M S Nazki
Striking a snake with a short stake is a mistake. Instead, take a long rake and break its head, if it quakes or shakes, strike again and again till it can’t wake to make trouble.
The General Officer Commandingin Chief, Northern Command visited Alwar Military Station and reviewed the operational, administrative & training aspects of the Strategic Strikers Division. The Army Commander witnessed advanced innovations, had detailed deliberations on operational tasks and applauded all ranks for their professionalism, dedication and exhorted them to uphold the highest standards of combat readiness.
The Strategic Strikers Division (often associated with the 42nd Artillery Division under I Corps) is a specialized, highreadiness Indian Army formation under the Northern Command.
It is responsible for advanced, longrange fire support, integrating artillery, missile systems, and rapid battlefield target destruction.
Key Aspects of the Strategic Strikers Division:
- Operational Role: The division focuses on highintensity, integrated fire exercises to shape the battlefield and degrade enemy capabilities using advanced weaponry.
- Command Structure: It is part of the Northern Command, often associated with I Corps and the 42nd Artillery Division, with associated elements like the 861 Missile Regiment (The Pioneers) and the Firestormers brigade.
- Operational Readiness: The GOCinC Northern Command reviews its operational preparedness at locations such as Alwar Military Station.
- Modernization & Training: The division is known for using modernized equipment, conducting deepstrike simulations, and engaging in specialized training (e.g., directindirect artillery drills).
- Civic Action: The division also participates in veteran welfare activities, including medical camps and exservicemen (ESM) outreach programs.
- Operational Reviews: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, Army Commander Northern Command, visited the unit to review combat readiness and operational tasks in 2026.
- Integrated Drills: The unit (sometimes referred to in media as “Deep Strikers”) has executed integrated firing exercises aimed at rapid, deeppenetration target acquisition.
About The 42nd Artillery Division:
The 42nd Artillery Division, known as the “Strategic Strikers,” is a premier divisionsized artillery formation of the Indian Army, often associated with providing heavy, longrange firepower and precision strike capabilities. It operates as part of the specialized strike assets, featuring advanced missile regiments, and has recently conducted community outreach under the Northern Command.
Key Aspects of the 42nd Artillery Division (Strategic Striker):
- Role & Structure: Designated as a Strategic Striker unit, it focuses on deepstrike capabilities. It includes specialized units like the 861 Missile Regiment (also known as #ThePioneers) which is part of the #Firestormers brigade.
- Command & Deployment: Reports indicate its association with the Northern Command, particularly for enhancing strategic deterrent capabilities in that theatre.
- Equipment & Capabilities: The division utilizes advanced, longrange systems such as the Brahmos Missile System (typically operated by 861864 Missile Regiments).
- Recent Activities: The unit has participated in veteran outreach programs, including health and welfare services in highaltitude or key military regions.
- Operational Context: Often functions within the overall “strike” philosophy of the Regiment of Artillery (India).
Based on official Northern Command (Indian Army) updates, this formation is heavily engaged in modernizing fire power and maintaining high operational readiness, often conducting community support functions alongside its combat mission.
History of warfare was my favorite subject and it is still!
Alwar, established as a princely state in 1770/1775 by Rao Pratap Singh, is one of Rajasthan’s oldest cities with roots in the ancient Matsya region.
Known for the Bala Qila fort, it served as a crucial Rajput kingdom, often serving as a gateway to Delhi. The city is famous for its IndoIslamic architecture, such as Musi Maharani ki Chhatri, and was among the first in Rajputana to sign a treaty with the British.
- Ancient Roots: Historically associated with the Matsya Kingdom (c. 1500 BC) and the Salva tribe, it was once known as Salwapur or Aravalpur.
- Early Rulers: The region was governed by various dynasties, including the Jadauns of Karauli, Nikumbh Rajputs, Khanzadas, and Rajput rulers (Kachwaha clan), with the Bala Qila fort (young fort) dating back to the 15th century.
- Modern Foundation (1775): Rao Pratap Singh of the Naruka clan took control of the Alwar fort on November 25, 1775, establishing the modern Alwar State.
- Colonial Period: Alwar was a princely state under the British, with rulers like Maharaja Jai Singh leading the state in the early 20th century.
- Cultural Legacy: The city is known for its fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, including the City Palace and the scenic Siliserh Lake Palace.
Why is Alwar Sategically important?
Alwar holds immense strategic importance as the “Gateway to Rajasthan,” serving as a critical buffer and trade corridor between Delhi, Haryana, and Jaipur. Its location in the Aravalli hills, 150 km from both Delhi and Jaipur, makes it a vital logistical, industrial, and historical hub. Historically a, coveted princely state, it now plays a key role in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Historical and Military Significance
- Strategic Fortification: The 11thcentury Bala Quila (Alwar Fort) served as a major military stronghold, controlling the surrounding region and trade routes.
- Mughal Base: The Mughals used Alwar as a strategic base to launch attacks on Ranthambhore Fort and as a halting point between Agra and Ajmer.
- Cultural Crossroads: Historically, it acted as a power center contested by Rajputs, Mughals, Jats, and Marathas before joining the British alliance.
Geographical and Industrial Importance:
- NCR Integration: As part of the National Capital Region (NCR), Alwar has benefited from urban infrastructure development projects.
- Industrial Hub: Its proximity to DelhiNCR has led to significant industrial development, including the BhiwadiDharuhera industrial belt, attracting substantial investments.
- Connectivity: Alwar lies on the crucial DelhiJaipur corridor, with excellent rail and road connectivity, facilitating major commercial activity.
Modern Strategic Importance:
- Logistics & Economy: The city acts as a vital commercial hub connecting northern and southern India.
- Military Presence: The town houses the Itarana military cantonment, strengthening its military relevance.
- About Bala Qila: Bala Quila (Alwar Fort), established in the 15th century by Hasan Khan Mewati, is a historic hill fort in the Aravalli Range, rising 595 meters above sea level. Known as a “young fort,” it showcases IndoIslamic architecture, featuring 15 large towers and 51 small towers, later passing through Mughal, Maratha, and Rajput hands.
Key Historical Aspects of Alwar Fort (Bala Quila):
- Construction: Built around 1492 AD (15th century) by Hasan Khan Mewati, the ruler of the Mewat region.
- Architectural Blend: It showcases a combination of Mughal and Rajput styles, featuring high walls, extensive battlements, and multiple entry gates.
- Strategic Features: The fort spans 5 km from north to south and 1.6 km from east to west. It is armed with 15 large towers, 51 smaller towers, and 446 loopholes for musketry.
- Ownership Evolution: While built by Mewati, the fort later came under the control of the Mughal Empire (including stints with Babur and Jahangir), the Jats, the Marathas, and finally the Kachwaha Rajputs in 1775, becoming part of the Alwar State.
- Within the Walls: The fort complex includes structures like the Nikumbh Mahal, Salim Mahal, and a temple.
Name: “Bala Quila” roughly translates to “young fort”.
Strike first, strike hard, and no mercy……The Cobras do that with ease!
Strike fast, strike hard, strike often!
The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving on…….!
Strike hard and fast and do not separate: Heinz Guderian!
Now back to the story:
Key Battles Fought in/around Alwar:
- Battle of Laswari (1 November 1803): This is perhaps the most significant battle fought in the immediate vicinity of Alwar. Lord Lake of the British East India Company defeated the Maratha forces under Ambaji Ingle at Laswari village, 20 miles east of Alwar. The Alwar ruler at the time, Maharao Raja Bakhtawar Singh, supported the British in this battle.
- Battle of Mandan (1775/1781): A fierce fight occurred between the Rajputs (Shekhawats) and a combined force of Mughals and local Ahirs. Sources sometimes list this near 1775 or 1781.
- Conquest of Alwar Fort (1756): Suraj Mal, the Jat ruler of Bharatpur, defeated the Rajput forces of Jaipur under Madho Singh to capture the crucial Alwar Fort, which was later taken by Rao Pratap Singh in 1775.
- Siege of Bala Quila (1492): Hasan Khan Mewati, a prominent ruler of Mewat, captured the Alwar Fort (Bala Quila) from the Nikumbh Rajputs.
Significant Historical Events/Conflicts:
- Battle of Khanwa (1527): While the main battlefield was near Fatehpur Sikri, the surrounding Mewat and Alwar region was heavily involved. Hasan Khan Mewati of Alwar fought alongside Rana Sanga against Babur in this battle.
- 1857 Mutiny (Alwar Contingent): During the 1857 Revolt, forces from Alwar, specifically the Alwar Jey Paltan, were sent to support the British in Agra, though a portion of the force deserted.
Alwar was also the first princely state in India to enter into a “Treaty of Offensive and Defensive Alliance” with the East India Company in 1803 following the Battle of Laswari.
We have come from the modern to the past here!
Military Station Alwar, known locally as Itrana Cantonment or Itrana Military Station, is a key Indian Army installation located on the outskirts of Alwar city, Rajasthan. It serves as a strategic base, housing various army units and the historic Itrana Palace. It is recognized for its role in maintaining military presence in the region……..
Key Aspects of Military Station Alwar and Its History:
- Location and Significance: The station is located in the Itrana area, which has served as a strategic military location for over a century.
- Itrana Palace (Itrana Lodge): Within the cantonment lies the Itrana Palace, built around 1914 by Raja Man Singh. It was originally used as a hunting lodge and is currently maintained by the Indian Army.
- Historical Context: Alwar’s military history is deeply tied to the princely state of Alwar, which held a significant force, including the Mangal Lancers and infantry battalions (Alwar Jey Paltan and Alwar Pratap Paltan).
- Administrative Transition: Following India’s independence, the princely state of Alwar, including its military infrastructure, was integrated into the Matsya Union in 1948, and later into the state of Rajasthan in 1949.
- Army Cantonment: The area is primarily used as a residential and training base for Indian Army personnel and their families.
- Historical Heritage Site: The Itrana Palace and nearby historical landmarks represent the area’s military heritage, often visited by military dignitaries.
- Strategic Location: Situated near the capital Jaipur and the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), it serves as an important base for monitoring and logistics.
- So the final lines: Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking. Strike it early, strike it now… But remember to strike it hard! Go and make the strike.
