In a significant visit, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan toured the Headquarters of the Southern Command in Pune, engaging in high-level discussions with Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief. This meeting underscores India’s evolving military strategies in response to an increasingly intricate and unstable security landscape.
During the discussions, Lt Gen Seth provided General Chauhan with an overview of the current security dynamics, operational readiness, and key logistical and administrative considerations. General Chauhan commended the professionalism displayed by the troops, particularly lauding the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, an inter-services exercise demonstrating strong collaboration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The CDS described this operation as a benchmark for future joint military engagements.
While addressing senior military officials, General Chauhan emphasized the essential role of technology in contemporary military operations. He called for increased investment in cyber capabilities, surveillance systems, and intelligence gathering to effectively counter emerging asymmetric threats, such as drone incursions and cyber warfare. His insights align with broader trends, with recent studies revealing a 30 percent uptick in incidents of asymmetric warfare since 2020.
A standout feature of the visit was a live demonstration showcasing advanced drone technology, highlighting India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces. According to a NATO report, countries that have incorporated artificial intelligence and enhanced surveillance capabilities into their defense frameworks have managed to decrease reaction times to hybrid threats by as much as 40 percent.
The Southern Command, recognized as the oldest and largest command within the Indian Army, covers around 40 percent of the nation’s land area, including 11 states and three union territories. The visit concluded with a ceremonial exchange of mementos and a review of ongoing modernization efforts, further underscoring the commitment to transformative reforms during this focused Year of Defence Reforms.
Military experts have noted that integrated operations can enhance mission success rates by approximately 25 percent in multi-domain warfare. General Chauhan’s visit is perceived as a crucial stride towards establishing a more cohesive, technologically adept, and prepared Indian military for future challenges.
