When will we honour our soldiers?

Thursday, December 16, 2010, Chandigarh, India
Today is the 39th anniversary of the greatest victory India has won, not just since Independence but also in the last hundreds of years. It was on this day in 1971 that the Indian Military won resounding victories in all theatres of that war, with the crowning glory being the capture of East Pakistan; the birth of Bangladesh; and taking more than 93,000 Pakistani soldiers as prisoners of war. It is on this date that the victory is celebrated as Vijay Diwas, but sadly only by our armed forces.

On this day, in military stations, onboard ships and at airbases, military personnel remember the officers and jawans who had fought wars for the nation, some sacrificing themselves and others their limbs. It is a day of rejoicing and jubilation, as also of reflection and remembrance. Yet only 1.3 million souls who don the uniform, nearly three million veterans and their families commemorate this important day. The rest, comprising over a billion Indians, are not even aware of it, thanks to the government that has no time to even commend the soldiers for their sacrifices. What a monumental shame!

Most European and Commonwealth countries, celebrate November 11 as Remembrance Day, while in the US it is Veterans Day. On November 11, 1918, an armistice (truce) was signed that ended World War I. On this day these countries honour their men and women in uniform. Grateful nations, led by the governing elite, recall the gallantry, sacrifices and the selfless spirit of their soldiers.

Similarly, most nations have days or weeks earmarked for felicitating their soldiers and veterans. All military personnel who had fought, died and lost limbs in wars and battles for their nations are honoured. It is a treat to see how proudly nations place their military men and women on pedestals, recall their exploits and honour them. There are parades with heads of states presiding, where the populace cheer and express their gratitude for the soldiers of yore. There are memorial services; visits to the sites where great battles were fought; escorted tours for the veterans still living, where much is made of them; and speeches extolling the bravery of soldiers and how the nation is beholden to them.

What do we do in India? Practically nothing, because our leaders are not bothered with such niceties as honour, sacrifice and national pride as it distracts them from their favourite pastimes, which are too well known to be reiterated. The Commander-in-Chief of our republic, the President, remains ensconced in the hallowed precincts of Rashtrapati Bhawan, instead of meeting a selection of military personnel at an "At Home"; the Prime Minister does not visit jawans guarding our inhospitable borders, or meets and discuss the problems of the war disabled; and governors and chief ministers do not even know it is a special day for the nation, not just for the military. A few years ago, political leaders stooped to the lowest levels possible when they dubbed the two recent wars as the "Congress War" and the "BJP War"!

Then there are the bureaucrats, the intimate advisors to political leaders. They are past masters at ignoring or playing down sentiments and coming up with ingenious arguments as to why there is nothing to celebrate! At one stage, they stated that any such celebration may upset the dialogue we were then having with Pakistan. They also had the temerity to question the need to celebrate something that happened decades back!

On Vijay Diwas, the defence minister makes an appearance at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate to lay a wreath. He does so oblivious of the fact that he is laying a wreath at a place constructed by the British when India was a colony. He does not even feel the incongruity of having no war memorial for soldiers who have made sacrifices in the wars fought bitterly in the post-Independence era, even after six decades of Independence. What a monumental shame!

After Independence the government decided that instead of following the Commonwealth, India will have its own day for commending soldiers. On August 28, 1949, a committee chose December 7 and christened it as the Armed Forces Flag Day. However, the significance of the day, viz. "commemorating the sacrifices of the soldiers" was soon forgotten. It became just a day for collecting funds, ostensibly for the welfare of the soldiers. The status today is that state governments are unable to collect even the small targets laid down and the bulk of the funds are contributed by soldiers, seemingly for their own welfare! How ironical in an era when nine percent rate of growth of the GDP is announced with much fanfare every other day. Is the nation still in penury that collections are needed to provide some welfare to the soldiers?

Over six years ago, a Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (ESW) was created to give focused attention to welfare programmes for ex-servicemen and their dependants. In reality it was a cosmetic exercise as three existing entities of the Ministry of Defence merely started reporting to another set of bureaucrats. Even after six years, except for garnering additional vacancies for their cadre, the department is yet to come out with a single programme for the welfare of veterans. They also commenced looking after the pensions of veterans and the mess they have made post--Sixth Pay Commission is too well known.

Here is a department tailor-made to make much of the soldiers' sacrifices by conceiving a comprehensive and long-term plan to commemorate their valiant deeds, not only on Vijay Diwas, but also on other such occasions. The need is for vision, empathy and dedication, which requires staffing this department by military personnel. They know what soldiers want and how best to meet their needs. The incongruity of welfare of soldiers by the bureaucracy needs immediate burial. Let us do so without delay and start honouring our soldiers.
Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi (Retd)
The writer is a former Vice Chief of the Indian Army
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20101216/edit.htm#7

Kargil war a saga of bravery and courage

A Report on Kargil Day function held on- 26th JULY 2010 at Dehradun
Kargil war was unique saga of bravery and courage in a difficult terrain
Dehradun Ex-Services League arranged a programme where all Ex- Servicemen of Dehradun, irrespective of any affiliations, assembled at old Rangers College hall, 25 Subhash Road on Monday the 26th July 2010 at 1030 hrs to pay tributes to Kargil War Heroes. The Chief Minister Uttarakhand, Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank was the chief guest on the occasion and shri Ganesh Joshi, MLA Rajpur and an Ex Soldier, the Guest of Honour. The Chief Minister, the Guest of Honour and the Patrons Lt Gen Anand Swaroop, PVSM, MVC, and Air Marshal G Sen PVSM, AVSM, VM, and Lt Gen OP Kaushik PVSM,AVSM,VSM, Lt Gen K.K.Khanna, PVSM,AVSM,VSM, and Brig KG Behl President DESL, laid wreaths at Kargil War Memorial and on behalf of all and came to join the function being arranged at old Rangers College hall to honour the Kargil War Heroes and their families assembled there. A large number of Ex- Servicemen, including Air Martial B.D.Jayal, PVSM,AVSM,VM, Lt GEN CB Jhaldiyal, Maj Gen C Nandwani, Retd Commissioner Shri SS Pangti, participated in the function to pay tributes. Brig Behl presented to the Chief Minister list of demands of Ex Servicemen and requested him to announce acceptance of some of those today.

Welcoming all especially the Chief Minister, guest of Honour, senior officers and invited Veeranganas and members of the families, Brig Behl emphasized the importance of Kargil War which was unique and a saga of bravery and courage. The exemplary courage was shown in a terrain which was extremely difficult with a very steep slope, at a height ranging between 10000 to 18000 feet full of boulders in cold windy weather, on top of which the enemy was spitting fire with full force. To pierce through such a field and capture posts where enemy was fully entrenched, needed lions heart and courage, which our Heroes showed at the stake of their lives to bring honour to the country by fluttering Indian National Flag on those posts.

The honour given to these heroes too was onerous and set tradition for the others to follow. Earlier the bodies of the shahids(dead), used to be cremated in field itself and the kith and kin were informed and their belongings were sent to them. But a new tradition was set in Kargil War and then onwards bodies of all those, who laid their lives in field, are sent to their homes and are cremated with full military honours. It was a big change, which gave satisfaction to the families and units who could perform last rites of their Heroes.

Another important decision was to give pension to the old parents and dependents in addition to the widow and provide job to one of the members where ever possible.

In this war 533 lost their lives and about 3000 were injured. Some of them were honoured with different Gallantry awards which included 4 PARAM VIR Chakras, 9 Mahavir Chakras and many Kirti Chakras, Vir Chakras and other medals and awards and decorations. Air Force played a big role in this war and gave support to destroy enemy positions especially when they had the limitations not to cross LOC. We salute their bravery and courage. It is an occasion to remember all of them and pay our homage.

In this war, quite a large number of soldiers from Uttarakhand(76) showed their valour at the cost of their lives and 18 of them came from Dehradun District alone. We are proud of them and pay our homage. Most of the veeranganas and or members of the families are with us today and the Chief Minister will himself honoured each of them.

The Media too played a big role in this war and took courage to move with troops to forward areas and transmit live action pictures on TV screens at home for all to watch, realise and appreciate how difficult the areas and assaults were. We are really thankful to all those involved and sufferings they faced. We thank Print and Electronic Media who kept us informed of all activities.

As a mark of respect and rememberance to the Kargil War Heroes a candle will be supplied to all participants which they will light at the gate of their entrance to their houses at 8 pm on 26 July 2010.

Mr. Ganesh Joshi, MLA and Guest of Honour, who is an Ex Saervicemen, praised the good work being done by the Chief Minister and his Govt. and high lighted the genuine demands of Ex-Servicemen and impressed upon the chief Minister to make declaration on some of the demands on this historic Day especially of Martyrs Memorial for the State, rebate on the sales Tax on sale of vehicles booked through CSD, and opening of a Gorkha centre .

Major Gen OP Sabarwal, SM former President of DESL, said that the Kargil War took place due to Pakistan Army taking over vacant Indian posts immediately after snow melted. They had plans to cut off the National High way that would have denied access to Ladakh and Siachin. He said that about 66,000, persons have lost their lives due to terrorism. He blamed the Central Govt. for their weak policy on Defence. He pointed out that Rs. 50 crores have been spent on the security of Kasab and 30 crores on Afzal Guru but they have no money when it comes to Defence requirements. Gen Sabarwal wanted Govt. to go offensive rather than defensive every time.

Brig PS Gurung, YSM whose son attained martyrdom, said that the satisfaction which the parents get from the martyrdom of their sons was much greater than the tears they shed in life.

The Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ the Chief Guest apologized for the delay, especially from the senior officers and others who left during the time.. He said that Uttarakhand is like the head of the country and it needs to be treated like that by the every one including the Central Govt. in solving state matters and provide all the assistance needed for its development. Security is most important as it touches the International Boundary. He was happy on the big gathering of Ex-Servicemen and the families of Kargil War Martyrs. He announced that next time onwards Kargil Day will be celebrated by the Govt. as Shaurya, Day, in schools and colleges as well where students should learn from the exemplary bravery, courage and sacrifices made. He announced sanction of Rs. One Crore for the construction of State War Memorial. He also declared exemption of sales Tax imposed by the state Govt. on the purchase of vehicles through CSD for which they go to other adjoining states to save that and in the process the state loses revenue indirectly. On the demand of exemption of House Tax, the CM also assured that he will study the house tax being charged by other states and will ensure that it is least in this state, if not full exemption.

Regarding reestablishment of Gorkha centre at Dehradun, the CM assured that he will personally take up this proposal with the Defence Minister.

The CM said that his Govt. was committed to working for the welfare of the soldiers and their families and the Govt. has taken many steps in this direction. He assured Brig Behl that all demands/ suggestions submitted will be looked into. He said that Uttarakhand had been a land of warriors and its youths always came forward to sacrifice their lives for the Nation. He remarked that though Punjab had the maximum number of casualties during Kargil war but Uattarakhand, keeping in mind the population of the state, had the largest number of Martyrs. He added that when some soldier sacrifices his life for the Nation, he is not lost but becomes immortal.

In his vote of thanks, Brig Behl, thanked all who came to make this function successful, especially Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, for his generous announcements and Mr. Ganesh Joshi and members of the families of Kargil war warriors. He thanked FRI and their staff who helped and made the premises available. He thanked Lt Col BM Thapa, who compered the function and Hon(Capt) AS Gosain as both of them worked hard to make it a success. Brig Behl also thanked his team of officials and heads of Shakhas who helped in organizing it and made it successful.

Kargil Diwas Bangalore 25 July 2010

The Veterans of Bangalore thank and express their gratitude to the following for all their help, assistance and un-stinted support to the Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement (IESM) in successfully organizing Kargil Diwas at the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka (National Military Memorial) at Bangalore on Sunday, 25 July 2010:

Shri BS Yeddyurappa, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka.

Dr VS Acharya, Hon’ble Minister for Home, Karnataka.

Shri Ananth Kumar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha).

Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha).

Capt Ganesh Karnik, Hon’ble Member of the Legislative Council and Deputy Chairman NRI Forum, Karnataka; and Chief Patron of IESM Karnataka.

Wives of Decorated Soldiers killed in Action.

Mrs Subhasini Vasanth, wife of late Col Vasanth, Ashok Chakra.

Mrs Thomas, wife of late Col JJ Thomas, Ashok Chakra.

Chairman Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Bangalore.

Director Horticulture, Bangalore.

Shri Sanjay Prabhu, Director & COO, India Radio Ventures Pvt Ltd, Bangalore.

Shri V Anand, Principal, Public Affairs, Office of Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament.

Shri Trigam Mukherjee, Media Co-ordinator, Office of Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament.

Shri NR Suresh, ABIDe, Bangalore.

Shri Rohit J Nair, Executive Director, Global Group and Chairman, Bangalore Patriots Society, Bangalore.

Air Mshl VR Iyer, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, AOC-in-C Trg Comd (IAF), Bangalore.

Lt Gen Kamal Mohey, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Comdt ASC College & Centre, Bangalore.

Brig AK Pradhan, SM, Cdr Karnataka & Kerala Sub-Area, Bagalore.

Brig Gurdip Singh, SM, VSM, Comdt MEG & Centre, Bangalore.

Brig AK Singh, Comdt Corps of Military Police (CMP) Centre, Bangalore.

Brig Arvind Katoch, VSM, Comdt ASC Centre (South), Bangalore.

Brig YVR Vijay, VSM, Comdt 515 Army Base Workshop, EME, Bangalore.

Col Vineet Seth, Comdt, Para Regimental Training Centre (PRTC), Bangalore.

Col Jasbir Singh, Comdt, Pioneer Corps Training Centre (PCTC), Bangalore.

Capt (IN) NB Nair, Director Naval Project (ALH) and Station Cdr Navy.

Admiral OS Dawson, PVSM, AVSM - former Chief of Naval Staff.

Lt Gen NSI Narahari, PVSM - former Comdt, College of Combat, Mhow.

Air Mshl DG King Lee, PVSM, AVSM - former AOC-in-C.

Air Mshl Keith Lewis, PVSM, AVSM, VM- former Inspector General of Air Force.

Maj Gen MC Nanjappa, AVSM**, YSM.

Rear Adml BR Vasanth, VSM

AVM N Thusu, AVSM, VM.

AVM S Kasinath, VSM.

Brig JS Narasimhan, AVSM.

Commodore Sam Daniel.

Brig MS Parthasarathy, The Bengal Sappers, for the excellent Photo Album.

Col CM Uthiah, Director, Sainik Welfare Dept. Karnataka.

Brig B Chandrashekar, Director Southern Region, Flags of Honour Foundation, Bangalore.

Lt Col GV Sreedhar, Member, Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka Executive Committee, Bangalore.

Last but not the least, Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar, Trustee, Flags of Honour Foundation, Bangalore and the Grand Patron of IESM, Karnataka. Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar was the driving force behind the Kargil Diwas and it was his meticulous planning, enthusiasm & zeal which resulted in the Grand success of Kargil Diwas at Bangalore. Three Cheers & salute to Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar.

2. Sunday, 25 July 2010 was a memorable day as it witnessed a heart warming 1000 strong gathering assembled at the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, Bangalore, to pay their Homage to the Martyrs. The whole place was elegantly & colorfully decorated with flowers & flower pots to suit the solemn occasion. The gathering comprised:
(a) 250 Officers, JCOs & OR from the MEG & Centre, Bangalore.
(b) 150 Officers, JCOs & OR from the ASC Centre, Bangalore.
(c) 150 Officers, JCOs & OR from the CMP Centre, Bangalore.
(d) 100 Officers, JCOs & OR from the Pioneer Corps Centre, Bangalore.
(e) 100 Officers, JCOs & OR from the Parachute Regiment Trg Centre, Bangalore.
(f) 50 Officers, JCOs & OR from 515 Army Base Wksp, EME, Bangalore.
(g) 25 Officers & Seamen of the Navy from Naval Project, Bangalore.
(h) 250 Gaurav Senani (Veterans) comprising Officers, JCOs, NCOs & Sepoys, proudly wearing on their chests, their medals of gallantry and distinguished & meritorious service.

3. At 9.30 AM on Sunday, 25 July 2010, Shri Ananth Kumar, Hon’ble MP (Lok Sabha), Shri Rajeev Chandrasekar,Hon’ble MP (Rajya Sabha), Capt Ganesh Karnik, Hon’ble MLC and Shri Chi Na Ramu, Chairman, Reservation Research Committee, paid homage to the brave Soldiers, Sailors & Airmen who had laid down their lives in defence of the Motherland, by laying a wreath at the base of the Statue of the Unknown soldier. As they stood up and saluted, the Buglers from the CMP sounded the last post; and, the entire gathering responded by standing at ‘attention’ and saluting the Statue of the Unknown Soldier. It was a solemn moment and a poignant scene.

4. The commemoration ceremony was followed by a meeting and the following dignitaries spoke:
(a) Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar. He on behalf of all Veterans thanked and expressed his gratitude to Shri BS Yeddyurappa, the Hon’ble Chief Minister and to the Govt. of Karnataka for undertaking the construction of the prestigious Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka (National Military Memorial) at a prime location; and said that the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka when completed would be a cynosure and a precursor for more such Military Memorials to come up in other States, all over the Country.
(b) Shri Ananth Kumar, Hon’ble MP (Lok Sabha). He said that the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka at Bangalore, would be a fitting tribute to the sacrifices of Soldiers, Sailors & Airmen who had laid down their lives in Defence of the Motherland; and said that the area of National Military Memorial Park would be greener than Cubbon Park or the Lal Bagh. He said that the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka would be inaugurated on 16 Dec 2010; and if not, then on 26 Jan 2011.
(c) Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble MP ( Rajya Sabha). He too, thanked the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Govt. of Karnataka for undertaking the construction of the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka; and thus sending out a clear message that the sacrifices of Soldiers, Sailors & Airmen shall not go in vain; and that their memory shall be preserved for posterity.
(d) Shri Rohit J Nair, Chairman, Bangalore Patriots Society. He said that the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, when completed, would be a pilgrimage centre to people from all walks of life; and would instill a spirit of sacrifice in our young men & women; and would greatly motivate the Youth in taking pride in the Army, Navy & Air Force and in joining them.
(e) Mrs Subhasini Vasanth, w/o late Col Vasanth, Ashok Chakra. She said that she was indeed touched & moved to see such a large number of serving soldiers and Ex-Servicemen paying Homage to the Martyrs; and the sentiments expressed by other dignitaries.
(f) Veterans, Admiral OS Dawson, PVSM, AVSM, former Chief of Naval Staff, Air Marshal DG King Lee, PVSM, AVSM and Lt Gen NSI Narahari, PVSM also spoke on the occasion and thanked the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Govt of Karnataka for their laudable effort in constructing the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka at Bangalore, in memory of the brave soldiers.

5. In conclusion, the 1000 strong gathering was hosted ‘High Tea’, kind courtesy, Flags of Honour Foundation; and thus the proceedings of the morning came to an end.

Kargil Diwas musical nite RSI Bangalore
6. Kind courtesy, Brig AK Pradhan, SM, Commander Karnataka & Kerala Sub-Area, Officers & their families were treated to a solemn musical at RSI in the evening of Sunday, 25 July 2010. Miss Superrna Sankaran, (grand daughter of IC-3800 Col GS Viswanath, The Bombay Sappers), won the hearts of all present by singing in her melodious voice; especially Vande Maataram and Mere Vatan ke logo. The curtains came down with the singing of Jana Gana Mana
Col Rajan
IESM Convenor, Karnataka
Photo slideshow

Letters from IESM members
Dear Col Rajan Dai,
We need many in this country like Col S S Rajan Dai for doing such an excellent conduct of A to Z activities of any event at any time 'cos presently it appears that there is only one and only one Col S S Rajan Dai, my course mate, bosom friend and room mate who is so meticulous, dedicated organiser, inspiring administrator and motivator. He has earned full respect not only from entire dignitaries of State Govt , Defence units and all ESM but also from ESM all over India & abroad by working day and night for up keeping the name of the organisation for taking care of all welfare measures of ESM. keep it up Dai. We all are indeed proud of you.
Lt Col B M Thapa, Veteran
General Secretary, Dehradun Ex-Services League
Member of IESM

My dear Col Rajan,
Heartiest Congratulations for precise co-ordination of the solemn Kargil Diwas function, at Bangalore. It was a good show. Our Warm Felicitations to the Organisers, Flags Of Honour Foundation and K & K Sub Area, as well.
With regards,
Col Nitteguthu Sharath Bhandary

Dear Col Rajan,
Your efforts have generated positive support from the Karnataka Government for the causes of ESM. A synergic boost indeed for the IESM!!
Best wishes for all your endeavours.
Warm regards.
Col Sushil Chilimbi

Rastreeya Sainika Smaraka Bangalore Celebrates Kargil Martyrs' Day

At the feet of the monumental statue of The Unknown Soldier at the Rastreeya Sainika Smaraka Bangalore, a memorable event the Kargil Martyrs' Day was celebrated in the true spirit of the word by Serving Soldiers, Officers, School Children in Uniform, War Widows, Veterans, Members of Parliament and State Council, lot many Ladies and notable Civil Patriots. One thousand strong thronged around the Unknown Statue to pay Homage to all the Brave Hearts who laid down their Lives during the Kargil War of 1999. As one tried to make an entry to the venue was surely surprised to see Military Trucks, Busses, and other vehicles parked in an orderly manner. The decoration of the Gate, the pathway and surroundings decorated with tri-colored balloons all looked like some thing like Fauzi Sports event Venue. The assembly of participants, eagerness on the face of Veterans in ushering Sr Veterans, guests and dignitaries and a horde of Press Photographers, young beautifully dressed ladies waiting to hand over flowers to one and all, other volunteers waiting with wreaths in their hands to be handed over to participants. The pedestal of the Unknown Soldier was decorated suiting the solemn occasion. Well rehearsed Buglers sounded the Last Post brilliantly. Wreath laying ceremony commenced in extreme veneration by Honorable Law Makers, followed by War Widows, veteran Generals, Admirals and Air Marshalls and so on. The entire environment charged with fragrance of flowers and scent, typical cool weather of Bangaluru and the sobriety synergized and so enhanced patriotic fervor all around.

All participants of after paying Homage to Martyrs moved on to a well laid out seating arrangement under a beautiful shamiyana. On the dias were Honorable Law Makers Shri Anantha Kumar, Shri Chandrasekhar, Capt Ganesh Karnik, War Widows and Sr Veterans. Air Cmdr Chandrasekhar set the tone, followed by other speakers assuring that the "Memorial will be the greenest spot in Bangaluru", " All our Martyrs who died for our Country loved Greenery Sasya Shyamalam Mataram", " We will do our best to contribute to this Noble cause", " this tribute at the NMM has set the tone, our husbands' sacrifice will not go in vain", " Nobody has done an honor by coming here, We are here to salute our Martyrs for preserving our National Unity", "NMM is a big starter for a greater public involvement", " it will surely be a sacred multi divine temple for all", and much more sweet and endearing words floated in the Honor of our Brave Hearts. After lovely talk was attractively laid out eats and Tea for children, ladies, our men in uniform, the Press and all 900 strong. While departing lots of us were keen to get photographed in front of the Un Known Soldier.

Entire idea, conduct of the celebration, funding and all arrangements were done under the patronage of Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar MP. Staff of Flags of Honor Under Brig Chandrasekhar were the force behind the screen. Efforts of one man army of Col SS Rajan made all the difference in mobilizing Uniformed Men. It goes to the credit of Brig Parthasarathi our Bengal Sapper for capturing lovely scenes through his lens. Press Reporters and Lens men of all News and other Media made their presence felt. Following day all news papers carried the Kargil Day Celebrations at Bangaluru story all in praise of Martyrs. Kudos to last but not the least our ld man the driving force Air Cmdr Chandrasekhar. Our bouquet and love to all these guys.
Veteran Sreedhar.

Kargil Vijay Divas: Homage at Shahid Smarak Noida and India Gate

The Kargil Diwas was once again celecbrated with the same josh and enthusiasm as last year at Shahid Samarak in front of the Army Public School Noida today morning from 1100 Hrs to 1300 Hrs.

A few hundred Veterans of yester years started gathering at the Venue from 1030 AM onwards which included Lt Gen Kala fromer Army Commander from Dehra Dun / Lt Gen Guru Bakshi / Maj Gen Inderjit kashyap / Mag Gen M Bhatia / Maj Gen Sushil Nath / Maj Gen S Bindra/ Maj Gen RN Wadhera / Maj Gen Gurdip Singh / Maj Gen KP Deswal / Maj Gen VS Dhania / Maj Gen Pramod Kapur / Brig Mahalingam / Hony Capt Pande / WO Balakrishnan and many more including the Governing Body members of Maj Gen Satbir Singh /Maj Gen AJB Jaini / Gp Capt VK Gandhi / Col RP Chaturvedi / Col Kirit Joshipura / Wg Cdr CK Sharma and Cdr Sharan Ahuja.

The celebrations started 1115 hrs where in the choir from APJ School Noida including young children sang the valour songs making a tear appear in the eyes of many a veteran making the occasion solemn as intended to be to remember the brave sons of this great nation.The sky was rented with Jai Hinds under the able guidance of Gen Jaini.

The gathered veterans after paying the homage in a orderly manner at the Shahid Samarak which was manned by the school children Nehru International Public School Sec 12 , Noida got together under the Shamiana to have the delicious samosas and Gulab Jamun with chilled Limca to quench the thirst.

The solemn occasion was also used to do Prize distribution to the 3 younsters for the painting competion Nehru International Public School . The prizes were given by Gen Kala / Gen Guru Bakshi and Gen Satbir. These children are bound to remember this event and prize throughout their lives.
Cdr Sharan Ahuja (Retd)
IESM

Homage to Martyrs Kargil Vijay Divas: Media Reports

click on images for enlarged view

Kargil Divas: Delhi Poetree on 30 July 2010

"Delhi Poetree" ('The Poets' Society of Delhi) is organizing a function on 30 July evening in the context of Kargil Divas.
It is a two hour program at the American Centre, KG Marg, New Delhi.
Please check in by 1900 hrs. Security is strict. Mobiles and Bags are not permitted.
To assist quick clearance, we propose to hand over a list of confirmed audience to the security. You are requested to carry an ID proof.
Its an interesting event. A MUST ATTEND. Come, you will enjoy it.
Invite friends. You will find it invigorating.
AND REMEMBER TO CONFIRM NAMES AND CONTACT DETAILS OF THOSE ATTENDING WITH YOU. Thanks.
The Net Invite is attached herein.
Col RP Chaturvedi
(Coordinator of Kargil Divas on behalf of IESM in NCR)

Justice for Kargil heroes

The Hindu Editorial: Saturday, Jun 05, 2010
Next month India will commemorate its victory in the Kargil war and the extraordinary sacrifices of the soldiers. They fought in some of the most brutal terrain in the world to achieve the objective of throwing the Pakistani intruders out. In his speech of July 26, Union Defence Minister A.K. Antony, a politician known for his commitment to probity, must set to rest the ghosts that haunt the battlefield. It has long been known that many who played a key role in ensuring victory were disgraced so that superiors who ought to have been penalised for their wartime failures could receive medals and honours. Last week, the Armed Force Tribunal held that the officer with direct supervisory responsibility for the conduct of the war, former XV Corps commander Lieutenant-General Kishan Pal, falsified battle records to deny a key subordinate credit for his stellar conduct of operations. This action, which seems to have been driven by a desire to cover up command failures, cost 70 Brigade commander Devinder Singh a medal and a promotion. That it took 11 years to deliver justice to Brigadier Singh is shocking: the Tribunal's judgment has only affirmed what the Army has known all along. Several accounts of the war, including Lieutenant-General Y.M. Bammi's magisterial, Kargil: The Impregnable Conquered, former army chief General V.P. Malik's memoirs, and Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal's official history of the war, made it clear that Brigadier Singh had been instrumental in India's victory in the Batalik sector. The Tribunal received testimony from Brigadier Singh's subordinates and superiors lauding his bravery and acumen — testimony that was available to Army headquarters years ago. Yet successive Chiefs of Army Staff and Defence Ministers did nothing to undo the mischief.

In the build-up to Kargil Day, Mr. Antony will do the Army, his Ministry, and the country proud if he summons the courage to offer Brigadier Singh an apology and restore to him the honours to which he is entitled. But he needs to do more. There are other cases pending before the Tribunal seeking redress; they revolve around decisions made by XV Corps — notably those of 121 Brigade commander Surinder Singh and Major Manish Bhatnagar. Some officers with reason to consider themselves aggrieved, like Colonel Pushpinder Oberoi, chose not to move the court for justice. The Defence Ministry must set up a body to conduct a transparent audit of these cases and set wrongs right. It must also conduct a thoroughgoing examination of the official Kargil Review Committee, which relied heavily on a tainted account of events. Armies in which promotions depend on personal prejudices, rather than dispassionate assessments of professional capability, will see poor quality leadership rise to the top. In the end, their war-fighting capacities will be eroded. Telling the truth will, doubtless, be a painful process — but the Army as well as India will emerge the stronger for it.
Read Hindu Editorial
Justice for Kargil heroes

Remembering the brave by Lord Meghnad Desai

Subject: Lord Megnath Desai
Dear Chander

It may be interesting for the Report My Signals readers to read an article by Lord Megnath Desai, member of the British House of Lords on remembering the brave in Indian Express on Sunday.

The main theme of the article is that the Indian soldiers by fighting bravely in the two world wars were as much responsible for our freedom as the political leadership that led by non-violent techniques. His concluding remarks are telling by asking the government not to treat the armed services as 'step children'.

Kind regards,
Maj Gen VK Khanna (Retd)
Remembering the brave by Lord Meghnad Desai

Flag Day: Is it a noble and honourable act to beg?

Armed Forces Flag Day
The Armed Forces Flag Day or the Flag Day of India is a special day dedicated towards collection of funds from people of India, for the welfare of the armed forces personnel in India. It is observed on December 7, every year in India, from 1949. Funds are collected from the general public for the welfare of the Indian Armed Forces personnel. Over the years, it has become a tradition to commemorate this day as an honour to the brave soldiers, airmen and sailors of India.

History
Immediately after India achieved independence, a need arose for the government to help and manage the welfare of the defence personnel of Independent India. On August 28, 1949, a committee set up under the defence minister decided to observe a Flag Day on December 7, every year. The notion behind observing Flag Day was to distribute token flags and car flags and in return collect donations from the general public. The Flag Day gains more significance as it considers that it is the responsibility of the civilian population of India to take care of the families and dependents of the armed forces personnel who fight for the country. Jawaharlal Nehru, who was then Prime Minister of India, describing this exemplary practice said on December 7, 1954:
A few weeks ago, I visited Indo-China and saw our officers and men attached to the International Commission there. It gave me a thrill to see their smart bearing and the good work they were doing in that distant land. What pleased me still more was their general popularity with the people there. By their efficiency as well as their friendliness, they enhanced the reputation of India. Among them were people from all parts of India. They observed no provincial or other differences amongst themselves. I am sure my countrymen will be pleased to learn of them and would like to indicate their appreciation of these young men who serve our country both here and elsewhere so well. A way to indicate that appreciation is to contribute to the Flag Day Fund.

Significance and Purpose
The Flag day is mainly observed to serve three basic purposes:

Rehabilitation of battle casualties

Welfare of serving personnel and their families

Resettlement and welfare of ex-servicemen and their families.
The Armed Forces Flag Day commemoration and the collection of funds through distribution of flags has been an honoured tradition and is organised every with much pride nationally. It stands as a representation for the community to express its gratitude and appreciation to the brave soldier of India. It is a day to acknowledge the supreme sacrifice of the martyrs, as well as the service of both veterans and the serving armed forces personnel.

On the Flag Day all three formations of the armed forces, the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy, through their units arrange a variety of shows, carnivals, dramas and other entertainment programmes to showcase the heroic efforts of their personnel to the general public while ensuring national security. From schools, to colleges, from corporate community to general public, token flags and car flags in red, deep blue and light blue colours representing the three Services are distributed in return for donations.

Flag Day Fund
The original Flag Day Fund was set up in 1949, by the Defence Minister's Committee. However, in 1993, the Defence Ministry of India, consolidated related welfare funds into a single Armed Forces Flag Day fund. Those funds include:

Amalgamated Special Fund for War Bereaved, War Disabled and other ex-Servicemen /Serving Personnel

Flag Day Fund

St Dunstan's (India) and Kendriya Sainik Board Fund

Indian Gorkha Ex-Servicemen's Welfare Fund.

Fund Collection
The fund collection is managed throughout the country by the by local arms of the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB), which is part of the Ministry of Defence. The fund collection is organised both by official and non-official means through voluntary organisations.

The Fund is operated by a Managing Committee presided over by the Defence Minister of India at the Centre and by the executive heads of the governments in the States and Union Territories. When the Armed Forces Flag Day programme was introduced, the fund allocation was managed in such a way that the Central KSB headquarters is given only a very small share of the Flag Day Fund collections made by each state. The allotted funds for the KSB is only half a paisa per individual.
Armed Forces Flag Day

Is it a noble act to beg?
This is a demeaning act. Literally the Armed Forces are made beggars with a begging bowl. Collection of funds should cease. More avenues for honouring our brave soldiers like National War Memorials should be explored. Presently the Flag Day Collections are grossly misutilised by KSB's and higher echelons. This is certainly no way of honouring our brave Jawans.

Kargil- Soldiers Spirit Spells Fate of the Nation

Date: Wednesday, 22 July, 2009, 1:55 AM
To the Editor-in Chief, Letters@tribuneindia.com

Dear Sir/ Madam,
I am Maj Gen Ian Cardozo, AVSM, SM and am a war disabled officer of the Indo-Pak War of 1971. I am currently in the UK and have been following with interest the issue of the Kargil war and the Government's decision not to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of that war.

I am the author several books on military history including 'Param Vir - Our heroes in Battle', 'The sinking of INS Khukri', 'The Indian Army- A Brief History' and 'The history of the first-firfth Gorkha Rifles'. I have also had several articles published in military journals and national magazines.

I would be grateful if you would consider the attached article (click me) for publishing as it is topical in view of the forthcoming 10th anniversary of the Kargil war.

Thanking you
yours sincerely
Maj Gen Ian Cardozo, AVSM,SM (Retd)

Whatever the faults of the political hierarchy of that time and the political hangover of today, the courage of the Indian soldier must not be forgotten. The sad truth is that the soldier is remembered only in time of war. Kargil has already faded from public memory and it appears that some politicians would like the story of that war to be permanently dead and buried.

The fate of a nation during war hinges on how well her soldiers fight. Recognition of the sacrifices that soldiers make, so that we may live is the least that we can do to tell them that their sacrifices have not been in vain and that the nation is grateful and remembers. Good leaders understand that this is the essence of morale and that morale is a battle winning factor. Failure to understand this basic need of the soldier may have consequences that will only be known as and when we go to war again and then it may be too late.
Read the full article click link below:
REMEMBERING KARGIL By Ian Cardozo

Noida Saheed Samarak: Photos taken on 26 July 2009

Col RP Chaturvedi, Anchor of IESM Kargil Divas Celebrations
Veterans From 1st JSW Course- Lt Gen SK Bahri and Maj Gen Gupta
Solemn March by Veterans
Maj Gen PK Renjen, Lt Gen Raj Kadyan

Remembering Kargil: Light a Candle

Light a Million Candles
Though soil may bitter grow from all
That youthful flesh and blood,
I doubt not that our love
Shall bring a harvest to the world
That will efface the ruins of war,
With grain and joy in such abundance
That men shall once again be free.

IESM: Kargil Divas

Dear Friends,
Cdr Sharan Ahuja accompanied me to Accenture and assisted initial settling down. Col BK Kailash, a social worker and a Rotarian himself, relieved us and held fort for the latter part. Thanks Kailash. The Blood Donation camp at Accenture went very well. We collected 57 units of blood from eager donors. Pamphlets were distributed and perused by the visitors to the camp. Above photographs tell the story.
Thanks to Kailash. Congratulations IESM!
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi (Retd)

10 years of Kargil, heroes recall the war

HEROES OF TIGER HILL
Pawan Bali / CNN-IBN
Published on Sat, Jul 04
Samba, Jammu: It's been 10 years since Kargil war. July 4, 1999 was when a vital victory for India was sealed. CNN-IBN met the heroes of Tiger Hill who get together once again after a decade to remember the comrades they lost.

After a decade Commanding Officer Kushal Kumar reunited with his brave men of the 18 Grenadiers who fought the crucial battle of Tiger Hill during the Kargil war. They re-captured the 16,800 feet high peak, strategically occupied by Pakistani intruders to dominate the Leh Srinagar National Highway.

"Tiger hill was the turning point of Kargil war. In fact, it was mother of all battles. The weather was bad, it was raining and there were all sort of problems," said Brigadier Kumar.

On the night of July 3 and July 4, the Indian Army launched a three pronged attack on the peak. With 132 guns providing support fire, Param Veer Chakra awardee Yogender Singh Yadav - who then barely 19 - was the first to lead six men of the Ghatak Platoon to the top.

He fought about 70 Pakistani troops for over eight hours. Didn't giving up even after receiving 15 gun shot wounds and losing all his men.

"I knew I would not die without giving them a fight. I wanted to fight till the end," said Yadav.

The Tiger Hill battle alone claimed over 30 Indian soldiers. It won over 23 Gallantary Awards including the Param Veer Chakra for its heroes.

"It is the same feeling as if we are again capturing the Tiger Hill" recalled Mahaveer Chakra awardee, Major Balwan Singh.

The Tiger Hill battle sealed India's victory during the Kargil war. And after a decade these men get together to celebrate the memories of the battle and of the men who won it.
10 years of Kargil, heroes recall the war

Batalik Battles: unsung Heroes
10 years after Kargil: Tough battles in Batalik went unsung by Ajay Banerjee writes from Ganasok (on the LoC)

Mumbai Mayhem: Captain Amitendra Kumar Singh who lost his left eye

Having witnessed the 60-hour battle against terror in Mumbai unrelentingly on television, images of bullets whizzing around, bloodied streets, grenade blasts and courageous men -- scaling walls and dropping from helicopters -- have been etched in our minds.

What many of us did not see were images of some brave men, caught in the path of the devastation they were trying to curb -- images of their homes and lives rocked by a stray bullet or a carelessly chucked grenade.

One such braveheart, Captain Amitendra Kumar Singh of the National Security Guard, found himself alone at the Bombay Hospital on November 27, injured in the attack, and unable to get in touch with his family and fiance.
The captain and his team arrived in Mumbai on the morning of November 27 and were sent straight to the site of action: The Oberoi Hotel.

As they closed in on terrorists, shrapnel from a grenade hit Amitendra's eye. He was immediately evacuated and sent to Bombay Hospital.

Captain Singh was preparing himself for surgery the next morning even as he recounted the horrors of that fateful evening for rediff.com Doctors believe his vision will be impaired after the surgery; in fact, he might even lose complete vision in his left eye.

His fiance, Dr Madhu Singh, a dentist, was at home in Lucknow [ Images ] when she received the news -- two whole days after the incident. She was getting ready to go to work and her husband-to-be called her from a borrowed cell phone, informing her of his injury.

Her heart literally stopped at the news, and she got on the next flight to Mumbai, arriving even before his parents. The frail-looking lady has been a pillar of support for her fiancee, wiping his bad eye and repeatedly assuring him of how proud she was of him.

The captain hails from Lucknow and has been posted in Gurgaon, near Delhi. It is easy to forget how young this man is as he smiles and tells you his horror-laden yet heroic tale of the terrorist attacks. However, his emotions come pouring through in tears when he remembers details that are too painful to bear, and one realises that this hero is barely 25 years old.

Once the tears have been wiped and traces of his mischievous smile start playing at the corners of his mouth again, he jokes, saying, "Arre, don't take my photo today. Take it tomorrow when I have shaved."

Image: Captain Amitendra Kumar Singh with his fiance a day before surgery. Text, photograph: Insiyah Vahanvaty

Present status: The officer who lost an eye at The Oberoi.
Here is a heart-wrenching tale of Captain Amitendra Kumar Singh, a National Security Guard commando, who lost sight in his left eye while fighting the terrorists inside the Oberoi Hotel. While the apathy of the nation towards the war-heroes is an oft-repeated story, his angst-ridden bitterness towards the army is unusual, to say the least.

After shuttling back and forth between Lucknow’s Command Hospital, Chennai’s Sankara Netralaya Eye Hospital and Delhi’s R&R Hospital, Captain Singh was discharged a day before Holi and allowed to return to the NSG camp in Manesar, where he is posted.

“I was so sick of hospitals by then — they all said the same thing, that my eye was damaged beyond repair, and that I would have to get a glass eye, which I didn’t want to do.”

Once he was back at the NSG camp, Captain Singh realised that people have short memories, and if you are injured in the army, you are little more than a liability.

“People’s attitudes towards me have changed. Earlier, they had the utmost confidence in my abilities — I was given plum tasks to take care of. Now even though I can do everything, including driving, firing and physical tasks, all the meaty jobs go to others, and I am given things to do that are not in keeping with my rank. That makes me feel bad.”

“But what can I do? I have to serve here. Now I am doing a desk job — I take care of the administration and running of the camp. I’ll never be able to participate in operations again. It’s not like the US army where any capable person can serve. Serving in the army always been my dream, which is now shattered.”

He makes it clear that the Shaurya Chakra did not serve as salve to his wounds. “I don’t want the Shaurya Chakra. Take it back and return my eye to me. P V Manish (the other Shaurya Chakra awardee) and I were together at the Oberoi. I lost my eye and he was hit in the head by a grenade. The right side of his body was paralysed for some time, but is getting better now. In such operations, you should either die or come back safe and sound. If you come back injured, you don’t get any respect.”

250 years of glory and sacrifice : The Madras Regiment

‘Uphold the regiment’s high traditions and always be prepared’
— Photo: M. Sathyamoorthy
Good start: The Colonel of the Madras Regiment, Major General P.G. Kamath, displaying a coffee table book on the regiment at Wellington, near Udhagamandalam, on Monday. The Hindu Click here for report
The 250th Anniversary of one of the oldest regiment of the Indian Army, the Madras Regiment was organized at Madras Regimental Centre in Wellington from 04 – 06 May 09. The origin of the regiment dates back to 04 Dec 1758 when two battalions were raised by Sir Robert Clive. Madras Battalions were among the first to be deployed during World War I and II where they made a significant contribution. The Madras Regiment Centre was first raised as 36 Madras Battalion at Thanjavur in 1794. It moved to Wellington in Feb 1947 and occupied Wellington barracks which were subsequently renamed Shrinagesh Barracks in 1964 in honour of Gen S M Shrinagesh who was the first Indian Col of the Regiment.

The regiment was actively engaged in the 1947-48 J&K Operations and earned the Battle Honours of Tithwal and Poonch. The regiment also saw action in the Indo – Pak conflict of 1965 and 1971 where its battalions played a stellar role. Today the Madras Regiment stands proudly with 44 Battle honours, 14 Theatre honours, 7 COAS and 14 GOC-in-C appreciations to its credit. The Regiment has also done exceedingly well in sports winning the Durand Cup in 1955 and 1958, two bronze medals in the World Military Games and many medals in other national and international events.

Maj Gen PG Kamath, Colonel of the Madras Regiment released a logo for the celebrations.
250 years of glory and sacrifice : The Madras Regiment