Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Thursday (Jan 15, 2026) said the institution was moving forward as a future-ready force and highlighted the need for indigenous equipment, terming it a “strategic imperative”.
“The Indian Army is moving forward as a future-ready force, with well-trained soldiers, modern equipment and multi-disciplinary operational capabilities. Technology is being used to make the soldier even more capable,” he told reporters in Jaipur after the Army Day parade.
He said there has been a clear shift in the mindset of the Indian Army over the past few years.
Operation Sindoor ushered in a ‘new normal’, according to the Army Chief. “It demonstrated the Indian Army’s ability to respond with speed, coordination and precision. The operation reflected a mature and confident force capable of protecting national interests through measured, firm and accountable action,” he said.
“We are not only solving current challenges, but also preparing for future wars. In this direction, new structures are being created, which are being equipped and trained according to future needs,” he said.
He said that new units like Bhairav Battalion and Shakti Baan Regiment were formed.
“This reflects the creation of an agile, responsive and mission-oriented military, in line with future challenges,” he said.
He said today’s parade showcased a beautiful blend of tradition and transformation.
“The Nepal Army Group reflected our strong ties, while the new units demonstrated the emerging strength of the Army,” he said.
“The Indian Army is fully prepared for any kind of attack at all times. We are fully prepared for the future war. We demonstrated this at the parade. Such preparations will further increase in the coming days,” he said, adding that the Indian Army will continue to adapt and bring about the necessary changes with time.
He said that by showcasing ‘Made in India’ equipment, the show reflected that self-reliance was the basis of transformation.
“In the future, the Indian Army needs equipment that is designed and developed in India. The indigenous population is not just a target, it has become a strategic imperative today,” he said.
General Dwivedi said special emphasis is laid on resources that are useful for both military and civilian purposes and contribute to the overall development of the country.
While organizing the parade in Jaipur, he said that Rajasthan is a land where many heroes have made history and that is why the country was chosen for the Army Day parade.
He said the Russia-Ukraine conflict highlighted that the duration of any war cannot be predicted in advance, and future conflicts could last a few days or drag on for years.
Technology increases efficiency but does not replace manpower, General Dwivedi said, adding that smaller units are more successful because the new units have greater speed and agility.
“The Bhairav Battalion was created to fill the gap between Ghatak and Special Forces. New organizations have been established. More changes will also come. The battlefield is changing rapidly and we have to move fast to keep up,” he said.
“We cannot predict the future, so it is necessary to adapt to changing circumstances. Whether today’s war lasts four days or four years, we will know only on the battlefield,” he said.
The army chief emphasized research and development in the country.
He said that equipment and supplies should be manufactured and repaired domestically to fight a long war.
“Research and development is very important. Until India focuses on research and development, we will not be able to fight a long war and achieve complete self-sufficiency,” he said.
“Therefore, research is key. With this in mind, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Defense Research and Development Organization and academia, is considering how to move forward,” he said.
The army chief also said that credibility is essential in information warfare.
Published – 15 Jan 2026 16:29 IST
