General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, made a crucial visit to the forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir on Tuesday. This visit aimed to assess the current security situation and operational preparedness of the troops stationed in this strategically significant region, highlighting the Indian Army’s unwavering dedication to maintaining vigilance in one of the country’s most challenging areas.
During his visit, General Dwivedi engaged closely with the soldiers, offering commendations for their exceptional dedication and resilience amidst harsh weather conditions and operational challenges. The high-altitude snowy terrain of North Kashmir, particularly near the Siachen Glacier—a contentious area between India and Pakistan since 1984—presents unique operational difficulties. Regardless of these obstacles, the fortitude displayed by the soldiers was recognized and praised by the COAS.
Emphasizing the need for modernization, General Dwivedi highlighted the importance of integrating advanced technology into military operations. This aligns with the Indian Army’s 2024 theme, “Year of Tech Absorption.” He encouraged troops to harness technologies such as artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and quantum systems to enhance their operational effectiveness. This push for technological advancement is a key element of the Army’s broader strategic initiative, the “Decade of Transformation,” aimed at modernizing the force to address both current and emerging security threats.
Additionally, the COAS called for increased vigilance along the LoC, a de facto border established after the 1972 Simla Agreement, amid ongoing tensions with Pakistan. The North Kashmir region, given its proximity to the Siachen Glacier and history of cross-border conflicts, remains a focal point for security challenges.
General Dwivedi’s visit is particularly timely, as the Indian Army is actively working to bolster its operational readiness in light of recent security concerns across Jammu and Kashmir. This includes responding to a devastating encounter in Doda district in July 2024 that resulted in the loss of four soldiers.
Having assumed the role of COAS on June 30, 2024, General Dwivedi has consistently shown a commitment to engaging with troops across Jammu and Kashmir. His recent visit follows a previous trip to the Poonch-Rajouri sector in July 2024, aimed at reviewing the security landscape along the LoC.
Under General Dwivedi’s leadership, the Indian Army continues to focus on enhancing its capabilities through technological integration and operational excellence. The dedication of the troops in North Kashmir serves as a testament to the Army’s enduring motto of service before self, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders against evolving challenges.
