Sat Jul 26 03:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Indian Army Ready to Decisively Counter Any Threat, Says Army Chief on Kargil Vijay Diwas
**New Delhi:** On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the Indian Army’s preparedness, ongoing transformations, and its firm response to Pakistan’s provocations. He asserted that the Indian Army responded decisively to Pakistani activities between May 7th and 9th, and that India’s Army Air Defence stands as an impenetrable shield against drones and missiles.
General Dwivedi emphasized that this success stemmed from a “Whole-of-Nation Approach,” involving coordinated efforts between the Army, Air Force, Navy, and various government departments. He issued a stern warning that any forces attempting to harm India’s sovereignty, integrity, or citizens would face a severe response. He underscored the Army’s rapid evolution into a transformative, modern, and future-oriented force.
As part of this modernization, General Dwivedi announced the formation of “Rudra,” All Arms Brigades incorporating Infantry, Mechanized Infantry, Armoured Units, Artillery, Special Forces, and Unmanned Aerial Systems, supported by specialized logistics and combat support.
The Army Chief also unveiled “Bhairav,” Light Commando Battalions designed as swift and lethal Special Forces units. Each Infantry Battalion is now equipped with Drone Platoons, while Artillery capabilities have been significantly enhanced with “Divyastra Batteries” and Loiter Munition Batteries. Furthermore, the Army Air Defence is being fortified with indigenously developed missile systems.
General Dwivedi shed light on “Operation Sindoor,” where the Indian Army targeted Pakistan-backed terrorist infrastructure with full force. “We gave peace a chance, but answered cowardice with valor,” he stated, adding, “Operation Sindoor is our resolve, message, and answer.”
Addressing development initiatives in Ladakh, the Army Chief mentioned the creation of Dual-Use Infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and networks, benefiting both the military and local communities. The Army is also prioritizing development in selected villages under the Vibrant Village Programme.
Efforts are underway to promote Border Tourism, encompassing Battlefield, Spiritual, Ecological, Heritage, and Adventure Tourism. The Army is empowering local youth by providing training in Tour Guiding, Mountaineering, and Adventure Sports. Furthermore, the Army’s Communication Towers are being utilized to extend mobile network coverage to remote areas under the Smart Borders initiative.
General Dwivedi’s address reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to safeguarding the nation and its citizens, demonstrating its readiness to face any challenge with strength and innovation.