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- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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Former Navy Chief Admiral Laxminarayan Ramdas (1933-2024): A war hero who carried the courage of conviction

Admiral Laxminarayan Ramdas, a revered figure in the Indian Navy, passed away at the age of 91. He was known for his exceptional courage, conviction, and contributions to the nation. Let us delve into the life and accomplishments of this war hero who left an indelible mark on the Indian Navy. Early Life and Commissioning: Born on September 5, 1933, in Matunga, Mumbai, Admiral Ramdas joined the Navy in September 1953 after receiving training in communications. His dedication and commitment to his profession propelled him to great heights. Establishing the Naval Academy and Breaking Barriers: Admiral Ramdas played a pivotal role in establishing the Naval Academy in Cochin, a significant milestone in the Indian Navy's history. However, one of his most noteworthy achievements was the induction of women into the Navy for the first time during his tenure as the 13th Chief of Naval Staff between 1990 and 1993. Gallantry and Bravery During the 1971 War: Admiral Ramdas showcased immense bravery during the 1971 war, commanding INS Beas. For his exceptional valor and leadership, he was awarded the Vir Chakra, the country's third-highest gallantry award. His command of INS Beas played a crucial role in the blockade of East Pakistan, contributing significantly to India's victory. Notable Naval Commands and Diplomatic Assignments: Throughout his illustrious career, Admiral Ramdas held various distinguished positions. He served as the Fleet Commander of the Eastern Naval Command and commanded both the Southern and Eastern Naval Commands. Additionally, he served as the Indian Naval Attaché in Bonn, West Germany, from 1973 to 1976, further strengthening diplomatic ties. Advocacy for Peace and Nuclear Restraint: Despite his war achievements, Admiral Ramdas was a strong advocate for nuclear restraint, disarmament, and peace talks with Pakistan. His belief in peaceful resolutions earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay award in 2004 for advocating peace between India and Pakistan through the NGO Pakistan-India Peoples Forum. Legacy and Political Involvement: Admiral Ramdas remained an influential figure even after his retirement. He expressed dissent on various social and political issues, speaking his mind without succumbing to political pressures. He joined politics in a significant manner, aligning with the anti-corruption movement and later the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). However, his political journey was short-lived, marked by his sudden removal as internal Lokpal by AAP in 2015. A Visionary Leader and Innovator: Admiral Ramdas was known for his visionary ideas and innovative thinking. In the early 1990s, he envisioned the concept of an 'Indian Ocean panchayat' ahead of its time. This concept later evolved into multinational naval exercises like Milan and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), fostering cooperation and unity among naval forces.

22 Mar 2024
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The Legend of Sam Manekshaw: A Heroic Journey that Defined the Indian Army

Sam Manekshaw, an extraordinary military leader and a true legend, left an indelible mark on the history of the Indian Army through his exceptional service and unwavering commitment to his country.Born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, Punjab, Sam Manekshaw's journey from a young boy to the esteemed Field Marshal is a tale of resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication. As we explore the legend of Sam Manekshaw, we ask: How did his exceptional leadership and courage shape the destiny of the Indian Army?  Manekshaw's military career began when he joined the first batch of the Indian Military Academy in 1932. His talents were quickly recognized, and he was commissioned into the British Indian Army's 2nd Battalion, Royal Scots.  During World War II, Manekshaw displayed his prowess as a soldier and leader in the Burma Campaign. He was awarded the Military Cross for his exceptional valor and leadership during the war. However, it was during the 1971 Indo-Pak War that Manekshaw's leadership skills truly shone. As the Chief of the Indian Army, he led the troops with unparalleled strategic brilliance. Under his command, the Indian Army achieved a historic victory, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh. Manekshaw's masterful planning and tactical brilliance resulted in the swift and decisive defeat of the Pakistani forces. His leadership instilled a sense of confidence and determination among his troops, which ultimately led to the surrender of over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers, marking one of the largest capitulations in military history. The war cemented Manekshaw's reputation as a military genius and a true war hero. His charismatic personality, combined with his strategic acumen and exceptional decision-making skills, made him an inspiration for generations to come. Beyond his military achievements, Manekshaw was known for his deep empathy and concern for the welfare of his soldiers. He understood the importance of their morale and well-being, and he actively worked towards improving their living conditions and benefits. Following his retirement from the army in 1973, Manekshaw continued to contribute to the nation. He served as a mentor and advisor, sharing his wisdom and experiences with future generations of military leaders. His leadership and courage were not limited to the battlefield. Manekshaw was an advocate for unity and diversity, emphasizing the importance of communal harmony and national integration. His speeches and interactions with the public highlighted the values of inclusivity and respect for all. Sam Manekshaw's legacy continues to inspire and guide the Indian Army. His leadership principles, such as leading from the front and always putting the welfare of soldiers first, remain fundamental to the army's ethos. The nation recognized Manekshaw's exceptional contributions by awarding him numerous honors, including the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India. He will always be remembered as a military legend, a war hero, and an icon of national pride. Today, as we reflect on the legend of Sam Manekshaw, we are reminded of the power of leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment. His remarkable journey and accomplishments serve as a constant source of inspiration and motivation for the Indian Army and the entire nation.

24 Nov 2023
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Remembering the Brave: India Celebrates Kargil Vijay Diwas

Every year, on July 26, India comes together to commemorate Kargil Vijay Diwas, a day that holds profound significance in the nation's history. It marks the victorious end of the Kargil War, a conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999. On this date, the Indian armed forces reclaimed the strategic mountain heights that had been occupied by Pakistani intruders, a testament to the bravery and determination of the soldiers. Among the many heroes of the Kargil War, four exceptional soldiers were bestowed with the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest gallantry award. These brave hearts, Captain Vikram Batra, Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav, and Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, exhibited extraordinary courage and selflessness on the battlefield. Captain Vikram Batra, famous for his iconic words, "Yeh Dil Maange More!" displayed immense valor during the war, leading the recapture of Point 5140 in the Dras sector. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar's determination and bravery were instrumental in capturing crucial enemy positions at the height of 16,000 feet. Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav's indomitable spirit led the assault on Tiger Hill despite facing intense resistance, and Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey's leadership proved critical in capturing enemy positions, although he tragically lost his life. These bravehearts who are also Param  Vir Chakra awardees serve as an inspiration to the nation, embodying the highest qualities of bravery and sacrifice. They remind us of  the extraordinary courage displayed by Indian soldiers during the Kargil War. As we observe Kargil Vijay Diwas, let us reflect on the valor of these heroes and express our gratitude to all the brave men and women who continue to safeguard the nation's borders.

26 Jul 2023
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July 26 Kargil Vijay Diwas

The Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated on July 26 every year to commemorate the success of Operation Vijay in the Kargil War, that helped India to regain command of the high outposts which had been lost to Pakistani intruders. It is celebrated in honour of the Kargil War Heroes who laid down their life for our country. Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated in the Kargil - Dras sector and the national capital New Delhi, where the Prime Minister of India, pays homage to the soldiers at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate every year.  Various functions are also organized in various parts of the country in recognition of the contribution of the armed forces towards the country. The Kargil war fought between May and July 1999 in Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LOC). India had to fight the war to clear Kargil of Pakistani infiltrators and Kashmiri militants who had intruded into the Indian side of LOC. During the severe winter of Kashmir, it is common practice for both the Indian and Pakistan Armies to abandon some forward posts on their respective sides of the LOC and to reduce patrolling of areas which may be avenues of infiltration. When winter becomes less harsh, the posts are reoccupied and patrolling is resumed. In February 1999, the Pakistan Army not only started to reoccupy its posts but also sent its forces to occupy some posts on the Indian side. There were reports about the Pakistani forces being backed by Kashmiri guerrillas and Afghan mercenaries. Initially, India failed to detect the incursions. The infiltrations were exposed when in the second week of May, an Indian patrol team led by Capt Saurabh Kalia ambushed the Batalik sector. In the beginning, it was thought that the infiltrators are jihadis. Widespread infiltration elsewhere along the LOC and the difference in tactics employed by the infiltrators made the Indian army realize that the country’s border is being attacked on a bigger scale and that the Pakistan Army is involved. Soon Operation Vijay was launched by the government of India to counter the attack. Around  2,00,000 Indian troops were mobilized and fighting ensued. The total number of Indian soldiers that were involved in the military operation in the Kargil-Drass sector was close to 30,000. The number of infiltrators, including those providing logistical backup was approximately 5,000. The difficulty of terrain was not a deterrent to the Indian soldiers who fought courageously and won numerous battles. Soon India regained control of the hills overlooking NH 1D and the Indian Army turned to drive the invading force back across the Line of Control. Two months into the conflict, Indian troops had gradually regained control of most of the ridges that were encroached by the infiltrators nearly all the high ground was back under Indian control. Many countries condemned Pakistan’s violation of the LOC. Pakistan was succumbing to international pressure. In the last week of July, the Indian Army launched its final attacks and Kargil was free from the Pakistanis who had to withdraw their troops. Fighting ceased on 26th July and thenceforth, this day is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas (Kargil Victory Day) every year by the Indians. The Kargil War was fought at a time when electronic media was gaining momentum, therefore the war attained a wide media coverage. It helped to instil patriotic feelings among the citizens who till this day remember the sacrifices of the martyrs and celebrate this day as  Kargil Vijay Diwas in their honour.  

25 Jul 2019
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