Lieutenant General RC Tiwari, the Commander of the Eastern Command, undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the operational readiness of the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles in Manipur. His visit emphasized the integration of drone technology into field operations, highlighting a significant shift towards technology-driven security measures.
The assessment spanned two key areas: Chandel district and Andro. In Chandel, Lt Gen Tiwari examined the Drone Training Node and assessed the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) aimed at enhancing real-time intelligence and border security. Recently, this node played a pivotal role in successful operations, notably the apprehension of two militants near the Indo-Myanmar border on June 20, showcasing the tactical advantages of drone surveillance.
During his visit to Andro, Lt Gen Tiwari engaged with the troops, commending their high morale and professionalism in the face of ongoing security challenges. He stressed the necessity for sustained vigilance and innovation to effectively tackle the complexities of security in Manipur, a state that has experienced escalating ethnic violence since May 2023, resulting in over 200 fatalities and significant displacement.
The Army’s increasing focus on drone technology aligns with a broader trend observed in global military operations. A report from the RAND Corporation noted a substantial 40% rise in efficiency during tactical missions involving UAVs. Indian defense analysts concur that such advanced capabilities are crucial for operations in sensitive regions, particularly along the Myanmar border.
Lt Gen Tiwari’s assessment underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to modernization and its strategic role in ensuring peace in the Northeast region, which remains critical to India’s national security interests.
