• The year 2020 began with a momentous decision in Indian Defence history.  The Department of Military Affairs was set up and the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) created. General Bipin Rawat assumed office of CDS on 1^st January 2020. The CDS is made Principal Military Advisor to the Raksha Mantri on all Tri-Services matters.
•   Indian Army has resolutely countered adversaries on the Line of Control (LC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and carried out relentless Counter Insurgency (CI)/ Counter Terrorist (CT) operations. 
•    Defending the territorial integrity of India in Galvan Valley has been the most shining example of the valour of our forces this year in which 20 brave India soldiers made the supreme sacrifice.              
•    India categorically conveyed China that any attempt to unilaterally alter the status quo at the border is unacceptable and that India is determined to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
•   To make Indian Army future ready, budgetary constraints for capability development and meeting other requirements have been removed.
• Eight Rafale aircraft inducted and operationalised on 20th September, 2020, sending strong message for those who challenge India’s sovereignty. With its world class capability, Rafale aircraft is a game changer for India’s national security.
•   Air version of supersonic BrahMos Air missile integrated on Su-30 MKI.
• The strength of Indian Navy furthered with the commissioning of i) INS Kavaratti (P31), a fully combat-ready Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) stealth corvette and ii) commissioning of warship IN LCU L57. 
• The year 2020 will go down in the history as a gloomy time for almost the entire world. Covid-19 pandemic halted normal human activities and paralysed economies to the brim. Amidst the rubble of the year the government moved to turn the crisis into opportunity. With this is mind, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave a clarion call for Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan to put the economy on high growth trajectory.
•  Aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 unveiled.  It aims to give impetus to the growing domestic industry and achieve enhanced self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
•  Defence Offset Guidelines 2020 promulgated to attract investments and technology through offsets to enhance capabilities in the domestic Defence manufacturing sector and promote the “Make in India” initiative.
•  ‘Atma Nirbharta’ week celebrated from 07 to 14 August 2020 to promote indigenous development of materials & equipment to achieve Self-reliance in Defence manufacturing.  Modernization/ up-gradation of facilities and new infrastructure creation by Defence PSUs and Ordnance Factories Board launched.
•   Out of 43 ships on order for Indian Navy, 41 are being built indigenously and AoN exists for construction of 44 ships and submarines to be built indigenously.
• Corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board initiated to enhance  their efficiency and accountability.
•   Foreign Direct Investment limit in defence manufacturing under automatic route raised from 49% to 74%.
•  DRDO's pursuit of self-reliance and successful indigenous development and production of strategic systems and platforms such as Agni and Prithvi series of missiles; light combat aircraft, Tejas; multi-barrel rocket launcher, Pinaka; air defence system, Akash; a wide range of radars and electronic warfare systems; etc., have given quantum jump to India's military might. 
•  Women’s participation has been increasing over the years and the Government is further enhancing their role on priority.  Short Service Commissioned (SSC) Women Officers granted permanent commission   in all ten streams of Indian Army. Four women officers have been appointed onboard Indian Navy ships.  Captain Tania Sher Gill, led an all-men contingent in Republic Day Parade 2020.
• ·                     Border   Roads Organisation continued with works of strategic importance like Construction of Major Bridges,  Roads,  Tunnels  and  Snow Clearance for opening of Strategic Mountain Passes braving  Covid-19 threat.
• World’s longest Highway tunnel – Atal Tunnel  built by BRO dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 3^rd October 2020.
•    80-kilometre-longRoad link from Dharchula (Uttarakhand) to Lipulekh (China Border) inaugurated on 20^th May 2020.
•   44 Bridges of strategic importance in sensitive areas close to Western, Northern and North Eastern Borders, across seven States and UTs opened on 12 October.
• The 11^th edition of India's biennial military exhibition, DefExpo was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, which showcased the potential of the country as a global defence manufacturing hub. More than 1,000 defence manufacturers and 150 companies from all over the world took part in this Expo.
•   Armed Forces played pivotal role in mitigating the sufferings of the people in the face of  novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Right from rescuing stranded Indians from COVID-19 affected areas, such as China, Iran, Italy, Malaysia, etc, to providing relief materials to all across the country, Armed Forces have put in place all its medical and manpower resources. Hospitals of the Armed Forces and medical facilities have been dedicated to treat COVID-19 patients and some of its bases were turned into quarantine centres. 
•    Besides the all-out efforts of Armed Forces, its various organisations and arms like Armed Forces Medical Services,  DRDO, Defence Public Sector Undertakings, Ordnance Factory Board, Indian Coast Guard, Cantonment Boards, National Cadet Corps contributed in their own ways to fight this pandemic.  

 

DAPARTMENT OF DEFENCE (DOD) 

Creation of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Department of Military Affairs (DMA) in MoD:

               Chief of Defence Staff:  

In pursuance to the announcement made by Prime Minister during his address to the nation on 15^th August 2019 on the decision to appoint the CDS to provide greater coordination, jointness, and synergy among the three Services of Defence forces, the Government created the post of CDS and General Bipin Rawat took over as the country’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on January 01, 2020. 

·                     Department of Military Affairs: 

          In another major reform in the Higher Defence Management of the country, a new Department i.e. Department of Military Affairs (DMA) within the Ministry of Defence has been created w.e.f. 1^st January 2020. CDS has been designated as Secretary, DMA. DMA was made functional immediately after the formation by transferring 2 Joint Secretaries, 13 Directors/Deputy Secretaries, 25 Under Secretaries, 22 Section Officers and 99 supporting staff.  In all 161 civilian employees of DoD were transferred to DMA. 

INDIAN ARMY

 

Countering Adversaries on LC and LAC

 

1.​       Indian Army has resolutely countered adversaries on the Line of Control (LC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC), carried out relentless Counter Insurgency (CI)/ Counter Terrorist (CT) operations and maintained high training standards while being at the forefront combating the COVID-19 pandemic during the year. There has been no let-up in operational readiness along the LC, LAC, hinterland and the security of military establishments. Indian Army has not just ensured force preservation but has also ensured that operational readiness remains unaffected in order to safeguard the borders of the Nation.

 

2.       ​Unilateral and provocative actions by the Chinese to change the status quo by force, in more than one area on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), were responded to in a firm and non-escalatory way, ensuring the sanctity of our claims in Eastern Ladakh. Indian Army has maintained all protocols and Agreements between the two countries while the PLA escalated the situation by utilisation of unorthodox weapons and amassing large number of troops. Indian Army with assistance from IAF, mobilised troops including accretionary forces in a very short duration including heavy equipment like guns, tanks as also ammunition, rations and clothing. Own Engineers constructed roads, accommodation shelters and bridges to assist troop deployment. In a major skirmish in Galwan, 20 brave Indian soldiers lost their lives while preventing PLA troops from ingressing into our territory. The Chinese also suffered significant casualties. Later on 28-29 August 2020, own troops in a precautionary deployment, pre-empted Chinese expansionist designs and occupied heights along southern bank of Pangong Tso. Braving inclement weather, own troops continue to be deployed on these heights.  Advance Winter Stocking (AWS) and winter preparations for the enhanced strength has been completed and troops are well entrenched to counter any misadventure by Chinese forces. While the Indian Army is prepared for any eventuality, talks are also progressing to resolve the issue in an amicable manner.

 

3.​       With the ‘Whole of Government’ approach adopted against the terror ecosystem and the consistent efforts of the security forces, the security situation in Jammu & Kashmir has seen progressive improvement. On one hand, high level of alertness by troops along the Line of Control (LC) blunted Pakistan’s endeavours to infiltrate terrorists into the Valley, at the same time, high tempo of kinetic operations in the hinterland ensured denial of operational space to terrorist organisations. Ceasefire Violations committed by Pakistan Army were given a befitting reply by own troops causing significant casualties to Pakistan Army. Counter infiltration grid was strengthened resulting in neutralisation of a number of terrorists along the LC. A number of attempts to smuggle arms, ammunition and contraband were also foiled along the LC.

 

4.​       Well synergised, intelligence-based operations have resulted in significant successes and have considerably degraded terrorist leadership and their capabilities in Jammu and Kashmir. Residual terrorist strength in the Valley now is below 200 and local recruitment is decreasing giving a serious blow to the nefarious designs of Pakistan to “indigenise” the movement and fuel unrest in the Valley. Attempts to spread violence South of Pir Panjal Range have been comprehensively defeated by proactive operations. All possible steps are being taken to provide a secure environment to the Awaam of Jammu and Kashmir. Significant reduction has been observed in protests over past two years providing an opportunity to the Awaam to lead a peaceful life. Attempts of inimical elements to mislead people by running disinformation campaigns were defeated by proactively monitoring the situation and engaging with the local population. In the challenging times of global pandemic of COVID-19, the Indian Army rendered assistance not only to civil administration but directly to civil populace as well, by carrying out medical evacuations, provision of necessary supplies to needy and educating common people about nitty-gritties of COVID-19. The humane approach of the Army has been appreciated by one and all.

 

 5.​      Internal security situation in North Eastern States has improved considerably with a large number of surrenders of insurgent cadres. Excellent understanding and coordination with Myanmar (OP SUNRISE) have made it difficult for Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs) to set up camps there. The Army and other Security Forces have played a stellar role in reducing the violence levels and forcing insurgents to abjure the path of violence. These positive changes have enabled the Army to reduce its foot print in counter insurgency operations.

 

Assistance to Civil Administration 

 

6.​       Facilitated a successful National response in the fight against COVID-19, by providing unprecedented assistance both in terms of men and material.  A total of 113 hospitals were earmarked Nationwide for treatment of 12,000 patients from within the Army resources.  17 laboratories have been earmarked for carrying out the COVID testing across the Nation, to assist in COVID management.  Additionally, quarantine facilities have been extended to approximately 4000 expats, who returned to the Country during lockdown.

 

7.​       COVID-19​ provided the Indian Army an opportunity to help reach out to Friendly Foreign Countries also, wherein, help was not only extended in terms of specialist manpower and medicines but also COVID management techniques.

8.       ​The Army actively assisted the Civil Administration as part of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations including assistance during Kumbh Mela, employed specialist manpower in dowsing the oil well fire in Assam as also helped provide succor to persons affected by floods in Madhya Pradesh.

 

Defence Cooperation and Joint Exercises 

 

9.​       Indian Army has been at the forefront of Defence Cooperation with foreign countries with concerted efforts in carrying out Joint Exercises, contributing towards UN missions, carrying out joint training as also ensuring International Cooperation by assisting other friendly countries with specific requirements.

 

Atmanirbhar Bharat

 

10.​     ‘Make in India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat has been given a major impetus during planning and procurement of equipment for Indian Army, wherein, there is an endeavour to support the emerging defence industry in the country.

 

Women in Indian Army

 

11.​     With an aim to provide equal opportunities the Indian Army has extended Permanent Commission to women officers also. Captain Tania Sher Gill, led an all-men contingent in Republic Day Parade 2020.

 

Veterans’ and Children Welfare

 

12.​     Veterans outreach was pursued with great vigour during 2020, with aim to alleviate problems of veterans during COVID-19 pandemic.Outreach entailed ensuring that ECHS facilities were easily accessible as also mobile phone application was launched for widespread access of relevant information.  The ‘Year of Next of Kin’ was extended to 2020, with an aim to inform the veterans of entitled financial benefits and welfare schemes as also help resolve pension related problems.  Outreach was well received and able to achieve desired aim of touching maximum target audience the assuaging grievances.

 

13.​     During COVID-19 pandemic, the Army Welfare Education Society has effectively transitioned to imparting online education to over 3 lakh children across the country.  Necessary impetus and incentive was extended to ensure that all children were able to benefit from the virtual classroom.

 

Miscellaneous

 

14.​     Contingent of the Indian Army along with the other Services participated in the V-Day parade at Moscow’s Red Square on 24 Jun 2020, to commemorate the 75th Diamond Jubilee of the capitulation of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.  Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh witnessed the parade as a special invitee.

 

15.​ Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh carried out Bhumi Pujan of Thal Sena Bhawan at Delhi Cantonment, on 21 Feb 2020.  This ‘State of the Art’ building will be spread over 40 acres and is planned at a  cost of 1335 Cr.  The Bhawan will house the all five branches of the Army including 36 Directorates.

 

INDIAN NAVY 

 

OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS

 

1.           Operation Sankalp.   Amidst the increasing US – Iran tensions in the Gulf region, since June 2019, IN has been undertaking Maritime Security Operation code-named Op SANKALP in the Gulf Region to ensure safe passage of Indian Flag Merchant Vessels (IFMVs) transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. Since execution, IN has deployed 16 warships and escorted approximately 161 Lakh Tonnes of cargo onboard 156 IFMVs, thereby provided a sense of reassurance to our seafarers, and protecting Indian owned hulls and the trade embarked on them.

 

2.           UN World Food Programme (UN WFP) Escort Mission.  IN has been contributing to UN WFP efforts by providing security to vessels carrying food to East African nations. INS Airavat escorted UN WFP chartered ship MV Juist carrying relief food cargo from Berbera to Mogadishu in Somalia from 05-14 June 2020, under challenging sea/ weather conditions. This was the third WFP escort mission undertaken by the IN in last three years. 

 

3.           Operation Samudra Setu. IN ships Jalashwa, Shardul, Airavat and Magar were deployed from May – July 2020 for Operation Samudra Setu to undertake repatriation of stranded Indian Nationals in the wake of COVID-19, from Iran, Maldives and Sri Lanka. IN ships deployed for Op Samudra Setu evacuated 3992 Indian Nationals including 3551 males, 387 females and 54 children.

 

4.           Mission SAGAR and SAGAR-II.  INS Kesari was deployed to the Southern IOR Island nations as part of ‘Mission SAGAR’ for rendering COVID-19 related assistance from May-June2020.During deployment, the ship provided medicine stores &medical kits to Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles. IN Medical Teams embarked onboard the ships also provided medical assistance to Mauritius and Comoros. As part of the follow up humanitarian outreach mission by India, Mission SAGAR II, INS Airavat was deployed to deliver 270 MT of humanitarian aid stores to Djibouti, Massawa (Eritrea), Port Sudan and Mombasa, Kenya (for South Sudan) from October-November 2020.

 

EXERCISES WITH FOREIGN NAVIES

 

5.           Naseem-Al-Bahr 2020.   IN and Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) bilateral exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr was conducted at/ off Goa from January 07-10 October 2020. RNO ships Al Rasikh and Al Khassab along with IN ships Beas and Subhadra participated in the exercise.

 

6.           INDRA NAVY 2020.   IN and Russian Federation Navy (RuFN) bilateral exercise Indra Navy was conducted in Bay of Bengal from 04-05 September 2020. RuFN ships Admiral Tributs, Admiral Vinogrodov, Boris Butoma and IN ships Ranvijay, Kiltan, Shakti participated in the exercise.

 

7.           JIMEX 2020.   IN and JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self Defence Force) bilateral   exercise JIMEX 2020 was conducted in the Arabian Sea from  26-28 September 2020. JMSDF ships Kaga and Ikazuchi; IN ships Chennai, Tarkash and Deepak, IN aircraft P8I, MIG 29K and integral helicopters of both navies participated in the biennial exercise.

 

8.           BONGO SAGAR 2020.  IN and Bangladesh Navy (BN) bilateral exercise Bongosagar 2020 was conducted in North Bay of Bengal from 03-04 October 2020. BN ships Prottoy and Abu Bakr along with Maritime Patrol Aircraft and IN ships Khukri and Kiltan along with Dornier aircaft and integral helicopter participated in the exercise.

 

9.           SLINEX 2020.   IN and Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) bilateral exercise SLINEX 2020 was conducted in the Bay of Bengal from 19-21 October 2020. SLN ships Sayura and Gajabahu and IN ships Kiltan and Kamorta along with Dornier aircraft and integral helicopters participated in the exercise. Maiden landing of Advanced Landing Helicopter (ALH) was undertaken onboard SLN Ship Gajabahu during the exercise, to showcase IN’s indigenous capability.

 

10.       MALABAR 2020.   Multi-lateral exercise between IN and US Navy (USN), Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) ships and Royal Australian Navy (RAN) was conducted in the IOR from 03-06 and 17 November 2020.

 

11.       SITMEX 2020.   Multi-lateral exercise between IN, Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Royal Thailand Navy (RTN) was conducted the Eastern IOR from 21-22 November 2020.

 

12.       SIMBEX 2020.  IN and Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) bilateral exercise SIMBEX 2020 was conducted in Eastern IOR from 23-25 Nov 2020.

 

13.       PASSEX.   The Indian Navy undertakes Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with friendly foreign navy units on opportune occasions to enhance inter-operability and imbibe best practices. Following PASSEXs were undertaken in 2020:- 

(a)          PASSEX with French Navy.   PASSEX was conducted between French Naval Ships Mistral and Geupratte and IN Ships Talwar and Trikand from 23–24 May 2020 in Gulf of Aden.

 

(b)          PASSEX with Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF).  PASSEX was conducted between JMSDF training ships Kashima and Shimayuki and IN ships Rana, Kulish on 27 June 2020 in Eastern IOR.

 

(c)          PASSEX with United States Navy (USN).   PASSEX was conducted between USN ships Nimitz, Princeton, Ralph Johnson, Sterett and IN Ships Rana, Sahyadri, Shivalik, Kamorta from 20-21 July 2020 in the Bay of Bengal.

 

(d)          PASSEX with Australian Navy.   PASSEX was conducted between Australian ship HMAS Toowoomba and IN Ship Kochi  on January 24, 2020. Another PASSEX was conducted between Australian ship HMAS Hobart and IN ships Sahyadri and Karmuk from 24-25 September 2020 in Eastern IOR.

 

14.       Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) with Indian Ocean Region Littoral Navies.  As part of maritime security cooperation with maritime neighbours, Coordinated Patrols along the IMBL are being conducted with Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Myanmar, as per established MoUs and Standard Operating Procedures.

 

15.       Anti-Piracy Patrol. To address the wide range and large spread of unconventional security challenges in the maritime domain such as piracy, smuggling, human trafficking, gun-running etc, IN has been deploying a ship in the Gulf of Aden since 2008. A total of 84 ships have been deployed to-date.

 

16.       Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Surveillance. IN is committed to assisting friendly IOR littoral nations in maritime surveillance. Accordingly, based on request of the host government, IN regularly undertakes surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone of Maldives once a month, and of Seychelles and Mauritius twice a year by deploying IN ships and aircraft.

 

17.       IN Dornier Deployment.

 

(a)          Sri Lanka.   IN Dornier was deployed to Sri Lanka from 17 to 20 February 2020 for undertaking training and surveillance missions.

(b)          IN Dornier Deployment at Maldives.   IN Dornier Det was deployed to Hanimaadhoo, Maldives for joint EEZ surveillance, Medvac and SAR on two occasions from 27 July to 10 August 2020 and 08 - 15 September 2020.

 

ASSISTANCE TO FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS

 

18.       Assistance to Government  of Madagascar.   In January 2020, IN Ship Airavat, which was mission deployed in the South Western IOR, was diverted to Antsiranana, Madagascar for ‘Operation Vanilla’ to provide HADR to the affected populace post devastation caused by Cyclone Diane. The relief material comprising disaster relief stores, clothing, food and medicines were handed over to Government of Madagascar in presence of the  Prime Minster of Republic of Madagascar, His Excellency Christian Lois Ntsay, on 01 Feb 20. Further, IN Ship Shardul deployed to South Western IOR in March 2020 delivered of 600 tons of rice to Antsiranana, Madagascar as relief, in the backdrop of floods in the country.

 

19.       Assistance to Government of Mauritius.   IN Ship Nireekshak was deployed from August 13 – September 18, 2020 to provide assistance to the Government of Mauritius in the backdrop of the environmental hazard caused due to grounding of MV Wakashio. The ship provided seaward security, search and rescue cover for the salvers and also assistance for diving operations. The ship additionally undertook night diving operations in rough weather conditions to locate Tug Gaetan, which had sunk off Mauritius and placed heavy cement blocks around the sunken tug in support of oil spill contingency plan of Govt of Mauritius.

 

20.       Assistance to Philippine Naval Ship.   Philippine Navy (PN) Ships BRP Ramon Alcaraz and BRP Davao Del entered Kochi harbour on May 06, 2020 for embarkation of Philippine nationals and collection of COVID-19 face masks. The ships departed on May 07, 2020. Post leaving harbour, there was an incident of fire onboard Ramon Alcaraz on 07 May 20, the ship returned to Kochi on May 08, 2020. Two PN sailors who had suffered burns and were evacuated to INHS Sanjivani. One sailor was found to be in a more serious condition and post initial treatment was transferred to Command Hospital Bangalore on May 12, 2020 by Military Air Ambulance. In addition, technical assistance was also rendered by NSRY (Kochi) for repair of fire damage in the Engine Room.

 

21.       Assistance to Maldives.   One ALH Mk III aircraft along with IN crew has been deployed at Kadhdhoo, Maldives since 24 April 2016. Further, one IN DO in MNDF colours along with crew was deployed at a short notice in spite of travel restrictions imposed by COVID 19 at Hanimadhoo, Maldives from 29 September 2020. Consequent to a request from the Government of Maldives, refit of MNDF Huravee was successfully undertaken by Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam from 10 March  to 07 November 2020.

 

22.       Hydrographic FC Initiatives of IN.   The IN ships were deployed to Mauritius, Seychelles and Sri Lanka. The successful completion of surveys has once again proved Indian Navy’s reach, capability and has contributed immensely towards strengthening the bilateral relations with respective countries. The details of foreign cooperation surveys undertaken are enumerated in succeeding paragraphs:-

(a)          Survey of Seychelles.   INS Darshak was deployed for 28 days with effect from 26 December 2019 to Seychelles for the conduct of hydrographic surveys based on requests received from Government of Seychelles.

(b)          Survey of Sri Lanka.     INS Jamuna was deployed for 61 days from 04 February 2020 to Sri Lanka for the conduct of joint hydrographic surveys. During the deployment, survey of Kosgoda to Weligama was undertaken.

 

23.       Logistics Agreements.   In order to enhance capability and ensure sustenance, India has concluded Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) with Australia on 04 June 2020 and Reciprocal Provisions for Support and Services (RPSS) with Japan on 09 September 2020. 

 

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF (HADR)

 

24.       Casualty Evacuation from MV Vishwa Prerna.   On 05 August 2020, Sea King helicopter from Naval Air Station Garuda, Kochi airlifted injured Master of MV Vishwa Prerna from anchorage area off Kochi and transferred him to a civil hospital for medical assistance.

 

25.       Rescue of Fishermen.   Four fishermen were rescued from a sinking boat near Manali Tivu Island in Tamil Nadu (13 Nautical miles South East of Tuticorin) on 26 July 2020 by IN Chetak helicopter operating from Naval Air Station Parundu.

 

26.       Assistance to MV New Diamond.   On 03 September 2020, IN ship Sahyadri was diverted to provide assistance to Panama flagged Crude Oil Tanker New Diamond off the East coast of Sri Lanka. On request of Sri Lankan Navy, the ship assumed duties of On-Scene-Commander to coordinate firefighting and salvage efforts. As On-Scene-Commander, Sahyadri was instrumental in coordinating firefighting, salvage and towing operations.

 

27.       Assistance to Distressed Dhow Al Hamid off Somalia. On 05 January 2020, IN Ship Sumedha deployed in the Gulf of Aden for anti-piracy patrol was diverted to render assistance to Sri Lankan registered dhow Al Hamid with 13 Indians onboard, which was adrift off Somalia. The ship arrived in the area and provided first aid to the casualties. On request from the Master, dhow was thereafter towed seawards to prevent drifting ashore and, IN Ship Sumedha maintained in vicinity to thwart any piracy attempts till arrival of towing vessel.

 

COMMISSIONING AND LAUNCHING/ START PRODUCTION

 

28.       Commissioning of INS Kavaratti.  INS Kavaratti, the fourth and last ship of Project 28, was commissioned on 22 October 2020 at Visakhapatnam.

 

29.       Commissioning of IN LCU L57 (Yard 2098). IN LCU L57 was commissioned at Port Blair on 15 May 20.  The ship is seventh of eight LCU MK IV ships being constructed by M/s GRSE, Kolkata.

 

30.       Keel Laying of Yard 3023. Keel laying ceremony of Yard 3023 (Second ship of Project 17A at M/s GRSE) was held on 24 Jan 2020 at GRSE, Kolkata.

 

31.       Keel Laying of Yard 12653.  Keel laying ceremony of Yard 12653 (3^rdship of Project 17A at M/s MDL) was held on 10 Sep 2020 at MDL, Mumbai.

 

32.       Start of Production of Yard 12654. Production of Yard 12654 (4^thship of Project 17A at M/s MDL) was commenced on 22 Jan 2020 at MDL, Mumbai.

 

33.       Start of Production of Yard 3024. Production of Yard 3024 (3^rdship of Project 17A at M/s GRSE) was commenced on 22 Aug 2020 at GRSE, Kolkata.

 

INNOVATION AND INDIGENISATION

 

34.       Introduction of Higher Specs Fuel for IN Ships (LSHFHSD – IN 512).  Indian Navy  in collaboration with M/s IOCL carried out an extensive, thorough study along with a comparative evaluation of existing international regulations (ISO, MARPOL, NATO etc) and as an outcome, new fuel specs meeting international and NATO standards, were launched in January 2020. Supply of the new fuel through IOCL commenced in March 2020. This initiative would go a long way in enhancing equipment reliability, performance, reduced carbon footprint, emissions and more importantly would be key enabler in the Navy’s ‘Mission Based Deployment’ on a global scale.

 

35.       New Generation Fire Fighting System.  In order to meet global protocols (Montreal and Kyoto protocol in respect of  Ozone depletion potential (ODP) and Global Warming potential (GWP) respectively), IN has migrated from Halon based FF system and CO₂ based FF system to environmentally benign New Generation Fire Fighting system for onboard application, adhering to the Global Classification Society and other statutory norms.

 

36.       Indigenisation Efforts.  IN continues to be in the forefront of indigenisation, in-line with the Government’s vision for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. Out of 43 ships on order, 41 are being built indigenously and AoN exists for construction of 44 ships and submarines to be built indigenously. With the concerted efforts by all stakeholders, IN has developed 23 major equipment/systems and over 4500 sub-assemblies/components indigenously for IN Ships and Submarines till date. The first ‘Commercial Supply’ of indigenously designed and developed Sonar Dome for IN ships was supplied by M/s Kineco, Goa in September 20. This is a part of Indian Navy’s sustained impetus on indigenisation.

 

IN  EFFORTS DURING COVID-19

 

37.       Various innovative solutions have been worked out by IN Yards which includes Multi-Feed Oxygen Manifold, portable Non-Contact Thermometer, UV sterilization chamber for sanitization of tools and uniforms, development of foot pedal operated cleansing stations, etc.

 

38.       Development of Innovative PPE.  An innovative PPE was developed by the Innovation Cell at the Institute of Naval Medicine in collaboration with the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. This PPE uses a fabric that is splash resistant, protects the user from infectious particles yet provides breathability, thereby permitting the user to be on duty for longer periods of time without fatigue. The PPE is easy to manufacture, using an indigenous, easy-to-source fabric and very basic tailoring skills, thus providing jobs to local tailoring units as well as promoting the ‘Make in India’ programme. The cost of the PPE is less than Rs 550/- compared to Rs 1,800 – Rs 2,000 for a conventional imported PPE. National Research and Development Corporation has licensed six firms for mass production. Number of Armed Forces, Govt and Private hospitals are using the PPE &have expressed tremendous user satisfaction. SVBP COVID Hospital in New Delhi also placed orders for 25,000 PPEs worth Rs 1.1 Crores.

 

39.       Uploading of COVID-19 Information on IONS Website.   Towards sharing the information related to COVID-19 with IOR littorals, INis sharing the information and innovations undertaken to combat COVID-19 with IONS nations. Towards this, information page has been hosted on IONS website, containing various documents and videos. The list of uploaded items are enumerated below:-

 

(a)           Document on Navigating COVID-19 Pandemic.

(b)          Indian Navy innovations for use by IONS nations.

(c)           Battle Field Nursing Assistant (BFNA) training video.

 

WELFARE AND EMPOWERMENT

 

40.   Commemoration of Fourth Armed Forces Veterans’ Day. The fourth edition of Armed Forces Veterans’ Day was commemorated on 14 January 2020 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi with an aim to provide requisite thrust to welfare of veterans, widows and their dependents. About 2600 veterans from all three Services attended the function.

 

41.  Women Empowerment. Following actions have been undertaken by IN  to provide enhanced opportunities for women officers:- 

(a)      Four women officers have been appointed onboard ships.

(b)      Two women Observer officers have been streamed into Seaking stream in September 2020, for first time.

(c)      A woman officer has been streamed into RPA streamfor first time.

(d)      A woman observer officer has been deputed overseas at Maldives as part of Dornier aircrew for a period of one year.

(e)      The first woman officer has been inducted into Provost Specialisation and deputed for At-Arms course in Jul 20.

(f)       A woman officer has been appointed as ADA, Moscowfor first time.

 

IMPORTANT ACTIVITIES

 

42.NIIO.   In keeping with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) was inaugurated by  Raksha Mantri on 13 August 2020. Indian Navy had signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA), Raksha Shakti University (RSU) at Gujarat, Maker Village at Kochi and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) to interact with academia and industry towards fostering innovation and indigenisation for self-reliance in defence. In addition, IN’s Indigenisation Plan titled ‘SWAVLAMBAN’ was also released by Hon’ble RakshaMantri, as part of launch of ‘Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation’. The document has since been uploaded on websites of Indian Navy and SIDM to ensure wider dissemination, for the industrial ecosystem and other stakeholders. 

 

43.DEFEXPO 2020.  DEFEXPO 2020, a flagship biennial Defence Exhibition hosted by MoD, was held in Lucknow from February 05 – 09, 2020. This was the eleventh edition of DEFEXPO with a theme of ‘India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub’. 172 foreign defence manufactures participated in the event. Indigenisation Pavilion was set up during DEFEXPO 2020 held from 05-09 Feb 20 at Lucknow. The Navy Pavilion on Indigenisation comprised of 10 stalls for displaying IN’s indigenisation efforts. The pavilion had housed indigenously developed Machinery Control Systems, Sensors, Armament spares, NCN equipment, Aviation components and machinery spares. The pavilion had witnessed footfall of more than 200 industry reps and dignitaries.

 

44.India – Africa Defence Minister’s Conclave.   Maiden India-Africa Defence Minister’s Conclave was held on February 06, 2020 at Lucknow in conjunction with DEFEXPO-20. Hon’ble RM inaugurated the event, which was attended by the senior leadership from MoD and Indian Armed Forces. A joint declaration – ‘Lucknow Declaration’ was signed as part of the Conclave. Over 154 delegates from Africa including Defence Ministers from 14 African countries, Members of Parliament, 19 Defence and Service Chiefs and eight Permanent Secretaries from 38 African countries participated in the Conclave.

 

45.Award of President’s Colour

 

          On the occasion of Platinum Jubilee, INS Shivaji was awarded the presidents colour in February 2020, in recognition of meritorious service rendered towards training of personnel.

 

46.39^th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica.  

 

    Hydrographic survey team consisting of one Long Hydrography course qualified officer and one Hydro sailor participated in the 39^th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica from December 2019 to May 2020. They carried out hydrographic survey off Larseman Hill and Princess Astrid Coast.

 

47.  LCA (NAVY).  LCA (N) programme is being jointly developed by ADA &IN. The project achieved a major milestone on 11 Jan 2020 when the aircraft undertook the first ever arrested landing on the aircraft carrier.

 

48.  Victory Day Parade.   Victory Day Parade to commemorate 75^th anniversary celebrations of World War II was held at Moscow, Russia on 24 Jun 2020. A 75 member tri-services contingent, including 19 members (02 Officers and 17 sailors) from IN participated in the parade.

 

SPORTS

 

49. International Level. Two naval Sportsmen Naveen and Paramjeet represented India in the 1^st Ranking Series International Wrestling Tournament held from 15-18 Jan 20 in Italy.  Sanjay Kumar was   awarded Mac-Gregor Memorial Medal 2020 by USI for outstanding performance in high endurance ultra-marathons under extreme conditions and at high altitudes. Lt Cdr Abhinav Jha of INS Karna qualified to represent India in 100 km running world championship which was scheduled to be conducted at Netherlands inSeptember 2020 (event postponed in view of COVID-19). 

 

50.National Level.Naval sportspersons/teams participated in i) 63^rd National Shooting Championship; ii) 68^th Senior National Volleyball Championship; iii) Khelo India Youth Games 2020; iv) Senior Men National Hockey Championship 2020 v) 30^th Senior National Kayaking & Canoeing Championship; vi) 30^th Senior National Fencing Championship and vii) 48^th Senior National Handball Championship and won laurels.

 

THE INDIAN AIR FORCE

 

Acquisition

 

1.           Modernisation of Airfield Infrastructure (MAFI).        On 08 May 20, MAFI Phase-II contract for 37 airfields was signed by the MoD with M/s Tata Power SED (TPSED) at a cost of Rs 1189.44 Cr. The up-gradation of navigational aids and infrastructure under this project enhances the operational capability by facilitating air operations of military and civil aircraft even in poor visibility and adverse weather while enhancing Aerospace Safety.The MAFI Phase-I project was completed on 15 Dec 19 which involved modernisation of 30 airfields of Indian Air Force. The 37 airfields of MAFI Phase-II include 24 of Indian Air Force (IAF), nine of Indian Navy (IN), and four of other services.

 

2.           MAFI project is a turnkey project that includes installation and commissioning of modern airfield equipment like Cat-II Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Cat-II Air Field Lighting System (AFLS) etc. The modern equipment around the airfield is directly connected to Air Traffic Control (ATC), thereby providing excellent control of the airfield systems to the Air Traffic Controllers. The up-gradation of navigational aids and infrastructure under this project enhances the operational capability by facilitating air operations of military and civil aircraft even in poor visibility and adverse weather while enhancing Aerospace Safety.

 

3.           Rafale.        Eight Rafale aircraft have been ferried to India from France and are fully operationalised. First Sqn of Rafale was successfully inducted in Sep 20 with necessary assets and infrastructure.

 

4.           Successful Integration of BrahMos Air Launched Missile on Su-30 MKI Aircraft.    The IAF successfully integrated BrahMos air version missile, on Su-30 MKI aircraft. The BrahMos missile provides Indian Air Force a much desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions.

 

5.           Other Procurement Cases

(a)          Govt Approval of Fresh Acquisitions.      Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded by Defence Council for procurement of potential indigenous platforms such as ASTRA BVR missile, Smart Anti Field Weapon (SAAW), Long Rang Land Attack Cruise Missile (LR-LACM), HTT-40 etc. Procurement of the aforesaid defence equipment is under progress as per the procedure.

 

(b)          Case for procurement of advanced 83 LCA Mk 1A from HAL is at final approval by the CCS and contract is likely to be signed soon.

 

(c)           Case of procurement of 56 C-295 from M/s Airbus with participation of an Indian Production Agency for manufacture of 40 aircraft (out of total 56) in India is also at CFA approval stage and contract is likely to be signed in the near future. The case is first of its kind which envisages participation of private companies and would prove to be a boost for our defence industry.

 

(d)          Case for procurement of LCH from HAL, IEWR and D-29 from BEL, Harop (P-IV) (Option Clause), upgrade of UAV systems are also at advance stage. Contracts are likely to be signed in the first quarter of 2021.

 

Make Projects

 

6.           Atmanirbhar Bharat.    IAF actively supports the national vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. It has been an endeavour of IAF to avail various schemes launched by GoI and provide impetus to the process of self-reliance in Defence Manufacturing. Following is an update on the various schemes under Make in India initiative.

 

(a)          Make-II Scheme. IAF has issued Project Sanction Order (PSO) for prototype development to undertake Design & Development of Chaff & Flares, IRST for Su-30, Foldable Fibreglass Mats, 125 Kg Bombs and Fuze for Aerial bombs has been awarded to Indian Industry.

 

(b)          Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme. Government of India had set up a ‘Technology Development Fund (TDF)’ which is managed by DRDO. 18 IAF projects under the scheme are at various stages of the TDF procedure. Contract for the Design and Development of Video processing/ switching board for Su-30 MKI and Burner rings for Mirage-2000 engine have been awarded to Indian vendors.

 

(c)           iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence).       Under the iDEX framework of DIO, MoD for engaging industries (including MSMEs, Start-ups, Individual Innovators), IAF has participated in four Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC) challenges.

 

(d)          AEW&C Mk-2.     AoN for procurement of Six AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control) Mk-2 aircraft with associated equipment has been granted by DAC on 17 December 2020 under ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category. The platform for the system is likely to be pre-owned Airbus A-319/321 aircraft from Air India. The mission system Design and Development as well as maintenance of the system will be carried out indigenously thus providing a fillip of Indian defence industries. The project, therefore, is likely to give a major boost to ‘Atamnirbhar Bharat’.

 

(e)          LCA Induction.    LCA is a product of indigenous effort towards building a potent fighter aircraft with contemporary capabilities. “Tejas” is the first advance Fly By Wire fighter aircraft designed, developed and manufactured in India. The first LCA Squadron was formed on 01 July 2016. Till date, 16 Aircraft have been delivered to IAF in IOC configuration. Delivery of FOC aircraft has also commenced. IAF also plans to procure 83 LCA Mk 1A. HAL, ADA and the IAF have worked together to overcome teething problems which are present in any new induction. The FOC configuration has begun to roll out with improved weapons capability, enhanced fight envelope, inflight refuelling capability and advance features for low speed handling.

 

(f)            Pechora Digitisation.    IAF is in the process of upgrading its legacy Pechora system of post 1987 vintage. Contract for digitisation of Firing Units of Pechora Missile System was signed on Sep 20. Post digitisation performance of the system would be enhanced considerably. Presently, the Firing Unit digitisation is under progress.

 

OP Mobilisation in Leh Sector

 

7.           Rapid Op Mobilisation (Northern Sector) During Mid-2020.         The heavy airlift assets of the Tpt Fleet of IAF proved their mettle by mobilising huge quantum of war waging machinery along with battle ready troops in the Northern Sector in quick time frames, thereby altering the dynamics of the force posturing.

 

HADR

 

8.           HADR Missions (International). The international air effort towards Covid task comprises the following:

 

(a)      Goodwill Flight to Wuhan, China.C-17 employed to airlift 15 Tons of medical supplies to China and to evacuate 112 Indian and foreign nationals to India on 26 and 27 Feb 20.

 

(b)      Immediate Evacuation of Indians from Iran. C-17 employed to evacuate 58 Indians from Tehran on 10 Mar 20.

 

(c)           Airlift of Medical Equipment /Supplies to Male.   6.2 Tons of Load airlifted to Male on 02 Apr 20.

 

(d)          Evacuation of COVID-19 +VE DRDO Personnel from Kyrgyzstan.         49 DRDO personnel (including 25 COVID-19 Positive Personnel) were airlifted from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Vishakhapatanam, India on 04 Nov 2020.

 

(e)      Medical Support to Kuwait.  15 Medical personnel along with 1.8 Tons of load comprising COVID Testing Machines and associated Computers was airlifted to Kuwait on 11 Apr 20.

 

(f)       C-17 Trip to Congo / South Sudan.  One  C-17 was employed to airlift 18.6 Tons of COVID-19 stores and Indian Army load from Hindan to Goma (Congo) and Juba (South Sudan) on 18 July 20 and to get passengers back to India. The Aircraft operated non-stop to cover a total distance of 7,100 Km. 62 passengers including 18 Indian nationals & 02 Mortal Remains were bought back from Goma and Juba respectively.

 

(g)      Mission to Beirut, Lebanon.  One C-17 airlifted 57 Tons of relief material including medicines, food grains, blankets, PPEs, gloves and masks to Beirut on 14 Aug 20.

 

(h)     Mission to Mauritius.   On 16 Aug 20, one C-17 airlifted 35 Tons of humanitarian aid & pollution response material from Sulur to Mauritius along with 10 personnel of Indian Coast Guard.

 

9.           HADR Missions (Domestic).   Air effort towards various natural calamities during the year are given as under:-

 

(a)      Vizag Gas Leak.   After the gas leak from a chemical plant in Vizag,
8.3 Tons of chemical load was airlifted from Mundra to Vizag on
09 and 10 May 20 to provide relief. Inaddition, 04 NDRF and 05 National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) Scientists were airlifted. 23 sorties and 40 hrs were flown.

 

(b)      Cyclone ‘AMPHAN’.      2 x C-130 were employed to airlift two NDRF teams each from Pune to Kolkata and from Arakonam to Kolkata respectively, towards Cyclone Relief Ops. Total 91 personnel and 8.6 T of load was airlifted on 21 May 20.

 

(c)      Cyclone ‘NISARGA’.   OneIL-76was tasked on 02 Jun 20 from Bhatinda to Suratgarh to airlift 10.8 Tons load and 122 Pax of 07 NDRF. One IL-76was tasked on 02 Jun 20 from Vijaywada to Mumbai to airlift 6.9Tons load and
108 Pax of 10 NDRF.

 

(d)      Flood Relief Ops.          Heptrs were extensively deployed for flood relief ops during 2020 in the states of Bihar, Telengana, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, J&K and Maharashtra. 144 sorties were flown and 338 Pax and
76.95Tons of load were airlifted.

 

(e)      Evacuation of Stranded Trekkers from Chadar Trek.A request was received from UT of Ladakh for evacuation of 80-100 trekkers (including
02 French and 07 Chinese nationals) stranded in Zanskar valley. IAF launched two ALH Helicopters for the rescue mission and 107 trekkers were evacuated safely to Leh. 28 sorties were flown from 14 to 16 Jan 20 for the rescue mission.

10.        Locust Spray by IAF Helicopters.    Ministry of Agriculture had requested for helicopters to be employed for spraying purposes to control spread of locusts. IAF carried out modification of two Helicopters in quick time for the task, which were then used aerial spraying in Rajasthan and Gujarat states.

 

11.        Efficient Use of Indian Airspace.     Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) have jointly formed a mechanism for efficient use of Indian Airspace.  To achieve this, the National Airspace Management Cell (NAMC) was made operational from 30 Jul 20 and the Regional Airspace Management Cell (RAMC), Chennai from
02 Dec 20. It is jointly manned by officers from IAF and AAI.

 

12.        Joint Use of Defence Airfield under RCS Udan Scheme.      IAF has been actively interacting with MoCA/ AAI for sharing its airports and airspace for supporting the increased demands of civil aviation. Accordingly, seven more defence airfields have been opened for joint useto accommodate civil scheduled flights as part of RCS UDAN Scheme in last one year. Scheduled flight operations have commenced from Darbhanga airfield from 08 Nov 20. 39 IAF bases & 7 ALGs have been made available for joint user operations.

 

13.        Disposal of NOC Cases for Wind Turbine Generators. In order to ease and expedite the process of installation of Wind Turbine  Generators (WTGs) towards achieving the renewable energy generation target of Govt of India, IAF has identified and demarcated areas in Gujarat and Rajasthan sector where WTGs can be installed without having to apply for NOC. 1654 WTG locations have been recommended around the country during the period of 01 Jan 20 to 15 Dec 20, despite Covid-19 restrictions.

 

14.        Implementation of e-Goverance (e-Office) in IAF   IAF e-Governance (e-Office) System has been launched in Dec 20 for all Officers in the IAF. The implementation of the initiative, undertaken as part of digital and e-governance policies, of the Government of India will see over 800 Indian Air Force units across the country transit to ‘paperless office working’ in the coming year. Launch of e-Governance (e-Office) in IAF marks a paradigm shift from current method of manual handling of files and documents to a digital one.  The system aims to achieve enhanced transparency, improved efficiency, increased accountability, assured data integrity & security along with a drastic reduction in the use of paper and will result in optimization of time & human resources.

 

15.        Project e-Maintenance Management System (e-MMS).         Indian Air Force has taken a giant step in automation of Maintenance Management through implementation of e-Maintenance Management System (e-MMS) which is one of the largest Maintain Repair Overhaul (MRO) solutions implemented in the world. e-MMS project is a testimony to success of Public-Private partnership and Digital India concept spearheaded by Ministry of Defence and IAF. Total value of the contract is Rs. 637.77 Cr which includes implementation across 170 locations of the IAF as well as operationalization of one Data Centre (DC) and one Disaster Recovery (DR) Centre. Contract for project e-MMS signed between Ministry of Defence and M/s Wipro Ltd concluded on 31 Dec 19. Project is presently in Adaption Phase from 01 Jan 2020 with all maintenance undertaken digitally on e-MMS.

 

Operational benefits to IAF with the introduction of e-MMS are:

 

(a)          Digitisation of publications of approximately 50 fleets and equipment amounting to over 29 Lakh pages, this has benefited in document traceability.

(b)          Computerised monitoring of aircraft components of around 40 lakh plus items and other system components of around 30 lakh plus items for their servicing dues towards ensuring timely servicing.

(c)          Enhanced productivity with real-time visibility of asset status like aircraft serviceability across all levels of IAF resulting in optimum planning and aid in decision making.

(d)          Centralised digital enforcement of maintenance policies and service schedule, thereby reducing time taken for information reaching field personnel as well as ensuring security of data access.

(e)          All Modern and upcoming inductions like Rafale are brought into e-MMS gambit. IAF having its own eMMS has overcome need to take these additional systems saving money to exchequer.

 

Fight Against COVID-19

 

16.        Quarantine facilities. 

(a)      As per directions of GoI, quarantine facilities were created at various stations in IAF. These facilities would cater for GOI evacuees from overseas or within the country as and when needed. IAF has created ‘Facility based quarantine facilities’ at the various locations.

(b)      The Quarantine facility at Hindon received 58 evacuees on 10 Mar 20 from           Iran who were brought by C-17 of IAF. They were quarantined for               14 days, however due to a positive case in the group the quarantine period was extended.

(c)      The quarantine facility at Tambaram received 113 evacuees on 24 Mar 20 from Malaysia who were brought by Air India flight. There were quarantined for 14 days. Total 178 Evacuees from UAE were also received on 18 May 20 for 14 days of quarantine.

 

17.        Medical Activities.  IAF created quarantine facilities at nine locations across the country and converted five hospitals into dedicated/ mixed COVID-19 hospitals which were prepared and ready to receive civilian patients in addition to serving personnel and dependents. Remaining IAF hospitals/ Station Medicare Centres (SMCs) were also upgraded to receive and treat serving personnel and dependants with COVID-19.

 

INDIAN COAST GUARD

 

Operations

 

1.     With the increase in the assets of Indian Coast Guard (ICG), the impetus on Maritime Surveillance received the desired boost. The ICG ships and aircraft are deployed 365x24x7 towards surveillance efforts.

 

Extended EEZ Surveillance. 

 

2.       In addition to undertaking maritime surveillance in Maritime Zone of India, ICG ships and aircraft are also deployed for undertaking maritime surveillance of littoral states. In 2019, ICG undertook five extended EEZ deployments in the Maldivian EEZ. Three ICG ships and two aircraft were deployed in the Maldivian EEZ.

 

AID TO CIVIL AUTHORITY

 

Gas Leakage at LG Polymers Chemical Plant, Visakhapatnam. 

3.       Consequent to accidental leak of toxic Styrene gas at a LG Polymer Gas plant Gopalpatnam, Visakhapatnam, ICG was requested for airlifting of chemical Para Teriary Butyl Catechol (PTBC) ex-company from Vapi Industrial Estate (Gujarat) towards ongoing response efforts at Vishakhapatnam. In a swift operation on 07 May 20, 1000 kg of chemical was transferred from Daman to Pune and on 09 May 20, another 1060 kg was transferred from Daman to Mundra by CG Dornier ex-Daman.

 

          Pre-emptive Measures during Super Cyclone ‘AMPHAN in Southeast Bay of Bengal.

4.       With the first sign of Weather disturbance in the form of low pressure in Southeast Bay of Bengal (BoB) on 13 May 20, ICG initiated pre-emptive measures since 13 May 20, by alerting fishermen and merchant vessels operating in BoBdaily.

 

ASSISTANCE TO NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES/ FOREIGN VESSELS

 

          SAR Assistance to Foreign Swimmers in Palk Bay.

5.       On the request from High Commission of India, Colombo regarding SAR assistance to 02 swimmers (01 British and 01 American) swimming across the Palk Bay on 26 Feb 20 from Dhanushkodi near Rameshwaram to Mannar (Sri Lanka). ICG ACV  H-197 provided SAR assistance to the swimmers.

 

          Assistance for Fire Control MT New Diamond.   

6.       MT New Diamond reported fire & explosion onboard on 03 Sep 20. The Panama flagged/Greek owned vessel was on passage from Kuwait to Paradip with 2.75 lakh metric tons of Kuwait export Crude Oil for IOCL, Paradip. ICG Multi Mission ship Shaurya with firefighting and pollution response capabilities was immediately dispatched which reached the area the same day and was the first to commence fire-fighting operations. Within a span of 01 day, ICG augmented 03 Coast Guard ships from Chennai, 01 Pollution Response vessel from Vishakhapatnam, 02 ships from Karaikal along with 02 Dornier aircraft and 01 Helicopter. ICG ships coordinated firefighting operations along with Srilankan Coast Guard ships, Sri Lankan Naval ships, Tug TTK-1, Tug Ravana, Tug Vasava and Tug APL Winger. 

 

 

COASTAL SECURITY

 

        Coastal Security SOPs/ Exercises. 

7.       The Indian Coast Guard, in consultation with all stakeholders has instituted state-wise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for coordination among various agencies on coastal security issues. These SOPs are aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the Coastal Security Mechanism. The Mechanism is validated through biannual exercises in each Coastal State, wherein all stakeholders participate. A total of 06 coastal security exercises have been conducted during the period.

         

Coastal Security Operations. 

8. Based on intelligence inputs, coastal security operation are also being conducted/ participated by the Coast Guard. A total of 23 coastal security operations have been conducted by the Indian Coast Guard during the period.

 

SEARCH & RESCUE

 

9^th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise-2020 (SAREX-20).

9.  ICG conducted the 9^th biennial National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise and Workshop to showcase India's M-SAR capability and preparedness in dealing with maritime contingencies off Goa from 05-06 Mar 20 and comprised of Search and Rescue Workshop, Table Top Exercise and Sea Exercise. The theme of the exercise was ‘HAMSAR :Harmonisation of Aeronautical and Maritime SAR Services’. Defence Secretary inaugurated the workshop on 05 Mar 20 in which 24 international observers from 19 countries participated along with 24 members of NMSAR board. Representatives of commercial airlines, private helicopter operators and IATA participated for the first time. Total 11 ICG Ships, 02 CGDO, 03 Chetak, 01 IN ship, 01 IN ALH and 01 Air Force MI-17 participated in the exercise.

          Beacon Exercise.    

10      In the series of exercises, the 19^th and 20^th Beacon Exercise was conducted from 21-23 & 28 Jan 20 and 18-20 Jun 20 respectively. Active participation was witnessed from Defence and Civil agencies wherein a total of 37 and 46 beacons were tested during respective exercises. The 21^st Beacon Exercise is scheduled between 07-09 Dec 20.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.SAR Data:- Search and Rescue data is as follows:-

Ser	01 Jan – 30 Nov 20
(a)	Missions	82
(b)	Life Saved	123
(c)	Air Sorties	58
(d)	Ship Sorties	146
(e)	Medical Evacuation	10

 

MEDEVAC

 

          Assistance During Medical Emergency Onboard MT High Saturn.

 

 

 

 

 

12.  At about 0647 hrs on 31 Jul 20, MRCC Mumbai received information fromM/s Diamond Anglo Ship Management Pvt. Ltd. regarding medical emergency onboard MT High Saturn view 01 crewsuffering from severe abdominal pain. On receipt of information, MRSC (New Mangalore) liased with Local agent and directed to make arrangements for medical evacuation using NMPT resources. However same could not be extended due to weather condition. Consequently, ICG ship Amartya was diverted for assistance. Despite rough weather conditions, ICG ship effected RV with MT High Saturn and safely evacuated the patient at 1155 hrs adhering to COVID-19 protocols.

          Medical emergency onboard MV Evgenia K.

13.  At about 1540 h on     26 Sep 20, MRCC Chennai receive a request from MV Evgenia K intimating that one crew was injured while working on ships forepeak and required medical assistance. On receipt of information ICG Ship Ayush on surveillance in area was diverted to render assistance. At 1545 h on 27 Sep 20, ship successfully evacuated the patient from vessel taking all necessary precautions under COVID-19 protocol and arrived at Vizag. Subsequently patient was shifted to Venkatarama Hospital, Vizag.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTELLIGENCE ANTI SMUGGLING & NARCOTICS CONTROL

 

          Seizure 14.568 Kg Gold.

14.   In a joint operation, ICG and DRI, Tuticorin apprehended one unregistered fiber boat along with 02 Indian crew (south of Mandapam approx 01 n mile from land) on 03 Mar 20. During boarding operation, no contraband was found in the boat. However, the boat was returning harbour post fishing without any fish catch and nets stowed. The boat and crew were handed over to DRI. On 04 Mar 20, during diving operation 05 packets of gold weighing approx 3 kg each were recovered.

 

          Seizure of 400 kg Heroin.    

15.   Based on real time intelligence shared by Indian Coast Guard, the Sri Lanka Navy successfully apprehended two Iranian and two Sri Lankan boats on 03-04 Mar 20 and seized 400 kg Heroin and 100 kg Methaphetamine. The apprehended narcotics are estimated to be worth Sri Lankan Rupees 600 Crore. This is the biggest ever haul of narcotics at sea in the history of Sri Lankan Navy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joint Anti Smuggling Operation by ICG & DRI Tuticorin

COMMUNICATION

 

          Establishment of Chain of Static Sensors Project Phase-II.

16.  The Chain of Static Sensors Project Phase-II contract has been concluded with M/s BEL on 15 Jan 20 at a cost of ` 1814.32 Cr. The implementation is likely to be completed by Nov 2021. Post implementation of Phase-I and Phase-II of the chain of Static Sensors, the Indian coastline will be under the surveillance of 104 radar stations being one of the largest of such network. 

        Contract Conclusion of 83 GMSK Demodulator.

17.  The contract for procurement of 83 GMSK demodulators for ICG ships has been concluded on 02 Jan 20 with M/s BEL, Panchkula. The installation and commissioning of the equipment onboard ICG Ships has been completed.

 

        Establishing 29 Maritime Rescue Sub Centers.         

18.  Thecase regarding setting up of 29 MRSCs initiated on 21 Mar 17, is in progress with MoD for accord of ‘unit sanction’.

 

JOINT EXERCISES

 

          ICG-JCG Joint Exercise ‘Sahyog-Kaijin-XIX’.

19.  Japan Coast Guard ship ‘Echigo’’ visited Chennai for Joint Exercise ‘Sahyog-Kaijin XIX’ betweenICG and JCG off Chennai on 16 Jan 20 in which ICG ships Shaurya, Veera, Abheek, C-432 and C-435 alongwith Japan Coast Guard Ship ‘Echigo’ participated. 

 

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

 

High Level Meetings

 

        Japan Coast Guard.

20.   A seven member JCG delegation led by Admiral Takahiro Okushima, Commandant Japan Coast Guard visited CGHQ for 19^th HLM between ICG and JCG on 14^th Jan 20. It was followed by a joint exercise at sea involving ICG ships and JCG ships on 16 Jan 20 off Chennai.

 

          Visit of Pacific Area Commander, USCG. 

21.   Vice Admiral Linda L Fagan, Pacific Area Commander, USCG alongwith USCG delegations visited CGHQ on   28 Jan 20. Issues of mutual interest were discussed during the visit.  

 

          Signing of MoU with IORA on SAR. 

22.  India signed MoU between Governments of the Member States of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) on 24 Sep 20 for the Coordination and Cooperation of Search and Rescue services in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Indian Coast Guard has been nominated as the implementing agency as per the provisions of MoU.

           Governing Council Meeting (GCM).

23.   DGICG participated as Governor from India in 14^th Governing Council Meeting (GCM) of Regional Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against ships in Asia, Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP, ISC) on 13 & 15 Oct 20 through Video Conferencing.

 

AVIATION 

          Overseas ALH Deployment at Maldives. 

24. One Indian Coast Guard Dhruv helicopter CG 853 has been operating at Maldives along with an ICG contingent.  This is the first and only integral ICG contingent operating overseas. Since induction, the flight has undertaken 168 MEDEVAC missions and saved 178 lives. In 2020, the Flight has successfully undertaken 12 MEDEVAC missions and saved 12 lives.  In pursuance of this, Government Sanction Letter was obtained from GoI for continued stationing of ICG Dhruv Helicopter at Maldives for further three years on 19 Apr 19. 

          Induction of Advance Light Helicopter (ALH Mk-III).

25. A Contract for supply of sixteen (16) ALH Mk-III helicopters to ICG was signed with         M/s HAL, Bangalore on 29 Mar 2017. These helicopters will undertake shore and ship borne operations towards ICG charter such as Maritime Surveillance, SAR, Medical Evacuation, Casualty Evacuation, Logistics support to ships as well as Pollution Response sorties in the Area of Responsibility (AoR). These helicopters are fitted with state of the art maritime sensors and systems such as Integrated Architecture Display System (IADS), Surveillance Radar, Electro Optic Infra Red (EO-IR) system, Automatic Identification system (AIS), 12.7 mm Cabin Mounted Gun, High Intensity Search Light (HISL) etc. The helicopters are in an advanced stage of production at HAL, Bangalore. Despite onset of Covid-19 and resultant lockdown, production activity has been progressed and first 02 helicopters are likely to be inducted by ICG in Jan 2021. All 16 ALH Mk-III helicopters are planned to be inducted by Sep 2021. 

          Procurement of Twin Engine Heavy Helicopters (TEHH). 

26.  The ICG is progressing a case for procurement of 14 Twin Engine Heavy Helicopters (TEHH). These helicopters will be deployed from shore-based stations and also have the capability of undertaking stage through operations from ICG ships. The TEHH will be capable of accomplishing Maritime Surveillance, SAR, medical evacuation and Pollution Response missions upto 200 Nm from coastline. Induction of these helicopters will enhance ICG capability to undertake multidimensional operations in the AoR. The AoN of DAC for procurement of 14 TEHH for ICG has been accorded on 20 Jan 2020 and RFP has been issued to four global vendors on 24 Jun 2020. As per present timelines, Contract for procurement of 14 TEHH is likely to be signed by Mar 2022. The aircraft are likely to be delivered to ICG by 2025-26. 

27.     Mid-Life Upgrade of 17 Coast Guard Dornier Aircraft.         ICG has concluded a contract for mid-life upgrade of 17 Dornier Aircraft with M/s HAL(TAD), Kanpur on 07 Feb 2020.

28. The mid-life upgrade includes fitment of 20 state-of-the-art system/sensors viz Glass Cockpit, Mission Management System, Pollution Surveillance System (PSS), 12.7 mm AV Gun, Five blade propellers etc., onboard Dornier aircraft, which is in consonance with the envisaged growth of the ICG and to meet the future challenges of technological advancement. The first aircraft for upgrade is likely to be inducted by M/s HAL(TAD) in Sep 2021 and signaled out post upgrade by Jul 2022. The upgrade of all 17 Dornier aircraft will complete by Dec 2025. 

          Modernization of Airfield Infrastructure (MAFI).       

29.   A Contract for Modernization of Airfield Infrastructure (MAFI) has been signed between Indian Air Force (IAF) and M/s TATA Power SED Ltd on 08 May 2020. The Contract includes installation of Doppler VHF Omni Range (DVOR) Transmitter, High Power Distance Measuring Equipment (HPDME) and Air Traffic Management System (ATMS) at Coast Guard Air Station Daman and Ratnagiri. As per the planned execution, installation of these NAV-AIDS will be completed at CGAS Daman and CGAS Ratnagiri by Nov 2021 and Nov 2023 respectively.

 

DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION

 

Major Achievements in the year 2020

 

1.   DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) 

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated to the Nation five DRDO Young Scientists Laboratories (DYSLs) on 2^nd Jan 2020. The DYSLs are located in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Each lab will work on a key advanced technology viz. artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cognitive technologies, asymmetric technologies &smart materials respectively. 

2.   First landing of DRDO Developed LCA Navy onboard INS Vikramaditya

After completing extensive trials on the Shore Based Test Facility (SBTF), Naval version of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) did a successful arrested landing onboard INS Vikramaditya on 11^th January 2020.  

3.   DRDO representation at Republic Day Parade 

DRDO developed products such as surface-to-air missile ‘Akash’, beyond visual range air-to-air missile ‘Astra’, anti-satellite (ASAT) missile, light combat aircraft ‘Tejas’, mobile bridging system ‘Sarvatra’ and air defence tactical control radar were displayed as part of different tableaux of DRDO and the Armed Forces during this year’s Republic Day Parade.  

4.   Representation at DefExpo-2020 

DRDO displayed more than 500 indigenously developed products during the DefExpo-2020 held at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh during 5-9 Feb 2020. The products attracted wider attention of foreign & national visitors. DRDO carried out 17 ToTs to industries during DefExpo-2020. In Live Demo, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun Mk-1A, Wheeled Armour Platform (WhAP), Counter Mine Flail (CMF) and Advanced Composite Modular Bridging System (ACMBS) were there. 

5.   Air Defence Fire Control Radar (ADFCR) ‘Atulya’ 

Air Defence Fire Control Radar (ADFCR) in conjunction with Anti- Aircraft Guns forms a Ground Based Air Defence System whose main purpose is effective point defence against all air threats at short and very short ranges during day and night under all weather conditions and also in the presence of enemy jamming. The radar has been developed as an indigenous solution against DAC approval for large quantity required for Indian Army.  During the month of February 2020, Phase-I of User Assisted Technical Trials (UATT) i.e. high-altitude low temperature tests were completed. 

6.   Advanced Light Weight Torpedo (ALWT) 

Advanced Light weight Torpedo (ALWT) is an anti-submarine torpedo launched from ship, helicopter or from a fixed wing aircraft. The presence of enemy target is detected by the sonar onboard a ship or an aircraft. Based on target parameters estimated by the sonar and Fire Control System, torpedo is fired with a few preset parameters to ensure that the weapon is in most favourable position to acquire the target, home in and destroy it. During the month of March 2020, two nos of dynamic trials including homing and guidance logics was conducted. ALWT has consistently achieved good homing range including 3 steer away with increased target range & reduced target strength. 

7.   Software Defined Radio-Airborne 

SDR is a secure indigenous system with legacy communication support and secure digital voice/data communication support and secure digital voice/data communication for Naval application with 3 channel, 4-channel for Tactical Communication and single channel operation in V/UHF and UHF band. During the month of March 2020, two Nos of 4-channel CEMILAC SOFT certified SDR-AR system installation and integration was successfully carried out on 02 Naval Dornier with SDR-AR ground station at HAL.

 8.   3^rdGeneration Helicopter Launch Anti-Tank Guided Missile (Dhruvastra) 

DRDO successfully conducted three flight tests of its indigenously developed anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) ''Dhruvastra'' from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha, in July 2020.  This is one of the most advanced anti-tank weapons in the world.  

9.   Anti Drone System 

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi adderessed the nation on the occasion of 74th Independence Day, DRDO's anti-drone system was deployed at the Red Fort for PM's security. It can bring down micro drones through either jamming of command and control links or by damaging the drones through laser-based Directed Energy Weapon. 

10.       DRDO identified 108 Systems &Subsystems for industry to design, develop and manufacture towards achieving “Atmanirbhar Bharat” 

Responding to the clarion call given by Hon’ble Prime Minister for “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, DRDO has taken several initiatives to strengthen the indigenous defence ecosystem.  Towards this, A DRDO delegation met with Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on 24^th Aug 2020 to apprise him about 108 systems and subsystems which have been identified for designing and development by the Indian Industry only. The list of technologies can be accessed on link https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1648234. This initiative will pave the way for Indian Defence industry to develop many technologies towards building an AtmaNirbhar Bharat.

11.       Industry as Development-cum-Production Partner 

The present industry base for DRDO consists of 1800 MSMEs along with DPSUs, Ordnance Factories and large scale industries.  DRDO has already taken major initiatives through various policies to involve Indian industry as Development cum Production Partners (DcPP), offering its technology to industry at nominal cost and providing free access to its patents.  This initiative will support the fast growing Indian defence industrial ecosystem and will help the industry to contribute towards “Atmanirbhar Bharat” in a big way. 

12.       Flight Test of Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle 

DRDO successfully demonstrated the hypersonic air-breathing scramjet technology with the flight testing of Hypersonic Technology Demonstration Vehicle (HSTDV) from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Launch Complex at Wheeler Island, off the coast of Odisha on 7^th Sep 2020. The Hypersonic Cruise Vehicle was launched using a proven solid rocket motor, which took it to an altitude of 30 kilometre (km), where the aerodynamic heat shields were separated at hypersonic Mach number. The hypersonic combustion sustained and the cruise vehicle continued on its desired flight path at a velocity of six times the speed of sound i.e., nearly 2 km/second for more than 20 second.

13.       Multi Influence Ground Mine (MIGM) 

Multi Influence Ground Mine (MIGM) has been designed and developed by NSTL, DRDO with an aim to give Indian Navy an edge against most modern stealth ships. MIGM is deployable from ships, submarines. MIGM has successfully completed Technology Demonstration during Technical Trials. 

14.       Active Electronically Scanned Array Radar (AESAR) ‘Uttam’ 

Active Electronically Scanned Array Radar (AESAR), UTTAM is a multimode, solid-state active phased array fire control radar with scalable architecture that can be adapted for various types of fighter class of aircraft. It is capable of tracking multiple targets with high accuracy suitable for firing missiles with interleaved Air to Air, Air to Ground and Air to Sea modes for all terrain operation.   

15.   Successful Flight Test of ABHYAS 

Successful flight test of ABHYAS - High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was conducted on 22^nd SEP 2020 by DRDO from the Interim Test Range, Balasore in Odisha. During the trials, two demonstrator vehicles were successfully test flown. The vehicle can be used as target for evaluation of various missile systems. 

16.       AHSP Transfer of Pinaka Weapon System from DRDO to DGQA

An important milestone was achieved on 25^th September 2020 when Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) responsibility of Pinaka weapon system was handed over by DRDO to DGQA. AHSP transfer marks successful establishment of production of Pinaka rockets, Launchers, Battery Command Posts, Loader Cum Replenishment and Replenishment Vehicles as well as successful establishment of Quality Assurance processes. AHSP handing over took place at ARDE, Pune wherein the documentation required by various Production agencies, Quality Assurance agencies, Maintenance agencies and Users were formally handed over by ARDE, HEMRL and VRDE to CQA (A). Pinaka is a free flight artillery rocket system. Pinaka rockets are launched from a multi barrel rocket launcher which has capability to launch salvo of 12 rockets.  

17.       Successful Flight Test of BrahMos Missile  

BrahMos surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile featuring indigenous Booster and Airframe Section along with many other ‘Made in India’ sub-systems was successfully flight tested for designated range on September 30, 2020 from ITR, Balasore in Odisha. It is one more major step in enhancing the indigenous content. On 18^th Oct 2020, another BrahMos missile was successfully test fired from Indian Navy’s indigenously built stealth destroyer INS Chennai, hitting a target in the Arabian Sea. The missile hit the target successfully with pin-point accuracy after performing high-level and extremely complex manoeuvres. BrahMos as ‘prime strike weapon’ will ensure the warship’s invincibility by engaging naval surface targets at long ranges, thus making the destroyer another lethal platform of Indian Navy. On 1^st Dec 2020, one more BrahMos Missile in Anti-Ship mode was successfully test fired against a decommissioned Ship. The test firing was carried out by Indian Navy. The missile performed highly complex manoeuvres and hit Bull’s eye of the target. 

18.       Flight Testing of DRDO’s Laser Guided ATGM

 The indigenously developed Laser Guided Anti Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) was successfully test fired on 1st Oct 2020 defeating a target located at longer range. The test was conducted from MBT Arjun at KK ranges (ACC&S) Ahmednagar in continuation of successful trial done on 22^nd Sep 2020. In these tests, the ATGM successfully defeated the target. Laser guided ATGMs lock and track the targets with help of laser designation to ensure precision hit accuracy. It has been developed with multiple-platform launch capability and is currently undergoing technical evaluation trials from gun of MBT Arjun. 

19.       Successful Flight Test of SMART 

Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) has been successfully flight tested on 5^th Oct 2020 from Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha. All the mission objectives including missile flight upto the range and altitude, separation of the nose cone, release of Torpedo and deployment of Velocity Reduction Mechanism have been met perfectly. Tracking stations (Radars, Electro Optical Systems) along the coast and telemetry stations including down range ships monitored all the events. SMART is a missile assisted release of lightweight Anti-Submarine Torpedo System for Anti-Submarine Warfare operations far beyond Torpedo range.  

20.       Indigenously Developed Anti-Radiation Missile (RUDRAM) 

New generation Anti Radiation Missile (RUDRAM) was successfully Flight tested on 9^th Oct 2020 onto a radiation target located on Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha. The missile was launched from SU-30 MKI fighter aircraft. The RUDRAM is first indigenous anti-radiation missile of the country for Indian Air Force (IAF), being developed by DRDO. The missile is integrated on SU-30 Mk-I fighter aircraft as the launch platform, having capability of varying ranges based on launch conditions. The RUDRAM hit the radiation target with pin-point accuracy. The missile is a potent weapon for IAF for Suppression of Enemy Air Defence effectively from large stand-off ranges. 

21.       Industry Support Measure by DRDO       

To encourage more participation of Indian industry, including Start-ups and Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Defence Research & Development (R&D) for achieving ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh released a new version of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Procurement Manual 2020 (PM-2020) in Oct 2020. In addition as measure to support indigenous industry, requirement of ‘Performance Security’ for ‘Development Contracts by DRDO has been waived off. However, Warranty Bond would continue to be obtained from successful development partner to cover the DRDO interest during the warranty period. 

22.       Final User Trial of NAG Missile 

Final user trial of 3^rd generation Anti Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) NAG was carried out on 22^nd Oct 2020 from Pokhran range. The missile was integrated with the actual warhead and a tank target was kept at designated range. This was launched from NAG Missile Carrier NAMICA. The missile hit the target accurately defeating the armour.  

23.       Successful flight test of enhanced version of PINAKA rocket system  

Enhanced PINAKA rocket, developed by DRDO has been successfully flight tested from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha on 4^thNov 2020. Development of Enhanced Pinaka system was taken up to achieve longer range performance compared to earlier design with reduced length. 

24.       DRDO Developed Fire Detection and Suppression System for Buses 

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari witnessed the demonstration of Fire Detection and Suppression System (FDSS) developed by DRDO for Passenger Buses at DRDO Bhawan on 9^th Nov 2020. Demonstrations were given on Water Mist Based FDSS for Passenger Compartment and Aerosol Based FDSS for engine fire. DRDO's Centre for Fire Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES), Delhi has developed the technology, which can detect the fire in passenger compartment in less than 30 sec and then suppresses it in 60 sec thereby reducing the risk to life and property to a significant extent.  

25.       QRSAM Missile System Achieves Major Milestone 

Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) System has achieved a major milestone by a direct hit onto a Banshee Pilotless target aircraft at medium range & medium altitude. The missile launch took place from ITR Chandipur on 13^th Nov 2020 off the Odisha Coast. The missile uses all indigenous subsystems. In yet another successful flight test on
17^th Nov 2020 the QRSAM tracked the target accurately and successfully neutralised the airborne target. The flight test was second in the series. This test was carried out once again, against the high-performance Jet Unmanned Aerial Target, which simulates an aircraft. 

26.       Successful Trials of 5.56x30 mm Joint Venture Protective Carbine 

DRDO designed 5.56x30 mm Protective Carbine has successfully undergone the final phase of User trials on 7^th December 2020 meeting all the GSQR parameters.  This has paved the way for induction into the services. This was the last leg of trials in a series of User trials which have been carried out in extreme temperature conditions in summer and high altitudes in winter. JVPC has successfully met the performance criteria of reliability and accuracy in addition to quality trials conducted by DGQA.JVPC has key features like high reliability, low recoil, retractable butt, ergonomic design, single hand firing capability, and multiple Picatinny rails etc. These features make it very potent weapon for Counter Insurgency/Counter Terrorism operations. 

27.       Quantum Communication between two DRDO Laboratories 

Secure communications are vital for defence and strategic agencies world over and distribution of encryption keys from time to time is an important requirement in this context. Sharing of keys over the air or wired links requires encryption, which in turn requires encryption keys to be pre-shared. Quantum based communication offers a robust solution to sharing the keys securely. DRDO undertook the project for development of this technology. A milestone of this project was achieved on 9^th Dec 2020 when DRDO developed Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology underwent trials in Hyderabad between two DRDO labs, to show secure communication. 

28.       2.28 Inauguration of Hypersonic Wind Tunnel at DRDO Hyderabad 

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited DRDO’s Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex during his visit to Hyderabad on 19^th Dec 2020. On this occasion, Raksha Mantri inaugurated the advanced Hypersonic Wind Tunnel (HWT) test facility. The state-of-the-art HWT Test facility is pressure vacuum driven enclosed free jet facility having nozzle exit diameter of 1 meter and will simulate Mach No 5 to 12. After USA and Russia, India is the third country to have such a large facility in terms of size and operating capability. It is an indigenous development and an outcome of synergistic partnership with Indian industries. The facility has the capability to simulate hypersonic flow over a wide spectrum and will play a major role in the realization of highly complex futuristic aerospace and defence systems. 

29.       Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 

DRDO signed the MoU with Gujarat University, Ahmedabad and Institute of Infrastructure Technology Research and Management (IITRAM), Gandhinagar for induction of Defence Technology courses at B Tech level. 

30.       DRDO’s Initiatives during COVID Pandemic

DRDO undertook product development on war footing to fight COVID-19 pandemic. DRDO developed 19 technologies and more than 100 products which include PPEs, Hand Sanitizer, UV Blaster, Germi Klean and the like, which have direct utilization to combat COVID 19. These technologies and products are hosted on DRDO website (https://drdo.gov.in/message-board/drdo-fight-against-covid-19) and transferred to Indian industry with zero ToT fees.  

31.       Establishment of three dedicated COVID-19 Hospitals  

DRDO established three dedicated COVID hospital at Delhi, Patna and Mujaffarpur for strengthening the medical infrastructure therein. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Covid Hospital is DRDO’s 1000 bed facility, which was made operational on 5th July 2020 with a mandate to treat COVID-19 positive patients from Delhi and other states. DRDO has increased the number of ICU beds to 500 in Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Covid Hospital at Delhi Cantonment on the advice of Union Government in view of the rising number of cases in Delhi NCR. All the beds are provided with oxygen support. Apart from this, 500 bed Covid Hospitals with 125 ICU beds, set up by DRDO in Bihar at Patna and Muzaffarpur respectively. 

32.       Development of Virology Research Lab 

DRDO also developed Virology Research Labs for testing of COVID in various locations like Gwalior, Tezpur, Leh and Delhi and also deployed its qualified manpower and infrastructure to the State Government for strengthening their COVID testing capabilities.

 

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE PRODUCTION (DDP)

 

Promoting the role of private sector in Defence Production

 

     i.        Green Channel Status Policy (GCS)

 

(a) Large Scale Industries with turnover of ≥ Rs 500 crore and having made profit  in  at least 03 out of last 05 years are eligible to apply for GCS provided they have proper QMS in place. Green Channel Status will be awarded to the firm, if found eligible, for a period of 05 Years. Under this scheme also, the firm will supply stores directly to consignee without DGQA inspection.

(b) Green Channel Status granted to14 Firms have so far. Details of companies/firms who have been granted Green Channel Status, along with details of specific products are given below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   ii.        Scheme for Self-Certification of DPSUs and Private Vendors-2019

(a) Under the scheme, the firm will supply stores directly to consignee without DGQA inspection. It encourages them to assume direct responsibility to sustain and improve the standard of Quality. DGQA has been entrusted the responsibility of implementing the scheme. At present, for the most part, the supplies affected by the DPSUs and those of the Pvt Vendors are subjected to Quality Assurance by DGQA as per contracted norms. In light of Govt. reiterating self-reliance in the manufacture of defence products, the Self-certification scheme assumes greater significance.

 

(b)  Three firms so far have been awarded Self Certification status under the new scheme. Details are as follows:-

(c)   

Name of Firm	Date of certification
M/s  IOCL, MUMBAI	22/07/2020
M/s TATA  MOTORS LTD	26/08/20
M/s BEML, Bengaluru	28/08/20

 

(c) DGAQA has developed Quality Rating Model to grant of self-certification for in-process tasks and thus reduce DGAQA control points to higher Quality Rating Manufacturers. The model was devised jointly by HAL, IAF and DGAQA based on Policy of UK Military Aviation Authority (MAA), Government Mandatory Inspection Points (GMIP) of NASA and International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) Supplier Capability Evaluation and Assessment Model.In initial phase, this model is being implemented at Aircraft Manufacturing Division HAL Nasik, MRO Helicopter Division HAL Bengaluru and Avionics Division HAL Korwa. 

 

 iii.        Foreign Direct Investment:

DPIIT vide Press Note No. 4(2020 Series) dated 17.09.2020 notified revised FDI policy wherein FDI in Defence has been allowed under automatic route upto 74% and above 74% through government route wherever it is likely to result in access to modern technology or for other reasons to be recorded.

 

 iv.        Industrial Licensing:

Industrial Licenses are issued in Defence sector by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951 and Arms Act, 1959. Industrial License applications are forwarded by DPIIT and MHA to DDP for comments. More than 500 licenses have been issued so far.

 

INNOVATION IN DEFENCE

 

     i.        Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) launched in 2018 with the objective of bringing startups to innovate, develop technology and solve problems related to defence and aerospace, has launched Defence India Startup Challenges (DISCs)-1, 2, 3 and 4 where close to 1000 Startups have participated, 29 challenges have been issued and 55+ winners declared. Since June 2019, 38 Contracts have been concluded with the iDEX winners for development of futuristic products.

   ii.        During DISC 4 launched in Sept 2020, a unique initiative interim of “iDEX 4 Fauji” was also launched which supports innovations identified by members of the Indian Armed Forces and would enable seeking ideas from the soldiers/ field formations.

 

 

 iii.        The Product Management Approach (PMA) guidelines were also released and adopted by Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and are first of their kind which intends to monitor product development milestones achieved by iDEX winners against the requirements set by the Services/ DPSUs/ OFB.

 

ATMA-NIRBHARATA WEEK IN DEFENCE

 

DDP celebrated Atma-Nirbharata week in Defence between 7th-14th August 2020 to promote indigenous development of materials & equipment to achieve Self-reliance in Defence manufacturing. During the week, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri inaugurated the modernization/up-gradation of facilities and new infrastructure creation at DPSUs & OFB. The details of activities undertaken are tabulated below: 

 

 

INDIGENIZATION: 

                 i.    Launch of SRIJAN Indigenisation portal:  Pursuant to Atmanirbhar Bharat announcement, DDP/MoD has developed an indigenization portal, srijandefence.gov.in, as “opportunities for Make in India in Defence”, which will give information on items that can be taken up for indigenization by the private sector. On this portal, DPSUs/OFB/SHQs can display their items which they have been imported or are going to import which the Indian Industry can design, develop and manufacture as per their capability or through joint venture with OEMs. The information about item is displayed in a structured way, which includes item name, image and specification, values of imports, NATO Classification (indicative), etc. The portal also has search facility. The portal As on date, Defence PSUs/OFB/SHQs have displayed around 6590 items. Pvt. Industry has shown interest for indigenisation of 802 items. 

               ii.    The Department has set a target to indigenize 5000 spares currently being imported. For FY 2020-21, 1502 items are targeted to be indigenized, out of which 849 items have been indigenized as on date.

 

DEFENCE OFFSET POLICY 2020:

 

                 i.    Defence Offset Guidelines 2020 have been promulgated on 30th September 2020 as part of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. The thrust of the Guidelines is to have enabling provisions to attract investments and technology through offsets to enhance capabilities in the domestic Defence manufacturing sector and promote the “Make in India” initiative. The salient features introduced in the revised guidelines include: 

 

 

 DEFENCE EXPORT:

 

                i.       Revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the export of military stores on 09 Jan 2020 with the following amendments:-

 

(a) The requirement of Original End User Certificate (EUC) in hard copy prior to issue of Export Authorisation for parts and components has been dispensed with.

 

(b) The requirement of Government Signed EUC in cases of Engineering Exports (ToT related to Munitions list items) to Wassenaar Arrangement Countries has been dispensed with.

 

(c) Export of complete systems/ platforms/ sub-systems will be allowed without the requirement of submission of Government signed EUC for participation in Tender/Exhibition and Testing and Evaluation. This would be subject to submission of an undertaking committing return of the items and for non-disclosure of any information which could lead to Transfer of Technology.

 

(d) Powers delegated by MHA to this department for issuance of Export Licence under Arms Rules 2016 have also been notified in the SOP. Requirement of Industrial License for issuance of Export License under Arms Rules and Format of application for Export License under Arms rules have also been notified in the SOP

“Defence Exports and Export Authorisations”:  The value of defence exports in the past five years is as under:

(Value in Rs Cr)

	2014-15	2015-16	2016-17	2017-18	2018-19	2019-20	2020-21 As on date
Total Export (in Rs. Crores)	1941	2059	1522	4682	10746	9116	5711
No.  of Authorizations issued	42	241	254	288	668	829	633

* The value mentioned includes actual export by DPSUs and value as per authorisations issued by DDP (EPC) to private firms and SCOMET (other than Cat.6).

 

            ii.       Defence Attache Scheme to promote export: The Government has introduced a new scheme to promote defence exports through Defence Attaches to their countries of affiliation. Under this scheme, Rs 2 Cr was allocated in FY 2019-20 for export promotion in 34 countries. For the year 2020-21, 2.01 Crs. has been allocated.

          iii.       Webinars  with Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) In order to boost defence exports, webinars are being organized with Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) so as to enhance defence co-operation between India and these countries. Senior MoD officials and delegates of Industry from India and concerned country participate in the webinar. B2B interactions between industries of countries take place during the Expo which is organized along with the webinar. Till date webinars have been held with 14 countries viz. Israel, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, UAE, Myanmar, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Nigeria, Australia, Turkmenistan, Brazil and Maldives. During webinar with Israel a Sub Working Group (SWG) on Defence Industrial Cooperation between India & Israel was announced and an MoU was signed. Webinar with Nepal is also likely very soon.

iv.      Defence Export Promotion Scheme.

                  

(a) Scheme for promotion of Defence Export was issued by Min of Defence. The scheme provides for two options to prospective Defence exporters to request for a certificate from DQA/DGAQA/DGNAI and other DDP notified agencies in respect of Defence equipment/systems indicating “Fit for Indian Military Use” or “Tested and Certified against the QR provided by the prospective Indian Defence Exporter/Manufacturer”, for improving the marketability of their products globally. An SOP for ‘Certification, Testing and Certification under Defence Exports Promotion Scheme’ has been promulgated on 06 Mar 2019.

(b) 04 firms have been awarded a total of 10 (Ten) certificates, under Option-I ‘Fit for Indian Military use’ under this scheme.

 

Option-I:  Fit for Indian Military Use Certification

Name of Firm	Name of Eqpt	No of certificates	Date of Certification
Bharat Forge Ltd	Light Strike Vehicle	01	18/10/19
L&T Defence	40mm L-70 Gun Upgrade	01	18/10/19
JCB Ltd	Excavator 7/12 Ton	01	03/02/20
Tata Motors Ltd	07 Types of certificate for various vehicles	07	28/02/20

 

Outreach Events

 

(A) DEFEXPO 2020:

             i.        The 11th edition of DefExpo-20 was organized from 05-09 Feb 2020 at Vrindavan Yojna, Lucknow, UP. The theme of the event was “Digital Transformation of Defence”. This exposition was the biggest ever since its inception and saw an unprecedented interest and participation at the Minister Level, Foreign delegations and both the Foreign and Indian industry presence. The highlights of event are as under :-

·         A total of 35 Foreign Ministers attended the exhibition and the first ever India-Africa Defence Conclave was also conducted (in coordination with MEA) on the sidelines of the exhibition with participation of 12 African Country Defence Ministers.

·         The first time ever the exhibitor participation was over 1000 exhibitors with presence of 856 Domestic companies and 172 foreign companies.

·         Another first ever, was the dedicated MoU signing event ‘Bandhan’ which received tremendous interest from the industry and resulted in forging of 200 partnerhips and 18 ToTs (excluding 14 MoUs signed between Russian defence majors and Indian military firms under a framework of Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) at the 5th round of India-Russia Military Industrial Conference (MIC).

·         Handing over of Eighteen (18) Licensing Agreements by DRDO to the private industries.

·         The participation of the MSMEs was also doubled from previous edition with 291 participating MSMEs during DefExpo 2020.

(B)         Aero India 2021:

             i.        The 13th edition of Aero India-2021, an International exhibition on Defence, Aerospace, Civil Aviation, Airport Infrastructure and Defence Engineering is scheduled to be held from 03-05 Feb 2021 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru. On 07th October 2020, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri hosted the Ambassadors’ Round Table Virtual Conference for Ambassadors’/Heads of Foreign Mission at New Delhi. Conference was attended by 79 foreign countries &200+ delegates.

 

BORDER ROADS ORGANISATION

 

1.       Summary of Works.

 

 

S/No	Items	A/U	Achievement upto  Nov 2020
(a)	Formation Works	Km Eqvt Cl 9	1192.84
(b)	Surfacing works	Km Eqvt Cl 9	2340.67
(c)	Permanent Works	Cr	1819.38
(d)	Tunnel	Cr	623.63
(e)	Major Bridges	Mtr	2683.54
(f)	Resurfacing	Cl-9	2508.47

 

2.       Completion of Strategically Important Roads. The following strategically importantroads have been completed during this period.

 

S/No	Road	In Kms	State
(i)	Sumna-Rimkhim	14 Kms	Uttarakhand
(ii)	Gastoli-Rattakona	17.95 Kms	Uttarakhand
(iii)	Malari-Girthidobla	19 Kms	Uttarakhand
(iv)	Poari-Pooh	56 Kms	Himachal Pradesh
(v)	Tato-Manigong-Tadagade	85.98 Kms	Arunachal Pradesh
(vi)	Mahe-Chusul	77.63 Kms	Ladakh Union Territory

 

3.       Connectivity of L-D-Y Rd.Connectivity of strategically important 52 km Lungro GG-Yangtse Road was made through most uncongenial, stiff hilly terrain with steep gradient in remote High-Altitude Area in Arunachal Pradesh in the AoR of Project Vartak.Road was made open for traffic on 23 Oct 2020.

 

4.       Sela Tunnel.Work on Sela Tunnel on road to Tawang is in full swing &is likely to be completed in Nov 2022. Tunnel will reduce road length by 9.24 Km.

 

5.       Brahmaputra Tunnel.Construction of Brahmaputra Tunnel (under water) of length 12.30 Km has been conceived to achieve connectivity between North and South bank of Brahmaputra River. The contract for preparation of DPR has been awarded on 03 Jul 2020. DPR for construction of Brahmaputra Tunnel is likely to be completed by Sep 2021.

 

6.       Connectivity Restoration through          

 

(a)      BRO restored the connectivity through an alternate bridge for traffic on Munsiyari-Milam road in Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand State on 27 Jun 2020.

 

(b)      BRO restored the connectivity through a main bridge over Sikam Sibu stream on the Aalo-Menchuka road in Shi-Yomi District of Arunachal Pradesh State on 29 Jun 2020 as the original bridge was washed away in Jun due to heavy landslides thereby snapping the surface communication of the newly created District from the rest of the State.

 

7.       Outsourcing of Works. Adoption of Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) mode of execution has been approved by Ministry of Defence D (BR-I) on 29 Aug 2017.   Accordingly, outsourcing of 42 road stretches through EPC mode of execution has been identified. Progress of contract action for preparation of DPR is as under:-

S/No	Description	Status as on 30 Nov 2020
(i)	Tender Accepted  for  Preparation of  DPR	42
(ii)	Tender under process for  Preparation of  DPR	-
	Total	42

 

(a)      GS/MOD Works.  Details of civil work awarded is as follows:-

 

(b)      MORT&H Works.

(i)       Works through EPC mode  for total of 155 Km (10 stretches) on Chardham Yatra Projects on Road Joshimath-Mana, Rishikesh –Dharasu and Dharasu –Gangotri Roads for Rs 1233.28 Cr is under progress.

(ii)      Works through EPC mode for up-gradation of road Akhnoor-Poonch from Km 74.350 to Km 90.150 to National Highway Double lane (NHDL) specs with paved shoulders for Rs 63.15 Cr has been awarded on 04 Feb 2020 and work has started.

 

8.       Commencement of Work of Nechiphu Tunnel. Work on 450 mtr long Nechiphu tunnel has commenced. The foundation stone was laid by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh through video conference on 12 Oct 2020.

 

9.       Opening of Important Passes.  Snow clearance works were carried out by BRO during the nationwide lock down across the country. In spite of record snowfall, dedicated effort, advance planning, optimum deployment of resources, use of modern equipments and high level of motivation ensured that important passes were opened well before the average opening dates each year. Status of opening of important passes is as under:-

S/No	Passes	Altitude(Ft)	Roads	Opening date
				2019	2020
(a)	Razdhan	11,672	Bandipur-Gurez	06 May	13 Apr
(b)	Zojila	11,575	Srinagar-Leh	28 Apr	15 Mar
(c)	Rohtang	14,216	Manali- Leh (12 Jun 2019/18 May 2020)	19 May	25 Apr
(d)	Baralachla	16,047		12 Jun	18 May
(e)	Taglangla	17,582		25 May	15 Mar
(f)	Lachungla	16,616		30 May	20 Mar
(g)	Nakeela	16,170		17 May	10 Mar
(h)	Rimkhim	14,239	SumnaRimkhim	30 May	07 Apr
(j)	Niti	15,269	Kurkuti-Niti	07 May	24 Apr
(k)	Mana	18,500	Mana –Mana Pass	30 Jul	01 Jul
(l)	Sonam	12,887	Nelong-Naga –Sonam	05 May	21 Apr

 

 

 

10.     Rescue Operation.        On 28 Nov 2020, a SUV with six passengers got stuck at Zojila Pass due to snow avalanche on Srinagar- Kargil - Leh Road. Portion of the Car could be partially seen stuck in the snow. Personnel of Project Beacon rescued the stranded passenger on same day and saved six lives. Vehicles were also evacuated from the avalanche spot and the road was opened for traffic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.     Completion /Inauguration of Roads, Bridges and Tunnels.

 

(a)      Inauguration of the Link Road to Mansarovar Yatra.The ongoing work on the Ghatibagarh-Lipulekh as part of the MansarovarYatra Route was affected due to COVID-19 lockdown. Required permission was obtained from the State Govt to recommence the work as it is critical to complete formation cutting before the monsoons. Resources were mobilised and concentrated efforts to undertake formation cutting works was undertaken. This achieved initial connectivity of the road on 17 Apr 2020. Hon’ble Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Link road to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (such road connected Kailash Mansarovar route to Lipulekh pass) via video conferencing on 08 May 2020.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(b)      Tawang Chhu and Sukha bridge. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Pema Khandu dedicated 50 mtr Tawang Chhu bridge over TawangChhu river in Tawang District and 45 mtr Sukha Bridge over Sukha Nallah in West Kameng District on 23 May 2020.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(d)  Breakthrough of Chamba Tunnel.Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari witnessed the breakthrough event of Chamba Tunnel underneath busy Chamba town on Rishikesh-Dharasu road via video conference on 26 May 2020. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(d)      Puneja and Devika Bridge. Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Jitendra Singh inaugurated 50 mtr Puneja Bridge in Doda District and 10 mtr Devika Bridge over river Devika in Udhampur District via video conferencing on 24 Jun 2020. These strategic bridges will help in smooth passage of Army convoys and vehicles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(e)  Inauguration of “Atal Tunnel, Rohtang”. World’s highest tunnel of length 9.02 Km above 10,000 feet was dedicated to Nation by   Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 03 Oct 2020.

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

(f)       Inauguration of 44 Bridges. Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, dedicated  to the Nation , 44 bridges of length 3506 meter spread in seven States and union        territories through video conference on 12 Oct 2020. The State wise details are as under:-

 

S/No	State	No of bridges	Total length of bridges (Mtr)
(a)	Ladakh (UT)	08	358
(b)	Jammu & Kashmir (UT)	10	947
(c)	Punjab	04	597
(d)	Himachal Pradesh	02	470
(e)	Uttarakhand	08	390
(f)	Arunachal Pradesh	08	514
(g)	Sikkim	04	230
	Total	44	3506

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(g)      Gangtok-Nathula Alternative Alignment Road. Road Gangtok-Nathula alternative alignment from Km 0.00 to Km 19.35 in Sikkim State has been dedicated to the Nation by Hon/ble Raksha Mantri on 25 Oct 2020.

 

 

  

DEPARTMENT OF EX-SERVICEMEN WELFARE

 

LANDMARK EVENTDURING 2020:

 

I.  AFFDF-CSR Webinar 2020:    Amidst the prevalent COVID-19, the digital platform was utilized and a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Webinar was organized on 04 Dec 2020 to create awareness amongst the corporate houses regarding CSR contribution to AFFDF as given in section 135 of Companies Act 2013 as well as to felicitate the companies which contributed out of their CSR funds to AFFDF. The event was chaired by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh which was attended by prominent personalities from PSUs, PSEs and Fortune 500 companies participated wherein the challenges faced by the ESM was highlighted and appeal was made to corporate world to come forward and support the cause of welfare and rehabilitation of ESMs & their dependents.

 

II.      ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE YEAR  2020

1.      WELFARE  - KSB

 

(a)      Vide gazette notification dated 6.5.2020 , the nomenclature of the Army Battle Casualties Welfare Fund (ABCWF) has been changed to Armed Forces Battle Casualties  Welfare Fund (AFBCWF) and extended the scheme  to the Battle casualties of  Air Force and Navy also to include all the three services. The additional ex gratia amount has also been enhanced from the existing Rs 2 lakh to Rs 8 lakh  per Battle Casualties (Fatal),  Battle Casualties (Disability 60% and above) and  Battle Casualties invalided out due to Disability. For Battle Casualties (Disability less than 60%), the additional ex gratia amount has been enhanced from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 4 lakh per casualty.

 

(b)    An MoU was signed and executed on 15th Oct 2020 between Kendriya Sainik Board and Shree Cement Ltd to provide free cement manufactured at its owned cement plants to build one house in a plot size area upto 4000 sq.ft. by the next of kin (NOK) of Armed Forces Martyrs (Battle Casualty – Fatal only) in last twenty years i.e wef 01 Jan 1999 to 01 Jan 2019.

2.      RESETTLEMENT:  DGR

 

(a)      An MOU has been signed between DGR and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) on 27.1.2020 to increase representation of ‘Corporate Sector’ in Job Fairs for increasing their employment avenues/vacancies for ESM.

(b)      Guidelines have been issued on 6.2.2020 for the Scheme to provide ESM manpower for ‘Technical Services’ to Government Establishments/Complexes through DGR Empanelled State ESM Corporations.The new scheme will open up new employment avenues for ESM. 

(c)      Notification regarding grant of ESM status to Short Service Commissioned Officers who took premature retirement after completing initial period of engagement was issued on 16.2.2020.

 

3.      HEALTHCARE–  ECHS

(a)      AYUSH system of treatment in 4 ECHS Polyclinics of Delhi/NCR was introduced w.e.f 13.01.2020 on a pilot basis.

 

(i)       Vide MoD, DoESW Order No. 22D(06)/2019/WE/D(Res) dated 3.2.2020 following provisions followed by CGHS in referral system have been adopted for Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS):-

(a)      Referral has been simplified by making provision like consultation with Specialist/listed investigation at private empanelled hospitals to be valid for 30 days upto 3 consultations &for 3 different specialists during a single visit.

(b)      Beneficiaries aged 75 years and above may take direct OPD treatment from specialists in private empanelled hospitals.

(c)      Critically ill beneficiaries who have undergone Cardiac Surgery, Organ Transplant or are suffering from Cancer/End Stage Renal Disease/Auto Immune Disorders/Neurological Disorders may take follow up treatment at private empaneled hospitals after getting permission for it, but without any need for further validation.

 

(ii)      The Rules regarding employment of contractual employees in ECHS polyclinics have been revised to allow recruitment of doctors and para medical staff on part time basis in order to overcome shortage in these grades due to non availability of full time personnel, vide MoD letter No dated 5.2.2020.

 

(iii)     In consonance with the provisions of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare OM No 4-24/96-C&P / CGHS(P)/EHS dated 1.1.2020, cases of disability in respect of sons of ECHS beneficiaries occurring after attaining the age of 25 years  can also be considered as dependants for availing medicare under ECHS subject to fulfillment of certain conditions laid down in Ministry of Health and Family Welfare OM No 4-24/96-C&P / CGHS(P)/EHS dated 7.5.2018 vide MoD Order No 18(77)/2017/WE/D(Res-1) dated 8.7.2020.

4.      PENSION  POLICY

 

(a)      It has been decided by Government vide order issued on 16.7.2020 that Invalided Pension would henceforth also be admissible to Armed Forces personnel with less than 10 years of qualifying service in cases where personnel are invalided out of service on account of any bodily or mental infirmity which is neither attributable to nor aggravated by Military Service.

(b)      Vide MoD letter No. 1(13)/2016/D(Pen/Policy) dated 21.02.2020, benefit of MoD letter No. 1(8)/2008-D(Pen/Policy) dated 12.06.2009 (pertaining revision of pension of post-1.1.2006 retired Havildars who were granted Honorary rank of Naib Subedars) has been extended w.e.f 1.1.2006 to pre-2006 retiree Havildars who were granted Honorary rank of Naib Subedars. Further, Pension tables meant for Honorary Nab Subedar (HNS) vide MOD letters dated 8.3.2010 and 17.1.2013 granting revised pension from 1.7.2009 and 24.9.2012 respectively  were quashed and fresh tables were prepared granting enhanced pension to the pre 2006 retired HNS from 1.7.2009 and 24.9.2012.   Pension of pre-2006 retired Honorary Naib Subedar has been revised at minimum of Rs. 8330/- w.e.f 1.1.2006 with financial implications of Rs. 1816.92 crore. Approximately, 75,250 pre-2006 retired HNS will be benefited from this decision. This was a long pending demand of pre-2006 retired HNS. With the issue of this order, it is expected that court cases pending/being filed on this issue will come down.

(c)      It has been decided vide DESW letter No. 14(02)/2019/D(Pen/Pol) dated 5.10.2020 that the conditions of minimum requirement of 7 years of continuous service for grant of enhanced rate of Ordinary Family Pension has been done away with for Armed Forces personnel who died/invalided out even with less than 7 years of qualifying service.  Further Defence Forces personnel who died within ten years before the 1st day of October 2019 without completing continuous service of 7 years, his family shall also be eligible for family pension at enhanced rates w.e.f. 1.10.2019.

 

NATIONAL CADET CORPS

 

1.   Camp Training.

 

(a)    ATC/CATCs   1500 camps @ 500 Cadets each camps conducted in the year. Approximately 7.5 lakh Cadets participate. The same could not be conducted this year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

 

(b)    EK Bharat Shrestha Bharat (EBSB). 35 camps conducted involving 20,400 Cadets Pan India. There is a plan to increase strength from 100 to 150 Cadets of Guest State Directorate.

 

(c)    Vayu Sainik Camp (VSC).   Air Force Central camp  strength increased from 592 Cadets to 629 Cadets. Increase in next 4 years has been planned for 68 more Cadets.

 

(d)    Nau Sainik Camp (NSC)   Navy Central camp strength increased from 590 Cadets to 612 Cadets. Increase in next 4 years has been planned for 90 more Cadets.

 

(e)    Thal Sainik Camp (TSC).   Army Central camp strength increased from 1360 Cadets to 1564 Cadets(151 Cadets).Increase in next 4 years has been planned for 136 more Cadets.

 

(f)     Leadership Camps. 1800 Cadets attend Six such Camps per year.

 

(g)    Rock Climbing Training Camps (RCTC).  Four camps for 1080 Cadets per year. 10% increase in strength is now being planned. The same could not be conducted this year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

 

(h)   Republic Day Camp (RDC).  Most important NCC camp strength was planned to be Increase from 2070 to 2155 (85 Cadets) this year onwards. However due to COVID-19 restrictions only 26 cadets per directorate, except 4 directorates who feeded 34 cadets, have participated making a total of 495 cadets participating. In the future it is  planned  to increase strength by 2023 to 2500 Cadets. 

 

(j)     Flying Training.     110 Virus SW  Microlite induction & absorption has been completed this year. All 50 Air squadron operational to fly now.

     

(k)    Yachting Special Training Camps. 160 Naval Cadets qualified YAI Level I/II/III exams. Increase from one to five nodes has been undertaken. Total Strength in year will be 350 Cadets from this year onwards.

 

2.   Attachment Training.

 

(a)       Increase in Army Attachment by 8000 Cadets, from 20000 to 28000 , IMA attachment from 120 Cadets to 250 and OTA attachment from 50 Cadets to 100 cadets Increase in Overseas Deployment (OSD) by Indian Navy vacancies planned from 20 to 30 Cadets.

 

(b)       OSD with Coast Guard (new) being taken up.

 

3.   Training App Launch.     NCC Training App Version 1 was launched by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri on 27 Aug 2020 through an online ceremony. The Application includes Brief on NCC, Syllabus, Precis, Interactive Videos, Frequently Asked Questions and also Query by Cadets. Online training of cadets under guidance of respective ANOs is under progress.  Launch of Version 2 of the existing Training App is being planned shortly.

 

4.   EX YOGDAAN by NCC Cadets during Covid-19.   NCC cadets provided valuable assistance to the local administrations in educating the local populace about the COVID 19 through EX YOGDAAN. Cumulative employment of Approximately 1,39,145 cadets& 21,067 ANOs has taken place Pan India till date. Over Two Lakh cadets have enrolled for iGOT Training, and completed their training.  Kitting and Insurance of cadets is being ensured as per the procedures.

 

5.   Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat.   NCC Cadets of all the State Directorates participated in the online EBSB weekly Camps every month. Till now four such camps have been conducted. During these online webinars are conducted wherein three hours daily interactive sessions based on cultural exchange were organized, between the paired Guest & Host State Directorates cadets. Till now additional themes of AatmaNirbhar Bharat, Fit India Campaign, New Education Policy (NEP) and Swachhata have also been adopted during these camps. A total of 65 camps have been conducted in which 5700 cadets have participated.

 

6.   Tree Plantation Drive. A Tree Plantation Drive was carried out by NCC in  Jun-Jul 2020. The theme was “in house & in neighbourhood”.Over  3 .5 Lakhs Saplings have been planted by NCC. 

 

7.   International Day of Yoga(IDY) 2020. A total of 10.5 Lakh NCC cadets, Staff and families participated in Yoga From Home on the occasion of IDY 2020.

 

8.   AatmaNirbhar Bharat Campaign. On the occasion of Independence Day, AatmaNirbhar Bharat Campaign was organized pan India by NCC from 01- 15 Aug 20. Approximately 3.59 Lakhs cadets participated and  over 14 Lakhs citizens impacted across the Nation. 

 

9.   Disaster Management (Flood Relief).  NCC Cadets voluntarily participated in the recent Bihar, Kerala & UP Flood Relief works, by assisting the local administration machinery through relief efforts and distribution services in the affected districts, during the Covid-19 times.

 

10.                Fit India Campaign.  Fit India Campaign was organized by NCC from 15 Aug 20 to 14 Sep 2020. Over 14.75 Lakhs cadets participated in variety of Fitness based activities including awareness and Approximately 33 Lakhs citizens were impacted across the Nation to include the neighbours, family members and friends.  Based on directions of Ministry, Daily Short Runs were also carried by cadets and their family/friends upto 02 Oct 2020(Gandhi Jayanti). Total cumulative, over 59 Lakhs Kilometers were covered during the period.

 

11.      New Education Policy(NEP) Awareness Campaign. NEP campaign was conducted by all State Directorates. A total of 945 webinars were conducted pan India wherein  50411 cadets participated. A total of 33584 social media posts were made by cadets and approximately a population of 2 Lakhs was impacted.

 

12.      Recommendation of the Expert Committee for Identification of Training Areas for NCC Camp Training.     The recommendations of the expert committee have been approved by the Ministry of Defence and the same has been fwd to CDS secretariat for further necessary action.

 

13.                Translation of Cadet Précis.   All the cadet précis have been translated and uploaded on the NCC website. The same will also be loaded on the NCC Training Application.

 

14.                Constitution Day Youth Club Activities. In pursuance of the directions of Hon’ble Prime Minister, to bring all youth organisations on one common platform, to enhance coordinated action on common themes, Constitution Day Youth Club Activities were conducted from 17 Nov to 14 Dec 2020 will all youth organisations. The campaign was inaugurated by the Hon’ble RM on 17^th Nov through video conference. The celebration also included Blood donation activities on 22 November (NCC Day). 

15.                Kargil Vijay Diwas Webinar.   A total of 280 Webinars were conducted by the directorates  wherein 3000 Cadets participated.

 

16.                Camp Manual Revision.   The Camp Manual for Camp Training has been revised and 1000 copies are being printed for distribution upto the unit level.

 

17.      Swachhta Pakhwada 01-15 Dec 2020  NCC participated in Swachhta Pakhwada in conjunction with all the youth organisations.

 

18.      Swachhata Campaign (14 Sep to 16 Oct 20)  5.5 lakhs Cadets Through 850 webinars.

 

19.                RDC certificates woth hologram     New printed certificate pattern with NCC hologram and QR codes have been introduced from RDC 2020 onwards to avoid fraudulent use.

20.                During RDC 2020 New badges for RDC camp, Rajpath Contingent and Guard of Honour have been institutionalized.

21.                Associated Membership Hockey India.     NCC is now associate member of Hockey India. NCC hockey teams will now be able to participate in National level hockey tournaments recognised by it.

 

22.                Training by NDRFThree days capsule will now be conducted for ANOs of each course undergoing training at OTA Kamptee &OTA Gaya. 

 

23. Youth Exchange programme. As part of expansion of the programme seven countries were approached out of which Israel has not been recommended by MEA and Thailand has conveyed its inability to participate in the programme. Correspondence with balance five countries viz. Australia, France, Canada, USA and UK is under progress. Correspondence for signing of MoUs with the already partner countries is in progress.

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