Gen Vijay Oberoi leads the Half Marathon

Dear All,
The War Wounded Foundation had participated in the Delhi Half-Marathon on Sunday 30 September 2012. A total of three officers, 1 JCO and 12 jawans, all disabled, ran in the Great Delhi Run, as a group and completed the full race. The distance was approximately seven km. The group of war disabled personnel was lead by me.
The NDTV had covered it. Clips were shown briefly a number of times in the news segments on 01 October 12.
The Chief Minister of Delhi had met our group before the commencement of the race.
A few photographs taken during the race are as above for your viewing.
Regards.
Gen Vijay Oberoi (Retd)
Comments: The RMS team and Readers congratulate Gen Vijay Oberoi and all the War Wounded Veterans who participated in the Half Marathon Run. Other ESM Organisations should popularise such events in all Metro Cities. These media events will enhance the prestige of the Military especially the Veterans. These positive events should replace protest rallies which are a waste of time. Let us run a Marathon for "One Rank One Pension".

Remembering a great soldier

Udhagamandalam, April 3, 2012 by D. Radhakrishnan of The Hindu

Defence Minister A.K. Antony signing the Visitors Book at Zoroastrian Cemetery in Ooty on Tuesday. Photo: M. Sathyamoorthy
Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was a legend and the government will not forget his leadership and contribution to protect the sovereignity and prestige of the country, Defence Minister A.K. Antony said at the 98th birth anniversary of the Field Marshal here on Tuesday.
Army Chief General V.K. Singh joined the Defence Minister in paying floral tributes to the Field Marshal at the Parsi Zoroastrian Cemetery where he was laid to rest on June 28, 2008, but both of them steered clear of making any statement to presspersons on the controversy over the Tatra trucks.
Mum is the word
When The Hindu asked the Minister whether a joint statement could be expected, Mr. Antony only smiled and declined to respond. On whether Manekshaw would be conferred Bharat Ratna, Mr. Antony said he was not the authority to take a decision on that. In the visitors' book, Mr. Antony wrote: “I salute the respectful memory of Field Marshal Manekshaw”.
General Singh wrote: “A homage to a great soldier of the country. A great man who led the nation and its Army to a great victory. We salute the Field Marshal.”
Apart from the Defence Minister and the Army Chief, those who placed wreaths at the cemetery were Manekshaw's daughters Sherry Batliwala and Maja Daruwala, Lieutenant General Bikram Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command and Army Chief Designate, Lieutenant General S.K. Singh, Vice Chief of Army Staff and Colonel of the 8th Gorkha Rifles, which the Field Marshal was part of, Lieutenant General A.K. Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command and the Nilgiris Collector Archana Patnaik.
‘An honour for family'
Ms. Daruwala said that it was an honour for the family to be remembered in such a manner. The people who should be here were here. Many of those present recalled their association with the Field Marshal. Some of them adverted to the different ways in which he had made his presence felt in Coonoor where he had settled after retirement. They also remembered his funeral ceremony at Coonoor at which the government was represented only by the Union Minister of State for Defence, Pallam Raju.
Remembering a great soldier

Antony to make amends, give legendary Sam his due

Author: Ashok K Mehta The Poineer 03 April, 2012
Today at a special ceremony at the Zoroastrian Parsi Cemetary at Ootacamund, Nilgiris, India’s first Field Marshal and one who bestowed on the country its first military victory in a thousand years, Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, will be commemorated by laying his gravestone next to that of his wife, Siloo.
Rectifying the grave error of not according appropriate protocol on June 27, 2008, when Field Marshal Manekshaw died at Wellington Military Hospital, this time Defence Minister AK Antony will be present. Also attending the wreath-laying ceremony are Chief of Army Staff General VK Singh; Army chief designate Lt-Gen Bikram Singh; VCOAS Lt-Gen SK Singh; president of the Gorkha Brigade and from Sam’s own 8 Gorkha Rifles, and officers of the other two services.
“This is a very private occasion but the Army has been kind to help us with the military ceremonial which my father always relished,” said Maja Daruwalla, younger daughter of Sam and Siloo. Sam’s gravestone bears the inscription: “It is a Life Well Lived” with Siloo’s reading “Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds”. The combined inscriptions encapsulate their lives — well lived and spreading goodwill.
The Government was very niggardly in recognising Sam’s unprecedented achievements: Stemming the rot in 4 Corps after the catastrophic debacle in the high Himalayas, Sam saying: “Gentlemen, there will be no more withdrawals”; deterring the Chinese in Eastern Command during the 1965 war; and comprehensively defeating the Pakistan Army in East Pakistan in 1971.
But for Mrs Indira Gandhi, Sam would not have been made a Field Marshal in 1973 as Defence Minister Jagjivan Ram and the bureaucracy had opposed it. At the time, the Army had suggested that the Field Marshal’s appointment should be equated with Bharat Ratna. But this was turned down. Mrs Gandhi promised to make him the Chief of Defence Staff, but the offer evaporated mysteriously. He was sent home unsung, officers being forbidden to see him off in the special train from Delhi to Coimbatore.
The Government’s loss was the corporate world’s gain. He was on the board of a dozen private companies like Britannia, Bombay Burma, Harrison Malyalam, Nagarjuna Fertilisers and the Oberoi Group. A charismatic personality and gift of the gab made the Field Marshal Sam Bahadur to his Gorkhas who were with him all the time that he lived and died in Coonoor.
He won his Military Cross in the Battle of Sittang in 1942 — so spectacular was his action that GoC 17 Infantry Division Maj Gen Punch Cowan, thinking his wounds were fatal, pinned his own MC on Sam’s chest. He was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1968 and after 1971, Padma Vibhushan. The Padma series of awards for the military was soon stopped on the advice of the bureaucracy.
His lectures on leadership are stuff of legend and laced with illustrations from his career and peppered with humour. My favourites are: “My trouble is, I have too much energy and I don’t know what to do with it. I keep thanking the almighty for making a man out of me and not a woman. If I’d been a woman, since I cannot say no, I would have always been in trouble. I’d either be in the maternity home or on the pill.” The other: “Whoever says he knows no fear is either lying or a Gorkha.”
Two years from now, Sam would have turned 100. The Government must make him a Bharat Ratna as no one deserves it more than he — with a life well lived.
Antony to make amends, give legendary Sam his due

Always standing tall, Field Marshal Manekshaw

Indian Express Pune, Wed Oct 28 2009, 03:37 hrs

On Infantry Day on Tuesday Pune got a monument in honour of Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw, near the Southern Command headquarters, which was inaugurated in the morning by Lt Gen Pradeep Khanna, Army Commander and General-Officer-Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command.
“I was commissioned in the Army when he was the general,” said Khanna reminiscing about Manekshaw who was popular as ‘Sam Bahadur.’ “He was a man of honour; the best of the kind,” Khanna said.
Field Marshal Manekshaw died in June 27, 2008.
Infantry Day is observed to mark the day Indian soldiers landed in Srinagar on October 27, 1947 to defend the city against Pakistan. The Southern Command thus chose Tuesday to unveil the statue of Manekshaw.
Khanna, who had met Manekshaw in 2007 when the latter was in hospital, said the Field Marshal had a fantastic sense of humour. “He could keep us in fits of laughter. With him you were kept laughing all the time, even if he didn’t know a person too well,” he said. “His smile was enduring. This is the first official monument of a soldier anywhere in the country,” he said.
The nine-foot bronze statue, weighing 700 kgs, was made in eight months. “The statue has light eyes, just like Manekshaw had, the effect will be visible at night,” Khanna said.
The statue was made by sculptor Abhijit Dhondphale who had earlier made a plaque of the late Gen Vaidya for the Southern Command.
“For two months during the preparation of the clay model, we read books on Manekshaw and spoke to soldiers who had worked with him to learn as much as possible about him,” said Dhondphale. “We wanted to capture the personality of the man. We have tried to bring life to the statue, as much as possible,” said Cyrus Dalal, who conceptualised the Rs 20-lakh project along with Dhondphale.
Several members of the Zoroastrian community were also present. “We feel proud, always used to respect him a lot. We owe it to him,” said head Priest Jehangir Daruwala, who was part of a small group of Zoroastrians at the ceremonial unveiling of the statue.
Earlier, Chief of Staff of the Southern Command Lt Gen R K Swamy laid a wreath at the National War Memorial to mark Infantry Day.
Always standing tall, Field Marshal Manekshaw

Unheard, Uncared and Unsung

LIEUTENANT : DID YOU DIE IN VAIN? Aug 24 2011
A friend from my organisation of yesteryears, Brigadier Pradeep Bali, sent me this piece written by his young daughter, Sarvar Bali. It is pathetic while the nation was engrossed in fighting the wrong-doings of our powers that be... our young ones were laying down their lives unheard, uncared and unsung on the borders. While our soldiers lay down their lives to protect their mother India, her better placed sons are robing her off not only her riches but also her chastity. This young girl, Sarvar Bali, has beautifully penned this piece on youngman's sacrifice in GUREJ SECTOR of KASHMIR on August 20, 2011. What a sad thing while soldiers are laying down lives, the GOI is concentrated on immunising its Prime Minister from investigations on charges of corruption.
Read on...click here
Note
This piece was written by a young Girl, SARVAR BALI, daughter of a serving Brigadier of Indian Army Brig Pradeep Bali.
The girl is barely out of the college, LSR of New Delhi, after graduating in journalism. I believe some corrupted versions of this are available on other various sites on the web where the site owners have not given the credit to this young girl. And some therefore do doubt the authenticity of this authorship and the story. This note is to dispel this doubt.

Are gallant veterans respected in India?

Monday, August 1, 2011- Sir, may I have the privilege of shaking hand with the Victoria Cross
The excerpt below is a passage from the pages 110 & 111 of the book `Toward Resurgent India' written by Lt. Gen. (Retd.) M. M. Lakhera, PVSM,AVSM,VSM, one time Lt.Gov. of Pondicherry and now the Governor of Mizoram.
"I had gone to UK in 1995 as Deputy Leader of the Indian Delegatio n to take part in the 50th Anniversa ry celebrati ons of the victory in Europe during the Second World War. I along with four other Army officers, had just stepped out after attending the inaugural session and were waiting on the roadside for the traffic to ease so as to walk across the road to the vehicle park. Among those with me was Honorary Captain Umrao Singh, a Victorian Cross winner (unfortuna tely, I have received the sad news of his expiry just two days back). All of a sudden a car moving on the road came to a halt in front of us and a well dressed gentleman stepped out. He approache d Umrao Singh and said, "Sir, may I have the privilege of shaking hand with the Victoria Cross (winner)?" He shook hands with him. Evidently he had spotted Umrao Singh's medal from his car and had stopped his car to pay his respect to a winner of the highest gallantry medal of his country. Then he looked at me and said, "General, you are from Indian Army." When I replied in affirmati ve, he gave out his name, saying that he was Maichile Hailstine . I was absolutel y astounded as the recogniti on dawned on me that he was the Deputy Prime Minister of UK I was totally overawed by such courtesy shown by a dignitary of the second highest status in the British Governmen t and humbly thanked him for having invited our delegatio n for the VE Day function. Again his reply was typical of his sagacity, "General, it is we the British, who should be grateful to your country and your Armed Forces, who had helped us win both the first and the second World wars. How can we be ever so ungratefu l to forget your country's great contribut ion?" Suddenly I became conscious that all the traffic behind his car had come to stand still. I hurried to thank him and politely requested him to move along to relieve the traffic hold-up. He stated, "Sir, how dare I drive off when Victoria Cross has to cross the road." Realizing his genuine feeling I and my colleague s quickly crossed the road. Reaching the other side I looked back and saw that Mr. Hailstine was still standing waiting for the Victoria Cross to be safely across.” That is the type of regard they have for their decorated soldiers. I wish that similar respect could be shown to the bravehearts & gallantry award winners by the leaders and prominent figures in our country.
Sir, may I have the privilege of shaking hand with the Victoria Cross (winner)
Related Reading: India Demystified
Dangers of al-Faeda by Gopalkrishna Gandhi
July 29, 2011

Kargil Vijay Diwas- Regional Roundup

Dear Colleagues,
Here is some regional round up.
The Kargil Divas has been celebrated with great enthusiasm across many cities in the country. It had been a forgotten event till three years ago when the IESM took up the issue. Today not only the ESM community but also the civil institutions as well as the media have started recognizing the importance of paying homage to our martyrs. Heartiest compliments to Colonel Rakesh Chaturvedi who as an IESM Governing Body member has been the pushing hand in this regard.
Havildar Gurmel Singh from Dera Baba Nanak (Punjab) controls three Blocks where ESM density is high. With the political activity building up in Punjab they have told the politicians that they will attend rallies of only those aspirants who arrange for the OROP issue to be taken up in the Parliament. Colonel Balbir Parmar, a premature retiree from AEC, has started a political outfit named Sainik Samaj Party in Dehradun. He is the President and the Party has received recognition of the Election Commission on 25 July 2011. He is mailing his manifesto, after which he has requested a meeting with the IESM leadership. Among other things they seek Presidential form of government in the country.
These may be mere fledgling steps. But these leave no doubt there is a stirring and the ESM have begun to realise their own strength and potential. As they say even Henry Ford started as a workshop hand.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Dear Kamboj,
On 27 Jul 2011 at Navi Mumbai, Kharghar we celebrated Kargil Divas. A brief report is attached. Item was covered by print/electronic media
Brigadier Dharam Prakash (Retd)

Report
Kargil Vijay Diwas was organized on 26 July 2011 by the Faculty and students of the ITM Business School, Khargar in the College premises. Senior Citizens Leagues of Navi Mumbai nodes, Ex-Servicemen’s League and the Rotary Club Kharghar, sponsored the event. The function was held at the initiative of the students. More than 200 people participated in the function.
Dr C S Adhikari, Director of the School presided over the function which started at 1630 hours in the auditorium. Dr Adhikari was happy to narrate that the students approached him to organize the event to commemorate the sacrifices of the Armed Forces. Brig S C Sharma [R etd]narrated the rugged features of Kargil terrain. The temperature dips down to minus 60 degrees celus. Both, India and Pakistan, followed the practice of vacating some of the posts in winter and rely on patrols. Pakistan surreptiously occupied the posts over 200 square kms. The intrusion was reported by a shepherd on 3 May 1999. Pakistan’s hopes of taking parts of Kashmir or Internationalizing the issue were belied by the valour, grit and determination of our Armed Forces. He recounted the deeds of some of the bravehearts.
Brig Atma Ram [Retd] gave the background of planning for tackling intrusions and hostile acts of Pakistan. The Commander at Kargil had warned of likely intrusion but no timely action was taken. His warning was ignored. He had served in that area till February 1999. Pakistan had destroyed supplies stores through observed artillery fire. There was a failure of Intelligence.
Lt Col [Retd] Dr Shiv Shankar had served in Kargil prior to the war. He displayed slides to explain the difficulties of living, fighting and providing medical help. The operating theatre had to be heated to bring the temperature to 10 degrees before an operation. He was providing medical help to civilians as well.Young students showed keen interest in the Operations and valor of the Armed Forces Mr K N Sharma, President Senior Citizens League, Khargar proposed a vote of thanks. The meeting ended with the national anthem.

Kargil war hero waits for govt to fulfill promise

A brave soldier, who was disabled while fighting in the Kargil war, is still waiting for the government's promised help even as the country is observing the 12th anniversary of the victory.
Kargil war hero waits for govt to fulfill promise

Dear Veterans,
1. On the occasion of 12th Anniversary Nation Salutes the martyrs of Kargil War, who laid down “THEIR TODAY FOR OUR TOMORROW”, organized by Dr TC Rao, Veteran, Chairman Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee, Ex-Servicemen Department.
2. On 26 Jul 2011, a large number of Ex-Servicemen, & War widows gathered at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg, New Delhi to pay homage to War martyrs of Kargil.
3. The function started with two minutes silence in the memory of martyrs.
4. It was a touching seene to meet 53 War Widows of Kargil, staying at Delhi, Noida & Gurgaon.
5. Sh JP Agarwal, Hon’ble Member of Parliament & President of Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee, Sh Mahabal Mishra, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Mrs Nafisa Ali Sodhi, Social Activist, Maj Ved Prakash, Secretary AICC, Capt Praveen Davar, Secretary AICC Ex-Servicemen, Brig DN Yadav, SM, who commanded Regiment during Kargil operation. Approx 600 Ex- Servicemen participated in the memorial meeting.
6. Sh JP Agarwal assured the War widows that he is always on call to them to solve their problems faced by them. He further mentioned that Govt is proud of our Armed forces and we are duty bound to look after the War Widows and Ex-Servicemen. He said that the govt keeps martyrs families in high esteem and all possible help would be extended to them.
7. Sh Mahabal Mishra who is also an Ex-Servicemen said he feels the pain of War widows & assured that he is always approachable to War Widows & Ex-Servicemen to solve their problems.
8. Mrs Nafisa Ali Sodhi, said that Govt should take special care for War widows in allotting petrol pumps, gas agencies and other planned rehabilitation schemes for War Widows as they have to look after their small children in the absence of their husband.
9. Maj Ved Prakash, said that he is concerned for War widows & Ex-Servicemen & said that UPA Govt will always keep in mind the sacrifice made by our defence personnel.
10. Capt Praveen Davar, narrated as to how Kargil War was conducted & what difficulties were faced by our troops. He assured that Ex-Servicemen cell of AICC is aware of problems faced by our War Widows.
11. Dr TC Rao Veteran, who organized the function expressed his gratitude to War Veterans, Retd Officers, JCOs & Other ranks who had came to participate in the memorial service. He high lighted the problems of War Widows & Ex-servicemen staying at Delhi & assured them that he is always approachable for their problems.
12. Dr TC Rao, Veteran is also founder of Gramin Uthaan – Bharat Nirman, presented shawls to war Widows present in the function. Brig DN Yadav,SM & Sub Mohamad Khan, SM were also honoured with shawl having participated in the Kargil War & decorated for their bravery.
13. Dr Rao assured every one that Smt Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson UPA, Dr Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister & Defence Minister are considerable to the problems & welfare of Ex-Servicemen.
Jai Hind.
Yours Sincerely,
Dr TC Rao, Veteran
Chairman

Firstly, congratulations on having organized the function yesterday. I had been out of town and could not attend. Would have liked to. Reference Ms Nafisa Ali's suggestion about the Petrol Pump allocation. Kindly see Mail Today 27 July ("Kargil Hero waits for govt to come good on promise") regarding Veteran Mohd Rafiq not having YET been given the petrol pump promised to him. I feel this may be a good opportunity for you to have the necessary follow up done.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi,

Kargil Diwas: Remembering the Heroes

Respected Sir/Ma'am,
The following report -- released by the United News of India news agency on July 25, 2011 -- is for your kind perusal.
With regards
Abhi
DEFENCE-KARGIL ANNIVERSARY-EVE
Kargil anniv eve: Nation readies to remember the martyrs
Bhopal, July 25 (UNI) The worst fallout of war is that it reverses the course of nature, as fathers bury sons, and the heaviest burden in this world is a young man's corpse on an old father's shoulder.
On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas tomorrow, tributes will be paid at the District Sainik Board premises here to the indomitable courage of the nation's military officers and men who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil conflict.
The District Ex-Servicemen's Welfare Officer has appealed to all ESM to take part in this function in large numbers. The programme will commence at 1130 hrs sharp.
Amongst all military actions since Independence, this conflict was not only the longest but the ferociousness brought about heavy casualties. As many as 527 personnel were martyred and 1,363 severely wounded. Four Param Vir Chakras were awarded, two posthumously and nine Maha Vir Chakras were awarded, six posthumously besides 55 Vir Chakras.
Operation Safed Sagar was the codename assigned to the Indian Air Force's sorties to support the ground troops during Op Vijay -- which witnessed successful dislodging of a well-entrenched enemy that had the tactical advantage of higher ground -- while Op Talwar referred to deployment of the Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea.
Among the lasting images of the conflict is the photograph of Army Medical Corps Captain Rajshree Gupta saluting the Tricolour-draped coffin of her husband Major Vivek Gupta, 2 Raj Rif (the Second Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles Regiment).
DEFENCE-KARGIL ANNIVERSARY-EVE TWO BHOPAL
On May 19, 1999, Mechanised Infantry officer Maj Ajay Prasad -- who was from the Madhya Pradesh capital -- fell fighting Pakistani regulars in Avantipur area of Kargil Sector. A local park was named after the martyr. Several households -- both military and non-military ones -- have appreciatively adopted the poignant ceremony of lighting candles at home in the past two years.
Citizens across India are requested to light a candle each at their residences' entrances and lay a marigold each by its side at 2000 hrs tomorrow after saying a prayer for those who did not come back. This may additionally be done at offices.
The Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement appeals to media and the people of India to join in commemorating Kargil Vijay Diwas to generate the spirit of Bharat. Chief ministers of all states and lieutenant-governors of Union territories are requested to observe the anniversary in a fitting manner.
"An anti-India strategy is an indelible part of the Pakistani mindset and generations of that country's military officers and civilians alike have been raised with it. At any point in the future, Pakistan will never stop short of exploiting any chink in the Indian armour to stage a Kargil-type offensive," a veteran told UNI.

The Kargil intrusion was "tactical lunacy but a strategic masterstroke" for Pakistan's General, later President, Pervez Musharraf as it brought the Kashmir issue centrestage with the backdrop of two South Asian nuclear neighbours.

Kargil Divas

COMMEMORATION OF THE 12TH ANNIVERASRY OF KARGIL VIJAY DIVAS I have great pleasure to share the following mail from Veteran Ajit Odhekar. May his tribe increase. Will other Veterans please popularize this event? Thanks. Ajit. I wish you would add on the Candle Light Tribute too.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi

Dear Sir,
In our Dhule district we have five Kargil war Martyrs. Out of them three are from Dhule taluka only. With the initiative of IESL Dhule, without any government support we have erected two grand memorials in their village with local public contribution. Out of which one was inaugurated by Late Lt Gen A.S. Parmar,AVSM,PVSM ADC with lots of fan fare. And last 10 years we are celiberating Kargil Vijay Diwas at 2400hrs at war memorial erected in center of Dhule city. Attended by people from all walks of life.Even if it is raining people listen to us at ut most attention and we also allow to any body who wish to express his view on the subject. Local colleges also arrange workshop on the National Security and invite us for delivering lecture.It gets lots of publicity on local level and occasion to put across our problems as veterans.
CAPT AJIT ODHEKAR
CEO & GM Admin,
Jairam Hospitals & Research Centre Pvt Ltd Nashik

Hello, Veterans of Karnataka!
I am no good at writing, please tolerate lack of fluency, readability, etc. Dear All,
What are we planning to do to Commemorate Kargil Divas?
Sure, some self interested high profile NGO is lurking around to highjack the event. Then we will all be there for the wreath/ flowers to be handed over to be laid as per the protocol and there on get marshaled to decorated Shamiana and so on.
Why, we the greats of Army, Air Force or Navy Veterans have so far not attempted to re-establish a strong and vibrant IESM fraternity including all ranks?
Is it that the Veterans of Karnataka, a state that boasts of venturing to create first ever National Mil Memorial, a state that produced Great Generals etc, etc, have become suddenly deficient of pride of being a Veteran? Was one & the only Col Rajan a phenomenon could achieve a lot but who finally/ unfortunately preferred to stay out?
Dearest Veterans, I am confused at the present state of affairs, please pardon me for all the above lamentations and accusations, but I do beg for some solution so am looking for some kind of meeting of minds. Getting engaged our self in any form of road show, sit-in demonstrations and not the least in badakhanas is not being suggested. We might as well make a restart by just assembling around Unknown Soldier to commemorate The Kargil Day. Would it be OK? For, if we now make a beginning, we may do better things on Vijay Divas!
Certainly we do not want the presence of any shade of Politics or show of magnanimity by vested interests, we carry a wreath or a flower each and lay it as an act of Homage, exchange pleasantries and thin out gracefully. One last point, all or any are welcome to task me for what ever to be done in this regard, but wish me better health and strength to push ahead so that Civilians shall follow Military Men instead of them pushing us in this matter of Great Militarily Solemn Function.
With Fondest Regards.
Veteran Sreedhar.

Dear Col Sreedhar,
Thanks very much for your timely and clarion call for organizing the Kargil Vijay Divas. I wish more and more ESM think similarly and organize this event at their towns/ settlements(and gradually and repeatedly also include the other historic milestone- Vijay Divas 16 Dec, until both become ritualistically included in the citizenry's calender of important dates).We in NCR are organizing following functions, aside from lectures in willing schools by veterans, on intrinsic qulalities like valor, camaraderie etc (not many have been marshalled so far unfortunately due to some reasons).Homage to Martyrs. Shaheed Smaarak Noida. Sunday 24 July. 1100-1300. Citizen's function. No chief guest. No politics. No speeches. A very quiet homage. Followed by a cup of tea. Plan to have Blood Donation and Organ Pledging organized for volunteeers. This was done in 2009 and inspired many. That year we had 80 odd units of blood donated and 68 people pledged organs. Kargil Divas is 26th but by experience,we find a Week end draws better crowd.Candle Lighting Homage. At 8 PM 26 July, homes- both military and civilinans, across India-er- world, light one candle at their entrance, and lay a marigold by its side after saying a silent prayer for those who did not come back. This poignant ceremony has been widely accepted Pan India.Sponsors are encouraged, and their banners/ tributes can be displayed at site, suitably. In Bangalore, as you rightly point out, Col Rajan had been organizing it well, and single handedly I am told. Last Year, I understand, 'Flags of Honor - perhaps the NGO you hint, did it, as per some mails that came out on this. Whichever way, I believe the EVENT must carry on, irrespective of WHO does it. May I urge you to take the lead?
Therefore go forth companion, when you find,
No Highway more, No track, all being blind,
The way to go, shall glimmer in the mind.
Though you have conquered Earth, and charted Sea,
And planned the courses of all Stars that be,
Adventure on, more wonders are in Thee.
Adventure on, for from the littlest clue,
Has come whatever worth man ever knew,
The next to lighten all me, may be you. (John Masefield) -With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi

Commemoration of the 12th Anniverasry of Kargil Vijay Divas at Panchkula on Sunday, July 24, 2011
For the Tricity Chandigarh-Mohali-Panchkula, and Dist Panchkula, it has been resolved to commemorate the 12th Anniversay of the Kargil Vijay Divas on Sunday, July 24 at Panchkula under arrangements of the IESM Panchkula Branch as per programme below:
Homage Ceremony 1030 – 1130H Including Tea & Refreshments
Candle Light Vigil 2000 ­– 2045 H
Place Major Shankla War Memorial, Sector – 2, Panchkula (Opposite Bella Vista Mall)
You are all requested to participate in the functions with family and
friends. The Ex-Servicemen community must use this occasion to bond together.
With Regards,
Yours Sincerely,
Brig Kiran Krishan, SM (Retd)
Convener, IESM Panchkula Branch

Saluting our Heros

2 July 2011
Dear Friends,
I’m delighted to announce that my compilation of posts featuring Param Vir Chakra awardees is finally complete. The series started with a simple idea on a lazy summer afternoon of 2009 – and soon became a labour of love…I pored over numerous articles and web pages to do my research while writing this series…but not for a moment did I feel that the effort was in vain. Writing about these brave men – and their exploits – was perhaps the most inspiring and motivating thing I have done in a very long time. The “book” is now ready. I intend to formally release it on 26th July, on the occasion of “Kargil Vijay Diwas” which marks the most remarkable week of “Operation Vijay” that ended with the award of four Param Vir Chakras.

Needless to add, writing this series has been an extraordinary and extremely fulfilling experience. Each post reminded me of how fortunate and blessed we are to have people like these defend our borders and our freedoms…Sadly the stories of these “Param Veers” are not widely known. This is a humble effort to change that…

The “book” will be available to purchase online. And you can also download a pdf version for a small modest charge. Details to follow shortly.

All the funds raised from the sale of this book will be channeled into my various activities. I will be seeking donations to help me publish large quantities that can be printed/ distributed locally in schools in various cities across India. If you can help with this (even in terms of just managing logistics etc), pl leave a comment below or email me. I would also like to hear from anyone who can help translate this into Indian languages.

This effort would not have come to fruition without the unstinted support of my wife and daughter – who sacrificed countless hours of their time – so that I could work on these blog posts and help spread awareness about these heroes. This is our very humble tribute to the ones who did not come back. They died so that we can live – in peace. Let us ensure that these men are not forgotten. Let us ensure that the stories of their valour are told and re-told. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat!
Shantanu
“Saluting our Heroes” and a labour of love

Warriors on the Front- Fifty Golden Years Remembered

The Chinese aggression was undoubtedly a debacle for the nation and the Indian Army but individual soldiers and officers fought bravely and their course - mates led from the front in many areas, recalls former Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Indian Military Academy, Dehradun

The earlier Hindi-Chini-Bhai-Bhai phase had ended and ours was the first course with enhanced numbers. We could sense that we would inevitably get involved in active operations sooner than later. This was welcome,as we saw it as an opportunity to prove ourselves. In our hearts of hearts, we did have that nagging suspicion of what we call the ‘fear of the unknown’ in the army, but it was taken in one’s stride.

Dear Chander,
Our Course- 18 NDA, 27 IMA, 12 NCC AND 13 TECHNICAL GRADUATES had celebrated the half century of our passing out from IMA from 17 to 19 June, 2011. My article on the event has been published in the Magazine- Power Politics July 2011 Issue.
Warriors on the front- click here to read the full article.
Thanks. Warm regards.
Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)
Former Director Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS)

Promises made and Broken- Valiant Heros reduced to a Zero!

Deccan Herald- OF PROMISES MADE AND BROKEN Bonanzas go bust By Gayathri Nivas Saturday 25 June 2011
The power of the executive to bestow largesse on its favourites is legion. But more often than not these ‘gifts’ never materialise.
There’s many a slip twixt the cup and the lip, goes the old English proverb and it aptly applies to our World Cup winning Indian cricketers and their coach Gary Kirsten, who missed the chance of making Bangalore their future home just like a missed catch in a game of cricket. Or should we compare the missed opportunity to the 100th international century that eluded Sachin Tendulkar in the same World Cup final match last Saturday? Either way, Karnataka chief minister B S Yeddyurappa’s quixotic decision to confer residential sites in Bangalore on not just Team India but also their South African coach, denied the haloed 16 this most elusive gift. Quixotic because Yeddyurappa declared the players would be housed in an exclusive layout, the location of which would be made known within a fortnight, but then changed his mind just as quickly as he had announced it soon after the Cup win. A third announcement, replacing the offer of sites with cash gifts of Rs 25 lakh each, followed as swiftly as the previous two decisions.

Perhaps the chief minister was well advised to change the land offer because getting government approved and allotted sites in Bangalore has proved as much, or more, elusive than winning the World Cup for India since 1983 — a reality that lakhs of site applicants-in-waiting would swear by in this burgeoning city whose galloping population (set to hit the one-crore mark) and worsening infrastructure have done nothing to blot its escutcheon of epithets such as the silicon valley of India, pensioners’ paradise, garden city and so on and so forth.

Bungalows for the asking
A few of Yeddyurappa’s predecessors too, like Ramakrishna Hegde, and even former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda have demonstrated the power of the executive to bestow largesse on their favourites. Hegde invited former president of India, the late Neelam Sanjiva Reddy, to settle down in Bangalore once he demitted office. Reddy subsequently retired to his home turf Illur in Andhra Pradesh.

Deve Gowda apparently believed in winning friends by distributing state favours. First, he allotted a palatial bungalow on Safdarjung Road in Delhi to former president, the late Ramaswamy Venkataraman, who decided to live in the capital after the DMK’s return to power in Tamil Nadu.

Venkataraman lived in a state-owned bungalow in Chennai while two of his houses in Delhi were rented out, much to the DMK’s chagrin.

Deve Gowda then allotted a type-V bungalow to Sanjeeva Reddy’s widow, who had expressed a desire to stay in Bangalore. The Karnataka government was instructed to allot the bungalow to Nagaratnamma Reddy. The Centre was to exchange with the Karnataka government two smaller houses in lieu of the large bungalow for Nagaratnamma Reddy.

The Deve Gowda government also decided to allot type-V bungalows to the surviving spouses of former presidents, vice-presidents and prime ministers. The widows of former presidents Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed and Giani Zail Singh, and former prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Rajiv Gandhi became beneficiaries of government bungalows in the capital.

On the contrary, not just in Bangalore, across Karnataka, award winners, victims of natural calamities awaiting rehabilitation after losing home and hearth, and poor beneficiaries of government-sponsored housing schemes have had to wait alike to receive the “gift of kindness”.

Quite often than not the ‘gift’ never materialises. The state government’s constant refrain is that there is no land left to distribute. Scores of genuine causes and investment proposals, such as research facilities and premier educational institutions, have been shelved for want of land. An eyecare institution seeking to establish a state-of-the-art laboratory to facilitate pathbreaking research for the benefit of the visually impaired is still waiting with no land in sight.

Stars vs Heroes (Ironically reduced to a Zero!)
While hailing the World Cup win, an Army colonel, in an open letter, has urged some introspection as to how the country views its war heroes and what the government/ state offers them for sacrificing their lives in the line of duty. Here are some excerpts: “The team partied at the same Taj Hotel, which was the battle ground on 26/11 and witness to many a soldier giving up his life. Major Unnikrishnan who died while fighting the terrorists is yet to receive his complete NOK entitlements. He gave his today for the tomorrow of others so that they can party all night without any threat. The world Cup finals at Mumbai was held under safe environment with the army, navy, coast guard, NSG and what not to ensure the conduct of the match without a hitch. Remove the men in uniform and see if the events pass smoothly, be it CWG games or cricket match. The Kargil War has still its shadows on the number of officers/ jawans who laid down their lives to protect the nation and its territorial integrity. What the recipients of Param Vir Chakras/Mahavir and Vir Chakras got in comparison to the cricket boys is known to all (peanuts). What the families of the dead go through can only be experienced by them.

The railways is not prepared to honour the percentage concession given to the war heroes in stark comparison to a lifetime First AC free pass throughout the country along with an aide to the cricket stars. Let us not forget the Kabul blast in which a Brigadier was also blown up with a bureaucrat. The babu got all the cake and the icing, the Brig was treated as a casualty. The PM went and paid homage to the babu and his family, the Brig got the traditional ‘Shok Shashtra’.”
Deccan Herald: OF PROMISES MADE AND BROKEN- Bonanzas go bust By Gayathri Nivas

Memorial for Indian Soldiers in Belgium

Retrieved from http://www.indiandiplomacy.in [MARCH 21, 2011]





India lost about 8500 Indian soldiers in World War I in Flanders and adjoining regions of Belgium and France during World War I. To commemorate the sacrifice of these soldiers an Indian Memorial was constructed in 2002 on the lawns of the ‘Menin Gate Memorial’. In 2011 this Memorial has been replaced with a newer one. A ceremony was held on 12th March 2011 in Ypres to unveil this new Memorial.
Memorial for Indian Soldiers in Belgium

Existing Military Covenant be Converted into a Law

09 June, 2011 18:59
Subject: Law needed to demonstrate Nation’s commitment to retired Armed Forces Personnnel, says Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MP
India must pass a law that ensures better treatment of the Retired Armed Forces Personnel and their families, and must emulate UK Government’s decision to convert its existing military covenant– an agreement under which the state pledges a duty of care towards its military personnel in return for the sacrifices that they make- into a law. In a letter written to the Prime Minister Mr. Manmohan Singh and Defence Minister Mr AK Antony, Mr Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Member of Parliament urged them to pass UK-like law for India and demonstrate nation’s commitment to the honour and bravery of our retired Armed Forces Personnel and their families.
Please Click Here to read the full letter. Your feedback or comments are most welcome.
Best Regards,
V.Anand
Principal Public Affairs, Office of Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Member of Parliament.
For more information on Rajeev Chandrasekhar, please visit www.rajeev.in

Monetary allowance for gallantry awardees enhanced

Monetary allowance for gallantry awardees enhanced 19 April 2011 | 1:41 PM
The Ministry of Defence has enhanced the rates of monthly allowance for gallantry awardees.
The new rates shall be applicable with effect from 30 March 2011. Following are the enhanced monthly amounts
PVC Rs 10,000
AC Rs 6,000
MVC Rs 5,000
KC Rs 4,500
VrC Rs 3,500
SC Rs 3,000
SM / NM / VM (G) Rs 1,000
The MoD has already forwarded the letter to Services HQrs.
Monetary allowance for gallantry awardees enhanced

Previous Gallantry Allowances
Particular of Gallantry Award rate of monetary allowance
(Rupees per month)
Param Vir Chakra 3000
Ashok Chakra 2800/-
Maha Vir Chakra 2400/-
Kirti Chakra 2100/-
Vir Chakra 1700/-
Saurya Chakra 1500/-
Sena/Nao Sena/Vayu Sena Medal awardees Rs 500/-
Comment: The enhancement for PVC is 333% and others less than 250%. Salaries and Pensions have increased over 300% by the Sixth Central Pay Commission. Why this measly enhancements for the Gallant Jawans?

President Confers Gallantry and Distinguished Service Awards

The Chief of Army Staff, Gen. V.K. Singh with the gallantry award winners and NOKs of Posthumous awardees during a reception hosted in their honour, in ABHM on April 18, 2011. CNR :37572 Photo ID :34583
The President and Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces Smt Pratibha Devisingh Patil conferred three Kirti Chakras and 18 Shaurya Chakras to Armed Forces Personnel for displaying conspicuous gallantry, indomitable courage and extreme devotion to duty at a solemn ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here today.
The President also conferred thirteen Param Vishisht Seva Medals, two Uttam Yudh Seva Medals and twenty seven Ati Vishisht Seva Medals to senior officers of the Armed Forces for distinguished service of an exceptional order. The following is the list of awardees in order of Presentation:
PARAM VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL
1. VICE ADMIRAL DEVENDRA KUMAR JOSHI, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (01507-Z)
2. AIR MARSHAL PARAMJIT SINGH BHANGU, AVSM, VM (12932) FLYING (PILOT) (RETIRED)
3. IC-25156 LIEUTENANT GENERAL JASWINDER PAL SINGH, AVSM, ARMOURED CORPS
4. IC-25442 LIEUTENANT GENERAL SWATANTARTA NAND HANDA, AVSM, VSM, INFANTRY
5. IC-25189 LIEUTENANT GENERAL GAUTAM BANERJEE, AVSM, YSM, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
6. IC 25646 LIEUTENANT GENERAL VIRENDER SINGH TONK, AVSM, INFANTRY
7. MR-03434 LIEUTENANT GENERAL HIRA LAL KAKRIA, AVSM, BAR TO VSM, ARMY MEDICAL CORPS
8. MR-03831 LIEUTENANT GENERAL DEVENDER PAUL VATS, SM, VSM, ARMY MEDICAL CORPS
9. DR-10270 LIEUTENANT GENERAL SURRINDER BHUSHAN SEHAJPAL, AVSM, VSM, ARMY DENTAL CORPS(RETIRED)
10. IC-24718 LIEUTENANT GENERAL PREM KRISHAN GOEL, AVSM, VSM, REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY(RETIRED)
11. IC-32782 LIEUTENANT GENERAL BALLACHANDA KUTTAPPA CHENGAPA, AVSM, INFANTRY (RETIRED)
12. IC-24652 LIEUTENANT GENERAL RAJ KUMAR KARWAL, AVSM, BAR TO SM, VSM, INFANTRY / HEADQUARTER DIRECTORATE GENERAL NATIONAL CADET CORPS (RETIRED)
13. AIR MARSHAL NIRDOSH VATSYAYAN TYAGI, AVSM, VM, VSM (12765) FLYING (PILOT) (RETIRED)

KIRTI CHAKRA
1. IC-67257 MAJOR RAHUL GURUNG, CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 12 ASSAM RIFLES
2. SS-42132 CAPTAIN DEEPAK SHARMA, CORPS OF SIGNALS / 42 RASHTRIYA RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS)
3. IC-70971 LIEUTENANT (NOW CAPTAIN) VIKRANT AJIT DESHMUKH, 8TH BATTALION THE MADRAS REGIMENT

UTTAM YUDDH SEVA MEDAL
1. IC-27645 LIEUTENANT GENERAL RAMESHWAR ROY, AVSM, YSM, INFANTRY
2. IC-27972 LIEUTENANT GENERAL GYAN BHUSHAN, AVSM, VSM, INFANTRY

ATI VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL
1. IC-25833 LIEUTENANT GENERAL GOVINDA MOHAN NAIR, SM, VSM, INFANTRY
2. IC-27701 LIEUTENANT GENERAL DALBIR SINGH SIDHU, VSM, ARMOURED CORPS
3. IC-27967 LIEUTENANT GENERAL SURINDER PAL SINGH, VSM, REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY
4. IC-30010 LIEUTENANT GENERAL DIGVIJAY SINGH THAKUR, INFANTRY
5. MR-03435 LIEUTENANT GENERAL BHAGIRATH SINGH RATHORE, VSM, ARMY MEDICAL CORPS (RETIRED)
6. AIR MARSHAL JAGDISH CHANDRA, VSM (14613) AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING (ELECTRONICS)
7. AIR MARSHAL DALJIT SINGH, VM (14553) FLYING (PILOT)
8. IC-30710 MAJOR GENERAL ANIL KUMAR MISRA, REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY
9. IC-31052 MAJOR GENERAL SHAKTI GURUNG, VSM, INFANTRY
10. IC-36294 MAJOR GENERAL NAVTEJ SINGH BAWA, REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY
11. IC-30723 MAJOR GENERAL ASHOK SINGH, SM, VSM, INFANTRY
12. IC-31351 MAJOR GENERAL RAJ NANDAN SINGH, SM, VSM, INFANTRY
13. IC-31705 MAJOR GENERAL SANDEEP SINGH, SM, VSM, INFANTRY
14. IC-31739 MAJOR GENERAL CHANGALI ANANDA KRISHNAN, INFANTRY
15. IC-34019 MAJOR GENERAL DEEPENDRA SINGH HOODA, BAR TO VSM, INFANTRY
16. DR-10309 MAJOR GENERAL SUSHANTA KARKUN, ARMY DENTAL CORPS
17. IC-33235 MAJOR GENERAL DEEPINDER SINGH, SM, VSM, ARMOURED CORPS (RETIRED)
18. REAR ADMIRAL MICHAEL TITUS MORAES, (01888-R)
19. REAR ADMIRAL PARASURAM NAIDU MURUGESAN, VSM, (01958-Z)
20. REAR ADMIRAL VIJAYA KUMAR NAMBALLA, NM, (40689-Z)
21. REAR ADMIRAL RAVINDER KHANNA, VSM, (50514-B) (RETIRED)
22. AIR VICE MARSHAL (NOW AIR MARSHAL) RAVI KANT SHARMA, VM (14088) FLYING (PILOT)
23. AIR VICE MARSHAL NAVIN RATTAN, VSM (14242) MEDICAL
24. AIR VICE MARSHAL SUBHASH CHANDER LUTHRA, VSM (15105) AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING (ELECTRONICS) (RETIRED)
25. MR-03856 BRIGADIER VELU NAIR, BAR TO VSM, ARMY MEDICAL CORPS
26. AIR COMMODORE (NOW AIR VICE MARSHAL) SHYAM BIHARI PRASAD SINHA, VM (16053) FLYING (PILOT)
27. AIR COMMODORE HARJIT SINGH ARORA, (16557) FLYING (PILOT)

SHAURYA CHAKRA
1. 15619321 GUARDSMAN KRISHAN KUMAR, BRIGADE OF THE GUARDS / 21 RASHTRIYA RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS)
2. IC-68043 CAPTAIN AMIT KUMAR SINGH, SENA MEDAL, 2ND BATTALION THE BIHAR REGIMENT
3. JC-2300474 NAIB SUBEDAR RANG BAHADUR YADAV, 23 ASSAM RIFLES
4. 4366857 LANCE NAIK NENGMAITHEM RAJESH SINGH, 21ST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES)
5. 13621161 LANCE HAVILDAR RAJAN, 1ST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES)
6. 13627069 PARATROOPER MAKUNG SARANG HUCHONG, 21ST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES)
7. G/3101841 RIFLEMAN MILAP SINGH, 31 ASSAM RIFLES
8. 2607215 SEPOY CHANNALLI BASAVARAJ, 19TH BATTALION THE MADRAS REGIMENT
9. 4001514 SEPOY RAVI KANT, DOGRA REGIMENT / 11 RASHTRIYA RIFLES(POSTHUMOUS)
10. IC-61307 MAJOR DEEPAK YADAV, ARMY EDUCATION CORPS / EMBASSY OF INDIA, KABUL (POSTHUMOUS)
11. IC-61324 MAJOR NITESH ROY, ARMY EDUCATION CORPS / EMBASSY OF INDIA, KABUL (POSTHUMOUS)
12. 13762552 LANCE NAIK PRAVEEN THAKUR, 12TH BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES
13. 14704137 SEPOY VIJAY SINGH BOHARA, NAGA REGIMENT / 60 RASHTRIYA RIFLES
14. IC-70065 CAPTAIN MANENDRA PRATAP SINGH, ARMY SERVICE CORPS / 8TH BATTALION THE MAHAR REGIMENT
15. IC-67498 MAJOR MANISH BARAL, MAHAR REGIMENT / 30 RASHTRIYA RIFLES
16. 4579271 SEPOY SANGAT SINGH, MAHAR REGIMENT / 30 RASHTRIYA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS)
17. 2497584 PARATROOPER KAPIL DEV, 1ST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES)
18. IC-72002 LIEUTENANT VIKRAM BAHADUR SINGH, ARMY SERVICE CORPS / 3RD BATTALION THE MADRAS REGIMENT

Vice-President Mohd Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Defence Minister Shri AK Antony, Minister of State for Defence Dr. MM Pallam Raju, Leader of the opposition Smt Sushma Swaraj, Chairperson, National Advisory Council Smt Sonia Gandhi, Chief of the Army Staff General VK Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma and several other senior civil and military officials were present on the occasion. PIB DM/HH/PK/Raman
President Confers Gallantry and Distinguished Service Awards

When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state

...But the passing of a soldier goes unnoticed and unsung.
WORLD CUP EUPHOURIA AND FELICITATIONS AS COMPARED TO THOSE GIVEN TO GALLANTARY AWARD WINNERS (POSTHUMOUS/ LIVING)
Dear Sir,
The following is sent with a request to be put on RMS for info of all
Secy RDOA

AN OPEN LETTER TO ALL VETERANS & VETERAN ‘GENERALS’
The whole nation is proud that the cricket team has won the world cup after a gap of 28 years since 1983. There were jubilations/ celebrations all around hailing Dhoni and his men in blue. Even the Chairperson of UPA Mrs Sonia Gandhi did not lag behind and was seen mixing with the crowd to be part of the frenzy. Starting from the ICC, States, corporate’s, railways everyone has come forward to shower praise and money/ wealth on to the players to endorsing brands making them richer by a couple of crores. No hard feelings. The team has done a good job and deserves a pat.
Now that the euphoria of the cup is waning it is time to do some introspection as to how the country views its war heroes and what the Govt/ State offers them to sacrifice their lives at the alter of duty.
Each player would get Rupees One crore from the BCCI in addition to its share from the ICC, 2cr for Dhoni and one cr each for the four Delhi boys; land/ house to Dhoni & Sachin by the Uttarakhand Govt; one crore to Sachin and Zaheer by Maharashtra Govt; one cr to Yuvraj and Harbhajan by Punjab Govt; land to Dhoni for cricket academy in Jharkhand; Housing plots to team members by karanatka Govt; Audi to Yuvraj and lifetime railway pass to travel by first AC to all.
The team partied at the same Taj Hotel which was the battle ground on 26/11 & witness to many a soldier giving up his life. Major Unnikrishnan who died while fighting the terrorists is yet to receive his complete NOK entitlements. He gave his today for the tomorrow of others so that they can party all night without any threat.
The world Cup finals at Mumbai was held under safe environments with the army, navy, coast guard, NSG and what not to ensure the conduct of the match without a hitch. Remove the men in uniform and see if the events pass smoothly, be it CWG games or cricket match.
The Kargil War has still its shadows on the number of officers/jawans who laid their lives to protect the nation and its territorial integrity. What the recipients of Param Vir Chakras/ Mahavir & Vir Chakras got in comparison to the cricket boys is known to all (peanuts). What the families of the dead go through can only be experienced by them. Having a decent living is hard to come by. It’s passé as far as the nation is concerned. There is no crib here, but for the value of blood, shed for others to have a peaceful life. The railways is not prepared to honour the percentage concession given to the war heroes in stark comparison to a lifetime FIRST AC FREE PASS throughout the country along with a aide to the cricket stars. Let us not forget the Kabul blast in which a Brig was also blown up with a bureaucrat. The Babu got all the cake and the icing, the Brig was treated as a casualty. The PM went and paid homage to the babu and his family, the Brig got the traditional ‘Shok Shashtra’. The naked truth is known to all but yet our tolerance levels are very high and we continue to be downgraded/ kicked around and accept with a smile.
Many have written to the PM on lot of issues without success. The PM himself is a seasoned bureaucrat. Perhaps it would be wise to remind him that one day he too would go away. When the PM passes away, the Generals will stand guard on his coffin and carry it to the pyre and sound the last post; it is for the PM to think whether he has done his bit towards those who guard the nation and would be part of his last entourage till he melts away.
Where do we go from here? Should we be a silent spectator to the happening around us or should we form part of the Anna Hazare team and mobilize people on the lines of Egypt or pass away into oblivion. I leave this thought with you.
Secretary RDOA
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RDOA Blog
Comment: Military is the watchdog for the Looters?

Remembering Field Marshal SMH Manekshaw

Ref Blogpost: Field Marshal SMH Manekshaw
Dear Col Anand,
Thank you for your painstaking research on Field Marshal Manekshaw. I would however like to make a few observations so as to get the facts right.
Sam Manekshaw was never commissioned into the 8th Gorkha Rifles. He was commissioned into the 4/12 Frontier Force Regiment which is now in Pakistan. On Partition he was transferred to the 5th Gorkha Rifles(FF) which was also a Frontier Force Regiment.
He was posted to MO Dte as a Lt Col at Partition and was promoted in situ as a Col. Sam never commanded an infantry battalion and has never served with the 8th Gorkha Rifles.
Although he was on the panel of the 5th Gorkha Rifles(FF), he was not made Col on the Regt because there were officers of the Regt who were senior to him. Sometime after 1958, when Maj Gen AS Pathania, MVC,MC was made Col of the 5th Gorkha Rifles(FF) Sam was offered and accepted Colonelcy of the 8th Gorkha Rifles and that regiment thereafter became ' His Regiment'. I hope I have been able to help you in some small way.
Best wishes
Maj Gen Ian Cardozo (Retd)

Dear Brigadier Kamboj,
I read with interest the details about Sam Manekhaw compiled by Brig LK Anand. Without detracting from his splendid effort, I would like to submit a few corrections and additions. These are based on Sam’s biography that is part of my book LEADERSHIP IN THE INDIAN ARMY – BIOGRAPHIES OF TWELVE SOLDIERS. The draft was vetted by Sam himself, not once but thrice, so I think it should be accurate.
The name of Sam’s mother was Hilla, and not Heerabai.
Sam did his Senior Cambridge from, Sherwood Collge, Nainital. He then joined and Hindu Sabha College, Amritsar, to study for his F.Sc. He Joined IMA on 1 October 1932. Sam passed out on 22 December 1934. He was commissioned on 1 February 1935, with the date of seniority fixed as 4 February 1934.
Sam was commissioned in 4/12 Frontier Force Regiment (FFR) and not 8th Gurkha Rifles. In fact, he never serviced in a Gurkha unit. Shortly after Independence, while he was in MO, he was posted as CO 3/5 Gorkha Rifles. However, before he could move, fighting broke out in Kashmir and his posting orders were cancelled. He was promoted Lt Col and Brig in MO itself. He never commanded a battalion. In April 1952, Sam was given command of 167 Infantry Brigade at Ferozepur. IN December 1957, Sam was promoted Major General and posted as GOC 26 Infantry Division. He became a Lt Gen in November 1962 (and not Dec 1963, as stated) and given command of 4 Corps. In December 1963, he was appointed GOC-in-C Western Command
He was married on 22 April 1939, to Silloo Bode. He has two daughters, Maja and Sherry. As regards the anecdotes, there are just too many. A large number are there in my book.
Regards
Maj Gen VK Singh

Dear Brig Kamboj
The following Para from the biography of Sam Manekshaw (RMS 140/2011) illustrates that for want of this element alone in our chiefs, not only the Defence Forces, but also the whole nation is suffering the manipulations of babus and politicians. Courage, gallantry, bravery, valour and all such words which every general chants at meetings with juniors sound hollow after witnessing all that is going on in this country. We are not the sentries of the nation; we are the guardians of the nation.
Is Military Watchdog for the Looters?
"Sub Para(h) Professional Competence. Once a defence secretary made an observation on the note written by Manekshaw for the PM and the Defence Minister. He walked straight into Mrs Gandhi’s office. He politely told her that if she found the defence secretary more competent than him on military matters, then she did not have a need for him. The defence secretary was given a new job."
Col Ram Gulrajani

Dear Chander,
Dehradun remembered Field Marshal SMH Manekshaw on 3rd April his birthday by cutting cake and paying rich tibutes to this unique soldier by lighting candles before his portrait at Hotel Regent. arranged by Marshal School and Dehradun Ex Servicemen. Different Papers in the town published articles eulogising his traits to mark the occasion. One such article published Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw’s Birth Anniversary- click here. We can never forget this illustrous soldier and he will keep youngsters inspiring the great traditions of Army which he practically followed in his life and rose to achieve the highest position.
Regards
Gopal
Veteran Brig KG Behl
President DESL

Hero of Kabul attack is Army’s 1st woman Sena Medal winner

Bhartesh Singh Thakur
Posted: Sun Feb 20 2011, 00:59 hrs
Chandigarh:
The Army has selected its first woman officer to be awarded with a gallantry award.
Major Mitali Madhumita, 34, of Army Education Corps, would be awarded with Sena Medal during an investiture ceremony at Hisar Military Station on February 25 by Lieutenant General S K Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of South-Western Command.
“Major Mitali displayed exemplary courage, grit, determination and valour beyond the call of duty during the attack on Indian Embassy in Kabul on February 26, 2010,” said Major Chetna Sharma, media officer of the South-Western Command, adding that she was “instrumental in saving lives of those grievously wounded in the attack”.
“She was on a UN mission in Kabul. After the attack, she helped officers to come out. She saved a lot of lives. That is why she is selected for the Sena Medal. She will be the first lady officer of the Army to have been awarded a gallantry medal,” said Major Sharma.
Interestingly, Major Mitali will be awarded the medal on the eve of the anniversary of the attack.
Hailing from Orissa, Major Mitali is the eldest of three sisters. A post-graduate in English literature, she joined the Army as a Short Service Commissioned officer in September 2000. “She has done instructional appointments in the past. She has also served in Jammu and Kashmir,” said Major Sharma.
She is currently posted as instructor in Army Education Corps School at Panchmari.
Hero of Kabul attack is Army’s 1st woman Sena Medal winner
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