"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#combat

Star Citizens

A Historic First: Lt. Deeksha Tripathi Becomes First Woman to Master the AMAR Combat Routine

In a landmark achievement that reflects the changing face of India’s armed forces, Lieutenant Deeksha Tripathi has become the first female combatant to successfully complete the Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR) course at the Army Institute of Physical Training in Pune. Known for its extremely demanding nature, the AMAR course pushes soldiers to their physical and psychological limits, testing endurance, resilience, and hand-to-hand combat skills.Lt. Tripathi’s success is therefore more than just the completion of a training program; it is a moment that quietly but powerfully challenges long-standing assumptions about women’s place in combat training. At a time when the Indian Army is steadily expanding opportunities for women, her accomplishment stands as a bold reminder that capability is not defined by gender but by grit, discipline, and determination.Understanding the Rigorous AMAR Combat SystemThe Army Martial Arts Routine, popularly known as AMAR, is a specialized close-combat training system introduced by the Indian Army to strengthen the unarmed combat abilities of its soldiers. Designed as a modern mixed martial arts framework, the program combines techniques drawn from traditional Indian martial arts as well as global combat disciplines. The purpose is simple yet critical: to prepare soldiers for situations where survival may depend on reflexes, strength, and combat instincts rather than weapons. The training emphasizes speed, balance, situational awareness, and mental toughness. Participants undergo intense drills and simulated combat situations that demand peak physical conditioning and emotional control. Completing the AMAR course requires not only mastery of martial techniques but also the courage to persist through one of the toughest physical training environments in the armed forces.Training at the Army Institute of Physical TrainingLt. Tripathi completed this challenging course at the Army Institute of Physical Training (AIPT) in Pune, one of the Indian Army’s premier institutions dedicated to developing combat fitness and physical excellence. AIPT has long served as a training ground where soldiers and instructors are shaped through rigorous programs in athletics, martial arts, and tactical conditioning. The AMAR program conducted here is particularly demanding, requiring trainees to demonstrate strength, precision, agility, and quick decision-making under pressure. Every movement must be disciplined, every reflex sharp. By successfully navigating this intense training environment, Lt. Tripathi proved that she possesses the resilience and combat readiness expected from elite soldiers. Her accomplishment reflects not only personal dedication but also the evolving culture within the armed forces that increasingly recognizes the capabilities of women in physically demanding roles.A Victory Beyond the Training GroundLt. Deeksha Tripathi’s achievement is not merely a professional milestone; it is a symbolic breakthrough. For decades, combat training spaces have been perceived as male-dominated territories, often surrounded by assumptions about physical limits and gender roles. By becoming the first woman to complete the AMAR course, Lt. Tripathi has quietly dismantled one more barrier. Her journey signals a powerful shift in perspective, showing that courage, discipline, and resilience belong to no single gender. For countless young women who dream of wearing the uniform, her success becomes a beacon of possibility. It tells them that the battlefield of opportunity is slowly opening its doors wider. In that sense, Lt. Tripathi’s achievement is not just about mastering martial arts, it is about rewriting the narrative of strength itself.

12 Mar 2026
Star Citizens

India’s First Woman Rudra Pilot: When a Girl from Jammu Took Charge of the Skies

A few days ago, my 12-year-old cousin came to visit me during her school vacation. One evening, we sat quietly on the terrace, watching the sky change colours as the sun dipped below the horizon. I casually asked her a simple question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” She did not answer immediately. She looked up at the open sky, her eyes fixed on something invisible yet powerful, and said, “I want to fly… and look over my country and protect it.” That moment stayed with me. I knew I had to tell her about a real-life hero who had turned this very dream into reality. That hero is Captain Hansja Sharma.A New Chapter in India’s Military HistoryIndia witnessed history being written in the skies. Captain Hansja Sharma, a Jammu-born officer of the Indian Army, became the first woman to qualify as a pilot of the Rudra armed helicopter. At just 27 years old, she has entered a domain that has long been considered one of the toughest and most male-dominated roles in military aviation. The Rudra helicopter is not just any aircraft. It is a weaponised version of the Advanced Light Helicopter, designed for attack, reconnaissance, and high-risk combat missions. Flying Rudra demands exceptional skill, precision, mental strength, and physical endurance. Captain Hansja’s achievement is not only personal success but also a landmark moment for women in India’s Armed Forces.Roots in Jammu, Wings in the SkyBorn on March 9, 1998, in Jammu, Hansja Sharma grew up in an environment that valued discipline, learning, and courage. She completed her schooling at St. Xavier’s Convent School in Barnai and went on to graduate from Parade College in Jammu. Later, she pursued higher studies in the Zoology Department at the University of Jammu before life took a decisive turn towards the Army. Her mother, Rashmi Sharma, a senior journalist, played a crucial role in shaping her worldview. As a single mother, Rashmi faced her own battles, sacrificing personal comfort to ensure her children had opportunities. She often recalls how Hansja lived with self-discipline even at home, maintaining strict fitness routines and giving up her favourite foods like chaat papdi after joining the Army.“Be Brutal to Yourself”: A Philosophy of DisciplineOne line written on the wall of Hansja’s room after her schooling years became the foundation of her life: “Be brutal to yourself.” It was not about harshness but about uncompromising self-discipline. Without formal coaching, she prepared herself mentally and physically for the Army. Her journey, however, was not smooth. She faced a temporary rejection during her selection process. For many, that would have been the end of the dream. For Hansja, it became a test of resolve. Within just 15 days, she underwent a three-hour-long nose surgery, recovered, and returned stronger to secure her place in the Indian Army. Her mother calls it a journey of rejection followed by faith and success.Excellence at CAATS and a Historic FirstCaptain Hansja Sharma’s true mettle shone at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS) in Nashik. She topped her course and was awarded the prestigious Silver Cheetah Trophy as the best combat aviator, the first woman in history to achieve this honour. Today, she serves with the 251 Army Aviation Squadron and showcased her exceptional skills during the Army Day Parade in Rajasthan on January 15, 2026. Flying the Rudra and demonstrating the HELINA missile system before the nation’s leadership, including Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, she displayed the focus of Arjuna aiming for the fish’s eye.A Mother’s Pride, A Nation’s EmotionBehind every trailblazer is a story of quiet sacrifice. Rashmi Sharma speaks of selling everything she had at one point to support her children, believing that it was simply what parents do. Today, she is overwhelmed by the respect and love she receives because of her daughter’s achievement. She recalls her daughter’s powerful words, spoken like poetry, about breaking cages, flying free, and proving that women are no less than anyone else. From surprising moments like seeing Hansja’s photograph with Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh to watching her daughter command the skies, Rashmi calls herself the luckiest mother in the world.More Than a Pilot, A SymbolCaptain Hansja Sharma’s success is more than a personal milestone. It represents the changing face of India’s defence forces, where women are increasingly taking up combat and leadership roles. For Jammu and Kashmir, her achievement adds another proud chapter to its history. For young girls across the country, she is living proof that dreams are valid, no matter how high they fly. As congratulatory messages pour in from all corners, her journey continues to inspire students, aspirants, and especially young girls who dare to imagine themselves in uniform.The Sky Is No Longer the LimitWhen I told my cousin about Captain Hansja Sharma, her eyes widened with wonder. “She really flies to protect the country?” she asked. I nodded. She smiled and looked back at the sky. Captain Hansja Sharma has shown us that courage, discipline, and belief can turn dreams into duty. The sky is no longer a boundary. It is a responsibility, and she carries it with honour.

19 Jan 2026
Star Citizens

India’s New Combat Icon: Rupa Bayor Makes World Ranking History!

Picture a young dreamer from India stepping onto the Taekwondo mat, driven not by fame but by unyielding grit. For Ms. Rupa Bayor, that mat became both a battlefield and a classroom—a place where discipline was forged and limits were constantly challenged. Hailing from Daporijo in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district, Bayor’s journey is a powerful reminder that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected corners of the country. In a nation where combat sports are still fighting for mainstream attention, Bayor has carved a place not just for herself, but for Indian Taekwondo as a whole. Her historic achievement of becoming the first Indian Taekwondo athlete to secure World Rank 6 and Asia Rank 1 has rewritten what was once thought possible for Indian fighters on the global stage.Breaking Barriers in Global Taekwondo RankingsTaekwondo, dominated for decades by traditional powerhouses from East Asia and Europe, is a sport where consistency, speed, and mental toughness matter as much as raw strength. Rising through international rankings requires years of relentless training and the ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stages. Rupa Bayor’s ascent to Asia Rank 1 is not just a numerical milestone; it is a breakthrough moment. It signals that an Indian athlete can not only compete with the best in Asia but also lead the continent. Her World Rank 6 standing places her among the global elite, a position that reflects sustained excellence rather than a single standout performance. Her precision kicks, sharp tactical awareness, and unbreakable focus have allowed her to outclass seasoned international opponents. In doing so, Bayor has shattered long-standing perceptions about India’s place in world Taekwondo.Rupa Bayor’s achievement has sparked what many see as a turning point for Indian Taekwondo. For years, the sport has lived in the shadows of more mainstream disciplines. Her rise to the top of Asian rankings has brought renewed attention, credibility, and belief. For aspiring fighters across India, especially young women, Bayor’s journey is a powerful beacon. National and State Leaders Applaud a Historic FeatBayor’s historic accomplishment has drawn praise from top leaders in Arunachal Pradesh, reflecting the pride felt across the state and the Northeast. Chief Minister Pema Khandu hailed her success as a proud milestone for India, Arunachal Pradesh, and the entire Northeast. Calling her journey from Daporijo “truly inspiring,” he wished her continued success on the global stage. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein described Bayor’s rise as a moment that has put Indian Taekwondo firmly on the world map. He emphasized her role in motivating young athletes across the country, especially those from smaller towns and remote regions.Redefining What’s Possible for Indian FightersRupa Bayor’s success has set a new benchmark for excellence in Indian Taekwondo. It challenges long-held assumptions about India’s limitations in global combat sports and underscores the importance of sustained investment in athlete development. More importantly, her story humanizes success. It is not just about podium finishes or rankings, but about belief—belief that Indian athletes can dominate technically demanding sports with the right mix of discipline, opportunity, and perseverance. For young fighters watching from local dojos and school halls, Bayor’s journey offers something priceless: proof.A Legacy in the MakingAs Rupa Bayor continues her international journey, her impact is already visible. She has become a symbol of possibility, especially for athletes from the Northeast who often struggle for national visibility. Her achievements have ensured that Indian Taekwondo is no longer a footnote in international discussions but a growing force demanding respect. In stepping onto the mat and refusing to back down, Rupa Bayor has done more than win rankings. She has redefined India’s place in global Taekwondo   and inspired a generation to believe that even the toughest barriers can be broken with discipline, courage, and heart.

6 Jan 2026
Star Citizens

India's Top Gun: Major Abhilasha Barak's Journey to Becoming India's First Women Combat Aviator

Major Abhilasha Barak, India's first woman combat aviator continues to inspire a generation of young women. Born at Military Hospital, Wellington, and hailing from Haryana, Abhilasha's journey to the skies began early, shaped by her family's legacy of service and dedication. Her father, a decorated army officer, and her brother create in her a sense of discipline and duty that would one day send her to the cockpit.From Classroom to CockpitAbhilasha's interest in aviation started during her school days at The Lawrence School, Sanawar, where she shaped her leadership skills and developed a passion for adventure. However, it wasn't until she completed her Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Delhi Technological University that she decided to pursue a career in the Indian Army. After a brief time at Deloitte in the United States, Abhilasha realized that her true calling was in serving her country. She cracked the SSB interview four times before being commissioned into the Army Air Defence Corps in September 2018.The Making of a Combat AviatorMajor Abhilasha's journey to becoming a combat aviator was marked by rigorous training and determination. At the Combat Army Aviation Training School in Nashik, she underwent comprehensive training, learning to fly the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter. The training process was a tough test of her physical and mental limits, pushing her to develop her flying skills, tactical awareness, and decision-making abilities. And yet, Abhilasha persevered, driven by her passion for aviation and her commitment to serving her country.As a combat aviator, Major Abhilasha Barak is trained to operate aircraft in combat situations, executing missions that require precision, skill, and bravery. She flies the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter, conducting a range of tasks such as reconnaissance, transportation of troops and equipment, and providing close air support to ground troops. Her role is proof of the Indian Army's commitment to the skills and talents of its officers, regardless of gender.A Milestone for Women in the Indian Armed ForcesMajor Abhilasha Barak's achievement is a significant milestone for women in the Indian Armed Forces. While women have been serving in various capacities within the Indian Air Force and Navy, the Army's decision to allow women to join its aviation wing in early 2021 marked a big shift in policy. Abhilasha's success serves as a powerful example of the potential of women in combat aviation, creating the way for more women to take on roles in this field. As more women join the Army Aviation Corps, they will be inspired by Major Abhilasha Barak's courage, determination, and pioneering spirit. The Indian Army's commitment to gender inclusivity is evident in its ongoing efforts to create more opportunities for women in various roles, including combat positions and leadership roles. 

11 Jun 2025
Star Citizens

Fearless & Flying High: Meet IAF’s First Woman Jaguar Pilot!

Tanushka Singh grew up surrounded by stories of courage—tales of valor shared at the dinner table, memories of service woven into her childhood. With her father and grandfather in the armed forces, duty and discipline were second nature to her. But even as she admired their dedication, she never imagined that one day, she would carve her own place in history.Today, Flying Officer Tanushka Singh is not just soaring through the skies—she’s breaking barriers. As the first woman pilot to be permanently inducted into the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet squadron, she is redefining what’s possible, proving that no dream is too big and no sky too high for those who dare to chase it.Her grandfather, Captain D.B. Singh, a retired Army officer, and her father, retired Lt. Colonel Ajay Pratap Singh, instilled in her the values of discipline, perseverance, and commitment. She initially aspired to join the Indian Army, but fate had bigger plans. Upon learning about the opportunities available for women in the Indian Air Force, Tanushka shifted her focus to the skies, embracing a challenge that very few had undertaken before.The Making of a TrailblazerHer journey to the cockpit of one of IAF’s most formidable fighter jets was anything but easy. Tanushka trained rigorously at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Telangana, where she honed her skills and prepared for the demands of a combat pilot. She then underwent specialized training on the Hawk MK 132 aircraft, a crucial step before flying the Jaguar—a key tactical strike aircraft renowned for its precision attack capabilities.While other women have flown the Jaguar during training, Tanushka’s permanent induction into the squadron is a first. Her achievement marks a new dawn for aspiring women aviators in India.Tanushka’s family could not contain their pride as the news of her achievement spread. Her grandfather shared how the phone hasn’t stopped ringing with congratulatory calls from well-wishers. In a heartwarming video call, Tanushka expressed her gratitude, but due to security protocols, she could only share limited details. However, her grandfather couldn’t resist expressing his emotions, giving due credit to his wife, Urmila Singh, for her support and sacrifices that helped their family reach this milestone.A Symbol of Change and ProgressThe inclusion of women in combat roles within the Indian Air Force has been a gradual but steady process. Tanushka’s induction into the Jaguar squadron is a proof of the changing dynamics within the defense sector, emphasizing merit over gender. It serves as a symbol of hope for countless young girls who dream of defying stereotypes and pursuing careers in fields traditionally dominated by men.Women’s Day Week: Celebrating Boundless PotentialAs the world comes together to celebrate Women’s Day Week, Tanushka Singh’s journey is more than just a milestone—it’s a testament to how far women have come and how much further we can go. This week isn’t just about applause and recognition; it’s about pausing to reflect on the struggles, the battles fought in silence, and the glass ceilings that still need to be shattered.Tanushka’s story is a beacon of hope, proving that when women are given the right opportunities, they don’t just succeed—they soar. Her journey is a reminder to dream big, to challenge the norms, and to carve out spaces where none existed before. As we celebrate the achievements of women everywhere, let’s not just admire these stories—let us commit to fostering an environment where stories like Tanushka’s become the norm rather than the exception. 

7 Mar 2025
Star Citizens

Good News

The Army’s Newest Warrior: Built for Places Humans Shouldn’t Go First

In an ammunition depot, fire is not just fire. It is a ticking threat where a single spark can trigger explosions powerful enough to flatten buildings, destroy critical stockpiles and cost lives within seconds. For decades, Indian Army firefighters have faced this danger head-on, often stepping into smoke-filled, unstable structures knowing the risks. Now, that equation is beginning to change. In a significant move towards safer military infrastructure, the Indian Army has signed a ₹62-crore contract to procure 18 indigenously developed Fire Fighting Robots, known as FF BOTs. These unmanned machines are designed to enter the most dangerous zones first, absorbing the risk that humans traditionally bore.A Contract That Signals a Shift in Military SafetyThe agreement was signed on 13 January by the Army’s Directorate of Capability Development with Ahmedabad-based start-up Swadeshi Empresa Pvt Ltd. Induction of the robots is scheduled to begin in the first week of April, with deployments planned across ammunition depots, fuel storage facilities and other high-risk installations in multiple cantonments. While ₹62 crore may seem modest in defence terms, the impact of this procurement goes far beyond numbers. It reflects a conscious shift in thinking: that safeguarding soldiers’ lives is as critical as safeguarding weapons and infrastructure.Built for Places Humans Shouldn’t Go FirstThe FF BOT is an unmanned ground vehicle engineered to operate where humans are most vulnerable. Intense heat, toxic smoke, collapsing structures and the constant risk of secondary explosions define the environments it is meant to face. These are precisely the conditions that make early firefighting intervention both essential and deadly. Equipped with optical and thermal cameras, the robot transmits live video feeds to operators stationed at a safe distance. Thermal imaging allows it to detect hidden hotspots and smouldering flames even when thick smoke makes human vision useless. This early situational awareness can mean the difference between containing a fire and watching it escalate into a disaster.Why Ammunition Depots Need Robots FirstIn ammunition and armament depots, even a small blaze can trigger catastrophic chain reactions. Explosives stored nearby may detonate, sending shockwaves across large areas and crippling operational readiness. Fires at such facilities are not only a safety issue but also a strategic concern. By deploying FF BOTs at the initial stage of a fire, the Army aims to prevent escalation before human firefighters step in. Officials have stressed that these robots are meant to support, not replace, trained personnel acting as the first line of entry in zones where survival is uncertain.Backed by Make in India and Start-up InnovationDeveloped by Swadeshi Empresa Pvt Ltd, the FF BOT is a product of India’s growing defence start-up ecosystem. Supported by the Army Design Bureau and aligned with the Make in India program, the project highlights how private innovation is increasingly shaping military capabilities. The contract includes a two-year warranty and five years of comprehensive maintenance with on-site support, ensuring the robots are not treated as experimental tools but integrated into long-term emergency response planning. The FF BOT is not untested technology. It has already demonstrated its effectiveness in civilian settings, including during a major fire at the Visakhapatnam refinery. That operation showed how robotic systems can operate in industrial environments where heat, chemicals and structural risks make human access extremely dangerous. This dual-use potential opens doors for broader applications, from power stations and oil refineries to airports and disaster-response zones. It also underscores how military investments in safety technology can benefit civilian infrastructure.A Broader Message About Modern WarfareThe Indian Army’s decision to deploy FF BOTs reflects a larger evolution in military thinking. Modern warfare and military readiness are no longer defined only by firepower but by resilience, safety and intelligent use of technology. Protecting ammunition depots protects supply chains, readiness and ultimately national security. Showcased at Army House during Vijay Diwas celebrations in December, the robot also symbolises how innovation is being celebrated alongside tradition within the forces. As these robotic firefighters roll into cantonments from April, they will likely never make headlines during routine operations. Every fire contained early, every explosion prevented, and every firefighter who returns home safely will be a quiet testament to their value. In placing robots between fire and soldiers, the Indian Army is sending a clear message about the future of defense: courage will still matter, but so will care for the people who serve.

22 Jan 2026
Good News

Guardians of Change: CISF to Introduce Its First All-Women Security Battalion

In a landmark step toward enhancing gender representation in India's security forces, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced the creation of an all-women battalion for the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).  With plans underway for a comprehensive training program, this battalion will empower women personnel with the skills and resilience needed to excel in diverse operational roles.This initiative aligns with the existing 200,000 personnel cap for the force, ensuring it remains within the approved budgetary framework for 2024–25 and subsequent years.The battalion will receive extensive training for leadership roles, strengthening the force's capacity to respond to security demands in high-stakes situations ~   The training course will concentrate on managing airport security, protecting VIPs, and specialized duties within the Delhi Metro Rail system. Officers will be equipped to function in command positions and be able to lead and precisely handle challenging situations. The creation of this elite battalion is in line with CISF's continuous goal of creating a workforce that is knowledgeable and adaptable to the changing needs of contemporary security.     (Source: Google Images) This Together Strengthen women in the security services and opens the door for more gender inclusion in important roles that have been filled by men ~ Female Leading A Powerful Strike On Gender Norms ( Source: Google Images) An important step in CISF's endeavor to boost female involvement in the force is the creation of an all-female battalion, which supports larger national initiatives for gender inclusion in defense and security. The MHA's endorsement is a resounding recognition of the vital role women play in maintaining security at prominent locations and operations. It is anticipated that this new battalion would increase the visibility of women in command roles, acting as role models for future female officers and maybe inspiring more women to choose jobs in defense and security. Within the approved budget for the fiscal year, the MHA has set aside money for this project; when the battalion is formed and grows, more money will be given in the upcoming years.This initiative empowers women to embrace pivotal roles, challenging traditional gender norms in fields historically dominated by men. As these officers gear up to lead with strength and expertise, the battalion stands as a symbol of progress, encouraging future generations to envision new opportunities in national security.

19 Nov 2024
Good News

Women to be given combat role in Army

    Breaking all gender barriers, the Indian Army is all set to allow women to take up combat roles, a duty assigned to women in very few countries globally. Stating that currently, combat role is an exclusive domain of men, Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat said that it is time to open up combat positions for women. Initially, there are plans to recruit women for positions in the military police. At present, women are assigned duty in medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army, but they were not given combat roles due to operational concerns and logistical issues. The Army Chief said that he was ready to recruit women as jawans and the matter is being taken up by the government. He believes that women have enough grit and strength to take up challenges and they should be given the opportunity to show it. The role of military police entails policing the cantonments and army establishments, prevent a breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police whenever required. Women are allowed in combat roles in very few countries like Germany, Australia, Canada, the US, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden and Israel.  

6 Jun 2017
Good News

BSF gets its first woman combat officer

Image for Representation purpose Only Rajasthan's Bikaner city was on Sunday all prepared to give a rousing welcome to its resident Tanushree Pareek who became the first woman combat officer to be commissioned by the Border Security Force(BSF) It was for the first time in its 51 year history that a woman combat officer was inducted in the BSF. Pareek was taken around the city in a procession in an open jeep from her alma matter Lady Elgin School. During the procession, hundreds of people took to the streets to cheer her and felicitate her with garlands and bouquets. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the passing out parade of 67 trainee officers at the BSF camp in Gwalior. When Pareek (25) was informed just 15 days in advance that she was chosen to lead the parade, she was very excited and prepared for the parade with double zeal.  She said that now it was time for girls to actively participate in tough tasks. During the piping ceremony, the Union Home Minister himself put the rank stars on the shoulders of Pareek. Pareek was given a 52-week training in battle craft, intelligence gathering and other border guarding tasks and received three awards for her outstanding achievements in drill, all round best trainee, and public speaking. She will be posted to command a unit of the 105th Battalion along the Indo-Pak border in Firojpur in Punjab.

29 Mar 2017
Good News

Global News

Zimbabwe Launches Zig, World's Newest Currency

The central bank of Zimbabwe has introduced a new "structured currency" that is backed by gold to stabilize the long-collapsing economy of the nation and combat extremely high inflation. Zim Gold (ZiG), the new currency, will be backed by gold, precious minerals, and foreign currencies, Zimbabwe's Reserve Bank governor John Mushayavanhu announced to reporters in the country's capital on Friday. The ZiG would be used in conjunction with a basket of other currencies, according to Mushayavanhu. He added that an exchange rate set by the market would be implemented by the central bank. He declared, "As of right now, banks will convert current Zimbabwe dollar balances into the new currency." He continued, introducing the new banknotes, which are available in eight denominations ranging from one to 200 ZiG, saying the goal of the move is to promote “simplicity, certainty, [and] predictability” in Zimbabwe’s financial operations. Zimbabwe's iconic Balancing Rocks, which were previously depicted on the old notes, are depicted with a representation of gold ingots being struck on the new ones. According to Mushayavanhu, Zimbabweans have 21 days to exchange their old currency for new. Stability being Restored ~  Zimbabwe has always suffered from severe inflation; in recent years, rates have risen above 500%. The yearly rate of price rises reaches a seven-month high of 55.3% in March 2024. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, the nation's central bank, stated that maintaining stability is crucial because the decline in the value of the country's currency has led to an increase in annual inflation. The central bank stated in a statement that "the Bank's priority policy focus is critical for supporting the economy's growth prospects through the restoration of stability, convertibility, and transactional convenience of the local currency." Newest Currency In Present Times ~  (Source: Google Images)  The Secret is Confidence ~  The Zimbabwe dollar lost value in 2008 as a result of the hyperinflation that reached astonishing levels, and the government abandoned it in 2009. Since then, the economy has made extensive use of the US dollar as well as other foreign currencies. It is yet to be seen if the public will accept the new ZiG as a reliable local currency, which would give authorities back control over monetary policy. According to the BBC, the US dollar, which is used in about 85% of transactions, is preferred by many Zimbabweans for its security. This is the reason the central bank chose to implement a multi-currency system using a combination of foreign currencies and the ZiG. Regional Payment Methods ~  According to analysts, establishing businesses and drawing in foreign investments depend on stable currencies and stable economic conditions. There are initiatives to improve local currency payment systems all over Africa. For example, the African Union and the African Export-Import Bank built the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a centralized financial market infrastructure that facilitates the safe transfer of funds across African borders. With the PAPSS, users can send money almost instantly in their home currency without having to use a bank or third-party institution or convert it into a foreign currency. Last year, an insight report from the World Economic Forum, AfCFTA: A New Era for Global Business and Investment in Africa, noted that PAPSS “will help African businesses avoid the delays in confirming payments that have long been a barrier to trade” and will “lead to increased trust and time capacity to increase trade volumes.” The Zig is a fresh effort to address Zimbabwe's monetary problems. Even though its long-term viability is uncertain, it demonstrates a determined attempt to put an end to currency instability. It will be crucial to watch in the coming months and years if the Zig is trusted, whether it can reduce inflation and whether it can strengthen the economy. Whether Zimbabwe can achieve long-term financial stability through the Zig, only time will tell.

28 May 2024
Global News

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