The Army War College (AWC) in Mhow has officially inaugurated a new session of its flagship Junior Command Course, marking a pivotal moment in the development of mid-level officers to meet contemporary operational challenges. Lt Gen Harjeet Singh Sahi, who assumed the role of Commandant in August 2024, extended a formal welcome to the incoming batch, which includes officers from the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and allied foreign militaries.
During his keynote address, Lt Gen Sahi emphasized the necessity of adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of security threats, particularly highlighting the significance of the cyber domain. He described cyber warfare as a modern battlefield that must be addressed in the strategic training of military personnel. Sahi shared his vision for the college, which focuses on enhancing tactical training, fostering inter-agency coordination, and cultivating a culture of strategic innovation among the officers.
The inauguration ceremony took place in a bustling auditorium adorned with the institution’s insignia, showcasing AWC’s integral role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow’s military framework. Established in 1971 as the College of Combat and rebranded in 2003, AWC trains between 2,500 to 3,000 officers annually through specialized programs that encompass tactics, logistics, and military doctrine. Among its offerings are the Junior Command, Senior Command, Higher Command, and Defence Management programs.
Specifically designed for officers at the captain and major ranks, the Junior Command Course aims to enhance decision-making abilities, operational planning skills, and leadership qualities necessary for managing complex missions. The inclusion of international officers—approximately 100 participate in AWC courses each year—underscores India’s growing defense collaborations and the college’s expanding influence on the global military education stage.
Lt Gen Sahi’s leadership arrives at a time when security situations worldwide are increasingly characterized by hybrid threats. Echoing earlier sentiments expressed by former Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, he advocated for a comprehensive approach that integrates both conventional military strategies and cyber capabilities within training modules. He also encouraged the incoming officers to contribute to the War College Journal, a platform fostering discussions on military strategy and operational innovation.
As the Junior Command Course commences, the Army War College reiterates its position as a premier institution dedicated to equipping officers for the complexities of modern warfare, while bolstering India’s standing in international military education.
