Jaipur : Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Thursday said that institution is moving forward as a future-ready force and underscored the need for indigenous equipment, calling it a “strategic necessity”.
Talking to reporters after the Army Day Parade the Army is evolving into a future-ready force, characterized by well-trained soldiers, modern equipment, and enhanced multi-domain operational capabilities, as stated by the Army Chief during a press briefing in Jaipur following the Army Day parade. He highlighted a significant shift in the Army’s strategic approach over recent years, focusing not only on current challenges but also on preparing for future conflicts. This includes the establishment of new units such as the Bhairav Battalion and Shakti Baan Regiment, aimed at creating a more agile and responsive military structure. The parade showcased a blend of tradition and modernization, with the participation of the Nepal Army Band symbolizing strong bilateral ties, while the introduction of new units underscored the Army’s growing strength. The Army Chief emphasized the importance of being prepared for any potential attack and adapting to the evolving nature of warfare, as demonstrated during the parade. He noted that the display of ‘Made in India’ equipment reflects a commitment to self-reliance, which is now a strategic necessity for the Indian Army. General Dwivedi pointed out that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict illustrates the unpredictability of war duration, necessitating a flexible approach to military readiness. He stressed that while technology enhances operational efficiency, it does not replace the need for manpower. The creation of smaller, more agile units is seen as a key to success in modern warfare. The Bhairav Battalion, for instance, is designed to bridge the capabilities between conventional forces and special operations. The Army Chief also underscored the critical role of research and development in achieving long-term self-reliance and effective military operations. He advocated for the domestic manufacturing and repair of military equipment to ensure preparedness for prolonged conflicts. Collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation and academic institutions is being prioritized to advance this agenda. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of credibility in information warfare as a vital component of modern military strategy.
