throughout the globe.

A workshop on Healthy Living and Lifestyle Diseases was also inaugurated by Mrs Minu Dhowan at Nau Sena Bagh, Chanakyapuri which stressed upon the physical and mental benefits of yoga and its role in curtailing lifestyle diseases.

DKS/AK

Text of Address by PM at Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
07-July-2015 17:32 IST

Text of Address by PM at Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan


Prime Minister Karim Mossimov,

Mr. Shigeo Katsu, President of the University,

Students and eminent guests.

I am delighted to be here.

Mr. Prime Minister, I am deeply honoured that you have joined us today. You are a person of learning and many talents. I learnt today that your skills in Hindi and yoga are among them.

It is a great privilege to embark on a journey of all five nations of Central Asia. This might be the first time this has happened.

I am truly excited to visit a great country and a great region that has been called the pivot of human history.

It is a land of beauty and cultural splendor, of outstanding achievements and great heroism.

It is also a region of continuous engagement with India since human civilisation began.

So, I have come here, drawn by history and goodwill and as a neighbour, to write a new chapter in an ancient relationship.

Tonight, as I speak to the people of Central Asia, I could not have a chosen a better venue than the Nazarbayev University.

In its short life, it has emerged as an excellent centre of education. And, I congratulate the first batch that has graduated this year.

The university reflects the vision of President Nazarbayev that education is the foundation of a nation's progress and leadership.

It recalls the wisdom of the great Kazakh writer, Abai Kunanbaev, who spoke about education as the shield and pillar for Kazakh people.

Today, Kazakhstan is a nation of global stature and respect. This is not just because Mother Nature has been generous to you with resources of every kind.

It is because of your investment in education, human resources and infrastructure. These have helped increase the size of the economy four times in the last ten years.

It is because of your leadership in advancing peace and cooperation in the great Eurasian region.

It is your vision that has given us the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building in Asia.

Kazakhstan is a voice of responsibility and maturity in international forums, including the United Nations.

No Indian will forget Kazakhstan's generosity in making way for India's bid for the membership of the UN Security Council in 2011-12. We stand solidly behind you for your bid in 2017-18.

Like Kazakhstan, the rest of Central Asia is on the rise. It is just over two decades since nations here gained independence and regained their identity.

The countries of Central Asia are endowed with rich human and natural resources.

I am coming from Tashkent. Uzbekistan is experiencing rapid economic growth and progress. Turkemistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgystan are turning their resources into a promise of a more prosperous future.

You have built modern, inclusive and pluralist nations at a time when many in the region are caught in conflict and instability.

Your success is as important for the region as it is for the world.

Central Asia is at the crossroads of Eurasia. It has been caught in the currents of history and it has also shaped it.

It has seen rise and fall of empires. It has witnessed trade thrive and ebb.

For monks, merchants and monarchs, it has been both - a destination and a passage.

It has been an intermediary of cultures and faiths from across Asia.

Your gifts to human civilisation have been rich. Your imprint on human progress has been lasting.

And, over the last two thousand years and more, India and Central Asia have influenced each other profoundly.

For centuries, Buddhism flourished in this part of the world and even influenced Buddhist Art in India. Through here, it spread eastward.

As I stood in the Gandan Monastery in Mongolia this May, I marveled at that journey of faith that linked Asia across its daunting landscape.

The confluence of Indian and Islamic civilisations took place in Central Asia. We enriched each other not only in spiritual thought, but also in medicine, science, mathematics and astronomy.

The Islamic heritage of both India and Central Asia is defined by the highest ideals of Islam – knowledge, piety, compassion and welfare. This is a heritage founded on the principle of love and devotion. And, it has always rejected the forces of extremism.

Today, this is an important source of strength that brings India and Central Asia together.

The richness of our ties is written into the contours of our cities and our daily lives. We see this in architecture and art, handicraft and textile and in most popular food.

The dargahs of Delhi resonate with Sufi music that draws people from all faiths.

The cities of Central Asia have become centres of yoga and Hindi, long before the world came together to celebrate the International Day of Yoga on 21st June.

Uzbekistan has recently completed fifty years of radio broadcast in Hindi. Our epics Ramayana and Mahabharata were popular on Uzbek TV as they were in India.

Many of you wait for the release of the latest Bollywood film with the same excitement as people in India.

This is the source of goodwill between our people. It is the foundation of a relationship of hearts and emotions. And, it cannot be measured only by the scale of trade or the demands of States.

It was evident when President Nazarbayev and the leaders of other Central Asian Republics came to India soon after their nation's independence.

Since then, our political engagement has deepened. Our defence and security cooperation is growing.

Trade is expanding, but it is still modest. Our cooperation in energy sector has begun. Later today, we will launch the drilling of the first oil well with Indian investments in Kazakhstan.

Indian investments in Central Asia have started flowing in. And, so have Indian tourists in growing numbers. More than 50 flights a week connect the five Central Asian capitals to India. And, it takes about the same time as it would take to fly to Chennai from Delhi.

Our strongest progress is in human resource development. Thousands of professionals and students from Central Asia have trained in India. Many from India come to the universities in the region.

We have established Centres of Excellence in Information and Communication Technology in the region. And, we are also pleased that we have three Indian cultural centres in the region.

Yet, we will be the first to say that the engagement between India and Central Asia falls short of its promise and potential.

We have a special place in our hearts for each other. But, we have not paid as much attention to each other as we should.

This will change.

That is why I am travelling to all five countries in the region in the early stages of my Government.

Both India and Central Asia cannot achieve their full potential without each other. Nor will our people be safer and our region more stable without our cooperation.

India constitutes one-sixth of humanity. It is a nation of 800 million youth that is an enormous force of progress and change for India and the world.

Our economy is growing at 7.5% every year. We can sustain higher growth rates long into the future.

India is the new frontier of opportunities for the world.

Central Asia is a vast region of immense resources, talented people, rapid growth and a strategic location.

So, I am here to start a new era in our relationship with Central Asia.

India is prepared to invest more in a new partnership of prosperity.

We will work together not just in minerals and energy, but in industries such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering and small and medium enterprises. We can invest in refineries, petrochemicals and fertilizer plants here.

We can harness our strength in information and communication technology to create wealth and opportunities for our youth. Today, I will inaugurate a Centre of Excellence in Astana with a Super Computer from India.

We can use the reach of Space technology for closer partnership in development and resource management.

I also see vast opportunities in areas like agriculture and dairy. We can renew our old ties in traditional medicines.

Central Asia is a natural destination for the Indian tourists.

We are intensifying our exchanges in culture, education and research. And we will connect our youth more.

In this troubled world, we must also strengthen our defence and security cooperation to defend our values, our nations' security and our region's peace.

We live at the frontier of instability. We live close to the crucible of extremism and terrorism.

We see terrorism spawned by nations and groups. Today, we also see cyber space become a platform without borders for terror to draw recruits to its cause.

From theatres of conflicts to the calm neighbourhoods of distant cities, terrorism has become a global challenge as never before.

It is a force that is larger and more enduring than its changing names, locations and targets.

So, we must ask ourselves: Will we let a generation of youth be lost to guns and hate, because they will hold us accountable for their lost future?

So, during this visit, we will strengthen our defence and security cooperation in the region. But, we will also combat terrorism by the strength of our values and our commitment to humanism.

This is a responsibility that India and Central Asian nations owe to our shared inheritance and to the future of our region.

Our shared values and aspirations are also the foundation of closer international partnership, including in the United Nations.

But, in a transformed world, we also see the growing institutional erosion of the United Nations. As nations that are committed to international order, we must work to make it relevant to our times. So, as the United Nations turns 70, we should press for reforms of the United Nations, especially its Security Council.

India's membership of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation will deepen our regional partnership.

And we have begun a study on a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union for deeper integration with this region.

This is an era in which Space and Cyber are making roads and rails less relevant.

But, we will also restore our physical connectivity for trade, transit and energy.

The International North South Transport Corridor opens a competitive and quick route for India to Eurasia. And, I hope all of Central Asia will join it.

We hope to join the Ashgabat Agreement on trade and transit.

India's investment in Chahbahar Port in Iran will bring us closer to Central Asia.

I also hope that we can restore the traditional route to Central Asia through Pakistan and Afghanistan.

We can draw confidence from the agreement between Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India on the gas pipeline.

This region has prospered the most when we have been connected.

Indeed, our hopes of an Asian Century will be realized, when we see Asia as one - not as South, West, East or Central. Asia will rise when we all prosper together.

For that, we must connect Asia's different parts.

India is at the crossroads of Asia's land and sea routes. We understand our responsibility. And, we are working with a sense of priority to connect ourselves to the East and the West, by land and sea.

There is a surge of interest in reconnecting Asia with itself and beyond.

Our former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji called for a New Silk Route Initiative here in 2002.

Today, all of Asia seeks the revival of the glorious ancient Silk Road.

But, we must also remember the lessons of history.

The Silk Road flourished and waned with the fortunes of Central Asia.

The end of the Silk Road did not just come about from the rise of sea-based trade of the new European powers.

It also happened because Central Asia was no longer a bridge between regions, but the new fault line between great empires to the east, west and south;

When it was no longer the hub of trade, but a land in the shadows of the high walls of the powers around it. Central Asian nations declined and trade withered.

The success of connectivity through and across Central Asia is important.

For that, the great nations of Central Asia must flourish and regain their central role in Eurasia.

From Europe to Asia, all nations must foster a climate of cooperation and collaboration, not competition and exclusion, in this region.

The region must remain stable and peaceful, free from conflict and the violence of extremism and terrorism.

And, as Central Asia links the East and the West, it must also connect to the South.

For that is how it always was.

In an age of globalization, Asia cannot remain fragmented. And, Central Asia cannot remain distant and disconnected from India.

I am confident that we can make it happen. Our ancestors crossed the mighty Himalaya, Karakoram, Hindu Kush and Pamirs for spiritualism, knowledge, and markets.

We will all work together to build the Silk Route of the 21st century. We will connect through space and cyber as we will by air, land and sea.

Let me conclude with a few lines from Abduraheim Otkur, a poet of this region. He said:

“Our tracks remain, our dreams remain, everything remains, far away, yet
Even if the wind blows, or the sand shift, they will never be covered, our tracks,
And the caravan will never stop along the way, though our horses are very thin;
One way or another, these tracks will be found someday, by our grandchildren;
Or our great grandchildren.”

I say this to you: India and Central Asia will redeem that promise.

Thank you.

***


MV

207 Flight Cadets Including 43 Women Pass Out from Air Force Academy

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
20-June-2015 20:16 IST

207 Flight Cadets Including 43 Women Pass Out from Air Force Academy
The amber sky dawned sagely over Air Force Academy to witness the grand Combined Graduation Parade, which marked the momentous occasion of the passing out of 207 Flight Cadets as Flying Officers including 43 women officers to join the crème-de-la-crème of the IAF, to carry forward the espoused legacy and the core values of ‘Mission, Integrity, Excellence’ with élan. This solemn event was graced by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha PVSM AVSM VM ADC, as the Reviewing Officer. He conferred the President’s Commission to the Flight Cadets who have successfully completed their basic and professional training at Air Force Academy, Air Force Station Hakimpet, Air Force Station Begumpet, Air Force Station Yelahanka and Air Force Administrative College (Coimbatore). This training phase culminated in a grand ceremony with a scintillating Combined Graduation Parade on the tarmac facing the Sekhon Block at the Air Force Academy. The newly commissioned officer will join in their respective fields in Flying, Navigation and Ground duty branches.

The Reviewing Officer was accorded a salute by the parade followed by an impressive March Past. The highpoint of the parade was the ‘Pipping ceremony’. The Flight Cadets were awarded their stripes by the Reviewing Officer, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command and Commandant, Air Force Academy. They were then administered the oath by the Commandant of the Academy in the presence of the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha gave away various awards to the flying officers who have excelled in training. Flying Officer Himanshu Kanwar from the Flying Branch was awarded President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for standing first in Overall Merit in Pilot Course. Flying Officer Saurabh Sharma and Flying Officer Shivaank Rana were awarded President’s Plaque for being first in Overall Merit in Navigation and Ground Duty branch respectively.

Addressing the cadets, the Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha complimented the Flying Officers for the exceptional standard of parade. Articulating India’s need and priorities in the emerging international scenario, he reiterated the important role of the Armed Forces. In this context IAF, as a reckonable aerospace power, would permeate the national security apparatus more intrinsically, given India’s significantly enhanced stature and responsibilities. He stated that, while there is an urgent need to leverage technologies and systems, it is also imperative that these are converted into ‘capabilities’ by people. He stressed on the need that the IAF should aim for greater specialisation and tailored capabilities amongst its men and women, as it absorbs newer and more advanced technologies. Earlier, the Reviewing Officer was received at the venue by Air Marshal Ramesh Rai, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command and Air Marshal GP Singh VM, Commandant, Air Force Academy.

The parade was culminated with the newly commissioned officers marching-out from behind the fort wall, in slow march to the poignant notes of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ acknowledging the first salute given them by their immediate juniors.

The large gathering of military and civil dignitaries along with the family members and friends of the graduating Flight Cadets were held spellbound throughout the impressive parade. The grand Graduation Parade culminated with awesome display by the fiery aerobatic display by the PC 7 MK II (the aircraft currently used in AFA to train pilots) and the Sarang Helicopter team display.

The combined graduation Parade is a portentous day heralding the birth of another generating of fine Officers in the IAF. The Flight Cadets undergo professional and advanced training and finally pass-out together from the portals of the majestic “Sekhon” Block of Air Force Academy. The graduating Flight Cadets marched-in onto the tarmac with impeccable turnout and impressive drill movements, demonstrating the conviction and commitment that they hold. Subsequently, a specially chosen group of Flight Cadets brought-in the ‘President’s Colours’ of the Academy. The President’s Colours is a symbol of excellence, awarded to the Academy in 1975 as a tribute to the dedication and worthy contribution, both during peace and war; it marks and depicts the hard work, valor and sacrifice of all the personnel posted to the Academy.

The Air Force Academy is the premier training establishment of IAF. It is veritably the ‘Cradle of Inspired Leadership’, as it undertakes the onerous task of transforming civilians to Air Warriors and creating an elite cadre of Officers.

afa/prosec/maks/kr

Indian Navy to Conduct Seminar on Innovation and Indigenisation

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
07-July-2015 16:16 IST

Indian Navy to Conduct Seminar on Innovation and Indigenisation
In pursuance of the Govt of India’s ‘Make in India’ policy and the Indian Navy’s quest for ‘Self Reliance through Indigenous Development’, a seminar titled “Innovation and Indigenisation – Sailing towards Self Reliance” is being organised at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi on 16 and 17 Jul 15. The seminar is being conducted in association with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and will be attended, amongst others, by Senior Officers from IN and MoD and Captains of Indian Defence Industry. The Hon’ble Raksha Mantri will inaugurate the seminar as Chief Guest. Around 300 dignitaries are expected to attend the seminar.

Four Sessions for presentation of Strength Area papers have been scheduled in the proposed programme over the two days of the Seminar. Papers on ‘Synergy amongst stakeholders in Indigenisation’, ‘Innovation for Self Reliance’, ‘Challenges in induction of Indigenous Systems’ etc would be presented by speakers from IN, DPSUs, industry and academia, which are topics of interest for all those who would like to benefit from the growing indigenous defence industry.

DKS/CKP

Indian Air Force Celebrates International Yoga Day

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
19-June-2015 17:14 IST

Indian Air Force Celebrates International Yoga Day
Indian Air Force has always been in the forefront in promoting fitness and healthy life style amongst Air Warriors. In pursuance of the same, Yoga programmes has been conducted for Air Warriors since last two days at various Air Force Formations and Stations as a build-up for the International Yoga Day on 21 Jun 2015. These Yoga sessions were conducted to introduce Air Warriors to the benefits of Yoga. Majority of participants who took part in the programme are those engaged in assignments requiring high level of concentration and perseverance. During these sessions, various Yogic Asanas, breathing techniques and its positive impact on physical and mental well being were covered.

All Air Force Formations and Stations have been directed to observe 21 Jun 2015 as International Yoga Day, commensurate with the objectives stipulated by Government of India.

There would be an introductory talk on benefits of Yoga followed by a 35-45 minutes camp demonstrating various yoga exercises with participation of audience. This would end with a meditation exercise of six minutes duration. Conduct of Yoga would be under this guidance of Yoga teachers and experts.

Yoga is also planned to be conducted in Air Force Schools and at suitable locations in the Stations where families and children of air warriors can participate.

SSB/RCD

Text of PM’s statement to media during the Joint Press Briefing with President of Uzbekistan at Tashkent

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
06-July-2015 20:18 IST

Text of PM’s statement to media during the Joint Press Briefing with President of Uzbekistan at Tashkent

His Excellency President Islam Karimov, President of Uzbekistan, Members of the Media,

I am delighted to be in the historic and beautiful city of Tashkent. It carries the warmth of familiarity that comes from sights and stories we grow up with.

I thank President Karimov and the people of Uzbekistan for their very warm welcome and hospitality.

It is a pleasure to meet President Karimov. He has led with great vision and wisdom to steer Uzbekistan’s progress and advance peace and prosperity in the region.

Today, I have embarked on a five-nation tour of Central Asia. It reflects our resolve to start a new era in our relations with Central Asian Republics.

Our relationship with the region has ancient roots and has left a strong imprint on both. It now occupies a significant place in India’s future.

I have begun my journey in Uzbekistan. This underlines this nation’s importance for India, not just in the context of this region, but also more broadly in Asia.

In recent years, India and Uzbekistan have built a strategic partnership on the foundation of mutual respect and shared interests.

This includes expanding economic cooperation, combating terrorism, advancing stability in the region and promoting regional integration.

President Karimov and I had very cordial and productive discussions. His perspectives will be of immense benefit to me in the days ahead.

I share President Karimov’s desire to raise the level of our economic engagement. I conveyed to him that there is a strong interest in Indian business to invest in Uzbekistan. There is immense potential in a broad range of areas in Uzbekistan. I have urged him to make the process and the policies for Indian investments here smoother. President responded positively to my suggestion.

President was also supportive of strengthening our ongoing cooperation in the areas of agriculture, Information Technology and energy.

We also discussed steps needed to implement the contract for supply of uranium from Uzbekistan signed earlier.

President Karimov and I discussed various initiatives to further enhance connectivity between India and Uzbekistan.

I briefed him about the International North South Transport Corridor and proposed that Uzbekistan consider becoming a member. I sought his support for India joining the Ashgabat Agreement.

I am pleased with the agreements in the areas of Culture and Tourism, because they will bring our people closer.

Few countries can match Uzbekistan in nurturing Hindi and Indian culture. Tomorrow, I look forward to meeting a vibrant group of Indologists and Hindi linguists.

India will expand cooperation in capacity building through increase in the number of training offers in India. Consistent with our commitment, the Uzbekistan-India Information Technology Centre has been upgraded this year.

I welcome President Karimov’s assurance to ensure speedy completion of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre being set up in Tashkent.

We also discussed regional and international issues, including the situation in Afghanistan. We also have shared concerns on the rising threat of extremism and terrorism in our extended neighbourhood.

We agreed to intensify security cooperation and exchanges. The bilateral Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism will meet later this year. We also agreed to strenghen cooperation in defence and cyber security.

We look forward to working together within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Tomorrow, I will be paying a visit to the Monument of Independence and Humanism and the Memorial of Late Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. We are thankful to the people of Tashkent and Uzbekistan, for preserving the legacy of our former Prime Minister.

This has been a very rewarding visit. It has sown the seeds of a rich harvest in the years ahead.

I look forward to the opportunity of receiving President Karimov in India.

Thank you again for your hospitality and a wonderful meeting. Thank You.

****

AKT/AK

Accident During Ex AJEYA Warrior in UK

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
18-June-2015 17:26 IST

Accident During Ex AJEYA Warrior in UK
An accident involving troop carrier vehicles of British Forces took place while returning after conduct of training between Indian and British Forces at Salisbury Plains, Near Westdown Camp in United Kingdom on 17 Jun 2015. Two soldiers of the Indian Army sustained leg fractures and minor injuries were suffered by some other soldiers.

The injured personnel included troops of the Kumaon Regiment, taking part in Exercise AJEYA WARRIOR which is a Joint Exercise between the armies of India and UK, being conducted from 13 June to 28 June 2015 at Westdown Camp, Salisbury Plains Training Area, UK. The Exercise is held biannually in both the countries, alternatively.

Col Rohan Anand, SM PRO (Army)

WAC SMOs Conference

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
05-July-2015 19:15 IST

Air Marshal Rajan Chaudhry AVSM VSM President’s Honorary Surgeon, Director General Medical Services (Air), inaugurated the Western Air Command’s SMOs’ Conference 2015 at Subroto Park on 03 July 15. In his address he directed the SMOs to ensure regular and continuous training of all medical personnel and be ready to handle all emergencies, whether in peace or war. He asked SMOs to ensure implementation of the medical services’ digital initiative, the MEDNET, at all Station Medicare Centres (SMCs) so as to achieve our vision of paperless workplace. He informed that the Air Force was in the process of procuring and installing state of the art modern aeromedical equipment such as the Ejection Procedure Simulator (EPS), Explosive Decompression and Rapid Recompression Chamber (EDC RRC) which would take aeromedical evaluation and training to a higher level of sophistication.

Air Marshal B Suresh AVSM VM, Senior Air Staff Officer, WAC, the Guest of Honour stated that our primary job is war fighting i.e, to fight and win wars. He urged the medical fraternity to conduct research and find solutions to aeromedical problems as and when they appear. He also exhorted the Air Force doctors to constantly endeavor to return medically unfit pilots to flying as quickly as possible, in order to improve the cockpit to pilot ratio. He also expressed that the doctors had a very important role in educating and influencing the Air Force community, to inculcate healthy lifestyles and dietary habits so as to curb the menace of lifestyle disorders such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes. Lastly, he emphasized the legendary trust and bonhomie that existed between aircrew and the doctors and exhorted everyone to strengthen it further.

AVM Pradeep Kharbanda VSM, Principal Medical Officer HQ WAC, an Aviation Medicine specialist himself, moderated the brainstorming session, where issues faced by operational bases were discussed and resolved. Dr Gayatri Vyas Mahindroo Director National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health Care Providers (NABH), delivered the keynote address on “Accreditation of SMCs”. DGMS (Air) added that the greatest advantage in following accreditation standards was Patient Safety, which is also a Key Result Area of the Air Force medical services. He asked SMOs to observe “2015 as the Year of Safe Outpatient” in all earnestness and ensure delivery of highest quality healthcare in a safe environment, to the dependent population. DGMS (Air) applauded the outstanding relief work undertaken by WAC and the Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT) in Nepal, as a part of Op Maitri.

As part of two day conference, in field visit to AF Station Hindan, the flight surgeons witnessed C-130 and C-17, the modern heavy air lift giants of the Indian Air Force, in their ambulance role. They also had a hands-on exposure to the high-tech patient transfer unit (PTU) which the Air Force utilizes for shifting critically ill patients from one ICU to another. For most participants this firsthand experience was enriching and a unique experience.

SKM/DS/DP

14 Young Nursing Officers Commissioned into the MNS

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
18-June-2015 16:46 IST

14 Young Nursing Officers Commissioned into the MNS
In a glittering ceremony held at Ayurvigyan Auditorium of Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantonment, 14 young nursing students of the 56th batch of probationary nurses of College of Nursing, Army Hospital were formally commissioned as Lieutenant into the Military Nursing Service (MNS), today. Lt Gen MK Unni, Commandant Army Hospital (R&R) graced the function as Chief Guest and addressed the newly commissioned nursing officers. In his address, Lt Gen Unni congratulated the lady officers and their proud parents. He emphasized to face the challenges ahead, work hard with dedication and try to be an asset to the organisation. He urged the newly commissioned nursing officers to nurture the ethics of MNS and work sincerely to maintain the glorious tradition of the service as well as to keep abreast with the latest developments in the field of medicine and nursing.

Major General Sunita Kapoor, Addl Director General, MNS in her speech exhorted the new commissioned officers to perform their duties with utmost dedication by keeping the ethos of the Service in mind. At the outset, Major General Sushila Shahi, Principal Matron, Army Hospital (R&R) welcomed the dignitaries.

DM/RAJ

PM’s upcoming visit to five Central Asian nations and Russia

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
04-July-2015 18:28 IST

PM’s upcoming visit to five Central Asian nations and Russia

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has shared few posts on his Facebook page, regarding his upcoming visit to five Central Asian nations and Russia

Following is the text of Prime Minister's posts," On 6th July I will begin my visit to five Central Asian nations and Russia, where I will participate in the BRICS and SCO Summit.

My first visit will be to Uzbekistan, which is the most populous country in Central Asia. India and Uzbekistan enjoy a close strategic partnership. In Uzbekistan I would be holding talks with President Karimov and we would be inking key agreements to strengthen cooperation between our countries. We want to expand our economic ties with Uzbekistan and enhance trade and economic linkages. I must add that President Karimov has visited India five times, including four times as President, with the last visit taking place in 2011.

It is well known that Indian movies, language and music are very popular in Uzbekistan. In fact, the Uzbek radio completed 50 years of Hindi broadcasting in 2012. During this visit I would be interacting with Indologists, students learning Hindi and members of the Indian community. There are over 3000 Indians in Uzbekistan.

It was in Tashkent that we lost one of our most popular and respected leaders, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri ji, who ignited our Nation with the clarion call of ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.’ I will be paying my tributes to this proud son of India during the visit.

I am confident that this visit will be a major step towards further expanding India-Uzbekistan ties.

I will be in Kazakhstan, the largest of the central Asian Nations, on 7th and 8th July. This will be my second stop during my visit to Central Asia. Kazakhstan is India’s largest trading partner in Central Asia and has been a valued friend of India at various international forums. India and Kazakhstan have a strategic partnership, indicating the importance we attach to relation with Kazakhstan.

In Kazakhstan, I will be meeting President Nazarbayev, to whom I express my good wishes on turning 75 on 6th July and PM Karim Massimov, whom I had the opportunity of briefly meeting in Singapore in March this year. There will be delegation level talks with President Nazarbayev followed by the signing of documents and a joint press statement.

India and Kazakhstan are cooperating in a wide range of sectors including energy and space. I see a huge opportunity for our economic ties to grow further. India and Kazakhstan can also increase ties in agriculture.

During this visit I look forward to interacting with the youth of Kazakhstan at the Nazarbayev University. I will inaugurate the India-Kazakhstan Centre for Excellence in Information and Communication Technology at the LN Gumilev Eurasian National University. I will join a wreath laying ceremony and planting of sapling at the Monument of Defenders of Motherland.

Our cultural ties with Kazakhstan are deep rooted. Our films, TV serials and dances are very popular. Yoga is gaining popularity. I must appreciate the enthusiasm with which Kazakhstan joined Yoga Day celebrations on 21st June.

May this visit script a historic chapter in our ties with a valued friend.

I will join the 7th BRICS Summit and SCO Summit in Ufa, Russia. In the past one year I have had the opportunity to meet the BRICS leaders at the Summit in Brazil and during other international forums. The Summit last year was productive and I am sure we will build on the ground covered during the last Summit. I expect positive outcomes in economic cooperation and cultural ties among the BRICS nations.

I will be meeting the leaders individually and will be a part of the variousinteractions of BRICS leaders with captains of industry and leaders of other invited states.

India attaches high importance to BRICS. It is a great forum that can contribute effectively to mitigate global challenges. BRICS also has a very crucial role to play in further world peace and security and ensuring we leave behind a better planet for our future generations.

After the BRICS Summit, I will reach Turkmenistan on 11th July. This is the first visit by an Indian PM after Shri PV Narasimha Rao’s visit in 1995. I view this visit as an excellent opportunity to strengthen India-Turkmenistan ties in several areas.

The visit will begin with a meeting with President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. This will be followed by talks, signing of agreements and a meeting with the press. Areas where I see a rich scope for better ties with Turkmenistan include tourism, fertilizers, space, science and technology and defence. Our bilateral trade is way below its potential and I am confident we can improve it.

I will inaugurate a statue of Mahatma Gandhi and a Traditional Medicine and Yoga Centre. I am very happy to see the increased enthusiasm towards Yoga in Turkmenistan. I will also lay wreath at the Mausoleum of the First President.

It is my firm belief that my visit will take India-Turkmenistan ties to the next level and benefit our citizens.

The fourth Central Asian country that I will visit will be Kyrgyzstan. This is the first Prime Ministerial visit in twenty years. I will be there on 12th July. My talks with President Almazbek Atambayev will be focused on ways to develop a strong partnership with Kyrgyzstan in as many areas as possible. Stronger economic ties between India and Kyrgyzstan will be very helpful in the long run. I am eager to also meet Prime Minister Semir Tariyev and Speaker of the Parliament Mr. Asylbek Jeenbekov.

We are glad to be gifting medical equipment to Kyrgyz Field Hospital. I am sure this will touch the lives of several sisters and brothers in Kyrgyzstan. I will inaugurate Tele-medicine links, which shall promote medical tourism from Kyrgyzstan to India. A statue of Mahatma Gandhi will also be unveiled. I will have the opportunity to visit the Kyrgyz-India Mountain Biomedical Research Centre and join the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Victory Monument in Bishkek.

May this visit usher in a new era of very strong India-Kyrgyzstan ties.

On 12th and 13th July I will be in Tajikistan. This last PM visit to Tajikistan was by Atal ji in November 2003.

We have a strategic partnership with Tajikistan and have very strong defence cooperation as well. However, our economic cooperation has been limited and the scope of growth is immense. Bilateral trade has huge potential.

My visit will build on the existing strong diplomatic and defence ties and script a fresh chapter in our economic ties. I look forward to meeting President Emomali Rahmon. Key agreements will also be signed after our meeting. I will gifting medicines for the India-Tajikistan Friendship Hospital.

You would be interested to know that Indian films are shown on Tajik television. The Indian Cultural Centre in Dushanbe is popular among people, who go there to learn Tabla, Kathak, Yoga and Hindi among other activities. A statue of the beloved and widely admired Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore will be unveiled in Dushanbe.

I am optimistic that the outcomes from this visit will be very positive and further deepen the strong bond between India and Tajikistan.

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AKT/AK

French Naval Ships Dixmude and Aconit Visit Visakhapatnam

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
16-June-2015 18:14 IST

French Naval Ships Dixmude and Aconit Visit Visakhapatnam
French Naval Ships Dixmude (Landing Platform Dock) and Aconit (Frigate) are on a visit to Visakhapatnam from 16 to 22 Jun 15. Rear Admiral Antoine Beaussant, ALINDIEN (Admiral-in-charge of the Maritime Zone of the Indian Ocean), Captain Pierre de Briancon Commanding Officer FNS Dixmude and Captain Jean-Pierre Helluy, Commanding Officer FNS Aconit called on Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command on 16 Jun 15.

During the visit, various operational and social interactions with Eastern Naval Command have been planned. These include amphibious demonstration, sharing of expertise on Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR), exchange of Non-Combatant Evacuation procedures, mutual ship visits, industry exhibition and sports fixtures.

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DKS

Wreath Laying Ceremony of brig Mohammad Usman, MVC

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
03-July-2015 17:21 IST

Wreath Laying Ceremony of brig Mohammad Usman, MVC
A wreath laying ceremony to commemorate the death anniversary of Brigadier Mohammad Usman, MVC was organised at Jamia Millia Islamia University Cemetery on 03 Jul 2015. Several Retired and serving officers including Lieutenant General NS Ghei, Commandant, National Defence College and Colonel of the Parachute Regiment attended the function.

Late Brigadier Mohammad Usman, also known as the “Saviour of Naushera” , was responsible for the recapture of Jhangar & Naushera (Jammu & Kashmir) during 1947-48 war with Pakistan. The gallant officer attained martyrdom on 03 Jul 1948.

Brigadier Mohammad Usman set an example of personal courage, exceptional qualities of leadership and devotion to duty in the highest tradition of the Indian Army and was thus, rightfully honoured with the Mahavir Chakra.

Manoj Tuli

APRO (Army)

India and Poland set trade target of USD 5 billion

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
16-June-2015 16:49 IST

India and Poland set trade target of USD 5 billion
India and Poland set an ambitious trade target of USD 5 billion at the fourth session of the bilateral Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation, held in Warsaw on June 15. The commission, co-chaired by Mr Amitabh Kant, Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion and Mr Jerzy Pietreiwicz, Secretary of State, Ministry of Economy, drew a blueprint for stepping up investments and identified a series of actions to raise trade from the 2014 level of USD 2.3 billion, to USD 5 billion by the year 2018.

Speaking at the plenary session, Secretary of State Pietriewicz noted that the economic partnership between the two countries was significantly boosted by the visit to India of Mr P, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of Poland in January 2015 and his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi.

Mr Amitabh Kant described the dynamism of the Indian economy and invited Polish investors to look at various new programmes like Make in India and Smart Cities, and to take advantage of the significantly improved investment climate. He said India had become one of the most open economies in the world, with de-regulation and hikes in FDI limits in key sectors like defence, infrastructure and railways. Secretary Kant stressed the Government of India had created an enabling environment for foreign investors and was committed to provide hand-holding facilities to inbound investments.

The three co-chairs of the newly created Joint Working Groups on Coal, IT and Food Processing, also presented the outcomes of their first meetings, held on the eve of the commission meeting. In the coal and steel sector, both sides have drawn a roadmap to strengthen cooperation in areas such as thick seam underground coal mining, exploitation of highly gassy seams, developing clean coal technologies and transfer of technologies in deep coal mining from Poland to India. In the food processing sector, experts discussed market access, food processing technologies and research and development between scientific institutions. The Polish side showed interest in exporting the latest food processing machinery and technology to India. In the IT and ICT sector, India and Poland have identified areas to strengthen cooperation in entrepreneurship development and support; research and development and innovation in cloud computing; big data analysis; cyber-security, data protection, smart cities projects and accreditation of each other’s courses.

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RC/nb

Further Boost to Defence Manufacturing, DIPP Clears Defence Licenses Worth 613 Crs.

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
03-July-2015 17:36 IST

Further Boost to Defence Manufacturing, DIPP Clears Defence Licenses Worth 613 Crs.
The Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion(DIPP) has been in the vanguard for undertaking major reforms to promote Defence Manufacturing under Make in India Initiative. Continuing with the momentum created, it has so far issued 73 Industrial Licenses in Defence sector during last one year (since June 2014), against 50 License granted during 2011 to May 2014. These include 16 proposals with proposed investment of Rs. 613 crores, cleared in recent Licensing Committee meeting chaired by Secretary, DIPP, held on 10.06.2015.

The proposals cleared in last Licensing Committee meeting included applications from major players like Pipavav, Tatas, Samtel Thales, Solar Industries, Titagarh, Wagons, Premier Explosives etc. Many of these proposals were pending in Government for last several years.

The approved Licenses are for manufacture of various kinds of Arms and Ammunition such as Helicopters, Aircrafts, Radars, Bullet Proof Jackets, Bullet Proof Helmets, Ammunition Fired from Artillery, Tanks, Helicopters and Aircrafts, Rockets and Missiles, Filled Fuzes for Artillery Shells, Mortar Bombs, Missiles, Grenades, Vessels of War, Radar, Electronic War-fare Systems, Night Vision Devices, Guns, Howitzers, Mortars, Protected Tactical Vehicles, Guns, Howitzers, Mortars, Protected Tactical Vehicles, Armoured Vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers, Military fuses, UAVs etc.

Recently, Government had increased the initial validity period of Industrial License for Defence Sector to seven years from earlier three years, further extendable upto three years, in view of the long gestation period of defence contracts to mature. In addition to this, the Government has taken a series of measures to improve the Ease of Doing Business in India. The Government now expects that these measures will give a boost to the private participation in the vast opportunities available for defence manufacturing in India.

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RC/nb

CSIR contributes to India’s National Programme on Micro Air Vehicles

 

CSIR provided a boost to the India’s National Programme on Micro Air Vehicles (NP-MICAV) jointly coordinated by the Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) and the Department of Science & Technology of Government of India,. CSIR has set up a Micro Air Vehicle Aerodynamics Research Tunnel in the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) campus--the first of its kind in India to test the fixed-wing, flapping-wing and rotary-wing MAVs in the 500 mm wingspan category.

Micro Air Vehicle Aerodynamics Research Tunnel

 

This state-of-the-art facility would address all the aerodynamic, propulsion and aero-elastic issues related to MAVs. The tunnel has a provision for either closed test section for the study of aerofoil sections/3D wing-body models or open jet test section for the flapping and rotary wing studies.

 

 CSIR-NAL is playing a lead role in this national level programme jointly with many academic institutions. Fixed wing MAVs of Black Kite, Golden Hawk and Pushpak with a 300-450 mm span, 300 g weight, 2 km range and endurance of 30 minutes have been developed. These MAVs have been demonstrated for ITBP, CRPF, Punjab Police, NDRF, IDS, Artillery Training School etc. A high altitude mini UAV named Slybird with1.6 m wing span, 1.3 m length and 2 kg weight with an operational range of 10 km and endurance of 1 hr has also been developed successfully and flight tested at Leh-Ladak (12000 ft above sea level). 

 

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KSP/

WAC SMOs Conference: 2015

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
02-July-2015 16:46 IST

WAC SMOs Conference: 2015
Curtain Raiser
SMOs’ (Senior Medical Officers) Annual Conference is being conducted at Headquarters Western Air Command (WAC), New Delhi on 03 and 04 Jul 2015. About 50 Medical Officers; all heads of Field Hospitals and Medicare centres of AF Stations under WAC will arrive in the National capital to review and plan the operational preparedness and delivery capability of the health care programmes of WAC. Air Mshl Rajan Chaudhry AVSM VSM PHS Director General Medical Services (Air) will be the Chief Guest and Air Mshl B Suresh AVSM VM Senior Air Staff Officer WAC will be the Guest of Honour. Dr Gayatri Vyas Mahindroo Direcor NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health care providers) has been invited to deliver the Keynote address on “Accreditation of Station Medicare Centres”, which provide primary health care services to all personnel and their families in the Air Force.

The medical services in the Air Force are progressing towards paperless offices. Implementation of MEDNET- an advance software application – will be one of the major agendas for discussion. A concerted effort will be made to iron out the road blocks being encountered while implementing this high-end software developed for the Station Medicare Centres (SMCs). Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT) had carried out outstanding relief work in Nepal as a part of Op Maitri after the recent earthquake. The SOPs for mass disaster situations will be revisited and streamlined on the basis of lessons learnt after the recent deployment. The delegates will also be demonstrated the deployment of the tent based hospital on ground.

IAF medical services are rapidly evolving from a mere Air Evacuation so far to the Air Ambulance role now. A field visit to AF Station Hindan, the premier transport Base of IAF, has been planned where delegates will be demonstrated mass casualty evacuation procedures on C-130 and C-17. Also, a lecture cum demonstration of the indigenously designed PTU (Patient Transport Unit) which enables IAF to transfer a critical patient from one ICU to ICU at another location will be given.

Aeromedical training is another critical area of focus and the strategy to augment aeromedical training for aircrew will come under discussion. The delegates will be taken to the Aeromedical Training Centre to orient them to the OPTRAM (Operational Training in Aerospace Medicine) training schedules for aircrew as well to familiarise them to DISO (Disorientation Simulator) and NVG (Night Vision Goggles) Lab. This would bring the required synergy between efforts of the medical branch in matching up with modern and advanced operational systems of the IAF.

SKM/DP

Steel & Mines Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar reviews performance of PSUs under the Ministry of Steel

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Steel
15-June-2015 18:53 IST

Steel & Mines Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar reviews performance of PSUs under the Ministry of Steel
The Union Minister of Steel & Mines Shri Narendra Singh Tomar took stock of the yearly performance of three PSUs under the Ministry of Steel for FY 2014-15, namely Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), MSTC Limited and Ferro Scrap Nigam Limited (FSNL), at Udhyog Bhawan In New Delhi today. Exhorting CMDs and Directors of these companies to improve their performance, Shri Tomar said, “The PSUs of this country uphold our national pride. You are not only expected, but obligated, to perform to your very best and give maximum returns to the national exchequer.” The Minister was accompanied by Secretary (Steel) Shri Rakesh Singh and other senior officials of the Ministry of Steel in the review meetings.

While reviewing the performance of steel major SAIL, Shri Tomar expressed concern regarding the integrated operationalisation of upstream and downstream production facilities in a time-bound and synchronised manner. Asserting that “capacity without production is meaningless,” Shri Tomar emphasised that pending issues in SAIL’s modernisation and expansion plan should be resolved at the earliest. The Minister urged Directors and CEOs of SAIL to start production of finished goods from its modernised mills at the earliest. “For profits to be higher, it is pertinent that techno-economics of production are internationally benchmarked, and the latter can’t happen till the capitalisation of all your production units are balanced,” added Shri Tomar. Director (Technical) SAIL, Shri SS Mohanty assured the Minister that the company will put in its best to complete commissioning at the earliest. Shri Mohanty informed that SAIL achieved record production of Hot Metal of 15.4 MT of Hot Metal, as against 14.45 MT in corresponding period last year. Apprised of the pressure put on Net Sales Realisation (NSR) on account of depressed steel prices, the Minister advised SAIL management to increase their share of value added steels, such as production of auto-grade steel. Shri Tomar also expressed concern over the rising borrowing of the company to fund its expansion plan, and appreciated company’s effort in launching a cost awareness initiative across all its plants and units.

Noting that capacity augmentation will lead to enhanced use of raw materials, Shri Tomar directed SAIL management to pay adequate attention to commensurate expansion of its mines, so that the company doesn’t resort to procuring ores from outside market to feed growing production. Shri Tomar consented to take up environmental and forest clearance issues with relevant ministries to help de-bottleneck the raw material security plan for SAIL’s current and future plans. Comparing SAIL’s performance with its peers, with respect to its decreasing sales turnover, Shri Tomar asked the company to spruce up its competitiveness. Citing the falling market share of SAIL, from 18.8% in 2009-10 to about 14% in 2014-15, Shri Tomar advised the functional directors and CEOs to ensure better marketing of its enhanced production.

MSTC, the only PSU to offer e-commerce facility, updated the Minister on its recent success in conducting e-auction of coal. Shri Tomar asked CMD of MSTC Limited, Shri SK Tripathi, to approach states to help carry out the e-auction of metallic and non-metallic minerals. Shri Tripathi expressed his eagerness to facilitate the process, and sought government’s help in convincing other PSUs to utilise the e-commerce platform of MSTC to carry out their trading and procurement activities. MSTC also proposed formation of a joint venture between itself and FSNL, for establishing a ship-breaking yard using the expertise of latter in ship-breaking, and that of former in sale of scrap. Besides, the company also expressed interest in sale of thermal coal, forest, agricultural and rural produce, defence procurement and auto shredding. The total volume of business transacted by MSTC portal increased from 26883 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 29924 crore in 2014-15. In its review presentation, FSNL showed interest in exploring business potential in removing overburden at mines, and recovering non-ferrous metallics from slag.

Taking note of the construction of toilets by PSUs under the Swachch Vidyalaya Abhiyaan, Shri Tomar expressed concern over the slow pace of progress, and directed the PSUs to complete the assignment by end of June, 2015.

YSK

Commodore Alok Bhatnagar, NM takes over as Naval officer-in-charge (Tamilnadu & Puducherry)

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
01-July-2015 15:29 IST

Commodore Alok Bhatnagar, NM takes over as Naval officer-in-charge (Tamilnadu & Puducherry)
Commodore Alok Bhatnagar, NM has taken over as the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Tamilnadu & Puducherry) on 30 Jun 2015 from Commodore Amar K Mahadevan, VSM on his superannuation, at a ceremonial parade conducted at INS Adyar, Navy Office, Chennai. The Commodore, prior to his appointment was serving as Principal Director International Fleet Review (PD IFR) at Integrated Headquarters Ministry of Defence (Navy), New Delhi.

An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla, the officer during his distinguished career of 30 years, has served on 14 different ships in various capacities, including appointments as Navigating Officer, Executive Officer and Commanding Officer, which include command of INS Kulish (an indigenously built Missile Corvette) and INS Jalashwa (a Landing Platform Dock).

Some of his major shore appointments include Director Naval Plans at IHQ MoD (Navy), as a Naval Attache in Washington DC, USA and Principal Director International Fleet Review at IHQ MoD (Navy), New Delhi.

Commodore Alok Bhatnagar, a specialist in Navigation and Direction, is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and the College of Naval Warfare, Karanja. He was commended by the Chief of the Naval Staff in 2002 and awarded Nao Sena Medal for Devotion to Duty in 2010.

Commodore Bhatnagar, a keen golfer and yachtsman, is married and has two sons.

DKS/AK

New Directors of CSIR take Charge

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Science & Technology
12-June-2015 18:52 IST

New Directors of CSIR take Charge
Five new directors of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Institutes have taken charge.After taking charge,these Director’s have also come to attend the two day CSIR Director’s conference at the Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun.

The Minister for Science & Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan complimented newly joined Directors, in his opening remarks at the CSIR Director’s Conference.

Speaking on the sidelines of the conference Dr S Chandrashekar who is now appointed as the Director of the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad stated that his team of researchers and scientists will make efforts to make India a disease free country. The lab he is heading is working tirelessly to develop medicines for the common man at affordable prices, which are also most effective and advanced in terms of tackling emerging diseases. He said his team at the lab is very particular about developing technologies which are environment friendly.

Dr (Mrs) Madhu Dikshit, the new Director of the Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow said that CDRI is into new medicines development that meets international standards for diseases that are becoming common place. She will strive to bring the medicines from research to availability for the public in the least possible time, yet meeting all safety & efficacy parameters.

Dr Ajay Ghosh, new Director of the National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science & Technology, NIIST, Thiruvananathapuram said that he feels excited on being designated as the Director of the Institute. He said that he was fully aware of the excellence & capabilities of Scientists & world-class infrastructure of the Institute. NIIST develops molecules for photo devices and techniques for making natural mineral resources in coastal areas. NIIST develops technologies for the future & contributes to strategic development of technology in space & defence applications. He said that we are on the verge of developing technology in waste management which will convert household waste into wealth for the nation.

Dr Sanjay Kumar has joined as Director of Institute of Himalayan Bioresources Technology, Palampur. He has been associated with the institute for over 25 years. He said that Himalaya has a gold mine of opportunities in terms of its bio-resources. Institute under his leadership is developing technologies for industry & environment. IHBT is committed to develop floriculture & enzyme discovery for furtherance of human healthcare. His institute is also working on developing alternatives to sugar as sweetners for diabetics. Research related to climate change in Himalayas will be his priority as Director.

Dr. Alok Dhawan has also been appointed as the Director of Indian Institute of Toxicology (IITR), Lucknow.

The Director General CSIR Shri M.O. Garg welcomed the new Directors. He said that these appointments have been approved by the Prime Minister as the President of the CSIR. Dr Garg said a few other vacancies in CSIR are also being processed in a speedy manner now.

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KSP/

FICCI Delegation calls on PM

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
30-June-2015 17:42 IST

FICCI Delegation calls on PM

An 11-member delegation from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry – FICCI – called on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today.

Members of the delegation appreciated various steps taken by the Union Government to improve ease of doing business, and for the "Make in India" initiative.

The Prime Minister was also informed of the launch of the India Sanitation Coalition, under the aegis of FICCI. The Prime Minister urged Industry to be more proactive towards the cause of sanitation, as part of their CSR initiatives.

The Prime Minister urged FICCI to motivate Indian Industry to work towards growth in key sectors such as agro-products, textiles and defence related manufacturing. He also urged Industry leaders to take advantage of the various initiatives being taken by the Union Government for the infrastructure sector, including railways.

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AKT/AK

Search for Missing ICG Dornier CG-791 Continues

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
11-June-2015 17:27 IST

Search for Missing ICG Dornier CG-791 Continues
Intense and sustained efforts to search and locate the missing ICG Aircraft are continuing round the clock by ICG and IN ships in areas of probability for the last 96 hours. 12 Coast Guard and Naval ships along with patrol boats of the Coastal Security group are continuing the search. The details of the ships participating in the operations are ICGS Sarang, Ameya, Abheek, Rajtarang, C-415, Vighraha, IC-119, IC-120, INS Coradivh, Carnicobar, Khukri, Chetlat. In addition Naval submarine INS Sindhudhwaj and survey ship INS Sandhayak equipped with SONAR will be joining the search operation, shortly, for assisting in the underwater search. More than 60 hours of air search has been undertaken by the Coast Guard Dornier and the IN long range maritime reconnaissance aircraft P8I. The search area is also being re-appreciated after analysing the reports received from the search units.

Further, aerial search by Coastal Security Group of Tamil Nadu Police using their Paramotors will also be undertaken along the marshy and mangrove areas not accessible by sea today. Water samples from the area of oil patches reported by ICG Dornier has been sent for analysis. The search operation continues.

DM/RAJ

CII Delegation calls on PM

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
30-June-2015 17:35 IST

CII Delegation calls on PM

A 15-member delegation from the Confederation of Indian Industry – CII – called on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today.

Members of the delegation appreciated the work done by the Union Government over the past year, and said that the Government has strategically shaped a new economic direction for the future growth and development of the country. They noted that the credibility of the Government has been restored as a result of determined steps towards transparency.

The delegation members praised Government initiatives such as Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, Smart City Mission, Housing For All, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Clean Energy Mission, and Jan Dhan Yojana, describing them as "visionary, innovative and high-impact." They said the speed and scale of roll-out of these campaigns have been remarkable and unprecedented.

The CII delegation also noted the significant policy announcements for macroeconomic management, including PAHAL for targeted transfer of cooking gas subsidy, and raising of FDI limits in various sectors. In the course of interaction, the members mentioned that the small and medium sector has grown phenomenally over the past year.

The Prime Minister welcomed the suggestions and exhorted CII to motivate Indian industry to work towards increasing self-reliance in key identifiable sectors within a fixed timeframe. He mentioned the three sectors that contribute the most to India's import bill – Oil and Petroleum, Electronic Goods and Defence – and said that in each of these sectors, there is immense potential for Indian industry to innovate and "Make in India." He spoke of the attention that he has been giving to speeding up projects in various ways, including his monthly PRAGATI interaction with various Ministries of the Union Government, as well as Chief Secretaries of States.

The Prime Minister reiterated his vision of governance based on trust and simplification of processes, and exhorted Indian Industry to work towards technological self-reliance.

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AKT/AK

Achievements of the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment in one year

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
11-June-2015 17:01 IST

Achievements of the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment in one year
Setting up of a Help Line: Pursuant to Prime Minister's Mann ki Baat Programme, a National tollfree helpline (1 8 0 0 - 1 1 - 0 0 3 1) for Prevention of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse has been set up on 7th January 2015.

Creation of ‘Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Caste Entrepreneurs’ Scheme: The objective of this Scheme is to promote entrepreneurship among the Scheduled Castes and to provide concessional finance to them. The scheme would be implemented by the Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) Limited to whom Rs. 200.00 Crore has been released.

Credit Enhancement Guarantee Scheme for the Scheduled Castes: The objective of the Scheme is to promote entrepreneurship among the scheduled castes and to facilitate concessional finance to them. The allocated budget of Rs. 200 crore has been released on 26.03.2015 to IFCI Limited.

Swachhta Udyami Yojana: As an integral part of 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' launched by the Prime Minister on 2nd October, 2014, the NSKFDC has launched a new Scheme ‘Swachhta Udyami Yojana’ on 2nd October, 2014 for financing viable community toilet projects and sanitation related vehicles to collect garbage.

Commercial Motor Driving Training with Self Defence Skills for Women: For the economic as well as social empowerment of women belonging to the to the category of safai Karamcharis, scavengers and their dependents, the NSKFDC has introduced a course of "Commercial Motor Driving Training with Self Defence Skills for Women".

Green Business Scheme: Started by NSFDC and NSKFD the aim is to promote protected cultivation to support sustainable livelihoods of Scheduled Castes and Safai Karamcharis. Financial assistance would be provided for those economic activities that could address the challenges of climate change, e.g., E-rickshaw, solar pump and other instruments working on solar energy etc.

Sanitary Mart Scheme: Launched in 2014-15, under the Scheme loans are provided upto Rs. 15 Lakhs to Safai Karamcharis for construction of toilets/bio-degradable toilets.

The National Commission for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (NCDNT) was made functional from 9.1.2015 by appointing the Chairman and Member.

PoA Rules were amended in June 2014 for enhancing the relief amount to the victims of atrocities to become between Rs. 75,000/- to Rs. 7,50,000/- depending upon the nature of an offence.

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RTS/ASB

NCC Girls’ Expedition Flagged in after Scaling Mt Deo-Tibba

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
25-June-2015 17:00 IST

NCC Girls’ Expedition Flagged in after Scaling Mt Deo-Tibba
Officiating Director General NCC Maj Gen C Prakash flagged-in the NCC Girl Expedition team to Mount Deo-Tibba (19688 ft) in Himachal Pradesh at HQ DG NCC, here today. He congratulated the 31 girl cadets and 19 support staff for their successful ascent to the peak on 13 & 14 Jun 15. The Team Leader Col Gaurav Karki handed over the Expedition Flag to the DG during the ceremony.

The all girls’ expedition was the first expedition to climb the mount in the current year. The weather conditions made the climb challenging and tough.

The successful climb to Mount Deo-Tibba (which in Hindu mythology means the assembly place of the Gods) by the 50 member team, through difficult terrain, inclement and unpredictable weather conditions, was a splendid success. In his address, the officiating DG NCC congratulated the Cadets and NCC Staff and mentioned that this is a precursor to the next Expedition to Mount Trishul in Aug-Sep 2015. He said this exposure would hold the team in good stead for the ultimate mission of scaling Mount Everest scheduled in May next year.

DM/RAJ

Indian Air Force (IAF) Kunzang Mountaineering Team Returns Back after a successful Expedition

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
10-June-2015 17:42 IST

Indian Air Force (IAF) Kunzang Mountaineering Team Returns Back after a successful Expedition
A flag-in ceremony was held at Air Force Station New Delhi to felicitate the 12 member IAF team that explored the uncharted Kunzang valley in East Karakoram of Ladakh region. The flag-in by Air Marshal MK Malik, Director General (Works & Ceremonials) was held in the presence of the senior IAF officers from Air Headquarters, Air Force Station New Delhi and personnel of the Directorate of Adventure. The team leader Group Captain VK Sashindran introduced the team members and read out the expedition report. Congratulating the effort of the team, Air Marshal Malik said that the expeditions like these take spirit of adventure and ethos of service to greater heights and form an important part of our service traditions.

They explored entire valley and glacial systems, successfully climbing three unexplored peaks (All above the heights of 6000 metre) and had opened a new route to Rongdo valley.

RCD/MKS

Indian Navy and Coast Guard Rescues

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
22-June-2015 19:57 IST

Indian Navy and Coast Guard Rescues

20 Crew Members of MV Jindal Kamakshi

At about 11:00 PM on 21 June 15 an Indian flagged, container vessel “Jindal Kamakshi” sent out a distress alert. The vessel was on passage from Mundra to Kochi with 20 crew members onboard. The merchant vessel was about 100 km from the Mumbai harbour and reported that it was tilting to one side by 20 degrees. Bad weather further aggravated the situation and the ship therefore closed the shore and anchored about 25 Km West of Vasai creek. The distress was received by Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC Mumbai).

Despite heavy winds,rain, pitch dark night and poor visibility, Indian Navy immediately launched a Seaking Helicopter at 12.45 A.M. on 22 June 15. The helicopter went overhead the vessel and carried out a visual assessment and when captain of the vessel intimated that immediate assistance was not required, the helicopter returned to Mumbai. In order to respond to any emergency the guided missile destroyer INS Mumbai was brought to immediate readiness and sailed out at 2.00 A.M. in the morning. The ship arrived at the scene at about 07:30 AM.

By 6.15 A.M. on 22 Jun 15, the condition had worsened due to strong winds, heavy rains and dangerously high waves. Since the situation onboard the Merchant Vessel had worsened, the Master requested for assistance in evacuating the crew. As the weather conditions were unsuitable for rescue by ships, the Seaking helicopter was once again launched at 7.10 A.M. in the morning in poor and adverse weather conditions and the skilled crew commenced rescue operations at 7.45 A.M. Indian Coast Guard being National Maritime Search and Rescue Coordinating Authority (NMSARCA), launched Chetak helicopters from Daman and Mumbai.

19 Indian crew of the vessel were winched up by the Seaking Helicopter and brought to safety to INS Shikra, the Indian helicopter base at Colaba. The Master of the stranded ship was rescued by the Coast Guard Chetak helicopter launched from Mumbai. A second Naval Seaking Helicopter was launched at 8.45 AM.

MV Jindal Kamakshi is currently at anchor and abandoned. Throughout the rescue by the helicopter, INS Mumbai was continuously present in close vicinity on MV Jindal Kamakshi to provided necessary support. In addition to INS Mumbai, Indian Coast Guardalso diverted one Offshore Patrol Vessel ICGS Samrat, which is also in thevicinity of MV Jindal Kamakshi. MRCC (MBI) also coordinated with other merchant vessels in the vicinity i.e. MV SCI, Samudra Prabha, MV Seamac 1 and MV Kamat to render assistance to the vessel.

Captain and crew have expressed their gratitude for the prompt response of the Navy and Indian Coast Guard in carrying out a daring rescue in most difficult weather conditions.

MoU Between Indian Army and Punjab National Bank

 

On 09th June 2015 a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Indian Army and Punjab National Bank (PNB) on the Defence Salary Package. The signing ceremony was chaired by the Adjutant General, Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma and was attended by top dignitaries of PNB headed by Shri N K Arora, General Manager and Shri Subodh Kaushik, General Manager, Govt Business Division.

            The first MoU between PNB and the Indian Army was signed in 2011 and was valid for a period of three years. The MoU is tailor made to suit the requirements of serving soldiers, pensioners and families. Number of additional facilities have been incorporated in the revised MoU after due consultation between Bank & Army authorities. Speaking on the occasion Lt Gen Sharma expressed confidence  that the MoU will benefit a large number of serving and retired Army personnel who are having their accounts with PNB; and also provide them an opportunity to access modern banking facilities.

            The basic features of the earlier MoU have been retained which  includes the standard package of services including free drafts,  cheque books, funds transfers to any bank in India through RTGS / NEFT,  ATM cards etc. 

 

            Some features which have been improved from the previous MoU are that the Personal Accidental Insurance(PAI) cover has been extended to Rs 2 lacs and Rs 5 lacs from Rs 50,000/- and Rs 2 lacs respectively. Two major additions are the applicability of PAI and overdraft facility to pensioners and PAI cover for deaths occurring in the course of any active Army Operations. The MoU also has a provision for yearly review of specific features and requests.

 

Speaking on the occasion Shri Arora, GM, Punjab National Bank informed that these services would be available through more than 6500 branches across the country. The Bank has established large number of branches in cantonment areas, to serve the Defence Personnel at their door steps.

 

     Shri Kaushik, GM, Govt Business Division, further informed that Bank is at an advanced stage in setting up of Centralised Pension Processing Centre at CDA (P) Allahabad and Pension Processing Cell at Navy & Air Force pension offices in Mumbai & New Delhi.

 

 

 Clice here to see Photos:

                  

Col Rohan  Anand, SM

PRO (Army)

International Yoga Day Celebrations at Air Force and Army Establishments at Shillong and NER NCC Creats Record

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
21-June-2015 17:44 IST

International Yoga Day Celebrations at Air Force and Army Establishments at Shillong and NER NCC Creats Record
Interantioanl Yoga Day was celebrated at various Air Force and Army esyablishments in Shillong and North East Region. At Headquarters Eastern Air Command, Air Force Shillong. Air Marshal SB Deo Ati Vishist Seva Medal, Vishist Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command, Indian Air Force was also present on this occasion. Yoga experts from Ramakrishna Mission Cherapunjee were invited for this purpose. Separate programs were conducted for ladies, children and personnel. A total of 500 volunteers participated in the event.

A yoga camp was organised by headquarters 101 area at shillong. All ranks of units and establishments located in the shillong station participated in the camp in large numbers. The aim of the camp was to reinforce the benefits yoga offers in tackling day to day rigours of life. The camp was in consonance with the objectives as laid down by ministry of AAYUSH. About 3000 personnel, ladies and children participated in the event.

National Cadet Corps (NCC), the premier youth organisation of the nation created a record for the largest yoga performance simultaneously by a single uniformed youth organization at multiple venues on 21 Jun 15. The cadets performed the asanas as per the protocol given by Ministry of Ayush from 0700 am to 0735 am at all venues. The performance of yoga by NCC cadets on International Day of Yoga was pan India at more then 1460 venues, including Leh in the North, Dwarka in the West, Tezu (Arunachal Pradesh) in the East, Nagarcoil (Kanyakumari) in the South and in the islands of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep. Under the aegis of NCC Directorate North Eastern Region Shillong, more than 56,000 cadets participated at 169 venues across the entire North Eastern Region. The number of NCC cadets from Meghalaya were 4958.

58 Gorkha Training Centre (58 GTC) and Assam Regimental Centre (ARC) under the aegis of HQ 101 area celebrated the “International Yoga Day” with great zeal and enthusiasm. At 58 GTC More than 1500 Officers, JCOs , Other ranks and their families and children attended the same. Yoga has been made part of training curriculum and is being practiced for strength and flexibility building for recruits. Assam regimental centre conducted yoga for total of 587 Officers, JCOs and Other Ranks in a special yoga programme organized to celebrate the event., Army public School, Umroi cantt observed International yoga day Nearly 300 students and staff participated in the event.

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AM/

Army Statement on Operations in North East

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
09-June-2015 19:04 IST

Army Statement on Operations in North East
Army statement on operations in North East read out by Major General Ranbir Singh, Additional Director General of Military Operations (A) on 09 Jun 15 is appended below :-

“You are all aware that following the attack on our security personnel on 04 June 2015 in Chandel, Manipur, we have been on a high alert. In the course of the last few days, credible and specific intelligence was received about further attacks that were being planned within our territory. These attacks were to be carried out by some of the groups involved in earlier attacks on our security personnel and their allies.

In view of the imminent threat, an immediate response was necessary. Based on intelligence, we conducted operations to counter these planned assaults. Early this morning, the Indian Army engaged two separate groups of insurgents along the Indo- Myanmar border at two locations, along the Nagaland and Manipur borders. Significant casualties have been inflicted on them. As a consequence, threats to our civilian population and security forces were averted.

We are in communication with the Myanmar authorities on this matter. There is a history of close cooperation between our two militaries. We look forward to working with them to combat such terrorism.

While ensuring peace and tranquility along the border and in the border states, any threat to our security, safety and national integrity will meet a firm response”.

Col Rohan Anand, SM PRO (Army)