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Which District of Karnataka is Known as the Land of Cardamom?

Karnataka, a state in southern India, is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and historical significance. Famous for its temples, wildlife sanctuaries and diverse traditions, it is also a hub for industries like IT, silk and sandalwood. Karnataka’s vibrant cities and serene countryside make it a unique blend of modernity and tradition. In this article, we will know about the district of Karnataka which is known as the “Land of Cardamom.”

An Overview of Karnataka

Karnataka, in southwest India, was formed as Mysore State on November 01, 1956, and renamed in 1973. Bordered by Lakshadweep Sea, Goa, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it has 31 districts and 6.1 million people. Bengaluru, the capital, is its largest city with over 15 million residents. Karnataka is known for its rich culture and history.

Land of Cardamom

Haveri district in Karnataka is known as the Land of Cardamom or Elaichi. This district has earned its name due to its unique connection with cardamom and its aromatic products like cardamom and garlands. Let’s explore why Haveri is so special.

Cardamom Production in Haveri

Although the district is famous for its cardamom garlands, cardamom farming has declined in recent years due to a decrease in the number of growers. However, cardamom trade remains important. Traders in Haveri process and sell cardamoms from the Malnad region.

Varieties of Cardamom

In Karnataka, cardamom is mostly grown in the lower valleys of undulating terrains. Two main varieties of cardamom are:

  • Elettaria cardamom Maton variety major
  • Watt variety minor

Famous for Cardamom Garlands

Haveri is renowned for its cardamom garlands, which are handcrafted from fresh cardamom pods and decorated with silk threads, beads and wool. These garlands are widely used:

  • For decoration during marriages
  • To honor political and social leaders
  • To adorn statues

The garlands are not only popular in India but are also in demand in countries like Japan, the UK and the United States.

Other Spices in Haveri

Haveri is not just about cardamom. The district also grows other spices, including chilies, which are an important crop here.

Location of Haveri

Haveri is located in the center of Karnataka, equally distant from Bidar in the north and Kollegal in the south. Know for its rich culture and heritage, it is also referred to as the gateway to North Karnataka.

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National Sports Awards 2024 Announced

The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has announced the prestigious National Sports Awards for 2024, recognizing outstanding sportspersons, coaches, universities, and entities for their exemplary contributions to sports. The awardees will receive their honors from the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025. These awards aim to motivate and acknowledge the dedication, performance, and progress made by individuals and institutions in the realm of sports.

National Sports Awards 2024 Recipients

1. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024

Given For: Awarded for the most outstanding performance in sports over the past four years.

Sr. No Name of Recipient Discipline
1 Shri Gukesh D (Chess)
2 Shri Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey)
3 Shri Praveen Kumar (Para-Athletics)
4 Ms. Manu Bhaker (Shooting)

2. Arjuna Awards for Outstanding Performance in Sports 2024

Given For: Awarded for excellence in sports and showing leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline.

Sr. No Name of Recipient Discipline
1 Ms. Jyothi Yarraji (Athletics)
2 Ms. Annu Rani (Athletic)
3 Ms. Nitu (Boxing)
4 Ms. Saweety (Boxing)
5 Ms. Vantika Agrawal (Chess)
6 Ms. Salima Tete (Hockey)
7 Shri Abhishek (Hockey)
8 Shri Sanjay (Hockey)
9 Shri Jarmanpreet Singh (Hockey)
10 Shri Sukhjeet Singh (Hockey)
11 Shri Rakesh Kumar (Para-Archery)
12 Ms. Preeti Pal (Para-Athletics)
13 Ms. Jeevanji Deepthi (Para-Athletics)
14 Shri Ajeet Singh (Para-Athletics)
15 Shri Sachin Sarjerao Khilari (Para-Athletics)
16 Shri Dharambir (Para-Athletics)
17 Shri Pranav Soorma (Para-Athletics)
18 Shri H Hokato Sema (Para-Athletics)
19 Ms. Simran (Para-Athletics)
20 Shri Navdeep (Para-Athletics)
21 Shri Nitesh Kumar (Para-Badminton)
22 Ms. Thulasimathi Murugesan (Para-Badminton)
23 Ms. Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan (Para-Badminton)
24 Shri Sajan Prakash (Swimming)
25 Shri Aman (Wrestling)
26 Ms. Manisha Ramadass (Para-Badminton)
27 Shri Kapil Parmar (Para-Judo)
28 Ms. Mona Agarwal (Para-Shooting)
29 Ms. Rubina Francis (Para-Shooting)
30 Shri Swapnil Suresh Kusale (Shooting)
31 Shri Sarabjot Singh (Shooting)
32 Shri Abhay Singh (Squash)

3. Arjuna Awards (Lifetime) for Outstanding Performance in Sports 2024

Given For: Awarded to retired sportspersons who continue to contribute to the promotion of sports.

Sr. No Name of Recipient Discipline
1 Shri Sucha Singh (Athletics)
2 Shri Murlikant Rajaram Petkar (Para-Swimming)

4. Dronacharya Award for Outstanding Coaches in Sports and Games 2024

Given For: Awarded for consistent excellence in coaching and enabling athletes to excel in international events.

Regular Category

Sr. No Name of Recipient Discipline
1 Shri Subhash Rana  (Para-Shooting)
2 Ms. Deepali Deshpande (Shooting)
3 Shri Sandeep Sangwan (Hockey)

Lifetime Category

Sr. No Name of Recipient Discipline
1 Shri S Muralidharan (Badminton)
2 Shri Armando Agnelo Colaco (Football)

5. Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar

Given For: Awarded to entities that have made significant contributions to the promotion of sports in the country.

Sr. No Name of the Entity
1 Physical Education Foundation of India

6. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy 2024

Given For: Awarded to the top-performing university in the Khelo India University Games.

Sr. No Position  Name of University
1 Overall Winner University Chandigarh University
2 1st Runner Up University Lovely Professional University, (PB)
3 2nd Runner Up University Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar

About The National Sports Awards

  • Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is the highest honor, given for exceptional performance in the field of sports.
  • Arjuna Award recognizes outstanding performance in sports, leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline.
  • Arjuna Award (Lifetime) is for sportspersons who continue to contribute to sports after retirement.
  • Dronacharya Award honors coaches who have consistently helped athletes excel at international levels.
  • Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy is awarded to the university with the best performance in the Khelo India University Games.

Selections

  • The applications for the awards were invited online, and sportspersons, coaches, and entities self-applied through a dedicated portal.
  • A committee chaired by Justice (Retd.) V. Ramasubramanian of the Supreme Court, along with eminent sportspersons, sports journalists, and administrators, assessed the applications and selected the awardees.

Significance

  • These awards celebrate the immense contributions of individuals and institutions in advancing sports excellence and aim to inspire future generations of athletes and sports professionals.

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awardees Announced

The Indian government has announced the recipients of the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for 2024, honoring exceptional contributions to sports.

Awardees and Their Achievements

Manu Bhaker (Shooting): Manu Bhaker made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by becoming the first Indian athlete post-Independence to win two medals in a single edition of the Games. Despite initial controversies regarding her nomination, Bhaker’s outstanding performance has been rightfully recognized.

Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey): As the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, Harmanpreet Singh led the team to a second consecutive Olympic bronze medal in Paris. His leadership and skills have been instrumental in India’s consistent performance on the international stage.

Praveen Kumar (Para Athletics): Praveen Kumar clinched gold at the Paris Paralympics in the men’s high jump T64 category, setting a new Asian record. His achievement has significantly contributed to India’s prominence in para-athletics.

D Gukesh (Chess): D Gukesh has emerged as a formidable force in the world of chess, achieving remarkable milestones and elevating India’s status in the global chess community.

Controversy Surrounding Nominations

Initially, there was controversy over Manu Bhaker’s omission from the nomination list, despite her historic Olympic performance. Reports suggested discrepancies regarding her application, with some sources claiming she had applied, while others indicated she had not. The Sports Ministry faced criticism for this oversight and subsequently took corrective measures to include her among the awardees.

Significance of the Khel Ratna Award

The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is India’s highest sporting honor, awarded for the most outstanding performance in sports by an individual or team. Instituted in 1991–1992, it has recognized numerous athletes who have brought glory to the nation through their exceptional talent and dedication.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in News Manu Bhaker, Harmanpreet Singh, Praveen Kumar, and D Gukesh announced as recipients of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024.
Manu Bhaker First Indian athlete post-Independence to win two Olympic medals in a single edition (Paris 2024).
Harmanpreet Singh Captain of Indian men’s hockey team; led to consecutive Olympic bronze medals (2020, 2024).
Praveen Kumar Para-athlete; won gold in men’s high jump T64 at Paris Paralympics 2024; set an Asian record.
D Gukesh Emerging chess prodigy; contributed significantly to India’s global chess standing.
Award Details Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna: India’s highest sporting honor; instituted in 1991–1992.
Static Information on Award Named after hockey legend Dhyan Chand; recognizes outstanding performance in sports.

Which is the Oldest Country in the World?

The question of which is the oldest country in the world opens a window into ancient history and enduring civilizations. Many nations have rich histories stretching back thousands of years, shaped by their cultures, traditions and governance. Determining the oldest country depends on how we define a country’s age, whether by its founding, continuous independence, or historical legacy. Let’s explore this intriguing topic in detail.

Oldest Country in the World

Egypt is called the oldest country in the world, with its history stretching back thousands of years. Historians date the founding of Egypt to around 3150 B.C.E., when King Narmer began his rule. Narmer’s reign marked the start of the First Dynasty of Egypt and the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt.

The Beginnings of Egypt

Before Narmer’s time, Egypt was divided into two regions: Upper Egypt in the south and Lower Egypt in the north. These regions had their own leaders and cultures. Around 3150 B.C.E., Narmer, also known as Menes, united the two regions, creating a single, powerful kingdom. This event a considered the start to ancient Egypt as a civilization.

Narmer and the Narmer Palette

The Narmer Palette, a significant archaeological find from 3200-3000 BCE., provides evidence of Narmer’s achievements. This carved stone shows Narmer wearing two crowns: the White Crown of Upper Egypt on one side and the Red Crown of Lower Egypt on the other. This imagery symbolizes his role in uniting the two regions into one kingdom.

Why Egypt is Considered the Oldest Country?

Egypt’s history as a unified state began earlier than most other civilizations. While other regions also had ancient cultures, such as Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, Egypt’s continuous identity and governance as a state make it unique. Its legacy is reflected in its incredible monuments, like the pyramids and temples, which stand as reminders of its ancient glory.

Global Family Day: A Celebration of Unity, Love, and Peace

Global Family Day, observed on January 1 each year, sets the tone for the new year with a focus on fostering peace, unity, and appreciation for the families that bring joy and stability to our lives. The day is meant to emphasize the connection between world peace, communities, and the importance of strengthening families. This day aims to encourage global peace and understanding, calling for an action-driven approach to address conflicts and promote harmony.

History of Global Family Day

  • Proposed in November 1997 and inspired by the book One Day In Peace.
  • Published by the United Nations on January 1, 2000, marking the start of the International Decade for the Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World.
  • Formal declaration for celebrating Global Family Day made by UN members in 1999.

Significance

  • Unity in Diversity: Celebrates harmony and understanding across different cultures and communities.
  • Peace Promotion: Raises awareness about the importance of peace and the need to reduce violence.
  • Community Engagement: Encourages activities like educational webinars and local celebrations that unite people for peace.
  • Global Awareness: Increases understanding of global conflicts and the role families play in promoting peace.

Role of Family Traditions on Global family Day

  • Cultural Reflection: Families can revive or start new customs that strengthen bonds, such as sharing family stories or creating family trees.
  • Positive Atmosphere: Families might exchange New Year’s wishes and set positive goals for the year ahead.

Importance

  • Bridging Differences: Encourages embracing diversity and understanding different cultures.
  • Promotes Cultural Exchange: Offers opportunities to learn and experience new customs and traditions.
  • Enhances Family Bonds: Highlights the importance of spending quality time with family to foster strong relationships.
  • Global Awareness: Provides a platform for discussions on pressing global issues that need collective efforts to resolve.

Types of families In India

  • Joint Family: Multiple generations living together, sharing finances and responsibilities.
  • Nuclear Family: A couple and their children living independently.
  • Extended Family: Includes three to four generations, fostering close blood ties.
  • Patrilocal Family: The wife moves to the husband’s family after marriage.
  • Matrilocal Family: The husband moves to the wife’s family after marriage.
  • Bilocal Family: The married couple alternates living with either partner’s family.
  • Neolocal Family: The couple starts a new, independent family away from both parents.

Advantages of Joint Family In India

  • Sharing Economic Responsibilities: Reduced financial strain by pooling resources.
  • Child Care Support: Grandparents and other family members help with childcare, providing emotional and practical support.
  • Building Strong Bonds: Extended families foster emotional connection across generations.
  • Family Culture & Traditions: Preserves and shares cultural practices and values.
  • Built-in Support System: Offers practical, financial, and emotional assistance during tough times.
  • Reduced Stress: Shared responsibilities help reduce household burdens.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Global Family Day: A Celebration of Unity, Love, and Peace
Event Global Family Day (January 1)
Purpose Fosters unity, peace, and appreciation for families.
History Emphasizes addressing global issues with collective efforts for peace.
Significance – Promotes peace and harmony across cultures.
– Raises global awareness on conflicts.
– Encourages unity in diversity.
Role of Family Traditions – Strengthens family bonds through shared customs.
– Example: creating family trees or exchanging wishes.
Importance of the Day – Bridging cultural differences.
– Promotes cultural exchange and understanding.
– Enhances family connections.
Types of Families in India – Joint, Nuclear, Extended, Patrilocal, Matrilocal, Bilocal, Neolocal.
Global Awareness Emphasizes addressing global issues with collective efforts for peace.

Magnus Carlsen, Nepomniachtchi Share Blitz Title: Controversy Ensues

The decision by Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi to share the World Blitz Championship title at the FIDE Rapid and Blitz Championship in New York has caused significant uproar in the chess world. The controversy escalated after a video surfaced where Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi appeared to strategize on how to pressure FIDE into allowing them to co-win the title. Many prominent chess figures have voiced their criticisms, with accusations of possible match-fixing and manipulation of tournament rules. This article breaks down the sequence of events and reactions from top grandmasters and analysts.

Key Events and Reactions

The Final Match

  • Carlsen won the first two games, but Nepomniachtchi fought back, leveling the score at 2-2.
  • The final match went into a tiebreak, with both players drawing three games in a row.
  • At this point, Carlsen suggested they share the title, which Nepomniachtchi agreed to.

The Controversial Clip

  • Carlsen was heard telling Nepomniachtchi that,
  • “If FIDE refuse, we can just play short draws until they give up.”
  • The conversation raised suspicions of potential match-fixing.

Reactions From Chess Community

  • Hans Niemann, a U.S. grandmaster, expressed his disbelief and anger, accusing Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi of breaking rules and calling for an investigation by the FIDE Ethics committee.
  • Vladimir Kramnik, a former world champion, mocked FIDE’s failure to anticipate this scenario and criticized the regulations.
  • Srinath Narayanan, an Indian grandmaster, condemned the actions of Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi, drawing comparisons to the Wimbledon 2019 final to highlight the absurdity of their approach.
  • Daniel Naroditsky, another grandmaster, sarcastically remarked on the flexibility of rules, suggesting that if sharing the title was allowed, many other competitors could have lobbied for similar treatment.
  • Susan Polgar highlighted the previous incident involving Nepo and Daniil Dubov, who were penalized for making a pact to draw their game.

Match Fixing Allegations

  • The clip, where Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi discussed using draws as leverage, led to accusations of match-fixing and raised doubts about the integrity of the tournament.

Regulation Criticisms

  • Critics noted that the lack of a clear regulation for a shared title in the final match left room for manipulation, leading to debates over FIDE’s role in maintaining the integrity of chess tournaments.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news Magnus Carlsen, Nepomniachtchi Share Blitz Title: Controversy Ensues
Final Match Results Carlsen won 2 games, Nepomniachtchi leveled it 2-2, leading to a tiebreak with 3 draws.
Shared Title Agreement Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi agreed to share the World Blitz Title after tiebreak draws.
Controversial Video Carlsen suggested manipulating FIDE with short draws, raising suspicions of match-fixing.
Niemann’s Reaction Hans Niemann called for a FIDE Ethics investigation, condemning the players’ actions.
Kramnik’s Criticism Former world champion Vladimir Kramnik mocked FIDE’s regulations, calling them flawed.
Srinath Narayanan’s View Criticized the players for exploiting regulations, comparing it to a Wimbledon final scenario.
Naroditsky’s Remarks Sarcastically suggested more players could lobby for shared titles if the rules were flexible.
Polgar’s Observation Mentioned previous penalties on Nepomniachtchi and Dubov for drawing a match under suspicious circumstances.
FIDE’s Role Critics questioned FIDE’s ability to uphold tournament integrity amidst regulation loopholes.

Switzerland Enforces Facial Covering Ban, Raises Pensions in New Year

Switzerland is implementing a series of significant changes starting January 1, 2025, which impact various sectors including legal, economic, and social frameworks. These include a ban on facial coverings, reforms to inheritance laws, increased pensions, and measures to strengthen bank solvency and liquidity. The changes reflect a growing alignment with European norms and a response to past financial crises. Here is a detailed overview of these changes.

Key Changes

1. Swiss Burqa Ban

  • A ban on facial coverings in public places takes effect from January 1, 2025.
  • The ban applies to burqas, niqabs, and other face coverings, with violations punishable by a fine of up to CHF 1,000 ($1,143).

Exceptions to the law include

  • Face coverings for security, weather, or health reasons.
  • Allowed in artistic performances, entertainment, and advertising.
  • Switzerland joins France, Austria, and other European countries in implementing similar restrictions.

2. Inheritance Law Reforms

  • Switzerland has revised its international inheritance law to better align with the European Succession Regulation.
  • The reform aims to resolve frequent jurisdictional conflicts between Switzerland and EU/EFTA countries, particularly affecting the Swiss expatriates.

Benefits

  • Legal certainty for Swiss nationals abroad and their relatives.
  • Easier inheritance planning.
  • The reforms are welcomed by the Organization of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), as around 61% of Swiss nationals abroad live in EU or EFTA member states.

3. Increase in State Pensions and Benefits

  • Swiss state pensions will rise by 2.9% to keep pace with price increases and salary trends.

Adjustments Includes

  • Minimum pension: CHF 1,225 to CHF 1,260 ($1,382 to $1,422).
  • Maximum pension: CHF 2,450 to CHF 2,520 ($2,764 to $2,843).
  • These changes also affect contributions, supplementary benefits, and occupational benefits.
  • Pensions will be reviewed every two years based on cost-of-living changes.

4. Strengthening Bank Solvency and Liquidity

  • Following the 2007-2009 financial crisis and the subsequent banking crises, Switzerland is implementing measures to improve bank solvency and liquidity.

Key Measures

  • Banks must build capital reserves during stable economic periods, which can be accessed during financial stress.
  • This is the final stage of reforms introduced after the collapses of UBS (2018) and Credit Suisse (2023).
  • The measures aim to prevent taxpayer bailouts and ensure the stability of Swiss banks during crises.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Switzerland Enforces Facial Covering Ban, Raises Pensions in New Year
Facial Coverings Ban Effective January 1, 2025; fine of CHF 1,000 for violations; exceptions include health, weather, and artistic reasons.
Inheritance Law Reforms Aligns with EU Succession Regulation; benefits Swiss expatriates and resolves jurisdictional conflicts.
State Pensions Increase by 2.9%: Minimum pension from CHF 1,225 to CHF 1,260; maximum pension from CHF 2,450 to CHF 2,520.
Banking Reforms Final stage of reforms after financial crises; banks required to build capital reserves to withstand future stress.
Impact of Changes Aims to provide legal certainty, economic stability, and financial independence in the face of past crises.

India-Nepal “Surya Kiran” Military Exercise Begins

The 18th edition of the India-Nepal joint military exercise “Surya Kiran” has commenced at Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 29, 2024, to January 13, 2025. This annual exercise aims to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the United Nations Charter.

Key Details

Exercise Location and Duration: Held at Saljhandi, Nepal, from December 29, 2024, to January 13, 2025.

Participating Forces: Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment and Nepalese Army’s Tara Dal Battalion.

Focus Areas: Jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Historical Context

Previous Editions: The 17th edition was conducted in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, from November 24 to December 7, 2023, involving 334 personnel from the Nepali Army and a battalion from the Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment.

Bilateral Relations: The exercise underscores the longstanding military cooperation between India and Nepal, reflecting shared security concerns and mutual commitment to regional stability.

Strategic Significance

Enhanced Interoperability: The exercise fosters better coordination between the two armies, essential for joint operations and disaster response.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Regular military engagements like “Surya Kiran” reinforce the defense relationship and mutual trust between India and Nepal.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise “Surya Kiran” Begins 18th edition of “Surya Kiran” exercise between India and Nepal; held in Saljhandi, Nepal from Dec 29, 2024 to Jan 13, 2025.
Focus Areas Counter-terrorism, jungle warfare, disaster relief, and enhancing interoperability between the Indian and Nepalese armies.
Objective To improve coordination in joint operations, humanitarian aid, and regional peace efforts.
Participating Forces Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment, Nepalese Army’s Tara Dal Battalion.
Past Editions Last year’s exercise (17th edition) was held in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India.
Bilateral Relations Reflects growing defense cooperation between India and Nepal, underscoring shared security concerns.

Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra Assumes Command of IAF’s Western Air Command

On January 1, 2025, Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra assumed command of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Western Air Command, succeeding Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha, who retired after over 39 years of distinguished service.

Professional Background

Commissioned as a fighter pilot on December 6, 1986, Air Marshal Mishra has accumulated over 3,000 flying hours. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Pune; the Air Force Test Pilots School, Bangalore; the Air Command and Staff College, USA; and the Royal College of Defence Studies, UK. His career includes roles such as Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron, Chief Test Pilot at the Aircraft & Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), and Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations).

Role of Western Air Command

The Western Air Command is a critical component of the IAF, responsible for defending India’s western borders, including regions facing Pakistan and China. It oversees areas such as Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and parts of Rajasthan. The command has been pivotal in major operations since Independence, including the Kashmir Operation (1947-48), the Sino-Indian Conflict (1962), the Indo-Pak Wars (1965 and 1971), Operation Pawan (1986 in Sri Lanka), Operation Safed Sagar (1999 in Kargil), and Operation Snow Leopard (2020 in Eastern Ladakh).

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra Takes Over as Chief of IAF’s Western Command Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra assumed command of the Indian Air Force’s Western Air Command on January 1, 2025, succeeding Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha.
Predecessor Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha retired after over 39 years of service.
Career Background of Mishra Commissioned as a fighter pilot on December 6, 1986.
Flying Hours Over 3,000 flying hours.
Key Roles Held by Mishra Chief Test Pilot at Aircraft & Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations).
Western Air Command Responsible for defending India’s western borders (Pakistan and China borders), covering regions like Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.
Significant Operations Involved in key operations such as the Kashmir Operation (1947-48), Sino-Indian Conflict (1962), Indo-Pak Wars (1965 and 1971), Operation Pawan (1986 in Sri Lanka), Operation Safed Sagar (1999 in Kargil), and Operation Snow Leopard (2020 in Eastern Ladakh).
Educational Background of Mishra Alumnus of National Defence Academy, Air Force Test Pilots School, Air Command and Staff College (USA), and Royal College of Defence Studies (UK).
Date of Appointment January 1, 2025.

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