Former Chief of the Army Staff and Honorary Colonel of the Regiment of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (JAK RIF) and Ladakh Scouts Regiment, General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM (Retd.), recently concluded a significant two-day visit to the esteemed “DOUBLE FIRST” Battalion on July 16-17, 2026. This visit underscored his enduring connection to one of the Indian Army’s most celebrated infantry units and highlighted the Army’s commitment to preserving regimental traditions while motivating future soldiers to achieve the highest standards of operational excellence.
During his engagement with the battalion, General Dwivedi had comprehensive discussions with the Commanding Officer, officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and enlisted troops. He was thoroughly briefed on the unit’s operational roles, training programs, and overall preparedness, allowing him to gain valuable insights into their diligent efforts to maintain combat readiness and uphold professional excellence.
In a broader scope, General Dwivedi also interacted with the Commanding Officer of the “SARVSHRESHTA EKKIS” Battalion and the personnel of the “ZORAWAR” Battalion. This engagement served as a vital platform for soldiers to connect with a highly respected figure in the Indian Army, whose career has been intricately linked to the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. During these interactions, he shared his extensive experience, emphasizing essential values such as leadership, discipline, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to national duty.
Addressing all ranks, General Dwivedi urged soldiers to adhere to the cherished values and proud traditions of the Regiment. He emphasized the importance of maintaining excellence in various military aspects and encouraged each soldier to ensure that the Regiment’s flag continues to fly high through professionalism, courage, and selfless service. His remarks served as a poignant reminder that the strength of the Regiment lies not solely in its battlefield accomplishments but also in the character and dedication of its personnel.
The significance of General Dwivedi’s visit was further amplified by his long-standing affiliation with the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. Having been commissioned into the Regiment in 1984, he has commanded various levels throughout his illustrious military career, consistently advocating for the Regiment’s principles of courage, honor, and sacrifice. Even after retiring as Chief of the Army Staff, he has remained actively involved as the Honorary Colonel, fostering close ties with battalions and their members.
Throughout his visit, General Dwivedi commended the high training standards and operational readiness exhibited by the units. He urged the troops to confidently embrace emerging challenges while staying grounded in the enduring military values that have solidified the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles’ esteemed position in the annals of the Indian Army.
Concluding on a highly motivational note, General Dwivedi’s presence inspired both officers and soldiers, reinforcing their commitment to operational excellence, professional competence, and the lasting traditions that continually shape the legacy of both the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and the Ladakh Scouts Regiment.
