In a significant effort to enhance the Indian Army’s technological and operational capabilities, Lieutenant General JS Sidana, AVSM, the Director General of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) and Senior Colonel Commandant, made an official visit to the 3 Electronics and Mechanical Engineers Centre in Bhopal on Tuesday.
Lt Gen Sidana, a veteran with 38 years of distinguished service and an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, emphasized the critical need for innovation and adaptability in modern warfare. He lauded the high standards of training and administrative practices upheld at the Centre, expressing appreciation for the professionalism exhibited by both soldiers and Agniveers.
A significant portion of his visit was dedicated to engaging with Agniveers who were recruited under the 2022 Agnipath Scheme. This scheme includes a rigorous 24 weeks of training, after which a select percentage of Agniveers are absorbed into the regular Army, following their initial four-year tenure. Lt Gen Sidana described the initiative as part of the Army’s forward-thinking and data-driven approach to modernizing its manpower.
The visit featured a ceremonial wreath-laying, alongside demonstrations highlighting advanced technological capabilities, including drone technology. These initiatives align with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, which has led to a notable 25% increase in the adoption of indigenous defense technology since 2020.
During his address, Lt Gen Sidana traced the Corps of EME’s evolution from a focus predominantly on electrical expertise in the 1980s to its current status as a leader in electronics and innovation. He urged all ranks to continue upholding the Corps’ legacy of excellence in these fields.
Overall, the visit served to reaffirm the Indian Army’s commitment to future readiness, technological advancement, and self-reliance, as it continues to adapt to the challenges posed by a rapidly changing security landscape.
