More than a year after Indian forces struck terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, the central government has officially released the names of six military personnel who lost their lives during Operation Sindoor. It is the first time the identities of the fallen have been made public.

The six martyrs are Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, Rifleman Sunil Kumar, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar, Agniveer Mood Murli Naik, Havildar Sunil Kumar Singh, and Sergeant Surendra Kumar. Five belonged to the Army; Sergeant Surendra Kumar was from the Indian Air Force.

Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, in direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 civilians were killed. The Indian Armed Forces carried out precision strikes on nine terror facilities linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and PoK — the most significant cross-border military action India had undertaken in years.

The targets hit included the Sawai Nala training centre in Muzaffarabad, where terrorists responsible for the Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam attacks had trained; the Syedna Bilal Camp, also in Muzaffarabad, used for weapons and jungle survival training; and the Gulpur Camp in Kotli, linked to the 2023 Poonch pilgrim attack. Strikes also hit Abbas Camp in Kotli — a fidayeen training facility just 13 kilometres from the Line of Control — Barnala Camp in Bhimber, and Sarjal Camp in Sialkot, where personnel involved in the March 2025 killing of police officers had been trained.

Two high-profile targets were Markaz Taiba in Muridke, where Ajmal Kasab and David Coleman Headley had received training before the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and the Subhan Allah Mosque complex in Bahawalpur, which served as Jaish-e-Mohammed's headquarters and was regularly used by senior leadership for recruitment. The Mehmuna Joya Camp of Hizbul Mujahideen in Sialkot, where the Pathankot attack was planned, was also among the nine sites struck.

Military action was halted on May 10, 2025, following talks between the Directors General of Military Operations of India and Pakistan.

The names of the six personnel will now be inscribed at the National War Memorial near India Gate in New Delhi — the memorial inaugurated in 2019 that records the names of all soldiers who have died in service to the nation since independence. With this, Operation Sindoor formally enters the roll of military operations honoured at the memorial.

For the families of the six, the public acknowledgment closes a long period of quiet grief. The government's decision to release names and ensure memorial recognition signals that the sacrifices made during the operation will be part of the official record of India's military history.

Police in Nagpur have registered a case after a 24‑year‑old woman, wife of an Indian Air Force officer, alleged she was raped, blackmailed and forced to undergo a religious conversion. Two men have been arrested and one cleric is absconding, officials said on Tuesday.

The woman, who works as a property dealer and whose husband is posted out of city, told police the main accused, identified as Ayaz Taj Madare — a schoolmate who contacted her in February 2025 saying he wanted to buy land — first lured her to a hotel on Wardha Road. She alleges she was given juice laced with an intoxicant, raped while unconscious, and filmed. The complainant says the recordings were later used to extort about ₹4 lakh and to coerce her into repeated sexual exploitation.

A video that circulated online is central to the probe. In the clip the woman is seen resisting and pleading, “Please leave me,” while an accused holds her hands and reportedly recites verses and blows on her face. Investigators said the footage appears to show an attempt to perform a religious ritual; the woman alleges she was pressured to say “Qubool Hai,” after which the accused purported to have conducted a nikah and pronounced a conversion.

Sonegaon police confirmed an FIR has been filed that lists charges including rape, repeated sexual exploitation, extortion, blackmail, forced religious conversion and offences under Maharashtra’s law against superstition and black magic. Electronic devices seized from the accused are being forensically examined, a police official said. Two suspects linked to the case are in custody; a cleric from Chhindwara named in the complaint is reported to be absconding.

The victim informed her husband about the ordeal on June 12 after he returned from duty, police said. Following the complaint, investigators began questioning witnesses and are tracing the sequence of events, including locations mentioned by the woman, alleged payments and communications between the accused and the victim.

Police reiterated that forensic analysis of the seized gadgets and medical reports will guide next steps. “We are following leads and will take legal action based on evidence. The investigation is ongoing,” a senior Nagpur police officer said, declining further details because the matter involves sexual assault and an active probe.

Legal and social‑service officials said cases that mix sexual violence, blackmail and alleged forced religious conversion are complex and require coordinated handling — evidence collection, victim support, counselling and, where needed, protection. Activists urged prompt, sensitive investigation and protection for the survivor and her family.

The viral video has also sparked public outrage on social platforms, with demands for swift arrest and strict action. Officials cautioned against sharing unverified material and asked the public to allow police to complete the probe.

Further details, including the identities and remand status of the arrested men, will be released after formal procedures. Those with information related to the case have been asked to contact Sonegaon police.

India on Monday successfully flight-tested its indigenously developed Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile, adding another capability to the country's deep-strike arsenal, officials said. The missile was launched from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast, with the Ministry of Defence confirming that all mission objectives were met during the trial.

According to the Ministry, performance data for the test was captured by tracking instruments deployed by the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur, which monitored the missile through its flight path. Officials described the test as a significant milestone in India's indigenous missile development programme.

Launched From Odisha Coast

The Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile, referred to by its acronym LRLACM, is designed to strike land-based targets with precision at distances of up to 1,000 km, giving the armed forces the ability to hit enemy positions deep inside hostile territory without crossing the border themselves. The subsonic missile can be fired from the ground using a mobile articulated launcher, and also from frontline warships through a universal vertical launch module system, the same launch infrastructure currently used for the BrahMos missile.

Built With Indigenous Technology

Officials said the missile has been developed entirely using indigenous technology, with all major subsystems designed by various DRDO laboratories working alongside Indian industry partners. The Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru served as the nodal laboratory overseeing the project. The LRLACM is a Defence Acquisition Council-approved, mission mode project, reflecting the priority the government has placed on developing the weapon system domestically.

Navy, Air Force Witness Test

The launch was witnessed by senior DRDO scientists along with representatives from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force, both of which are expected to eventually field the system. Defence experts present at the trial said the missile is likely to significantly strengthen India's long-range strike capability once it is fully operational.

Rajnath Singh Congratulates DRDO

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO team and its industry partners following the successful trial, officials said. Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh also monitored the launch activities and extended his congratulations to the teams involved in the project. The Ministry, in a statement, termed the test another step towards strengthening the country's self-reliant defence ecosystem.

Multiple Launch Platforms Planned

Beyond ground and naval launch options, an air-launched variant of the LRLACM is currently under development, with integration work under way for the Su-30MKI fighter aircraft, which is expected to serve as the platform for the initial round of trials of that variant. The plan to field the missile across multiple platforms is aimed at giving the three services flexibility in how the weapon is deployed depending on operational requirements.

What Is A Cruise Missile

A cruise missile, unlike a ballistic missile, is powered by a jet engine and flies at low altitude for most of its trajectory, allowing it to alter course mid-flight and evade radar detection while closing in on a designated target with high accuracy. The LRLACM falls in this category, distinguishing it from India's other long-range systems such as the hypersonic missile tested off the same coast in 2024.

Understanding Deep-Strike Capability

In military terms, deep-strike capability refers to the ability to accurately hit targets located far inside enemy territory, such as airbases, missile launch sites, radar installations, military headquarters and command-and-control centres, without having to physically breach the border. A missile fired from within Indian territory that destroys an airbase located, say, 800 km inside hostile territory would qualify as a deep-strike capability, a benchmark the LRLACM's 1,000 km range comfortably exceeds.

With the latest trial successfully completed, the missile is expected to move closer to induction trials across the three services, even as work continues on the air-launched variant designed for integration with the Su-30MKI fleet.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment notification for the July 2027 batch, inviting applications from eligible candidates across India. This recruitment drive offers a significant opportunity for aspirants who wish to join the Indian Air Force as commissioned officers in Flying, Ground Duty Technical, and Ground Duty Non-Technical branches, along with NCC Special Entry and Meteorology roles.

The online application process has already begun and will remain open until 19 June 2026. Candidates interested in applying are advised to complete their registration well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. The AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is conducted twice a year to select officers for various branches of the Indian Air Force. Through AFCAT 02/2026, the Air Force aims to fill multiple vacancies across different categories, strengthening its operational and administrative capabilities.

Vacancy Details

The recruitment includes several posts under different branches. In the Flying Branch, a total of 35 vacancies have been announced, including 30 posts for male candidates and 5 for female candidates. This remains one of the most prestigious entry points for candidates aspiring to become pilots in the Indian Air Force.

For Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches, vacancies are distributed across Administration, Logistics, Accounts, Education, and Weapon Systems branches. The Administration branch has 62 vacancies, making it one of the largest segments in this recruitment cycle. Other categories include Logistics with 6 posts, Accounts with 7 posts, Education with 3 posts, and Weapon Systems with 26 posts. Additionally, the Meteorology branch has 3 vacancies, while NCC Special Entry also provides opportunities based on AFCAT and CDSE vacancy structures. The Ground Duty Technical branch vacancies for Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics and Mechanical) will be announced soon, as per the official notification.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility requirements vary depending on the branch applied for. For the Flying Branch, candidates must have a graduation degree in any discipline with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level, or a BE/BTech degree from a recognized university. The age limit for Flying Branch candidates is between 20 to 24 years as of 1 July 2027. For Ground Duty Technical Branch (Aeronautical Engineering), candidates must have secured at least 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level and must hold a four-year engineering or technology degree. Eligible disciplines include Mechanical, Aeronautical, or equivalent engineering fields.

For Ground Duty Non-Technical branches such as Administration and Logistics, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any stream with a minimum of 60% marks. For Accounts, a B.Com degree with at least 60% marks is required. The age limit for these branches ranges from 20 to 26 years. NCC Special Entry candidates must hold an NCC Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ certificate, along with fulfilling other eligibility requirements for the Flying Branch. For the Meteorology Branch, candidates must meet specific academic qualifications as mentioned in the official notification.

Physical Standards

The Indian Air Force has also defined physical eligibility criteria for candidates. The minimum height requirement is 157.5 cm for male candidates and 152 cm for female candidates. Candidates must also meet medical fitness standards as per Air Force regulations.

Application Process

Candidates applying for AFCAT 02/2026 must complete the online application process through the official recruitment portal. The process includes registration, filling personal and academic details, uploading scanned documents such as photographs, signatures, and identity proof, and paying the application fee if applicable. Applicants are advised to carefully review all details before submitting the form. Any incorrect information may lead to rejection of the application.

Selection Process

The selection process for AFCAT includes a written examination followed by an Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview. Candidates who qualify the written test will be called for further rounds, which include psychological tests, group discussions, and personal interviews. Final selection is based on overall performance and medical fitness.

Important Instructions

Candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility conditions before applying. It is essential to read the official notification thoroughly for branch-wise details, syllabus, and selection procedure. The Indian Air Force has also advised applicants to keep scanned copies of all required documents ready before starting the application process. After successful submission, candidates should take a printout of the application form for future reference.

The AFCAT 02/2026 recruitment offers a golden opportunity for young aspirants to join one of the most respected defense forces in the world. With multiple branches and career paths available, this recruitment drive is expected to attract a large number of applicants. Interested candidates should apply before the deadline of 19 June 2026 and begin their preparation for the upcoming examination.

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India set to receive 4th S-400 missile unit from Russia next month

Shipment of the advanced Triumf system expected to bolster IAF air defense following its critical role in Operation Sindoor.

New Delhi: In a significant boost to India’s long-range air defense capabilities, the fourth unit of the S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system is expected to arrive from Russia by next month. Sources within the security establishment confirmed on Tuesday that the shipment is already in transit and is slated to reach Indian shores within the coming days.

The arrival of the fourth unit comes at a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking to consolidate its edge in the region. The S-400 systems have already proven their mettle on the ground, having played a decisive role during 'Operation Sindoor'. While three units are already operational, the remaining two from the original contract are expected to be integrated into the IAF's grid by the end of this year.

Delivery timeline and shipment updates

Initial reports indicate that the fourth unit has been cleared for delivery following recent high-level technical inspections. Despite the ongoing global geopolitical tensions and logistical hurdles involving Russian shipments, the delivery schedule appears to be back on track.

According to officials familiar with the development, the fourth squadron will be deployed to a strategic location to cover specific high-threat sectors. The fifth and final unit of the initial $5 billion contract signed in 2018 is currently scheduled for delivery by November under an updated timeline agreed upon by both New Delhi and Moscow.

Impact of Operation Sindoor

The strategic value of the Triumf system was highlighted during the brief but intense military conflict with Pakistan between May 7 and 10. During what has been termed 'Operation Sindoor', the IAF utilized the S-400’s advanced tracking and interception capabilities to maintain air superiority.

The performance of the system during those high-pressure days reportedly influenced the government's decision to expand the fleet. It is learnt that the effectiveness of the radar sweeps and the deterrent value provided by the existing three units provided the necessary confidence to push for additional acquisitions.

Fresh batch of S-400s cleared

Moving beyond the original five-unit agreement, New Delhi recently cleared the procurement of a fresh batch of five additional S-400 systems. This follow-on order will eventually take the IAF’s total tally to 10 units.

"The decision to double the fleet underscores the military's reliance on this specific platform for long-range saturation coverage," a source said. This new batch is expected to feature minor software updates based on the feedback from Indian operators who have been trained in Russia over the last few years.

Navigating the CAATSA shadow

India’s insistence on completing the S-400 deal has remained a point of contention with Washington. The US had previously warned that the contract could trigger sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

However, South Block remains confident that the "follow-on" nature of the new order, combined with India's unique security requirements, will prevent any significant diplomatic or economic blowback. Local authorities have consistently maintained that India pursues an independent defense procurement policy based on national interest.

Advanced air defense capabilities

The S-400 is widely regarded as one of the world's most sophisticated long-range surface-to-air missile systems, capable of engaging aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and ballistic and cruise missiles at ranges of up to 400 km.

With the fourth unit's arrival, the IAF will be able to plug existing gaps in its multi-layered air defense umbrella. As the shipment nears Indian ports, ground crews and specialized technical teams are reportedly being readied for the assembly and induction process, which typically takes a few weeks after the hardware arrives.

In a groundbreaking moment for Indian defence, President Droupadi Murmu is set to make history as the first President to co-pilot the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter Prachand during the Indian Air Force's massive Vayu Shakti 2026 exercise at Pokhran Field Firing Range.

Arriving at Jaisalmer Air Force Station in full pilot uniform around 9:15 AM today, President Murmu was greeted by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and senior officials. Dressed sharply in IAF gear, she posed for photos beside the sleek Prachand helicopter, met air warriors, and boarded the cockpit. Group Captain N.S. Bahua is piloting, with the President serving as co-pilot for a 25-minute sortie.

Live updates confirm: the chopper is ready for takeoff, conducting an aerial survey of the border areas and Pokhran firing range—including the iconic Shakti Sthal nuclear site.

Why This Matters Now

This isn't just a flight; it's a powerful symbol amid rising border tensions near Pakistan. Vayu Shakti 2026, the IAF's largest war games, showcases cutting-edge indigenous tech like the Prachand helicopter—designed for high-altitude combat. With India prioritizing 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in defence, President Murmu's hands-on role boosts morale and highlights women's leadership in the forces. She's even slated to address the nation via radio from the air.

President's Trailblazing Aviation Record

President Murmu isn't new to the skies. On October 29, 2025, she flew a Rafale jet with Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh at Ambala, hitting 700 km/h at 15,000 feet—first President in two frontline fighters. Earlier, on April 8, 2023, she piloted a Sukhoi-30 MKI from Tezpur, scanning Himalayan ranges. Only the second woman President after Pratibha Patil to fly a Sukhoi, Murmu embodies operational readiness.

• Key highlights of today's sortie:
  
  

  • First-ever Presidential co-pilot role in Prachand helicopter.
    
    

  • Survey of Pokhran firing range and border zones.
    
    

  • Precursor to evening's Vayu Shakti 2026 firepower demo.
    
    

Experts like retired IAF Marshal A.S. Bhonsle call it "a morale booster for troops, proving civilian leadership's grasp on defence tech." For citizens, it underscores India's self-reliant edge—Prachand excels in rugged terrains like Ladakh.

As Vayu Shakti 2026 unfolds this evening, President Murmu's feat inspires a nation gearing up for security challenges. Stay tuned for live coverage.

Indian Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 01/2027 Online Form Extended: Key Details You Must Know

The Indian Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 01/2027 recruitment has become one of the most talked-about defence job opportunities of 2026. In a major update, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended the last date to apply online till February 8, 2026, giving aspirants additional time to complete their applications under the Agnipath Scheme.

The notification (Advt. No. 01/2027) was released on the official Indian Air Force website, and the online application process began on January 12, 2026. This recruitment drive is especially important for young candidates aiming to serve the nation while building a disciplined and skill-based career.

Why This Recruitment Matters Right Now

With rising interest in defence careers and the continued focus on the Agnipath Scheme, the Agniveer Vayu intake offers:

A structured four-year service tenure

 Competitive monthly packages

 A substantial Seva Nidhi package of ₹10.04 lakh after exit

For many youths, this is a gateway to the Indian Air Force and future opportunities in both government and private sectors.

Important Dates at a Glance

 Application Start Date: 12 January 2026

 Last Date to Apply & Fee Payment: 08 February 2026 (Extended)

 Exam Date: 30–31 March 2026

 Exam City Details: March 2026

 Admit Card: 24–48 hours before exam

Candidates are advised to regularly check the official IAF website for updates.

Eligibility Criteria Explained Simply

Age Limit

 Minimum Age: 17.5 years

 Maximum Age: 21 years

 Date of Birth Range: 01 January 2006 to 01 July 2009

Educational Qualification

Science Subjects:

   10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and English (50% overall & 50% in English), or

   3-year Engineering Diploma, or

   2-year vocational course with Physics & Maths

Non-Science Subjects:

   10+2 with minimum 50% marks and 50% in English, or

   2-year vocational course with required marks

Application Fee

All Categories: ₹550 + 18% GST

Payment Mode: Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, IMPS, Wallets

Selection Process for Agniveer Vayu 01/2027

The selection process includes multiple stages:

1. Phase I: Online Written Test

2. Phase II: Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

3. Phase III: Medical Examination

4. Adaptability Tests I & II

Physical standards include a 1.6 km run, push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and height/chest measurements as per IAF norms.

Pay Scale and Benefits Under Agnipath Scheme

Year 1: ₹30,000/month

 Year 4: ₹40,000/month

 Seva Nidhi (after 4 years): ₹10.04 lakh

Final Words for Aspirants

The Indian Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 01/2027 online form is a time-sensitive opportunity for young Indians passionate about defence services. With the deadline extended, candidates should use this time wisely, read the official notification carefully, and apply well before February 8, 2026 to avoid last-minute issues.

Airforce Group Y Medical Assistant Airmen Recruitment 2026: Apply Online Before Feb 1

The Indian Air Force has begun accepting online applications for the coveted position of Group Y Medical Assistant Airmen, offering a significant career opportunity for eligible youth in the defense sector. The official notification for Intake 01/2027 was released recently, with the application window open from January 12 and closing on February 1, 2026. This recruitment drive is a timely and crucial opportunity for candidates with a background in science and pharmacy, as competition for stable government jobs continues to intensify.

Key Dates and Application Fee

Prospective candidates must mark their calendars. The last date for online application and fee payment is February 1, 2026. The selection process will culminate in a written examination scheduled for March 30-31, 2026. All applicants are required to pay an application fee of ₹ 550/- + 18% GST, regardless of category, payable via debit/credit card, net banking, or other digital modes.

Eligibility Criteria: Age and Educational Qualifications

The Airforce Group Y Medical Assistant Airmen Recruitment 2026 has specific age and educational benchmarks. For the 10+2 entry, unmarried candidates born between January 1, 2006, and January 1, 2010, are eligible. For those applying with a Diploma or B.Sc in Pharmacy, the age bracket differs for unmarried and married candidates, with the upper age limit generally being 21 years.

Educationally, candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English, securing a minimum of 50% aggregate marks and 50% in English. Pharmacy diploma or degree holders must also have 50% marks and valid registration with the State Pharmacy Council or Pharmacy Council of India.

Physical Fitness and Medical Standards

A defining aspect of this Indian Air Force Bharti is the rigorous Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and medical examination. Candidates must clear a 1.6 km run within 7 minutes (7 minutes 30 seconds for pharmacy diploma holders above 21). Other non-negotiable standards include:

· Minimum height of 152.5 cm.

· Proportionate weight and a chest expansion of at least 5 cm.

· Normal hearing and visual standards correctable to 6/9 in each eye.

How to Apply and Selection Process

Interested and eligible candidates should apply exclusively online through the official Indian Air Force website before the deadline. The selection process is multi-layered, consisting of a Proficiency Test, English Written Test, two stages of Physical Fitness Tests, an Adaptability Test, and finally, a thorough Medical Examination.

Why This Matters Now

In a competitive job market, a Sarkari Result in the defense sector offers unparalleled job security, prestige, and growth. With the application window closing soon on February 1, aspirants are urged to verify all details against the official notification and submit their forms promptly. This intake represents a direct pathway to serving the nation while building a disciplined and rewarding career.

IAF Training Aircraft Crashes Near Prayagraj’s Magh Mela; Pilots Eject Safely

In a dramatic incident today, an Indian Air Force (IAF) training aircraft crashed into a pond in a densely populated area of Prayagraj, just three kilometres from the ongoing Magh Mela. Both pilots ejected safely using parachutes, averting a potential major tragedy.

The microlight aircraft encountered a technical malfunction shortly after taking off from the Bamrauli Air Force Station around noon. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft wobble mid-air before it plunged into a water hyacinth-choked pond behind KP College.

Pilots’ Quick Thinking Prevents Disaster

Defence Wing PRO Wing Commander Debartho Dhar confirmed the IAF training aircraft crash, stating the pilots exhibited remarkable presence of mind. “The pilots managed to bring the aircraft down in an isolated, uninhabited area, preventing any loss of civilian life or property,” he said. Both pilots are reported safe. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the technical fault.

Rescue Operations Amid Challenging Conditions

The crash site, located perilously close to schools and residential colonies, sparked immediate concern. Local residents were first on the scene, helping to pull the pilots from the marshy pond after their parachute landing. Teams from the Army, Fire Brigade, NDRF, and SDRF have been deployed. However, dense water hyacinth coverage has hampered efforts to reach and recover the aircraft itself.

An eyewitness, Mohammad Shabir, described the moment: “A bright red light appeared, then parachutes opened. The aircraft fell into the pond.” A teacher from nearby KP College stated the crash happened “before our eyes,” causing alarm among students and parents, many of whom rushed to collect their children.

Why This Incident Matters Now

The timing and location of this IAF training aircraft crash amplify its significance. It occurred in the heart of Prayagraj during the sacred Magh Mela, a period when the city’s population swells with millions of pilgrims. The incident underscores the inherent risks of military training flights and the critical importance of pilot training and safety protocols, especially over populous regions.

The successful ejection and survival of the crew highlight the effectiveness of IAF emergency procedures, even when technology fails. As rescue operations continue and the inquiry begins, the focus remains on the pilots’ safety and the lessons to be learned from this alarming incident near one of India’s largest religious gatherings.