News for 'Western Command'

Won't be deterred by nuclear threat, says Army's western commander

Won't be deterred by nuclear threat, says Army's western commander

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Western Army Commander Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar reports a sustained decline in militancy in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the army's readiness to respond to any misadventures by Pakistan and its support for terrorist activities.

What Will First India-China Corps Commander Talks in Arunachal Achieve?

What Will First India-China Corps Commander Talks in Arunachal Achieve?

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

In July, tension emerged in Taksing, a remote village in the Upper Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh after locals sighted PLA soldiers.

'Restoring legacy': US drops 'Indo' from Indo-Pacific Command

'Restoring legacy': US drops 'Indo' from Indo-Pacific Command

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The US Department of Defence has restored the name of the US Indo-Pacific Command to the US Pacific Command, reversing an eight-year-old decision. This change honours the command's deep historical roots, established in 1947, while its vast area of responsibility, extending to India's western border, and its mission remain unchanged.

INS Mangrol joins Navy fleet to bolster coastal anti-submarine warfare

INS Mangrol joins Navy fleet to bolster coastal anti-submarine warfare

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Mangrol, its third anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft (ASW-SWC), in Mumbai. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, the vessel is designed to enhance India's ability to detect and counter submarine threats, especially in shallow coastal waters. Its induction is seen as vital amidst rising geopolitical tensions and increased submarine activity in the Indian Ocean, reinforcing India's indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and maritime security.

By-poll debacle signals deep crisis for AIADMK in Tamil Nadu

By-poll debacle signals deep crisis for AIADMK in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com3 days ago

The AIADMK suffered a significant blow in the recent Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-polls, seeing a sharp decline in its traditional vote base. The party came in a distant third in both seats, which were previously its strongholds, raising concerns about its leadership, strategy, and future in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, especially with the rise of the TVK.

Theatre Commands Plan Gains Momentum

Theatre Commands Plan Gains Momentum

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The plan includes three such formations: A China-focused Northern Theatre Command, a Pakistan-focused Western Theatre Command, and a Maritime Theatre Command.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang visits flood-hit Gyirong township in Tibet

Chinese Premier Li Qiang visits flood-hit Gyirong township in Tibet

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A massive flash flood near the China-Nepal border in Tibet has left hundreds missing and caused significant casualties. Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited the affected Gyirong Township to oversee rescue and relief operations, with the PLA mobilising forces for search and rescue.

General Dhiraj Seth takes over as 31st Army Chief

General Dhiraj Seth takes over as 31st Army Chief

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

General Dhiraj Seth has been appointed as the new Chief of the Army Staff, taking command of the 1.3 million-strong Indian Army. He brings nearly four decades of extensive experience, including commanding two operational Army commands along the western front, and will lead the force in its pursuit of self-reliance and readiness amidst dynamic global geo-strategic challenges.

588 missing after massive mudslide at Nepal-Tibet border: Chinese state media

588 missing after massive mudslide at Nepal-Tibet border: Chinese state media

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A massive mudslide near the China-Nepal border in Tibet has left three people dead and 588 missing. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out rescue efforts, with the PLA mobilising forces for search and relief operations in the affected Gyirong County. The Indian Embassy has also issued an advisory for stranded Indians.

India, China hold high-level talks on Arunachal border ahead of BRICS meet

India, China hold high-level talks on Arunachal border ahead of BRICS meet

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Indian and Chinese armies held their first high-level commanders' flag talks in the Arunachal Pradesh sector, following Special Representatives dialogue. These talks, aimed at maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control, occurred amidst reports of aggressive military posturing and just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to India for the BRICS summit.

Why Air Marshal Mishra Is The Right Man For Ram Mandir Trust

Why Air Marshal Mishra Is The Right Man For Ram Mandir Trust

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Jeetu, as he is known in the IAF, is known for his high intellect, ability to quickly grasp the essentials of complex situations and the readiness to articulate his views clearly and unambiguously. An excellent professional in every sense of the word, he has a well-trained military mind, honed by extensive operational flying and flight testing experience, avers Air Marshal B Manikantan (retd).

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth named next Army Chief

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth named next Army Chief

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, currently the Vice Chief of Army, has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff, taking over from Gen Upendra Dwivedi on June 30. He brings nearly four decades of distinguished military experience, having commanded various formations and held key strategic appointments.

Vice Admiral Luthra takes over as new Western Command chief

Vice Admiral Luthra takes over as new Western Command chief

Rediff.com30 May 2016

Vice Admiral Lanba, who will proceed to New Delhi to take over as the Chief of Naval Staff on Tuesday, handed over the command to Luthra at a ceremonial parade in Mumbai on Monday morning.

Bypolls: BJP wins big in Bengal, TVK gains 2 seats in TN

Bypolls: BJP wins big in Bengal, TVK gains 2 seats in TN

Rediff.com6 days ago

Tamil Nadu's ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) won bypolls in Madurantakam and Dharapuram, strengthening its minority government. Concurrently, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured emphatic victories in West Bengal's Nandigram and Muslim-majority Rejinagar, consolidating its post-TMC rule position. The BJP also established a significant lead in Assam's Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll, and its ally AINRC retained Thattanchavady in Puducherry.

Govt okays new S Western command

Govt okays new S Western command

Rediff.com3 Feb 2005

The command will have defensive as well as offensive formations.

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Rediff.com11 May 2026

'General Subramani's appointment as military adviser in the NSCS has given him insight into decision-making at the apex level prior to formally taking over as CDS.'

Ram Temple Trust: The 5 New Guardians

Ram Temple Trust: The 5 New Guardians

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has appointed a new leadership team, including retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra as CEO, Ayodhya lawyer Madan Mohan Pandey as trustee, Delhi businessman Mahesh Bhagchandka as treasurer, and Dr Nirmala Yadav as the first woman trustee, to address allegations of theft and improve administration and devotee facilities.

Barrier lake formed at Tibet-Nepal border, China issues alert

Barrier lake formed at Tibet-Nepal border, China issues alert

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

China has issued a Level-IV alert due to a newly formed barrier lake at the Tibet-Nepal border, warning of a high risk of breaching and flooding downstream areas. The lake, formed at the confluence of Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers, has accumulated an estimated two million cubic metres of water, with inflows expected to increase, raising concerns for areas including Gyirong Port.

InsuranceDekho and RenewBuy merge to create India's largest AI-powered insurance platform

InsuranceDekho and RenewBuy merge to create India's largest AI-powered insurance platform

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

InsuranceDekho and RenewBuy have merged to establish India's largest artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled insurance distribution platform, targeting a significant premium book and extensive reach across the country.

Russia responds to India's S-400 tender for 5 more squadrons

Russia responds to India's S-400 tender for 5 more squadrons

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

In a significant development, the Russian side has submitted a detailed proposal to the Defence Ministry in response to the Indian tender for acquiring five more squadrons of the S-400 Sudarshan long-range air defence systems for the Indian Air Force.

Pix: Defence forces join yoga day celebrations

Pix: Defence forces join yoga day celebrations

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

India's armed forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, extensively participated in yoga sessions across the country to commemorate International Day of Yoga. From high-altitude regions to parade grounds, thousands of personnel, their families, and cadets engaged in various asanas, highlighting yoga's role in promoting physical fitness, mental resilience, and holistic well-being.

Operation Sindoor veteran is Ram temple trust's first CEO

Operation Sindoor veteran is Ram temple trust's first CEO

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Air Marshal (retd) Jeetendra Mishra has been appointed as the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. His selection follows a rigorous process and comes amidst a recent controversy regarding alleged embezzlement of temple donations.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump is expected to sign the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 later on Friday (local time). A White House official confirmed the development to ANI without revealing further details.

Has Trump Chosen Pakistan Over India?

Has Trump Chosen Pakistan Over India?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

We are back to the 1971 moment with both China and the US supporting Pakistan, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

Kharga Shakti 2026: A Warning To India's Enemies

Kharga Shakti 2026: A Warning To India's Enemies

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Exercise Kharga Shakti 2026 concluded successfully after an intense operationally orientated training cycle that rigorously validated the combat readiness of Kharga Corps across the full spectrum of modern battlefield scenarios.

Former Army chief Gen Vishwa Nath Sharma passes away at 96

Former Army chief Gen Vishwa Nath Sharma passes away at 96

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Former Indian Army Chief General Vishwa Nath Sharma, who led the Army from 1988 to 1990 and was a veteran of the 1965 Indo-Pak War, has passed away at the age of 96. He was a highly decorated officer, receiving the AVSM and PVSM, and came from a distinguished military family, being the younger brother of India's first PVC awardee, Major Som Nath Sharma.

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Fighting in Yemen has intensified as Houthi rebels advance on strategic government-held areas like Marib and Taiz, putting pressure on Saudi Arabia to respond. The conflict is also linked to wider US-Iran tensions affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with former US President Trump commenting on the situation.

Ram Temple trust's new CEO holds first meeting with members

Ram Temple trust's new CEO holds first meeting with members

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Air Marshal (retd) Jeetendra Mishra has taken charge as the first Chief Executive Officer of the Ram temple trust in Ayodhya. He attended his inaugural meeting with trust members, where he was briefed on administrative and accounting functions. This appointment is part of a broader administrative overhaul following controversies over alleged embezzlement of temple donations.

Pakistan-Turkiye-Saudi Pact: Should India Be Concerned?

Pakistan-Turkiye-Saudi Pact: Should India Be Concerned?

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Any military response to a cross-border terror attack from Pakistan will have to take into account the new alignments beginning to take shape in the region, points out former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

US strikes 90 military targets inside Iran, shares video

US strikes 90 military targets inside Iran, shares video

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The United States has launched a fresh wave of precision strikes, hitting approximately 90 Iranian military targets deep inside Iran, further intensifying a rapidly expanding regional conflict, with Tehran warning of severe retaliation.

Mumbai coastal road sparks Rs 6,000 cr luxury housing boom

Mumbai coastal road sparks Rs 6,000 cr luxury housing boom

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Mumbai's coastal luxury residential redevelopment pipeline is valued at approximately 6,000 crore, with 75-80 projects expected to launch over the next eight to nine quarters, driven by improved infrastructure and demand for waterfront living.

Nepal-Tibet floods: Toll surges to 392; 1,500 missing amid fresh threat

Nepal-Tibet floods: Toll surges to 392; 1,500 missing amid fresh threat

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Nepal is grappling with one of its worst disasters in recent years as massive flash floods, triggered by an ice avalanche, have claimed 270 lives and left thousands missing across multiple districts, prompting urgent rescue and relief operations.

Why Pakistan's Hangors Submarines Face India's ASW Shield

Why Pakistan's Hangors Submarines Face India's ASW Shield

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Hangors are effectively 'dead-on-arrival' with Pakistanis saddled with deadweights that displace around 3,000 tons. Last time it was near Vishakhapatnam. This time, barnacles will clog the Hangors in Karachi port itself, points out Dr Abhishek Puri.

'India's long-range missile programme aimed beyond South Asia'

'India's long-range missile programme aimed beyond South Asia'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A senior Pakistani defence official, Lt Gen (retd) Mazhar Jamil, claimed that India's long-range missile development indicates ambitions to become a global nuclear power capable of threatening Western capitals, urging international attention to India's military modernisation. He also reiterated Pakistan's commitment to deterrence stability in South Asia.

'I Was Hit By A Burst Of Gunfire'

'I Was Hit By A Burst Of Gunfire'

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Kargil War Hero looks back at the victory of Tiger Hill and the men who didn't return.

Army chief empowers commanders for response to Pakistan

Army chief empowers commanders for response to Pakistan

Rediff.com11 May 2025

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has given full authority to the Army commanders for counter-action in the kinetic domain to any violation of the understanding reached between the Indian and Pakistani militaries.

India appoints new Chief of Defence Staff, Naval Chief

India appoints new Chief of Defence Staff, Naval Chief

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani (retd) has been appointed as India's next Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding Gen Anil Chauhan. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has been named the next Chief of the Naval Staff, succeeding Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. Lt Gen Subramani's primary mandate will be to implement the military theaterisation plan and bolster tri-services synergy.

US launches new strikes on Iran after Trump vows to hit 'hard'

US launches new strikes on Iran after Trump vows to hit 'hard'

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched self-defence strikes against multiple targets in Iran, citing ongoing Iranian aggression. This action has led to Iran's Red Crescent placing emergency centres on high alert amidst reports of explosions in several Iranian cities. Concurrently, Iraqi media claims Iran retaliated with a missile strike on a US air base in Erbil.

3 missing Indian seafarers killed in US strike on ship off Oman coast

3 missing Indian seafarers killed in US strike on ship off Oman coast

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the deaths of three Indian seafarers who were initially reported missing from the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. India has protested to the US over the attack on the commercial vessel, which the US Central Command stated was due to the vessel attempting to transport oil from Iran, violating a blockade.