“Our Endeavour is to Build a Future-Ready Force on the Principles of AtmaNirbharta”
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: GENERAL UPENDRA DWIVEDI, CHIEF OF THE ARMY STAFF (COAS)
Chanakya Interviewed GENERAL UPENDRA DWIVEDI, CHIEF OF THE ARMY STAFF (COAS), who covers Indian Army’s Transformation & Modernisation efferts, including Emergency Procurements, Drones, UAS, Automation, Digitization, Networking, Integration of Advanced Technologies such as AI, Unmanned Systems & EW to strengthen Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance Capabilities; Jointness & Interoperability in a Multi-Domains; Integrated Theatre Commands for Theaterisation, etc.
“Our Endeavour is to Build a Future-Ready Force on the Principles of AtmaNirbharta”
Indian Army is going through a Transformation process acquiring State-of-the-Art Weapon Platforms and Systems, and through Upgrades, to boost India’s Land Dominance Capabilities.
On occasion of the 77th Army Day 2025, we feature the Exclusive Interview of the Army Chief with Chanakya.
Indian Army is going through a Transformation process acquiring State-of-the-Art Weapon Platforms and Systems, and through Upgrades, to boost India’s Land Dominance Capabilities, with ALH Rudra Mk.IV, Prachand Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs), Light Utility Helicopters (LUH) & Apache Attack-Helicopters on the way, and various types of Radar Systems, Air Defence Weapons, Artillery, Missiles, LMs & Drones, either being inducted or in final stages. Chanakya Interviewed GENERAL UPENDRA DWIVEDI, CHIEF OF THE ARMY STAFF (COAS), who covers Indian Army’s Transformation & Modernisation efferts, including Emergency Procurements, Drones, UAS, Automation, Digitization, Networking, Integration of Advanced Technologies such as AI, Unmanned Systems & EW to strengthen Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance Capabilities; Jointness & Interoperability in a Multi-Domains; Integrated Theatre Commands for Theaterisation, etc. On occasion of the 77th Army Day 2025, we feature the Exclusive Interview of the Army Chief with Chanakya:
Q. On Strategic Preparedness, could you elaborate on the Indian Army's Operational Readiness along key Frontiers like the LAC, LOC, and Jammu & Kashmir?
A. The Indian Army's primary mandate is to safeguard the Nation's interests against external aggression and internal subversion. With two unsettled Borders along China and Pakistan, the Army maintains a high state of operational readiness, ensuring stability and dominance across all fronts, including the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LC).
On the LC, the situation remains peaceful, following the DGsMO understandings of February 2021. However, we remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any escalation. In Jammu and Kashmir, the security situation has seen steadfast improvement since the abrogation of Article 370, despite occasional spikes in violence in hinterland. Relentlesssynergised efforts with all Security Agencies for Counter-Terrorist Operations and close monitoring of the region have significantly contributed to this progress.
Along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the situation remains stable yet sensitive. Prolonged negotiations at Diplomatic and Military levels led to a broad consensus on October 21st, 2024, to restore the ground situation based on the principles of Equal and Mutual Security. This agreement includes the disengagement and relocation of troops from friction points like Depsang and Demchok, followed by joint verification. Blocking positions have been removed, and traditional patrolling activities have resumed in these areas, marking significant progress toward stability. Our deployment remains balanced and robust, ensuring readiness to address any unforeseen contingencies.
Grey Zone actions and aggression by our adversaries is manifesting across Multiple Domains, including the Military. Proxy war is one such kinetic manifestation that we have been combating for many years now. We are augmenting our capacities, reinforcing our safeguards and shaping required structures to deal with this threat, both in Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Domains.
For Combat and Logistics Support, we are working as per the Capability Development Roadmap prepared by the Indian Army.
Our endeavour is to build a Future-Ready Force rooted in the principles of AtmaNirbharta. The Indian Army will continue to be a trained, well-equipped, combat-hardened, and well-prepared force. Our high state of operational readiness reflects our commitment to National Security, ensuring we are prepared to tackle any challenge across all domains effectively.
Q. About the ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration between the Services, what initiatives are being taken to ensure Tri-Service Integration for enhanced synergy?
A. The Nation's unique threat spectrum demands Interoperability in a Multi-Domain operational environment, necessitating an integrated response from the Armed Forces. In line with this, Integrated Theatre Commands are being developed within a pragmatic timeframe, with all Services fully committed to this critical endeavour. The progressive roadmap includes key milestones: 'Augmenting Jointness,' 'Advancing Integration,' and ultimately achieving 'Theaterisation.' Regular COSC Meetings are being held, ensuring progress through an iterative and consultative approach.
In Jointness 1.0, we addressed the existing structures and processes, for example, Integrated Acquisition Planning, Courses of Instructions, Joint Logistic Nodes, Common Utilisation of Bases and Station amenities, etc.
In Jointness 2.0, we stand to address Services Culture, Thinking and Symbology. Here, we have made good progress in Doctrines and SOPs. Joint Medium Repair Organisation is planned for Tri-Services Common Platform or Equipment Sustenance, for example Helicopters and Missiles. In totality, 180 fields have been identified where we can augment Jointness and nearly 30% of that, we have already achieved.
In Jointness 3.0, we shall be able augment our synergy through pursuits in COPP (Common Operational Planning Process), Communication, Technology Development, Common Digital Maps and Geo-Referencing System, aggregating RPA / UAV Assets, harmonising ISR Resources and Integrated Outsourcing.
Eventually for Theaterisation, we shall be giving shape to Tailor Made Structures, unique to our requirements. Let me underscore here that Indian Army's endeavours to enhance Jointness are not restricted to the three Services only. Our intent and efforts in outreach and augmenting synergy with other Ministries, Government Agencies, CAPFs and all concerned stakeholders in the Security Domain, continue.
In alignment with a 'Whole of Nation Approach,' we will continue to explore opportunities to unify capacities and strengthen the Nation's Lines of Effort, contributing meaningfully towards the shared vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
Q. On the Modernisation front, how is the Indian Army driving Self-Reliance through its Modernisation efforts?
A. Our motto, 'Swadeshikaran se Sashaktikaran,' reflects our commitment to empowerment through Indigenisation. Our Force Modernisation and Capability Development initiatives are progressing steadily, with a focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational effectiveness. The Indian Army plays a pivotal role in the conceptualisation, fructification, absorption, exploitation, sustenance, and disposal of technologies. Supporting Indigenous Research and Development, as well as the spiral production of Modern Warfighting Systems, is not just a priority, but a strategic imperative. Dependence on imports is not an option we can afford.
Our commitment to Indigenous Procurement remains steadfast. Two Defence Corridors, in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, have been earmarked to drive this vision forward. The Indian Army actively supports over 13,000 MSMEs and more than 1,000 Start-Ups, contributing significantly to Domestic Defence Capabilities. India has already achieved Defence Exports worth Rs. 21,000 crores, alongside Domestic Production of Defence Equipment valued at Rs. 1.27 lakh crores. Notably, 35% of the Positive Indianisation List items published by the Ministry of Defence pertain to the Indian Army, and 85% of our Capital Expenditure has been allocated to Indigenous Industries. Furthermore, we have engaged the Domestic Industry in over 439 Projects, involving 551 Companies, underscoring our commitment to AtmaNirbhar Bharat.
Over the last four financial years, 158 Capital Acquisition Contracts worth Rs. 70,028 crores have been concluded, of which 144 Contracts (97.3%) worth Rs. 68,121 crores were signed with Indian Vendors. In 2024, 16 contracts were finalised, 14 of which involve Indian Industries, enhancing capabilities in areas like Small Arms, Long-Range Vectors, Communication Systems, and Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems.
Additionally, 96% of the total Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) accorded between FY 2022-24 has been granted to Indigenous Defence Industry. In 2024 alone, 23 AoNs worth Rs. 1.22 lakh crores have been approved, with 21 AoNs (98%) worth Rs. 1.19 lakh crores dedicated to Indian Companies.
In Ammunition Procurement, we are committed to establishing at least one indigenous source for all types of Ammunition under the 'Manufacture of Ammunition for Indian Army by Indian Industry' programme. Through this effort, 154 of 175 Ammunition Variants (88%) have already been indigenised. This has seen a jump from 58% to 88% in last four years. Since it is not feasible for us at this stage to expect 100% Indigenous Defence Procurement, we intend to import only niche technology equipment not available in-house and progress slowly towards complete Self-Reliance.
Q. Could you highlight the plans and achievements under the Indian Army's 'Decade of Transformation'?
A. The Transformation process of the Indian Army is focused on creating a modern, agile, adaptive, Technology-enabled, and Self-Reliant Future-Ready Force.
In alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) has issued comprehensive guidelines for the three Services. As per these guidelines, the period leading up to 2047 will be divided into three distinct phases, ensuring a structured and progressive approach to achieving the set objectives.
Phase-I from 2024 to 2027 will be observed as era of transition, Phase-II from 2027 to 2037 will be observed as era of consolidation and Phase-III from 2037 to 2047 will be observed as era of control. Aligned with the DMA's guidelines, Indian Army's Roadmap will involve Phase-I from 2023 to 2032, which we are observing as Decade of Transformation. Phase-II will be from 2032 to 2037, and Phase-III will be from 2037 to 2047.
The "Decade of Transformation" that commenced in 2023 is shaped by the dynamic nature of Modern Warfare, encompassing the coexistence of five generations of conflict, two-and-a-half front security challenges, and the increasing significance of Grey-Zone Operations. This transformation is being steered through five keypillars, laying the foundation for a more Adaptive and Future-Ready Force.
Pillar 1: Jointness and Integration - The unique threat spectrum of the Nation requires Interoperability in a Multi-Domain Operational environment, which necessitates an integrated response from the Armed Forces. Integrated Theatre Commands with separate Force Generation and Force Application Components unique to our requirements will be created. Jointness & Integration initiatives are aligned in eight core domains.
A few notable achievements include the establishment of Joint Logistic Nodes and shared Operational Bases, while integration with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), especially in the North-East, is being pursued to enhance coordination.
Pillar 2: Force Restructuring - A Review of Structures tofacilitate unfolding of an 'Era of Integrated Approach' with integration at all levels for timely application of force is under progress. New tailor-made structures/ organisations are being formulated to improve agility and effectiveness, mitigate adhocism, offset infrastructure asymmetry and enhance role in the DIME Paradigm.
Pillar 3: Modernisation & Technology Infusion - Capability Development in terms of Weapons, Systems, Equipment and Logistics. Enhancing Battlefield Situational Awareness with focused efforts for Long-Range Precision Capabilities, Secured Communication, Electronic Warfare, Air Defence and Cyber Security are in progress. Development of Incubation Centres for various technologies at Command Level besides investments in R&D. Pillar focusses on shaping and enabling Techno-Warriors and Commanders.
Pillar 4: Systems, Processes, and Functions - Bringing change in organisational culture, by identifying the pressure points, prioritising, encouraging thought leaders with shared values and beliefs. The Digitised, Networked, Automated and In-House Solutions to meet functional, operational and Human Resource requirements are being progressed. In addition, to improve lateral communication and learning of Indian Army personnel, deputation exposures are also being planned under this pillar.
Pillar 5: Human Resource Management - Review of existing policies and reforms related to recruiting, manpower planning, career management, welfare of personnel including veterans and families, leadership development and training are focused under this pillar. HR Reforms such as Agnipath Scheme have been adopted to provide cutting-edge manpower. The effort to enhance role of women in officer and other ranks is also being undertaken progressively.
The process of transformation is multi-faceted and aims to prepare Indian Army to meet future security challenges while contributing to India's goal of becoming a "Viksit Bharat" by 2047.
Q. As regards Technology Absorption is concerned, what measures are being implemented to foster In-house Innovation and Technology Integration?
A. The Indian Army envisions transitioning into a modern, agile, and Technology-Enabled Future-Ready Force. Modernisation and the Integration of advanced technologies into our Warfighting Systems are ongoing priorities. Technology Infusion is planned through Capital Procurements, supplemented by Emergency Procurements. To maximise the benefits of these advancements, an institutionalised methodology has been implemented, with 2024 and 2025 designated as ‘Years of Technology Absorption’. Our ultimate goal is to nurture Techno-Commanders and Techno-Warriors capable of effectively leveraging these innovations for operational excellence.
The identification of our technology requirements and its acquisition is planned through 16 Technology Clusters, namely Loiter Munition, Infrastructure, Cyber, AI, Robotics, etc. The capability accrual upto 2024 and beyond will continue in areas of New Generation Small Arms, Protected Mobility, Night Fighting, ISR, Firepower and Precision Munitions, EW Systems and Weapon Platforms. These will then be assimilated through operation discussions, operation validation exercises, through Centres of Excellence, AI Incubation Centre and Indian Army Research Centre at IIT Madras. We have plans to adopt these technologies through Doctrines, TTPs, philosophies, skilling personnel and making new Force Structures. This will then be integrated into Formation SOPs and Joint Exercises.
In this direction we have inducted Encrypted Mobile Sets. 35 out of 52 Make Projects have progressed beyond the Prototype Stage, demonstrating tangible advancements. Projects under the Army Technology Board (ATB) have seen remarkable growth, rising from 17 to 62 in just one year. The Innovation in Defence Excellence (iDEX) Platform currently engages Start-Ups and Innovators, with 85 Army-specific challenges worth Rs. 500 crore. These initiatives are unlocking the potential of India's Innovation Ecosystem and aligning with our vision of Self-Reliance.
The Indian Army has also filed 10 Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) this year, of which three have been granted. Notable innovations include the Portable Multi-Target Detonation Device by Major Rajprasad RS, the Hexacopter Tactical Remotely Piloted Aircraft by Major Rengarajan, and the Full Body Armour Suit by Lieutenant Colonel Anoop Mishra, which addresses the limitations of existing Bulletproof Jackets, while offering superior protection. These innovations are now being inducted into operational use.
We have also signed significant agreements to further our technological goals. In March 2024, an MoU with the Department of Science and Technology (DST) was signed to access domain expertise for evaluating proposals from the Defence Ecosystem. Another MoU with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), signed in May 2024, enables focused R&D and Innovative Solutions tailored to Army-specific challenges. Indian Army is a Strategic Partner in INDIai mission, Chip to Start Up (C2S) and QuILA Project.
Our Regional Technology Nodes, established at Command Headquarters, play a crucial role in bridging gaps between Innovation and Operational needs. The Army Design Bureau has fostered collaboration across sectors by engaging with over 1,700 Industries, 200 Academic Institutions, and 50 R&D Organisations. Initiatives such as Forward Area Tours, Internal Development Trials, and Capability Demonstrations ensure that cutting-edge technologies are rigorously tested and refined for Military Applications. These nodes act as a vital link, aligning innovations with the Army's operational requirements and enhancing technological integration.
Q. How is Indian Army preparing to counter hybrid warfare to maintain an edge in operations?
A. The Indian Army's Preparedness for Asymmetric and Hybrid Warfare in regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the North-East is guided by a comprehensive DIME (Diplomatic, Informational, Military, Economic) approach. This strategy combines Conventional Military Power with unconventional methods, advanced technology, and collaboration with Civil Agencies. The Army's Operations are designed for adaptability, modernisation, and strategic foresight, allowing it to address evolving threats effectively.
Key to this approach is enhanced Intelligence-gathering, which limits the freedom of asymmetric actors, and the Integration of Advanced Technologies such as AI, Unmanned Systems, and Electronic Warfare to strengthen Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Capabilities. This improves Situational Awareness and response to hybrid threats, including insurgencies, proxy wars, and disinformation campaigns.
The Army also counters hostile narratives through community engagement and collaboration with Civil Agencies, promoting regional stability and supporting Military Operations. As hybrid threats evolve, the Army continuously recalibrates its strategies, ensuring a robust and proactive response. By blending conventional strength, cutting-edge technology, and Strategic Partnerships, the Army remains capable of maintaining stability and countering hybrid threats in critical regions.
Q. How does the Indian Army's Vision 2047 complement India's aspirations under Viksit Bharat@2047?
A. India's Hon'ble Prime Minister has outlined a clear and inspiring vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047, an ambitious roadmap that calls upon every Indian to contribute to the Nation's Transformation into a developed country. The Indian Army fully supports this vision and is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in driving the Nation's progress in the coming decades.
While we contribute significantly across all national lines of effort towards the progression to Viksit Bharat@2047, I would like to highlight some key aspects across four important lines of effort: Sashakt and Surakshit Bharat, AtmaNirbhar Bharat, Defence Diplomacy, and Nation-Building.
For example, when we talk about 'Nation First' Foreign Policy and National Security for Viksit Bharat, then, Indian Army's role towards Defence Diplomacy, its mandate to safeguard National Interests from external aggression and internal subversion and deterrence become important. As I often say, 'deterrence is costly but war is costlier'.
AtmaNirbhar Bharat, the Indian Army's Indigenous Capability Development is firmly rooted in the principle of Self-Reliance. As the largest stakeholders in the pursuit of AtmaNirbharta, given the scope and scale of our Warfighting Inventory, we play a pivotal role in driving this vision forward. The Indian Defence Industry holds immense potential to become a catalyst for economic growth and a leading Global Arms Exporter, aligning seamlessly with the goal of making India a global economic powerhouse.
In Defence Diplomacy, the traditional endeavours of training exchanges with friendly foreign countries, contribution in UN Peace-Keeping Operations continue, while new endeavours towards promotion of Made in India Hardware, foreign officers reviewing our parades, visits to conflict zones and engaging Defence Attaches have been added.
Infrastructure Development is being planned in synergy with PM Gatishakti to ensure Dual-Purpose Utility. Our efforts in the Border Area Development initiative, which integrates the Vibrant Village Programme with Border Area Tourism, is a step in this direction. Similarly, we are aligned on various other efforts of the Government of India, such as India's 'Techade', through Modernisation, Tech Infusion and support for national tech missions including encouragement to Start-Ups, MSMEs and iDEX Platforms.
We are actively collaborating with various Ministries on multiple fronts to enhance capabilities. For instance, our Partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) focuses on Information Security, exemplified by the development of Encrypted Mobile Phones, showcasing the effectiveness of this collaboration.
In terms of Energy Security, we're transitioning to sustainable alternatives, including Solar Panels, Electric Vehicles, and Hydrogen-Powered Buses. On the Scientific and Technological front, we've set up Regional Technical Nodes to encourage Innovation and Collaboration with Defence Start-Ups. We are also promoting food security by incorporating millets into our troops' diets.
The Army's contributions extend to the health and well-being of our Soldiers and the Nation. We provide Medical Support in some of the most remote areas of India. Our Mission Olympic Wing is preparing athletes who represent the country on the global stage, ensuring they have all the resources and facilities they need. Additionally, our environmental task forces are also working diligently towards making Military Stations landfill-free and contributing to campaigns such as Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.
Guided by the principles of AtmaNirbhar Bharat, the Indian Army is steadfastly progressing towards becoming a Self-Reliant and Future-Ready Force. Our objective is to continue serving as a cornerstone of India's National Security, while making meaningful contributions to Nation-Building. We are committed to supporting and ensuring the successful realisation of all National Missions aimed at achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.