Dear All,
My article that appeared in The Tribune today is appended below.
Regards.
(Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, Former VCOAS)
Dialogue with Pakistan
Need to address Pak Army’s security concerns
by Lt-Gen Vijay Oberoi (retd)
Sadly, India has been unable to generate counter-strategies to put Pakistan on the defensive. For our strategic thinking is abysmally poor. Our undue reliance on ‘soft power’ propels us to opt for the soft options. And our political leadership has been unable to correctly gauge the true feelings of our citizens towards Pakistan.
Soft power is, no doubt, important but it is not a substitute for hard power. Both have to be wielded in tandem, varying the mix in accordance with the prevailing situation. The perceptions of the national polity are also important. The common man in India, although wedded to non-violence, strongly believes that Pakistan cannot be trusted. Till now, Pakistan has taken no concrete action to change this perception, but continues to nurture and use the Jihadi card.
Before we embark on a resumption of the composite dialogue, our leadership would do well to carry out a deeper analysis of what we would gain as no substantive changes in the policies and stances of Pakistan can be discerned.
The writer is a former Vice-Chief of the Indian Army
Click link to read the full article
Need to address Pak Army’s security concerns
Saturday, May 8, 2010
National Security: Are Defences obsolete?
Aiming without aiming
A background paper prepared by the Delhi-based PHD chamber of commerce for the army seminar said that “most of India’s ground based air defences are obsolete” and that upgrades of basic artillery equipment were “ten years behind schedule”. The generals attending the seminar didn’t metaphorically blink at such unpatriotic statements – they knew only too well they are true.
The chief of army staff said recently that 80% of India’s armoured tanks are night blind. “That means like the medieval times you fight morning to evening and take rest at night - Pakistan has 80% of tanks capable to fight at night,” says Rahul Bedi, a defence journalist. “Planning and strategic thinking of the Indian Army’s procurement program is in complete shambles. Bureaucrats and politicians are throttling the procurement process.”
A more academic critique headlined “Arming without Aiming” will be coming soon from the America’s Brookings Institution. Co-authored by Stephen Cohen, a south Asia expert, it argues that India’s arms purchasing has “lacked political direction and has suffered from weak prospective planning, individual service-centred doctrines, and a disconnect between strategic objectives and the pursuit of new technology”.
And Ajai Shukla, a former army officer and now a defence journalist, writing in the Business Standard daily newspaper, this morning estimates that “Antony’s halo” is costing India 125% more than is necessary for half the equipment it buys because of price rises (during delayed contracts) and because tenders sometimes being abandoned in favour of more expensive negotiated deals.
70% bought abroad
India is the world’s largest buyer of defence equipment, with expenditure budgeted at least at $40bn over the next four years. Half of that is on capital expenditure and is likely to rise around 15% in the finance minister’s annual Budget speech on February 26 , even though not all of it is ever spent [[Feb 26 insert: the actual budget increase is only about 4%]].
At least 70% of purchases have been made abroad for decades, mainly because the generally inefficient and moribund public sector-dominated defence establishment cannot deliver even high technology night vision goggles and modern helmets, let alone fighter aircraft or guns. Until recently, the capable private sector was mostly kept out of doing more than supplying minor components because the defence establishment enjoyed the combined benefits of protected jobs, patronage, prestige, and foreign kickbacks – and because Antony instinctively supports public sector trade unions that do not want private sector competition.
Extracted: A must read article
The gun that crippled the equipping of India’s armed forces is “innocent”
Related reading
Feeding a Monster called Monopoly
A background paper prepared by the Delhi-based PHD chamber of commerce for the army seminar said that “most of India’s ground based air defences are obsolete” and that upgrades of basic artillery equipment were “ten years behind schedule”. The generals attending the seminar didn’t metaphorically blink at such unpatriotic statements – they knew only too well they are true.
The chief of army staff said recently that 80% of India’s armoured tanks are night blind. “That means like the medieval times you fight morning to evening and take rest at night - Pakistan has 80% of tanks capable to fight at night,” says Rahul Bedi, a defence journalist. “Planning and strategic thinking of the Indian Army’s procurement program is in complete shambles. Bureaucrats and politicians are throttling the procurement process.”
A more academic critique headlined “Arming without Aiming” will be coming soon from the America’s Brookings Institution. Co-authored by Stephen Cohen, a south Asia expert, it argues that India’s arms purchasing has “lacked political direction and has suffered from weak prospective planning, individual service-centred doctrines, and a disconnect between strategic objectives and the pursuit of new technology”.
And Ajai Shukla, a former army officer and now a defence journalist, writing in the Business Standard daily newspaper, this morning estimates that “Antony’s halo” is costing India 125% more than is necessary for half the equipment it buys because of price rises (during delayed contracts) and because tenders sometimes being abandoned in favour of more expensive negotiated deals.
70% bought abroad
India is the world’s largest buyer of defence equipment, with expenditure budgeted at least at $40bn over the next four years. Half of that is on capital expenditure and is likely to rise around 15% in the finance minister’s annual Budget speech on February 26 , even though not all of it is ever spent [[Feb 26 insert: the actual budget increase is only about 4%]].
At least 70% of purchases have been made abroad for decades, mainly because the generally inefficient and moribund public sector-dominated defence establishment cannot deliver even high technology night vision goggles and modern helmets, let alone fighter aircraft or guns. Until recently, the capable private sector was mostly kept out of doing more than supplying minor components because the defence establishment enjoyed the combined benefits of protected jobs, patronage, prestige, and foreign kickbacks – and because Antony instinctively supports public sector trade unions that do not want private sector competition.
Extracted: A must read article
The gun that crippled the equipping of India’s armed forces is “innocent”
Related reading
Feeding a Monster called Monopoly
Government Should Implement One Rank One Pension Soon
Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.
We all need to congratulate IESM for their success in convincing the Standing Parliamentary Committee on Defence about the case of OROP. click here to read the news cutting. There seems to be an error in para 7, which should read: The committee recommended a plan under which the pensions would be as close to OROP, but this was not being accepted by the ex-servicemen. However, the government decided to implement it. ("not" is missing in the published article.)
Extremely well done General Satbir Singh– extremely well done IESM. However, friends– this is not the end of our struggle. It just gives us another strong foot on ground.
Please join IESM and give it financial support in its struggle for Justice for Defence Services. Large number of ESM organisations are already supporting IESM. IESM is not just another ESM organisation– it is a group of all those ESM organisations who are sincerely interested in the welfare of Defence Personnel. It is a group of ESM organisations which does not toe the line of the Government but devotes its body and soul for good of ESM and their families.
IESM’s three Divisions- Pension Division, ECHS Division and CSD Division – each is doing commendable job in their respective fields.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Veteran Chander Kamboj
Jai Hind.
We all need to congratulate IESM for their success in convincing the Standing Parliamentary Committee on Defence about the case of OROP. click here to read the news cutting. There seems to be an error in para 7, which should read: The committee recommended a plan under which the pensions would be as close to OROP, but this was not being accepted by the ex-servicemen. However, the government decided to implement it. ("not" is missing in the published article.)
Extremely well done General Satbir Singh– extremely well done IESM. However, friends– this is not the end of our struggle. It just gives us another strong foot on ground.
Please join IESM and give it financial support in its struggle for Justice for Defence Services. Large number of ESM organisations are already supporting IESM. IESM is not just another ESM organisation– it is a group of all those ESM organisations who are sincerely interested in the welfare of Defence Personnel. It is a group of ESM organisations which does not toe the line of the Government but devotes its body and soul for good of ESM and their families.
IESM’s three Divisions- Pension Division, ECHS Division and CSD Division – each is doing commendable job in their respective fields.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Veteran Chander Kamboj
Friday, May 7, 2010
Parliamentary Standing Committee Chairman on Defence briefed on pending OROP
BRIEFING ON OROP TO THE CHAIRMAN PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE SH. SATPALJI MAHARAJ, MP AND FUTURE PLANS
Dear Veterans,
1. Our multidimensional action plan to get justice to the Defence Forces got a forward push on 05 May 2010 wherein we were able to brief the Chairman Parliamentary Standing Committee Sh. Satpalji Maharaj, MP on OROP in his office in Parliament House Annexe. The secretary ESW and a few more officials from the Defence Ministry were present during the discussion.
2. The response from Sh. Satpalji Maharaj was positive. He gave us to understand that his committee will soon be recommending to the Govt that the long pending issue of OROP must be re- examined on priority and the issue resolved. Write up on OROP and a paper written by Vice Admiral Barin Ghose were handed over to him and the same can be accessed by veterans- Click here.
3. Request was also made to the Chairman to give the IESM delegation an appointment wherein a presentation on OROP could be made to the complete Parliamentary Committee on Defence. He assured us that the same would be arranged.
4. I once again appeal to all ESM of India to join the Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM) at the earliest and take active part in all its endeavours to get Justice to the Defence Forces. I also appeal to the veterans in India and those living abroad to donate funds to logistically sustain the Movement. In case the Govt continues to ignore our legitimate demands, we have a plan to be executed with the finesse and resoluteness of a Military Campaign named “DILLI CHALO” a Mammoth Rally at Ram Lila Ground New Delhi. ESM from across the country will move from all directions and camp all around the capital at 5- 6 locations. On the day of reckoning ie the Day of the Rally, the columns will move into the city, assemble at Ram Lila Ground not only to showcase the strength of the ESM but also to ensure that the Govt sees the reason and grants us the Justice. Of course the event will be conducted peacefully and in a democratic and dignified manner.
5. Large sums of money would be required for organizing and administering such a huge rally involving lacs of ESMs. We appeal to all our veterans and all Bharties who believe in our cause to donate funds or sponsor logistics ie camping arrangements at concentration areas, Rally site arrangements, transport, food, water, publicity and other arrangements.
6. The plans will be firmed in after evaluating the response from veterans and availability of the required logistics.
Please be part of the Campaign. "Sar Firoshi Ki Tamnna Ab Hamare Dil Mein Hai”.
With Kind Regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Media Report PTI
'Govt should implement OROP for defence veterans'
Dear Veterans,
1. Our multidimensional action plan to get justice to the Defence Forces got a forward push on 05 May 2010 wherein we were able to brief the Chairman Parliamentary Standing Committee Sh. Satpalji Maharaj, MP on OROP in his office in Parliament House Annexe. The secretary ESW and a few more officials from the Defence Ministry were present during the discussion.
2. The response from Sh. Satpalji Maharaj was positive. He gave us to understand that his committee will soon be recommending to the Govt that the long pending issue of OROP must be re- examined on priority and the issue resolved. Write up on OROP and a paper written by Vice Admiral Barin Ghose were handed over to him and the same can be accessed by veterans- Click here.
3. Request was also made to the Chairman to give the IESM delegation an appointment wherein a presentation on OROP could be made to the complete Parliamentary Committee on Defence. He assured us that the same would be arranged.
4. I once again appeal to all ESM of India to join the Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM) at the earliest and take active part in all its endeavours to get Justice to the Defence Forces. I also appeal to the veterans in India and those living abroad to donate funds to logistically sustain the Movement. In case the Govt continues to ignore our legitimate demands, we have a plan to be executed with the finesse and resoluteness of a Military Campaign named “DILLI CHALO” a Mammoth Rally at Ram Lila Ground New Delhi. ESM from across the country will move from all directions and camp all around the capital at 5- 6 locations. On the day of reckoning ie the Day of the Rally, the columns will move into the city, assemble at Ram Lila Ground not only to showcase the strength of the ESM but also to ensure that the Govt sees the reason and grants us the Justice. Of course the event will be conducted peacefully and in a democratic and dignified manner.
5. Large sums of money would be required for organizing and administering such a huge rally involving lacs of ESMs. We appeal to all our veterans and all Bharties who believe in our cause to donate funds or sponsor logistics ie camping arrangements at concentration areas, Rally site arrangements, transport, food, water, publicity and other arrangements.
6. The plans will be firmed in after evaluating the response from veterans and availability of the required logistics.
Please be part of the Campaign. "Sar Firoshi Ki Tamnna Ab Hamare Dil Mein Hai”.
With Kind Regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Media Report PTI
'Govt should implement OROP for defence veterans'
Mumbai Mayhem: NY terror accused friend of 26/11 mastermind
07/05/2010
Shahzad close friend of 26/11 mastermind: Report
Times Square terror bombing plot suspect Faisal Shahzad was a childhood friend of one of the alleged masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai massacre, a media report said, as US investigators traced his links to another Pakistani militant outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad.
The mosque is run by Islamist militant group Jaish and Masood Azhar, the founder of the outfit who was released from an Indian jail in 1999 in exchange for a hijacked Indian Airlines plane, is a frequent visitor.
Read the full story
NY terror accused friend of 26/11 mastermind
Comment: Releasing terrorists by Indian authorities is unforgivable and will haunt the nation forever. The released terrorists are unleashing and perpetuating bomb attacks worldwide.
Shahzad close friend of 26/11 mastermind: Report
Times Square terror bombing plot suspect Faisal Shahzad was a childhood friend of one of the alleged masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai massacre, a media report said, as US investigators traced his links to another Pakistani militant outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad.
The mosque is run by Islamist militant group Jaish and Masood Azhar, the founder of the outfit who was released from an Indian jail in 1999 in exchange for a hijacked Indian Airlines plane, is a frequent visitor.
Read the full story
NY terror accused friend of 26/11 mastermind
Comment: Releasing terrorists by Indian authorities is unforgivable and will haunt the nation forever. The released terrorists are unleashing and perpetuating bomb attacks worldwide.
Lt Col arrested for posting illegal content over Internet
NDTV Correspondent, Friday May 7, 2010, Mumbai
A serving Army officer, Lieutenant Colonel Jagmohan Balbir Singh, has been arrested in Mumbai for disseminating child pornography over the Internet.
Forty two-year-old Singh was arrested by the Cyber Cell in Mumbai on Thursday and will stay in police custody till May 12.
Singh allegedly posted and downloaded pornographic photos of foreign children between the ages of 3 and 10 on the internet. The German Federal Bureau spotted the photos on a child pornography site and traced the pictures to India. Interpol was alerted which then passed on the information to India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) who passed it onto the Mumbai Crime Branch.
The Mumbai police has taken two hard drives from Singh's house as evidence against him.
A spokesperson for the Army said Singh has been on study leave, and is currently not attached to any unit. He also confirmed that the Army will apply for bail so that it can deal with Singh's case.
Lt Col arrested for child pornography
What is Hacking and Phishing attacks?: Click here for information and prevention
Lessons Learnt: There is so much of illegal content and traffic on the Internet. ESM should not involve or be a party to chain letters, spam and fwd messages. Do keep your email box free of spam. Visiting Adult sites freely will upload virus and worms which enables the computer to be hacked. Keep all security features of the OS operational on daily basis. Hacked PCs enable others to operate your computer remotely without being aware of it. It is likely many retired/ serving officers are not aware of hacking virus. One should have legal Operating System and not a Pirated version as it is very easy to hack a pirated Operating System than a legal one.
Lastly family members and peer groups are important pressure groups to ensure men do not fall victim to porn addiction- as at times it can become more dangerous than alcohol addiction. Generally soldiers posted to NE states are more prone to porn addiction due to frustrating living environment and lack of entertainment facilities and recreation. The Military needs to fight sex and porn addiction with same fever and vigour as combating alcohol and drug related addictions. The disease can prove devastating if not curbed and nipped at the bud. Curiousity is one sex gratification another but addiction is a disease and needs treatment and counselling.
A serving Army officer, Lieutenant Colonel Jagmohan Balbir Singh, has been arrested in Mumbai for disseminating child pornography over the Internet.
Forty two-year-old Singh was arrested by the Cyber Cell in Mumbai on Thursday and will stay in police custody till May 12.
Singh allegedly posted and downloaded pornographic photos of foreign children between the ages of 3 and 10 on the internet. The German Federal Bureau spotted the photos on a child pornography site and traced the pictures to India. Interpol was alerted which then passed on the information to India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) who passed it onto the Mumbai Crime Branch.
The Mumbai police has taken two hard drives from Singh's house as evidence against him.
A spokesperson for the Army said Singh has been on study leave, and is currently not attached to any unit. He also confirmed that the Army will apply for bail so that it can deal with Singh's case.
Lt Col arrested for child pornography
What is Hacking and Phishing attacks?: Click here for information and prevention
Lessons Learnt: There is so much of illegal content and traffic on the Internet. ESM should not involve or be a party to chain letters, spam and fwd messages. Do keep your email box free of spam. Visiting Adult sites freely will upload virus and worms which enables the computer to be hacked. Keep all security features of the OS operational on daily basis. Hacked PCs enable others to operate your computer remotely without being aware of it. It is likely many retired/ serving officers are not aware of hacking virus. One should have legal Operating System and not a Pirated version as it is very easy to hack a pirated Operating System than a legal one.
Lastly family members and peer groups are important pressure groups to ensure men do not fall victim to porn addiction- as at times it can become more dangerous than alcohol addiction. Generally soldiers posted to NE states are more prone to porn addiction due to frustrating living environment and lack of entertainment facilities and recreation. The Military needs to fight sex and porn addiction with same fever and vigour as combating alcohol and drug related addictions. The disease can prove devastating if not curbed and nipped at the bud. Curiousity is one sex gratification another but addiction is a disease and needs treatment and counselling.
Border Roadways Organisation turns 50 countering U- turns
BRO turns 50: Old traditions, new problems
Ajai Shukla / New Delhi May 07, 2010, 0:04 IST Business Standard
Exactly 50 years ago, with war clouds gathering on the Sino-Indian border, Jawaharlal Nehru created the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), an inter-ministerial task force that has become an Indian exemplar of grit and fortitude. Thanks to over 48,000 kilometres of BRO roads, soldiers now drive to far-flung border picquets that earlier involved days of marching. But, even on the BRO’s Golden Jubilee, an ambitious expansion of India’s border road network remains stymied by archaic state laws and a crippling lack of urgency.
The challenge before the BRO — triggered by China’s dramatic expansion of road and rail links in Tibet — is the Strategic Accelerated Road Development Programme (SARDP) planned by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Under this, the BRO will build double-lane roads from each state capital in the northeast to each of that state’s district headquarters. That involves building 38 roads, approximately 2,812 km long, within the next five years. In addition, the government has recently handed the BRO responsibility for the Arunachal Package, which involves building another 812 km of roads in the state that China calls “Southern Tibet”.
Holding back the BRO are two major obstacles. First, the tribal structure of Arunachal Pradesh makes it difficult for the state government to acquire land for these roads. While the state government constitutionally owns non-private land, Itanagar goes by tribal tradition in which all land belongs to the local tribe. The acquisition of any land in Arunachal Pradesh involves extended negotiations with multiple tribal leaders who are increasingly aware of the value of their concurrence.
Admitting that land acquisition is a problem, the Director General of the BRO, Lt Gen M C Badhani, says, “Procedural delays (in land acquisition) have to be accepted. The locals bring forward their own concerns and aspirations and we try to take those on board. It is important to have local support.”
The other obstacle before the BRO is the requirement to provide each labourer with an Inner Line Permit (ILP) before entering Arunachal Pradesh, something that the state government implements strongly. Thousands of casual labourers from states across the country, especially Jharkhand and Bihar, are contracted for BRO projects in Arunachal; their employment is often held up while ILPs are issued.
“We will continue to enforce ILPs strictly in Arunachal,” promises a top bureaucrat in the Arunachal Pradesh state government. “Arunachal’s identity will be swamped by outsiders if we don’t keep a tight control on who enters the state. All kinds of trouble-makers can come into Arunachal pretending to be labourers; we will vet every single labourer and make the contractor responsible.”
Read more
BRO turns 50: Old traditions, new problems
Related reading
Now on, BRO to Focus on Building Strategic Assets: Antony
Ajai Shukla / New Delhi May 07, 2010, 0:04 IST Business Standard
Exactly 50 years ago, with war clouds gathering on the Sino-Indian border, Jawaharlal Nehru created the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), an inter-ministerial task force that has become an Indian exemplar of grit and fortitude. Thanks to over 48,000 kilometres of BRO roads, soldiers now drive to far-flung border picquets that earlier involved days of marching. But, even on the BRO’s Golden Jubilee, an ambitious expansion of India’s border road network remains stymied by archaic state laws and a crippling lack of urgency.
The challenge before the BRO — triggered by China’s dramatic expansion of road and rail links in Tibet — is the Strategic Accelerated Road Development Programme (SARDP) planned by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Under this, the BRO will build double-lane roads from each state capital in the northeast to each of that state’s district headquarters. That involves building 38 roads, approximately 2,812 km long, within the next five years. In addition, the government has recently handed the BRO responsibility for the Arunachal Package, which involves building another 812 km of roads in the state that China calls “Southern Tibet”.
Holding back the BRO are two major obstacles. First, the tribal structure of Arunachal Pradesh makes it difficult for the state government to acquire land for these roads. While the state government constitutionally owns non-private land, Itanagar goes by tribal tradition in which all land belongs to the local tribe. The acquisition of any land in Arunachal Pradesh involves extended negotiations with multiple tribal leaders who are increasingly aware of the value of their concurrence.
Admitting that land acquisition is a problem, the Director General of the BRO, Lt Gen M C Badhani, says, “Procedural delays (in land acquisition) have to be accepted. The locals bring forward their own concerns and aspirations and we try to take those on board. It is important to have local support.”
The other obstacle before the BRO is the requirement to provide each labourer with an Inner Line Permit (ILP) before entering Arunachal Pradesh, something that the state government implements strongly. Thousands of casual labourers from states across the country, especially Jharkhand and Bihar, are contracted for BRO projects in Arunachal; their employment is often held up while ILPs are issued.
“We will continue to enforce ILPs strictly in Arunachal,” promises a top bureaucrat in the Arunachal Pradesh state government. “Arunachal’s identity will be swamped by outsiders if we don’t keep a tight control on who enters the state. All kinds of trouble-makers can come into Arunachal pretending to be labourers; we will vet every single labourer and make the contractor responsible.”
Read more
BRO turns 50: Old traditions, new problems
Related reading
Now on, BRO to Focus on Building Strategic Assets: Antony
Robocop in Delhi to tackle terrorists
ROBOCOP, a new police official for Commonwealth games
Delhi gets a new police official ROBOCOP who is very much in news these days. With the Commonwealth Games round the corner and reports of constant terror threats.
weapons if they are mounted on it, guided by the five laser-guided cameras with pan, tilt and zoom features. This feature is especially useful in a hostage situation.
SPEED: The Caliber T5 robots are used by SWAT teams across the world and can also drag injured persons to safety, climb stairs and negotiate rugged terrain. It has a maximum speed of 8 km per hour.
LIFT & DRAG: This robot, manufactured by Canada-based ICOR Technology, can lift 20 kg and drag up to 130 kg. MROV has a robotic arm with 5 degrees of movement including a turret, shoulder, elbow, wrist and claw joint.
Cost: Rs 1 crore per unit
Source: Indian Express
Robocop in Delhi to fight terror
Comment: Robocop needs to be used extensively whenever and wherever terror and bomb threats are immanent. One only wishes that these costly gadgets are not junked just after the CWG due to want of expertise, spares, mobility or lack of maintenance.
National Commission promised for ESM remains a remote mission
Almost two years ago......
TO SOOTHE the frayed nerves of Indian defence personnel, both serving and retired, not happy with the emoluments offered by the Sixth Pay Commission, the government is mooting a national commission for welfare of ex-servicemen. The proposed body will speed up the issue relating to rehabilitation, welfare and grievances of retired soldiers, martyrs and their families.
Govt moots national body for ex-servicemen welfare
Present status
Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR) and secretary, ex-servicemen welfare in the ministry of defence had promised vital issues of ESM would be addressed two years ago. We have not seen nor heard of any concrete action since two years in this regard!
RMS Blog postings
NC Proposal by Col Karan Kharb (Retd)
National Commission for ESM as proposed by Maj Navdeep Singh- eminent Military Lawyer
National Commission promised for ESM remains a remote mission
TO SOOTHE the frayed nerves of Indian defence personnel, both serving and retired, not happy with the emoluments offered by the Sixth Pay Commission, the government is mooting a national commission for welfare of ex-servicemen. The proposed body will speed up the issue relating to rehabilitation, welfare and grievances of retired soldiers, martyrs and their families.
Govt moots national body for ex-servicemen welfare
Present status
Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR) and secretary, ex-servicemen welfare in the ministry of defence had promised vital issues of ESM would be addressed two years ago. We have not seen nor heard of any concrete action since two years in this regard!
RMS Blog postings
NC Proposal by Col Karan Kharb (Retd)
National Commission for ESM as proposed by Maj Navdeep Singh- eminent Military Lawyer
National Commission promised for ESM remains a remote mission
Headley twist in Andaman spy case, Army says hacking
Ref: click here
Headley twist in Andaman case, Army says hacking
New Delhi: The Army Major who was questioned by Military Intelligence and Intelligence Bureau officials last month—after it was found that sensitive defence information was being transmitted from his computer to Pakistan—came to the attention of authorities in the US following leads given by Lashkar-e-Toiba operative David Coleman Headley.
What MI officials admit to at this stage even as the case is being investigated is that the officer seriously erred in saving classified information in his computer which was connected to the internet. Said a top official, "Given the recent cases of hacking in the Ministry of External Affairs and the National Security Council, the Ministry of Defence has issued regulations for such data and information not be downloaded on computers. The officer in question seriously erred in doing that and some administrative action will be taken against him shortly."
Source: Indian Express
Headley twist in Andaman case, Army says hacking
Headley twist in Andaman case, Army says hacking
New Delhi: The Army Major who was questioned by Military Intelligence and Intelligence Bureau officials last month—after it was found that sensitive defence information was being transmitted from his computer to Pakistan—came to the attention of authorities in the US following leads given by Lashkar-e-Toiba operative David Coleman Headley.
What MI officials admit to at this stage even as the case is being investigated is that the officer seriously erred in saving classified information in his computer which was connected to the internet. Said a top official, "Given the recent cases of hacking in the Ministry of External Affairs and the National Security Council, the Ministry of Defence has issued regulations for such data and information not be downloaded on computers. The officer in question seriously erred in doing that and some administrative action will be taken against him shortly."
Source: Indian Express
Headley twist in Andaman case, Army says hacking
Pension of Majors and Equivalents
Regarding Case of Majors Pension.
Dear Chander,
Since I was not in touch with the blog for about 3 months due to some personal problems, I did not know what was happening on the blog. More than 350 e-mails had piled up in my Inbox. I have lately been reading these and saw this one to-day.
Brig NB Subramanian's S of C/ comments are very thorough and if the case includes these, I am sure it would succeed. It is very gracious of him to have taken pains to explain all aspects in detail. Also Col TN Raman deserves appreciation for his views.
May I request you to let me know if any case has been filed or is being filed by any group of Majs or IESM or any Naval or AF ESM org in respect of Pension Disparity of Pre-96/86 Majors? If so, may I request you to let me the contact details.
With warm regards,
Maj Bhupal Singh, Veteran
Brig TN Subramanian Only. I appreciate the pains taken by you for the research on the subject. It is indeed very gracious and magnanimous of you for doing so and shows your deep concern for the dis-advantaged brother veterans of all hues. My regards & best wishes,
Bhupal Singh, Veteran
Related postings
A case for increasing Pension of Majors and equivalents by TN Subramanian
RMS Blog Postings in respect of Majors Pension
gconnect discussion
Pay anomalies arising out of revised pay fixation under 6CPC
Originally Posted by cmde mmsingh
Sir,
I wish to seek your opinion on fixation of Pensions for Defence service offrs (Majors) retired prior to 2006. As per Annex 11(rev) to MoD letter no.17(4)2008(1)D (Pen/Pol) dated 20.01.09, pension of Majors, is Rs 14100/ & Lt Col 14600(old scale) now revised to Rs 25700/. Earlier difference in pension was Rs. 500/- which has now increased to 11,600/-, whereas for a major increase is only Rs. 1,700/-. Majors were drawing prior to 6th CPC Rs. 12,384/- as on 01 Jul 2006. It is apparent that the base for calculation has been taken as Rs. 6,400/- instead of Rs. 9,600/- (revised w.e.f. 01 Jul 2002 after merging 50% of DA i.e. Rs. 6,400/- + Rs. 3,200/-). Has there been any wrong base taken i.e. Rs. 6,400/- instead of Rs. 9,600/-?
There seems to be a lapse in fixing of factor of 2.26 and calculation thereafter resulting in wide gap in pensions of Major and Lt Col. Is is not a violation of article 14 of Constitution of India?
Benefit of Military Service Pay has been given to Lt Col and above ranks but denied to Majors. Has 6th CPC applied different set of rules to different rank of officers?
Dear Sir,
The base applied is correct. The large difference is due to revision of pay band of Lt Col to PB-4 instead PB-3. The minimum pension is 50% of minimum of pay band + grade pay + MSP for Majors also which comes to 14100. i.e, (15600+6600+6000). Though I am not an uniformed service personnel. On perusal of the defence orders on the subject, I have given my opinion.
Dear Chander,
Since I was not in touch with the blog for about 3 months due to some personal problems, I did not know what was happening on the blog. More than 350 e-mails had piled up in my Inbox. I have lately been reading these and saw this one to-day.
Brig NB Subramanian's S of C/ comments are very thorough and if the case includes these, I am sure it would succeed. It is very gracious of him to have taken pains to explain all aspects in detail. Also Col TN Raman deserves appreciation for his views.
May I request you to let me know if any case has been filed or is being filed by any group of Majs or IESM or any Naval or AF ESM org in respect of Pension Disparity of Pre-96/86 Majors? If so, may I request you to let me the contact details.
With warm regards,
Maj Bhupal Singh, Veteran
Brig TN Subramanian Only. I appreciate the pains taken by you for the research on the subject. It is indeed very gracious and magnanimous of you for doing so and shows your deep concern for the dis-advantaged brother veterans of all hues. My regards & best wishes,
Bhupal Singh, Veteran
Related postings
A case for increasing Pension of Majors and equivalents by TN Subramanian
RMS Blog Postings in respect of Majors Pension
gconnect discussion
Pay anomalies arising out of revised pay fixation under 6CPC
Originally Posted by cmde mmsingh
Sir,
I wish to seek your opinion on fixation of Pensions for Defence service offrs (Majors) retired prior to 2006. As per Annex 11(rev) to MoD letter no.17(4)2008(1)D (Pen/Pol) dated 20.01.09, pension of Majors, is Rs 14100/ & Lt Col 14600(old scale) now revised to Rs 25700/. Earlier difference in pension was Rs. 500/- which has now increased to 11,600/-, whereas for a major increase is only Rs. 1,700/-. Majors were drawing prior to 6th CPC Rs. 12,384/- as on 01 Jul 2006. It is apparent that the base for calculation has been taken as Rs. 6,400/- instead of Rs. 9,600/- (revised w.e.f. 01 Jul 2002 after merging 50% of DA i.e. Rs. 6,400/- + Rs. 3,200/-). Has there been any wrong base taken i.e. Rs. 6,400/- instead of Rs. 9,600/-?
There seems to be a lapse in fixing of factor of 2.26 and calculation thereafter resulting in wide gap in pensions of Major and Lt Col. Is is not a violation of article 14 of Constitution of India?
Benefit of Military Service Pay has been given to Lt Col and above ranks but denied to Majors. Has 6th CPC applied different set of rules to different rank of officers?
Dear Sir,
The base applied is correct. The large difference is due to revision of pay band of Lt Col to PB-4 instead PB-3. The minimum pension is 50% of minimum of pay band + grade pay + MSP for Majors also which comes to 14100. i.e, (15600+6600+6000). Though I am not an uniformed service personnel. On perusal of the defence orders on the subject, I have given my opinion.
Frivolous government litigation clogs wheels of justice: Supreme Court
The goverment is the biggest litigant and in November 2009, Supreme Court came heavily against its resorting to unnecessary appeals. Though it loses almost all the cases yet the wheels of justice are clogged for decades and people suffer. One simple example will suffice.
Military officers were wrongly denied Rank Pay’ granted by the 4th Pay Commission. Officers finally got redressal from to the Hon'ble Supreme Court after 24 years. Rather than gracefully honouring the verdict, the govt has appealed for reopening of the case and cancellation of orders. It is nothing but delaying tactics and shows Govt’s callous attitude towards its military.
Is it not enough that the Officers have been made to suffer from January 1986 and in the meantime some of them have even died? Law Minister in the recently concluded All India Conference of the Central Administrative Tribunals, advised that that Government should go in litigation only where it is absolutely necessary. Will the bureaucrats please take the advice?
Brig Harwant Singh (Retd)
President, The All India Defence Brotherhood (Regd)
Statutory authorities should be responsible litigants
Frivolous government litigation clogs wheels of justice: Supreme Court
Military officers were wrongly denied Rank Pay’ granted by the 4th Pay Commission. Officers finally got redressal from to the Hon'ble Supreme Court after 24 years. Rather than gracefully honouring the verdict, the govt has appealed for reopening of the case and cancellation of orders. It is nothing but delaying tactics and shows Govt’s callous attitude towards its military.
Is it not enough that the Officers have been made to suffer from January 1986 and in the meantime some of them have even died? Law Minister in the recently concluded All India Conference of the Central Administrative Tribunals, advised that that Government should go in litigation only where it is absolutely necessary. Will the bureaucrats please take the advice?
Brig Harwant Singh (Retd)
President, The All India Defence Brotherhood (Regd)
Statutory authorities should be responsible litigants
Frivolous government litigation clogs wheels of justice: Supreme Court
Common law for all three defence services drafted
3 May 2010 Statesman News Service
New Delhi, 3 May: The government today said it has prepared a draft common law applicable to all three defence forces to ensure coordination in operations and functions and its enactment was under the active consideration of the defence ministry.
In a statement laid on the table of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, defence minister Mr AK Antony said the work on the common law, to be called the Tri Service Act, had begun in 2002 and the draft submitted to the ministry after approval from the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) in August 2009.
The Tri Service Act was “under consideration in consultation with the three services,” Mr Antony said on the status of implementation of recommendations contained in the Parliamentary Standing Committee report on Unified Command for Armed Forces submitted to the Lok Sabha in February 2009.
With regard to the creation of a Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), as recommended by the Kargil Review Committee (KRC), the Minister said the proposal was “under examination”, though the institutional support and infrastructure had already been created in the form of the Integrated Defence Staff Headquarters to support the CDS, whenever created.
He said the case for finding consensus on appointment of CDS, as suggested by the KRC, had been taken up with political parties, but a number of them were yet to respond.
On setting up of Indian National Defence University, the minister said the draft cabinet note, after inter-ministerial consultation, had been submitted for approval of competent authority.
He also said that the process of internal review of security threats and challenges and restructuring of the IDS headquarters had been completed, and the case for external review through a high-powered expert committee was under examination and approval of COSC Chairman.
Gratuity ceiling Bill
A Bill to raise the ceiling of gratuity for employees to Rs 10 lakh from Rs 3.5 lakh was passed by the Lok Sabha without discussion today.
Common law for all three defence services drafted
New Delhi, 3 May: The government today said it has prepared a draft common law applicable to all three defence forces to ensure coordination in operations and functions and its enactment was under the active consideration of the defence ministry.
In a statement laid on the table of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, defence minister Mr AK Antony said the work on the common law, to be called the Tri Service Act, had begun in 2002 and the draft submitted to the ministry after approval from the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) in August 2009.
The Tri Service Act was “under consideration in consultation with the three services,” Mr Antony said on the status of implementation of recommendations contained in the Parliamentary Standing Committee report on Unified Command for Armed Forces submitted to the Lok Sabha in February 2009.
With regard to the creation of a Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), as recommended by the Kargil Review Committee (KRC), the Minister said the proposal was “under examination”, though the institutional support and infrastructure had already been created in the form of the Integrated Defence Staff Headquarters to support the CDS, whenever created.
He said the case for finding consensus on appointment of CDS, as suggested by the KRC, had been taken up with political parties, but a number of them were yet to respond.
On setting up of Indian National Defence University, the minister said the draft cabinet note, after inter-ministerial consultation, had been submitted for approval of competent authority.
He also said that the process of internal review of security threats and challenges and restructuring of the IDS headquarters had been completed, and the case for external review through a high-powered expert committee was under examination and approval of COSC Chairman.
Gratuity ceiling Bill
A Bill to raise the ceiling of gratuity for employees to Rs 10 lakh from Rs 3.5 lakh was passed by the Lok Sabha without discussion today.
Common law for all three defence services drafted
National Security: Challenging Times Ahead
Courtesy SP's Land Forces
The Chief must aim at making the army a powerful organisation in all respects; alleviating the concerns of all personnel of the army and veterans; and bringing the fun back into the army, keeping in mind the old adage ‘a happy army is a powerful army’
Assumption of command by a new Army Chief is an important event, both for the army and the nation. It is no different for General V.K. Singh, the 24th Army Chief of independent India. The importance of commanding the Indian Army is not just because of its size, but more importantly it is the only organisation that has full faith in our polity, on account of its professional ethos and the alacrity with which it responds to evolving situations. These perceptions, coupled with the prevailing security environment, bring with them overwhelming responsibilities. All Army Chiefs have no doubt assumed command with varying challenges and distinguished themselves during their tenures. Some have done so with panache, while others could at best be termed as also-ran.
Situation
The ground reality is not encouraging. Nearly half the army is committed to fighting various insurgencies and a proxy war. The combat potential of the army is at an all-time low of nearly 50 per cent and there has hardly been any modernisation in recent years. The budget for the army gets reduced every year in real term; the government continues to keep the military out of the policy formulation loop; the deteriorating civil-military relations do not bode well for the safety and security of the nation; there have been several recent incidents that have tarnished the image of the army and could have been avoided; and the regional security environment is also a cause of concern.
Read the full article:
Challenging Times Ahead By Lt General (Retd) Vijay Oberoi
The Chief must aim at making the army a powerful organisation in all respects; alleviating the concerns of all personnel of the army and veterans; and bringing the fun back into the army, keeping in mind the old adage ‘a happy army is a powerful army’Assumption of command by a new Army Chief is an important event, both for the army and the nation. It is no different for General V.K. Singh, the 24th Army Chief of independent India. The importance of commanding the Indian Army is not just because of its size, but more importantly it is the only organisation that has full faith in our polity, on account of its professional ethos and the alacrity with which it responds to evolving situations. These perceptions, coupled with the prevailing security environment, bring with them overwhelming responsibilities. All Army Chiefs have no doubt assumed command with varying challenges and distinguished themselves during their tenures. Some have done so with panache, while others could at best be termed as also-ran.
Situation
The ground reality is not encouraging. Nearly half the army is committed to fighting various insurgencies and a proxy war. The combat potential of the army is at an all-time low of nearly 50 per cent and there has hardly been any modernisation in recent years. The budget for the army gets reduced every year in real term; the government continues to keep the military out of the policy formulation loop; the deteriorating civil-military relations do not bode well for the safety and security of the nation; there have been several recent incidents that have tarnished the image of the army and could have been avoided; and the regional security environment is also a cause of concern.
Read the full article:
Challenging Times Ahead By Lt General (Retd) Vijay Oberoi
National Anomaly Committee Meeting
Minutes of the Second Meeting of the National Anomaly Committee held on 27th March, 2010
The Chairman stated that the government also recognise the need for faster resolution of all anomalies. The Chairman agreed to the suggestion for creation of a Joint Committee to look into the anomalies related to MACP. The Chairman while acknowledging the new structure and approach of the report of the 6th CPC, re-iterated the suggestion given by him in the first meeting of NAC that in case certain problems and difficulties are being faced due to insufficient understanding with regard to ecommendations of the report of the 6th CPC, the same may be brought to the notice of the Department of Personnel & Training so that these could be appropriately addressed and clarifications / explanations may be issued / uploaded on the website of the Department in order to obviate the need for future references on such matters. With respect to change in the definition of the agreed definition of anomaly,the Chairman stated that this aspect had already been recorded in the minutes of the first meeting of the NAC and if needed, the same can again be recorded for posterity that the staff side had taken up this issue in the NAC and it was agreed that it would be the endeavour of the Government to ensure that this change does not lead to any problems now or in the future. Regarding the new schemes to replace some of the allowances like Patient care Allowance and Risk Allowance, the Chairman assured the staff side that it would be the endeavour of the Government to ensure that new schemes are introduced only afler consulting the staff side. Regarding continuation of the risk allowance at old rates till the new Risk Insurance Scheme is finalised, the Chairman agreed that this matter will be examined.
Click here to read in detail the Bureaucratic Bundle of Anomalies of SCPC discussed at the meeting
Comment: Just imagine setting up a National Committee comprising of bureaucrats to resolve Anomalies created by Bureaucrats! This tantamounts to Political criminals setting up their standards of justice and resolving their issues by themselves.
The Chairman stated that the government also recognise the need for faster resolution of all anomalies. The Chairman agreed to the suggestion for creation of a Joint Committee to look into the anomalies related to MACP. The Chairman while acknowledging the new structure and approach of the report of the 6th CPC, re-iterated the suggestion given by him in the first meeting of NAC that in case certain problems and difficulties are being faced due to insufficient understanding with regard to ecommendations of the report of the 6th CPC, the same may be brought to the notice of the Department of Personnel & Training so that these could be appropriately addressed and clarifications / explanations may be issued / uploaded on the website of the Department in order to obviate the need for future references on such matters. With respect to change in the definition of the agreed definition of anomaly,the Chairman stated that this aspect had already been recorded in the minutes of the first meeting of the NAC and if needed, the same can again be recorded for posterity that the staff side had taken up this issue in the NAC and it was agreed that it would be the endeavour of the Government to ensure that this change does not lead to any problems now or in the future. Regarding the new schemes to replace some of the allowances like Patient care Allowance and Risk Allowance, the Chairman assured the staff side that it would be the endeavour of the Government to ensure that new schemes are introduced only afler consulting the staff side. Regarding continuation of the risk allowance at old rates till the new Risk Insurance Scheme is finalised, the Chairman agreed that this matter will be examined.
Click here to read in detail the Bureaucratic Bundle of Anomalies of SCPC discussed at the meeting
Comment: Just imagine setting up a National Committee comprising of bureaucrats to resolve Anomalies created by Bureaucrats! This tantamounts to Political criminals setting up their standards of justice and resolving their issues by themselves.
IESM: Rally at Hissar on 6 May 2010
Dear Colleagues,
Satbir, Kameshwar Pandey and self attended an ESM rally at Hisar today. It was attended by a large number of families and ESM. Heartful compliments and well-done to Veteran Sub Hari Singh for his untiring zeal and energy in organizing the event Everyone present resolved to continue the efforts till we get full OROP. It was also resolved to keep the struggle within the law and discipline. A total of 134 new members joined the IESM family. Membership cards were issued on the spot.
It may be recalled that the government notification for enhancement of pensions of JCOs and OR was issued on 8 March 2010. That day there was also another significant development; the Supreme Court pronounced its judgment in favour of the officers’ rank pay case (in which the judges had used very stern words against the government). Subsequently the government has challenged the latter, requesting the apex court to recall its judgment. Date of the two events being the same, many ESM have been confused into thinking that the government wishes to cancel the pension enhancement notification. Colleagues may kindly clarify this issue whenever they interact with the ESM.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
Satbir, Kameshwar Pandey and self attended an ESM rally at Hisar today. It was attended by a large number of families and ESM. Heartful compliments and well-done to Veteran Sub Hari Singh for his untiring zeal and energy in organizing the event Everyone present resolved to continue the efforts till we get full OROP. It was also resolved to keep the struggle within the law and discipline. A total of 134 new members joined the IESM family. Membership cards were issued on the spot.
It may be recalled that the government notification for enhancement of pensions of JCOs and OR was issued on 8 March 2010. That day there was also another significant development; the Supreme Court pronounced its judgment in favour of the officers’ rank pay case (in which the judges had used very stern words against the government). Subsequently the government has challenged the latter, requesting the apex court to recall its judgment. Date of the two events being the same, many ESM have been confused into thinking that the government wishes to cancel the pension enhancement notification. Colleagues may kindly clarify this issue whenever they interact with the ESM.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
Thursday, May 6, 2010
After PM frowns, Service chiefs told not to talk out of turn
Manu Pubby
Posted in Indian Express: Thursday , May 06, 2010 at 0200 hrs New Delhi
After repeated instances of the Service chiefs commenting on issues that are not directly related to the Defence Ministry, the government is learnt to have passed directions asking them to tone down their public interactions and limit comments on defence-related matters.
It is learnt that the frequent comments by defence forces Chiefs on matters not confined to their Services were noticed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who brought up the matter with Defence Minister A K Antony. Sources say that the message was then passed down to the Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force.
While the government has always been uncomfortable with Service chiefs voicing their opinion in public, things came to a head after the Naxal attack in Dantewada last month that left 76 security personnel dead. The government was in particular not happy with comments on the attack by both the Army and Air Force Chiefs.
A circular was issued by Cabinet Secretary K M Chandrasekhar on behalf of the Prime Minister, reminding ministries that the Home Ministry was competent to react and comment on matters relating to internal security. The circular received by the Defence Ministry was then marked to the three Service Chiefs.
In January 2010, reported comments by the former Army Chief General Deepak Kapoor on the issue of Maoist cadres joining the Nepalese Army had kicked up a storm in the neighbouring country. The Indian embassy in Kathmandu was forced on to damage control mode and a press statement was released that said that the Army Chief’s comments were “highly distorted” and did not “reflect Government of India’s position on the issue”.
Earlier, in November, Kapoor had talked about the possibility of limited war under the nuclear overhang in the Indian subcontinent. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who was on a visit to the US, was forced to make an assertive statement saying that Pakistan does not face any threat from India. “Any other statement distorted out of context should not carry the weight when I have stated categorically that Pakistan faces no threat whatsoever from our side,” he had said in reference to Kapoor’s comments.
After PM frowns, Service chiefs told not to talk out of turn
MPs demand pay hike. What about ESM just demand for OROP which has been approved by Par panel since six years and hanging fire till date?
House panel wants 5-fold raise for MPs, link to salaries of top babus
INDIAN GOVERNMENT CONCESSIONS FOR MP...!!!
Posted in Indian Express: Thursday , May 06, 2010 at 0200 hrs New Delhi
After repeated instances of the Service chiefs commenting on issues that are not directly related to the Defence Ministry, the government is learnt to have passed directions asking them to tone down their public interactions and limit comments on defence-related matters.
It is learnt that the frequent comments by defence forces Chiefs on matters not confined to their Services were noticed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who brought up the matter with Defence Minister A K Antony. Sources say that the message was then passed down to the Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force.
While the government has always been uncomfortable with Service chiefs voicing their opinion in public, things came to a head after the Naxal attack in Dantewada last month that left 76 security personnel dead. The government was in particular not happy with comments on the attack by both the Army and Air Force Chiefs.
A circular was issued by Cabinet Secretary K M Chandrasekhar on behalf of the Prime Minister, reminding ministries that the Home Ministry was competent to react and comment on matters relating to internal security. The circular received by the Defence Ministry was then marked to the three Service Chiefs.
In January 2010, reported comments by the former Army Chief General Deepak Kapoor on the issue of Maoist cadres joining the Nepalese Army had kicked up a storm in the neighbouring country. The Indian embassy in Kathmandu was forced on to damage control mode and a press statement was released that said that the Army Chief’s comments were “highly distorted” and did not “reflect Government of India’s position on the issue”.
Earlier, in November, Kapoor had talked about the possibility of limited war under the nuclear overhang in the Indian subcontinent. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who was on a visit to the US, was forced to make an assertive statement saying that Pakistan does not face any threat from India. “Any other statement distorted out of context should not carry the weight when I have stated categorically that Pakistan faces no threat whatsoever from our side,” he had said in reference to Kapoor’s comments.
After PM frowns, Service chiefs told not to talk out of turn
MPs demand pay hike. What about ESM just demand for OROP which has been approved by Par panel since six years and hanging fire till date?
House panel wants 5-fold raise for MPs, link to salaries of top babus
INDIAN GOVERNMENT CONCESSIONS FOR MP...!!!
National Security: Army Major caught spying for Pak, tip-off came from US
Ministry of Defence clarifies 12:58 IST
A report has been published in Indian Express ”Army Major caught spying for Pakistan, tip-off came from US” by Ms Ritu Sarin on 06 May 10.
It is clarified that this is a case of computer hacking through an external agency. The matter is still under investigation, however so far there are no evidences to suggest of an “espionage case”. The officer was never under “safe custody” and is on duty in his parent unit. S Om Singh/Rajendra
Army Major Caught Spying For Pakistan
Ritu Sarin, Indian Express
Thursday , May 06, 2010 at 0215 hrs
Army Major caught spying for Pak, tip-off came from US
New Delhi: Around the time last month when the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) was alerted about the possibility of one of their officers being involved in espionage, another sensitive counter-intelligence operation involving the Ministry of Defence (MoD) was in progress.
For over two weeks now, top Government sources say, an Army Major has been kept in "safe custody" of the Military Intelligence (MI). The officer -- posted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands -- is alleged to have passed on classified information to Pakistan.
The first tip-off in what could develop into another espionage scandal, according to sources, came from American authorities. Suspicious internet traffic first came to the notice of American intelligence agencies when intercepts showed a user in Andaman and Nicobar Islands had dispatched a picture of a serving Indian Brigadier, who was attending a training programme in the US, to Pakistan.
Indian agencies quickly zeroed in on the officer and a quiet operation was planned to call him to New Delhi. Sources say the officer pleaded ignorance of the traffic from his computer to Pakistan saying it could have been generated by some virus or unknown software.
However, suspicion persisted since the Major's computer had been recently formatted and cleaned of all contents. An early forensic examination done in New Delhi revealed the dispatch of classsified military information, some of which should not have been in the officer's possession. The hard disk of the officer's computer has since been sent by military authorities to a Hyderabad laboratory for accessing the erased contents.
"I do not have any information yet. I will have to find the details and then can get back to you," Army spokesperson Col S Om Singh said when contacted for a reaction.
Both Defence Minister A.K. Antony and Home Minister P. Chidambaram are learnt to be aware of the developments in the case, given the serious implications involved.
Source: Indian Express
Army Major caught spying for Pak, tip-off came from US
A report has been published in Indian Express ”Army Major caught spying for Pakistan, tip-off came from US” by Ms Ritu Sarin on 06 May 10.
It is clarified that this is a case of computer hacking through an external agency. The matter is still under investigation, however so far there are no evidences to suggest of an “espionage case”. The officer was never under “safe custody” and is on duty in his parent unit. S Om Singh/Rajendra
Army Major Caught Spying For Pakistan
Ritu Sarin, Indian Express
Thursday , May 06, 2010 at 0215 hrs
Army Major caught spying for Pak, tip-off came from US
New Delhi: Around the time last month when the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) was alerted about the possibility of one of their officers being involved in espionage, another sensitive counter-intelligence operation involving the Ministry of Defence (MoD) was in progress.
For over two weeks now, top Government sources say, an Army Major has been kept in "safe custody" of the Military Intelligence (MI). The officer -- posted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands -- is alleged to have passed on classified information to Pakistan.
The first tip-off in what could develop into another espionage scandal, according to sources, came from American authorities. Suspicious internet traffic first came to the notice of American intelligence agencies when intercepts showed a user in Andaman and Nicobar Islands had dispatched a picture of a serving Indian Brigadier, who was attending a training programme in the US, to Pakistan.
Indian agencies quickly zeroed in on the officer and a quiet operation was planned to call him to New Delhi. Sources say the officer pleaded ignorance of the traffic from his computer to Pakistan saying it could have been generated by some virus or unknown software.
However, suspicion persisted since the Major's computer had been recently formatted and cleaned of all contents. An early forensic examination done in New Delhi revealed the dispatch of classsified military information, some of which should not have been in the officer's possession. The hard disk of the officer's computer has since been sent by military authorities to a Hyderabad laboratory for accessing the erased contents.
"I do not have any information yet. I will have to find the details and then can get back to you," Army spokesperson Col S Om Singh said when contacted for a reaction.
Both Defence Minister A.K. Antony and Home Minister P. Chidambaram are learnt to be aware of the developments in the case, given the serious implications involved.
Source: Indian Express
Army Major caught spying for Pak, tip-off came from US
2G Spectrum: Radia and Raja linked to award of licenses draining the nation of Rs 50,000 crores
Documents in possession of Hindustan Times show Radia managed licences and spectrum for at least four mobile operators. The lobbyist is said to have be a “very close associate” of A Raja, the telecom minister.
The findings and inferences listed in these documents were gleaned from conversations Radia had over her phone that was being tapped by the Income Tax department.
Some of India’s top businessmen, politicians and journalists figure in these conversations either for seeking her help or working with her on matters relating to telecom, power, aviation and infrastructure.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes on Wednesday clarified it was not tapping the phones of any politician, advertising professional or business. And that it taps phones only rarely and with proper permission. But there is a signed letter from an Income Tax official to a CBI official confirming Radia’s phone and those of some associates were under observation “after obtaining permission from the home secretary”.
And then the I-T officer goes on to say, “From conversations, it appears the Ms Nira (Niira, actually) Radia might have had some role with regards to the award of telecom licenses.”
“In some other conversation,” officer wrote, “Ms Radia boasts to have helped some of the telecom operators in their efforts to obtain licenses/spectrum. Ms Radia was also in direct touch with Shri Chandolia.”.
Chandolia was then on Raja’s ministerial staff.
PTI: The government had issued new telecom licenses in January 2008 along with bundled 4.4 MHz spectrum for Rs 1,658 crore. The Opposition has been saying that the licenses have been given at 2001 prices and caused huge loss to the government.
CBI is also investigating alleged irregularities in the spectrum allocation and had registered a case against some
unknown officials of the Department of Telecom (DoT) for their involvement.
2G spectrum scam: Raja-Radia link rocks House for second day
Comment: Mr Manmohan Singh the honest Prime Minister has been taken for a ride by the corrupt Bureaucrats, Businessmen and Politicians right under his very nose! This scam makes citizens wonder if the Government is armed with requisite tools to book the swindlers and black money generators, who presently go about free wheeling as white collar criminals?
3G Spectrum Status
New Delhi: India may have to wait longer than expected for the start of the third generation (3G) mobile services as the defence forces may not be able to vacate the necessary spectrum by September as promised. The vacation of the spectrum is dependent on the readiness of the Rs10,000 crore alternate optical fibre cable network being built by state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL). The tender for the work that was to have been issued in December has only just been issued, resulting in deadlines being missed and putting off the start of 3G services, spectrum for which is currently being auctioned.
Read more:
Defence network delay may stall 3G
DoT Clarifies Position on News-Items on Reported Delay in Defence Network
The findings and inferences listed in these documents were gleaned from conversations Radia had over her phone that was being tapped by the Income Tax department.
Some of India’s top businessmen, politicians and journalists figure in these conversations either for seeking her help or working with her on matters relating to telecom, power, aviation and infrastructure.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes on Wednesday clarified it was not tapping the phones of any politician, advertising professional or business. And that it taps phones only rarely and with proper permission. But there is a signed letter from an Income Tax official to a CBI official confirming Radia’s phone and those of some associates were under observation “after obtaining permission from the home secretary”.
And then the I-T officer goes on to say, “From conversations, it appears the Ms Nira (Niira, actually) Radia might have had some role with regards to the award of telecom licenses.”
“In some other conversation,” officer wrote, “Ms Radia boasts to have helped some of the telecom operators in their efforts to obtain licenses/spectrum. Ms Radia was also in direct touch with Shri Chandolia.”.
Chandolia was then on Raja’s ministerial staff.
PTI: The government had issued new telecom licenses in January 2008 along with bundled 4.4 MHz spectrum for Rs 1,658 crore. The Opposition has been saying that the licenses have been given at 2001 prices and caused huge loss to the government.
CBI is also investigating alleged irregularities in the spectrum allocation and had registered a case against some
unknown officials of the Department of Telecom (DoT) for their involvement.
2G spectrum scam: Raja-Radia link rocks House for second day
Comment: Mr Manmohan Singh the honest Prime Minister has been taken for a ride by the corrupt Bureaucrats, Businessmen and Politicians right under his very nose! This scam makes citizens wonder if the Government is armed with requisite tools to book the swindlers and black money generators, who presently go about free wheeling as white collar criminals?
3G Spectrum Status
New Delhi: India may have to wait longer than expected for the start of the third generation (3G) mobile services as the defence forces may not be able to vacate the necessary spectrum by September as promised. The vacation of the spectrum is dependent on the readiness of the Rs10,000 crore alternate optical fibre cable network being built by state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL). The tender for the work that was to have been issued in December has only just been issued, resulting in deadlines being missed and putting off the start of 3G services, spectrum for which is currently being auctioned.
Read more:
Defence network delay may stall 3G
DoT Clarifies Position on News-Items on Reported Delay in Defence Network
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Shortage of Officers in Army: Is it likely to improve in the forseeable future?
Wednesday, May 05, 2010 Ministry of Defence 16:25 IST
The sanctioned strength of officers is 46614 in Army, 9,293 in Navy and 12,212 in Air Force. The present strength of officers in Army is 35,158 and around 11,500 posts are vacant.
One Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai is already functional. The Government has approved setting up of a second OTA at Gaya, Bihar. Necessary steps have been initiated to make the Academy functional.
A number of steps have been taken to attract the talented youth to join the Armed Forces. All officers including those in Short Service Commission (SSC) are now eligible to hold substantive rank of Captain, Major and Lieutenant Colonel after 2, 6 and 13 years of reckonable service respectively. The tenure of SSC officers has been increased from 10 years to 14 years. A total number of 750 posts of Lt. Colonel have been upgraded to Colonel towards implementation of AV Singh Committee Report (Phase-I). Further, 1896 additional posts in the ranks of Colonel, Brigadier, Major General and Lieutenant General and their equivalents in the other two Services have been upgraded towards implementation of AV Singh Committee Report (Phase-II). The implementation of recommendations of the VI Central Pay Commission with substantial improvement in the pay structure of officers of Armed Forces, is expected to make the Services more attractive.
The Armed Forces have also undertaken sustained image projection and publicity campaign to create awareness among the youth on the advantages of taking up a challenging and satisfying career. Awareness campaigns, participation in career fairs and exhibitions, advertisements in print and electronic media, motivational lectures in schools, colleges are also some of the other measures in this direction.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Shri in Shadi Lal Batra Rajya Sabha today. PK / RAJ
Shortage of Officers in Army
Comments: Neither Implementation of AV Singh Committee recommendations nor Sixth Pay Commission enhanced pay scales are likely to improve the shortage of Officers in the Armed Forces in the foreseeable future. The main reasons are that the rank and honour is totally degraded and Officer status is being reduced and diminished progressively. This is aptly apparent from the number of Judicial Rulings in favour of the Military that are being flouted by the Bureaucrats and the Government with scant regard for the welfare of the Ex- Servicemen.
Only method to offset the shortage is to ensure all bureaucrats including IPS Officers being inducted do at least a 3- year stint in the Armed Forces before they are sent to their respective cadres.
The sanctioned strength of officers is 46614 in Army, 9,293 in Navy and 12,212 in Air Force. The present strength of officers in Army is 35,158 and around 11,500 posts are vacant.
One Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai is already functional. The Government has approved setting up of a second OTA at Gaya, Bihar. Necessary steps have been initiated to make the Academy functional.
A number of steps have been taken to attract the talented youth to join the Armed Forces. All officers including those in Short Service Commission (SSC) are now eligible to hold substantive rank of Captain, Major and Lieutenant Colonel after 2, 6 and 13 years of reckonable service respectively. The tenure of SSC officers has been increased from 10 years to 14 years. A total number of 750 posts of Lt. Colonel have been upgraded to Colonel towards implementation of AV Singh Committee Report (Phase-I). Further, 1896 additional posts in the ranks of Colonel, Brigadier, Major General and Lieutenant General and their equivalents in the other two Services have been upgraded towards implementation of AV Singh Committee Report (Phase-II). The implementation of recommendations of the VI Central Pay Commission with substantial improvement in the pay structure of officers of Armed Forces, is expected to make the Services more attractive.
The Armed Forces have also undertaken sustained image projection and publicity campaign to create awareness among the youth on the advantages of taking up a challenging and satisfying career. Awareness campaigns, participation in career fairs and exhibitions, advertisements in print and electronic media, motivational lectures in schools, colleges are also some of the other measures in this direction.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Shri in Shadi Lal Batra Rajya Sabha today. PK / RAJ
Shortage of Officers in Army
Comments: Neither Implementation of AV Singh Committee recommendations nor Sixth Pay Commission enhanced pay scales are likely to improve the shortage of Officers in the Armed Forces in the foreseeable future. The main reasons are that the rank and honour is totally degraded and Officer status is being reduced and diminished progressively. This is aptly apparent from the number of Judicial Rulings in favour of the Military that are being flouted by the Bureaucrats and the Government with scant regard for the welfare of the Ex- Servicemen.
Only method to offset the shortage is to ensure all bureaucrats including IPS Officers being inducted do at least a 3- year stint in the Armed Forces before they are sent to their respective cadres.
Times Square Car Bomb Suspect Faces Terrorism Charges After Admitting to Plot
Pakistani-born U.S. citizen Faisal Shahzad has admitted trying to set off a car bomb in busy Times Square and will face terrorism and mass destruction charges, Attorney General Eric Holder said Tuesday.
Holder said in a press conference that Shahzad has been charged with an act of terrorism and attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction in the May 1 bomb plot.
Holder said Shahzad, who has provided "valuable information" to investigators, attempted to carry out a "lethal terrorist attack" aimed at "murdering Americans in one of the busiest places in our country."
Deputy FBI director John Pistole said Shahzad was placed on the No Fly list just hours before he was arrested Monday -- a key step in preventing him from fleeing the country on a flight to Dubai, he said.
Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said Customs and Border Protection officials at the airport ordered that the flight be stopped before takeoff. Napolitano said they were able to arrest Shahzad on the plane and turned him over to the FBI -- though she declined to say how he was able to board the flight if he was on the No Fly list.
Times Square Car Bomb Suspect Faces Terrorism Charges After Admitting to Plot: FOXNews.com
NY bomb plotter was trained in Pak terror factory
Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani origin American arrested in connection with the botched car bombing in New York, is the son of a retired air vice marshal of the Pakistan Air Force.
What al-Qaida's greatest strength and its most dangerous capability today is the ability to indoctrinate and infiltrate other established militant groups that have operational capacity.
Analysts: Times Square Plot May Signify Terrorist Tactical Shift
Comments: Prompt action by FBI enabled apprehending the terrorist boarding a flight to Dubai within 72 hours of the failed bomb attack. Our anti- terror outfits need to learn lessons to apprehend terrorists rather than allow them free passage back to Pakistan including safe flights accompanied by a Minister!
No place for half measures: IPL mother of all scams
Pankaj Vohra
The government appears to be in a dilemma over whether to order a probe into the functioning of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) or allow its agencies to investigate the matter that could have wide-ranging political ramifications.
The controversy seems to be leading to a situation where the IPL may make way for a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) given the amount of money that has allegedly changed hands illegally in the name of cricket.
It is only a matter of time before the Apex Court will have to step in if the credibility of the system has to be restored in the eyes of the people who have been under the spell of the IPL for over a month now.
In the eye of the storm is the IPL tsar Lalit Modi whose alleged murky dealings may open a Pandora’s box that could jeopardise the political future of many top politicians. Shashi Tharoor, the former Minister of State for External Affairs, has already fallen by the wayside and no one knows who may follow suit.
The entire IPL circus has turned out to be the biggest scam of our times and could expose the ugly nexus among tax evaders, film stars, politicians, cricketers, corporate giants and the underworld. The IPL has also cast a shadow on its parent body, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that has as its members senior politicians from the NCP, the BJP and the Congress besides some smaller parties. Designed to help develop cricket, the League has got entangled in allegations of gambling, prostitution, match-fixing, money-laundering and tax evasion.
Read more:
No place for half measures
The government appears to be in a dilemma over whether to order a probe into the functioning of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) or allow its agencies to investigate the matter that could have wide-ranging political ramifications.
The controversy seems to be leading to a situation where the IPL may make way for a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) given the amount of money that has allegedly changed hands illegally in the name of cricket.
It is only a matter of time before the Apex Court will have to step in if the credibility of the system has to be restored in the eyes of the people who have been under the spell of the IPL for over a month now.
In the eye of the storm is the IPL tsar Lalit Modi whose alleged murky dealings may open a Pandora’s box that could jeopardise the political future of many top politicians. Shashi Tharoor, the former Minister of State for External Affairs, has already fallen by the wayside and no one knows who may follow suit.
The entire IPL circus has turned out to be the biggest scam of our times and could expose the ugly nexus among tax evaders, film stars, politicians, cricketers, corporate giants and the underworld. The IPL has also cast a shadow on its parent body, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that has as its members senior politicians from the NCP, the BJP and the Congress besides some smaller parties. Designed to help develop cricket, the League has got entangled in allegations of gambling, prostitution, match-fixing, money-laundering and tax evasion.
Read more:
No place for half measures
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
DRDO slippages are they frustrating Modernisation of the Armed Forces?
The following steps have been taken to strengthen the organisation:
Consortium approach has been used for design, development and fabrication of critical components.
Three-tier project monitoring approach is being followed in the major projects / programmes.
Project Monitoring Review Committee (PMRC); and Project Appraisal and Review Committee (PARC) meetings are held regularly to monitor the progress of the ongoing projects.
Concurrent engineering approach has been adopted in technology intensive projects to minimize time-lag between development and productionisation of the systems, and Information Technology and modern management techniques have been applied.
Participation of Services in all major programmes right from the beginning of the projects, etc.
Large number of R&D projects and research initiatives taken up with nearly 100 academic and other scientific establishments.
There are also international collaboration to fortify DRDO’s strength.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Mangani Lal Mandal and others in Lok Sabha today. Samir / RAJ
Restructuring Of DRDO: Major DRDO Projects / Programmes which are yet to be completed
Related reading
Aerospace, defence face hurdles in globalising
There are also international collaboration to fortify DRDO’s strength.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Mangani Lal Mandal and others in Lok Sabha today. Samir / RAJ
Restructuring Of DRDO: Major DRDO Projects / Programmes which are yet to be completed
Related reading
Aerospace, defence face hurdles in globalising
Monday, May 3, 2010
Lieut Colonel Pritam Singh Jauhal Second World War Veteran
I call Col Pritam Singh Johal, settled in Canada, "ONE MAN ARMY". He is 85 if I am not wrong, may be more and still going strong. He is doing tremendous work for the Veterans and thier families in Canada,
During J and K operations he provided excellent communications in Naushera, Jhangar and Rajauri sectors.
We wish him many many more years of excellent health and service to the Veterans.
Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh (Retd)
Lieut Colonel Pritam Singh Jauhal Second World War Veteran, Founder President Indian Ex-Servicemen Society British Columbia, Canada: click here
During J and K operations he provided excellent communications in Naushera, Jhangar and Rajauri sectors.
We wish him many many more years of excellent health and service to the Veterans.
Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh (Retd)
Lieut Colonel Pritam Singh Jauhal Second World War Veteran, Founder President Indian Ex-Servicemen Society British Columbia, Canada: click here
Career Transition Workshop
Dear Kamboj sir,
Need your help to post the appended details on "Report My Signals" as also pass the link http://cts.doattend.com to anyone who could be interested in knowing more about post retirement options. This is an initiative to help our serving bretheren in the fauj, who are contemplatring either PMR or retiring after having completed their full service.
Best Rgds
Mahesh
Hi Everybody,
The Indian Purple Foundation (TIPF) is a group of military officers who took premature retirement a few years ago and have made a successful transition into civilian life. The Foundation aims to provide a platform for serving and retired military officers to share experiences and exchange views on various aspects of a switch from uniform to civilian life.
The TIPF has organised a "Career Transition Seminar" on 13th Jun 2010 at USI Delhi. The seminar is aimed at an audience of those who are close to retirement, have opted for, or are considering, a premature retirement, and for others who may be plain curious to know more about the eventuality of such a transition. The seminar will have an impressive group of speakers, who have volunteered to share their experiences and ideas with those who wish to hear about the many options and nuances of such a career shift.
This will be a not-for-profit, paid seminar @ Rs 500 per head, which will basically cover the expenses related to organising the seminar. Your support is required to spread the word around to defence officers, both serving and retired, who you think may find value in the seminar.
The seminar is being managed through the online event management service DoAttend.com. Please visit the seminar website at click here, where you will find more information about the event as well as links to register for the event and make online/ offline payment of registration fees. Please also visit the TIPF blog at click here, where you will get the latest updates about the seminar and can also post your comments and suggestions.
The TIPF Team (Gopal Karunakaran, Pradeep Bhat, R Mahesh)
Need your help to post the appended details on "Report My Signals" as also pass the link http://cts.doattend.com to anyone who could be interested in knowing more about post retirement options. This is an initiative to help our serving bretheren in the fauj, who are contemplatring either PMR or retiring after having completed their full service.
Best Rgds
Mahesh
Hi Everybody,
The Indian Purple Foundation (TIPF) is a group of military officers who took premature retirement a few years ago and have made a successful transition into civilian life. The Foundation aims to provide a platform for serving and retired military officers to share experiences and exchange views on various aspects of a switch from uniform to civilian life.
The TIPF has organised a "Career Transition Seminar" on 13th Jun 2010 at USI Delhi. The seminar is aimed at an audience of those who are close to retirement, have opted for, or are considering, a premature retirement, and for others who may be plain curious to know more about the eventuality of such a transition. The seminar will have an impressive group of speakers, who have volunteered to share their experiences and ideas with those who wish to hear about the many options and nuances of such a career shift.
This will be a not-for-profit, paid seminar @ Rs 500 per head, which will basically cover the expenses related to organising the seminar. Your support is required to spread the word around to defence officers, both serving and retired, who you think may find value in the seminar.
The seminar is being managed through the online event management service DoAttend.com. Please visit the seminar website at click here, where you will find more information about the event as well as links to register for the event and make online/ offline payment of registration fees. Please also visit the TIPF blog at click here, where you will get the latest updates about the seminar and can also post your comments and suggestions.
The TIPF Team (Gopal Karunakaran, Pradeep Bhat, R Mahesh)
How Police Forces coordinate to combat Maoists?
Maoists Block CRPF Supplies, Police Drags Its Feet
Sumir Kaul/Raipur May 02, 2010
Nearly a month after the Dantewada strike, the battle for CRPF continues even on other fronts as Chattisgarh Police is believed to have dragged its feet in ensuring safe passage of ration to paramilitary jawans due to heavy Maoist presence, prompting airdropping of supplies.
A camp in Chintalnar comprising two to three companies of 62nd battalion of CRPF, one of which was wiped out by Maoists on April six, have had their supplies airdropped two days back as the state police refused to accompany the paramilitary force in reaching there, official sources said.
Chintalnar was the site of the Naxal attack which killed 76 security personnel.
The Naxal presence in the area was picked up by the security agencies who suggested that Maoists had laid an ambush and were blocking all the supplies to the CRPF camp.
The jawans, virtually facing a blockade, sent messages to its headquarters in Raipur and Dantewada following which a high-level meeting was held.
However, the meeting could not end up in any decision after the CRPF sought protection of state police in ensuring that supplies, which also included anti-malaria drugs and mosquito repellent creams because of coming rainy season, reach the area. State police officials said it was not possible for it to send a road opening party to Chintalnar as heavy presence of Maoists was reported around Errabore.
Pushed to wall, the CRPF was left with no other option than to send the supplies through helicopter which airdropped the items at the camp, the sources said.
Neither the state police nor the para-military force officials were willing to come on record and privately they blamed each other for lack of coordination.
Maoists Block CRPF Supplies, Police Drags Its Feet
Service weapons killed CRPF men: May 1st, 2010
Hyderabad, April 30: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel are digging their own grave by selling their weapons to arms dealers.
At least 81 CRPF personnel were killed by Maoists in 2010 till date in the affected districts. In 2009, more than 30 CRPF personnel were killed in Maoist attacks in Chhattisgarh.
Apart from snatching the weapons of personnel during attacks, the Maoists are getting sophisticated weapons from arms smugglers.
The sale of weapons in Uttar Pradesh confirms that the CRPF personnel are selling weapons to arms smugglers who are in turn supplying them to Maoists.
Service weapons killed CRPF men
Comment: IPS Officers must be made directly responsible and accountable for arms and ammunition in custody of PMF. How can arms and ammunition be sold to terrorists? It is truly mind boggling. Police reforms are mandatory if our constabulary is to keep our citizens safe. Now the primary task of Police it seems is to guard our Politicians. A great tragedy indeed!
Sumir Kaul/Raipur May 02, 2010
Nearly a month after the Dantewada strike, the battle for CRPF continues even on other fronts as Chattisgarh Police is believed to have dragged its feet in ensuring safe passage of ration to paramilitary jawans due to heavy Maoist presence, prompting airdropping of supplies.
A camp in Chintalnar comprising two to three companies of 62nd battalion of CRPF, one of which was wiped out by Maoists on April six, have had their supplies airdropped two days back as the state police refused to accompany the paramilitary force in reaching there, official sources said.
Chintalnar was the site of the Naxal attack which killed 76 security personnel.
The Naxal presence in the area was picked up by the security agencies who suggested that Maoists had laid an ambush and were blocking all the supplies to the CRPF camp.
The jawans, virtually facing a blockade, sent messages to its headquarters in Raipur and Dantewada following which a high-level meeting was held.
However, the meeting could not end up in any decision after the CRPF sought protection of state police in ensuring that supplies, which also included anti-malaria drugs and mosquito repellent creams because of coming rainy season, reach the area. State police officials said it was not possible for it to send a road opening party to Chintalnar as heavy presence of Maoists was reported around Errabore.
Pushed to wall, the CRPF was left with no other option than to send the supplies through helicopter which airdropped the items at the camp, the sources said.
Neither the state police nor the para-military force officials were willing to come on record and privately they blamed each other for lack of coordination.
Maoists Block CRPF Supplies, Police Drags Its Feet
Service weapons killed CRPF men: May 1st, 2010
Hyderabad, April 30: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel are digging their own grave by selling their weapons to arms dealers.
At least 81 CRPF personnel were killed by Maoists in 2010 till date in the affected districts. In 2009, more than 30 CRPF personnel were killed in Maoist attacks in Chhattisgarh.
Apart from snatching the weapons of personnel during attacks, the Maoists are getting sophisticated weapons from arms smugglers.
The sale of weapons in Uttar Pradesh confirms that the CRPF personnel are selling weapons to arms smugglers who are in turn supplying them to Maoists.
Service weapons killed CRPF men
Comment: IPS Officers must be made directly responsible and accountable for arms and ammunition in custody of PMF. How can arms and ammunition be sold to terrorists? It is truly mind boggling. Police reforms are mandatory if our constabulary is to keep our citizens safe. Now the primary task of Police it seems is to guard our Politicians. A great tragedy indeed!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Can Indian sports rival China with the current corrupt federations?
Is a sports regulator needed?
Business Standard / New Delhi April 28, 2010, 0:47 IST
Given the mess in Indian cricket, this will introduce transparency and grievance-redressal for everyone- but since regulators often tend to toe the government line, there are risks involved.
Nandan Kamath Co-founder, GoSports.
A sports regulator for governance norms and a dispute-resolution process is vital — this was proposed in 2007 but never implemented
Given the nature of the current allegations surrounding improprieties in cricket administration, Indian sport now faces its biggest financial and political crisis thus far. However, Indian sports federations, across the board, are no strangers to the various issues of transparency, integrity and due process that have been raised in the present instance. As unfortunate as this state of being might be, I feel that some good could still emerge.
Taking a step back, most of our country’s sports governing bodies are private membership organisations. They claim monopolistic rights over the administration of their respective sports with the very same vigour with which they assert their autonomy. This is the perfect recipe for fiefdoms where power can be exercised without responsibility. In the lack of basic governance protocols and public accountability, possibly lies the cause of the pitiable state of Indian sport which, in most cases, shows little progress and in a handful of others, has perhaps seen unaccountable growth. With the integrity of sport having been brought to the forefront of national importance, we have now been presented with a prime opportunity to reorient Indian sports administration so that it can focus on its two most important stakeholders — the sportsperson and the sports fan.
Read the full article:
Is a sports regulator needed?
Business Standard / New Delhi April 28, 2010, 0:47 IST
Given the mess in Indian cricket, this will introduce transparency and grievance-redressal for everyone- but since regulators often tend to toe the government line, there are risks involved.
Nandan Kamath Co-founder, GoSports.A sports regulator for governance norms and a dispute-resolution process is vital — this was proposed in 2007 but never implemented
Given the nature of the current allegations surrounding improprieties in cricket administration, Indian sport now faces its biggest financial and political crisis thus far. However, Indian sports federations, across the board, are no strangers to the various issues of transparency, integrity and due process that have been raised in the present instance. As unfortunate as this state of being might be, I feel that some good could still emerge.
Taking a step back, most of our country’s sports governing bodies are private membership organisations. They claim monopolistic rights over the administration of their respective sports with the very same vigour with which they assert their autonomy. This is the perfect recipe for fiefdoms where power can be exercised without responsibility. In the lack of basic governance protocols and public accountability, possibly lies the cause of the pitiable state of Indian sport which, in most cases, shows little progress and in a handful of others, has perhaps seen unaccountable growth. With the integrity of sport having been brought to the forefront of national importance, we have now been presented with a prime opportunity to reorient Indian sports administration so that it can focus on its two most important stakeholders — the sportsperson and the sports fan.
Read the full article:
Is a sports regulator needed?
India's TOP corrupt states
India has a dubious distinction when it comes to corruption as indicated by Transparency International. In the Global Corruption Index, a survey of 133 nations conducted by TI (a Berlin-based anti-graft watchdog), India is ranked 72 among 180 countries. Now find out which are India's most and least corrupt states. A survey conducted by Transparency International-India and the Centre for Media Studies in New Delhi has for the first time released the list of India's most and least corrupt states.
The survey says that there are four states in the 'Alarmingly Corrupt' category, led by Bihar.
Bihar is the 12th largest Indian state in terms of area and the third largest when it comes to population. Biharis are far behind other Indian in human and economic development terms, (source, Wikipedia) thus fuelling corruption and migration. The survey is a part of efforts by Transparency International - India to reduce corruption by promoting and supporting transparent and ethical practices in the government sector. It had randomly selected a sample of 22,728 BPL (below poverty line that is poorest) households from all across the country and they were surveyed to ascertain which were the most unhappy and extorted lot and in which state. LIVE Sensex - World Market
2. Jammu & Kashmir
J&K is also in the 'Alarmingly Corrupt' category. The strife-torn Indian state has been a constant battleground between Indian security forces and terrorists. Terror strikes have reduced the once-booming tourism trade in the state to nothing but a distant memory. Corruption is thus rife in this state, currently under President's Rule. About the survey: The survey found that the police department in all these states tops the corruption chart, followed by others -- including the forest department, land records/registration and housing. Electricity, banking, education, water supply and the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme fell under the other corrupt services. Business Updates
3. Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, which according to the Transperancy Internation India survey is 'Alarmingly Corrupt,' has since long been a victim of nepotism and corruption. The chief minister of the mineral-rich state is Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The survey ascertained that nearly Rs 883 crore (Rs 8.83 billion) was paid as bribes in the year 2007 by BPL (below poverty line) families to avail of these public services -which include getting a ration card as well as for admissions in schools. Of the entire bribe money, Rs 214.8 crore (Rs 2.148 billion) was paid to the police.
4. Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh's economic mainstay is agriculture. Most of the state's employed people are engaged in this activity. It is one of India's major tourist hubs, especially since it houses the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra.. The state also has some large manufacturing units and is one of the top IT centres in India too. The state is fighting a losing battle against corruption, and has been categorized in the 'Alarmingly Corrupt' bracket. It is India's most populous state. Mayawati is the state's current chief minister. Bigg Boss 2 Updates
5. Karnataka
Karnataka is one of India's most economically progressive states, which is why the bracketing of the state among the 'Very Highly Corrupt' states comes as a surprise. It's growth has been amongst the fastest in the country, and it has been the hub for the software sector and also for industries. The chief minister of the state is B S Yeddyurappa.
6. Rajasthan
One of India's most famous tourist destinations, Rajasthan's economy is most dependent on agriculture and mining. The state is in the 'Very Highly Corrupt' category. The Rajasthan Chief Minister will have to fight tooth and nail to curb the menace of rising corruption.
7. Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is also a highly industrialised Indian state. It also has a vibrant services sector. The fact that the state is categorized as being 'Very Highly Corrupt' is quite surprising as Tamil Nadu is also one of India's most literate state, bursting with great talent across all sectors of human activity. Its per capita income too is higher than the national average. It is also among the highest recipients of foreign direct investment in India. M Karunanidhi is the state chief minister.
8. Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh is one of India's fastest growing states. Mineral rich and bursting with great agricultural potential, the state has been a victim of long-time neglect. Chief Minister Raman Singh now has his task cut out for himself with the state being categorized as 'Highly Corrupt.' The state is now giving special attention to education and breeding talent, and also has big plans to be biofuel self-sufficient by 2015 by planting crops of jatropha. Television New
9. Delhi
India's capital Delhi is one of India's richest states with its per capita income more than twice the national average. The state is the seat of the Indian government and, perhaps, that makes it vulnerable to corruption as industrialists and common folk alike throng the corridors of power to get their 'work done.' It is the nation's second financial capital after Mumbai. The state is highly industrialised and also has a booming services sector. According to Transparency International India, Delhi is 'Highly Corrupt.' Sheila Dikshit is the chief minister of Delhi.
10. Gujarat
Gujarat is one of the most industrialised and among the richest states in India. India Inc has a big presence here. Some huge projects like the Reliance Industries' massive refinery are housed here. It also has a rich and flourishing agricultural sector, and is also blessed with rich mineral ore. Yet corruption in the state is quite high and it is in the 'Highly Corrupt' category. Something for Chief Minister Narendra Modi to think and do something about.
Read more about other lesser corrupt states:
India's TOP corrupt states
India's long history of spies: R&AW seeks OSA as undercover for corrupt activities
Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.
Please read the news Click here- Medicare denial to feted soldier opens up RAW wound by Deepak Kumar Jha, New Delhi: Agencies fail to gather evidence against ex-Brigadier charged with spying, say friends.
It is a pathetic story of injustice to a retired officer.
Let the Government conduct the trial and punish the officer if he is found guilty. But playing dirty tricks to delay the trial so that the misdeeds of the Government agency remain under cover- is a shameful act.
It is time that all of us start thinking as to how to force the shameless government agency to start the trial of the officer.
Please do give this problem a serious thought and do whatever best you can to help Brig Ujwal Dasgupta, who has been behind bars without any trial. It is a disgrace to system of justice in India and disgrace to the officer community if we do not force the Government to start and finish the trial without further delay.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Veteran Chander Kamboj
Dasgupta along with three other accused was arrested in 2006. The co-accused Shiv Shankar Paul (38), a systems analyst at the National Security Council Secretariat, his superior officer Commander Mukesh Saini (58) who had retired on March 31, 2006, and Brigadier Ujjal Dasgupta (64), head of the computer section of Research & Analysis Wing, were also accused of espionage and booked under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly passing on information to Rosanna Minchew (31), an American diplomat. Dasgupta, while deputed in the R&AW, was arrested on July 19, while Paul was arrested on June 11 in 2006. Saini was also picked up by the investigators on July 6. Dasgupta was involved in project - Anveshak, a software developed for R&AW by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) as well as the Army. Army has since clarified that the software developed was not classified. The trial is yet to begin in the case.
20 days after SC order, ex-Brigadier gets medical aid
Related article
India's long history of spies in the establishment
The irony couldn't have been more apparent. The international media has reported the bickerings in RAW—a dubious honour for an intelligence agency.
The government has finally ordered an investigation into the allegations of corruption in RAW made by Major General V.K. Singh (retd), an army officer who served with India's external intelligence agency. Singh's book, India's External Intelligence: Secrets of Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), published last year, detailed the charges he was levelling. The book's publication led to its author being investigated by the CBI under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) for "jeopardising national security". But even as the probe against Singh continues, the allegations he made are also being looked into (sources say they have been taken very seriously at the highest level). Thus, two investigations are now on simultaneously—one against the accuser (Singh) and the other against those accused by him!
EXCLUSIVE raw corruption probe: Double Checking- Finally, V.K. Singh's allegations prompt a probe of RAW by Saikat Datta
RAW Lapses
•Probe into the procurement of 27 antennas between 2000 and '02 from Germany's Rhodes & Schwarz at arbitrary rates
•Also investigate the purchase of communication equipment for the Special Protection Group, without proper checks or mandatory approvals
•Identity of the officers involved in these procurements is known
•The probe is being conducted by a former special secretary of RAW
Lesson learnt: Officers from the Armed Forces should not volunteer for service in RAW as corruption is veiled as undercover! The Home Minister P Chidambaram is sure to see through the corruption game played by RAW and resolve trial cases quickly as he is an eminent lawyer of repute.
Jai Hind.
Please read the news Click here- Medicare denial to feted soldier opens up RAW wound by Deepak Kumar Jha, New Delhi: Agencies fail to gather evidence against ex-Brigadier charged with spying, say friends.
It is a pathetic story of injustice to a retired officer.
Let the Government conduct the trial and punish the officer if he is found guilty. But playing dirty tricks to delay the trial so that the misdeeds of the Government agency remain under cover- is a shameful act.
It is time that all of us start thinking as to how to force the shameless government agency to start the trial of the officer.
Please do give this problem a serious thought and do whatever best you can to help Brig Ujwal Dasgupta, who has been behind bars without any trial. It is a disgrace to system of justice in India and disgrace to the officer community if we do not force the Government to start and finish the trial without further delay.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Veteran Chander Kamboj
Dasgupta along with three other accused was arrested in 2006. The co-accused Shiv Shankar Paul (38), a systems analyst at the National Security Council Secretariat, his superior officer Commander Mukesh Saini (58) who had retired on March 31, 2006, and Brigadier Ujjal Dasgupta (64), head of the computer section of Research & Analysis Wing, were also accused of espionage and booked under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly passing on information to Rosanna Minchew (31), an American diplomat. Dasgupta, while deputed in the R&AW, was arrested on July 19, while Paul was arrested on June 11 in 2006. Saini was also picked up by the investigators on July 6. Dasgupta was involved in project - Anveshak, a software developed for R&AW by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) as well as the Army. Army has since clarified that the software developed was not classified. The trial is yet to begin in the case.
20 days after SC order, ex-Brigadier gets medical aid
Related article
India's long history of spies in the establishment
The irony couldn't have been more apparent. The international media has reported the bickerings in RAW—a dubious honour for an intelligence agency.
The government has finally ordered an investigation into the allegations of corruption in RAW made by Major General V.K. Singh (retd), an army officer who served with India's external intelligence agency. Singh's book, India's External Intelligence: Secrets of Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), published last year, detailed the charges he was levelling. The book's publication led to its author being investigated by the CBI under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) for "jeopardising national security". But even as the probe against Singh continues, the allegations he made are also being looked into (sources say they have been taken very seriously at the highest level). Thus, two investigations are now on simultaneously—one against the accuser (Singh) and the other against those accused by him!
EXCLUSIVE raw corruption probe: Double Checking- Finally, V.K. Singh's allegations prompt a probe of RAW by Saikat Datta
RAW Lapses
•Probe into the procurement of 27 antennas between 2000 and '02 from Germany's Rhodes & Schwarz at arbitrary rates
•Also investigate the purchase of communication equipment for the Special Protection Group, without proper checks or mandatory approvals
•Identity of the officers involved in these procurements is known
•The probe is being conducted by a former special secretary of RAW
Lesson learnt: Officers from the Armed Forces should not volunteer for service in RAW as corruption is veiled as undercover! The Home Minister P Chidambaram is sure to see through the corruption game played by RAW and resolve trial cases quickly as he is an eminent lawyer of repute.
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