Honorary Major Deepak Rao, a pivotal figure in India’s defense forces, has made a lasting impact on military training, particularly in martial arts. As he nears his 60th birthday, his unparalleled dedication to modernizing close-combat techniques has set a new benchmark for the Indian Army. Best known as the architect behind the Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR) and the ABC (Army Battle Combatives) method, Dr. Rao’s contributions remain essential in preparing soldiers for contemporary warfare.
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Early Contributions and the Genesis of AMAR
AMAR: A Strategic Response to Modern Challenges
The AMAR (Army Martial Arts Routine) program emerged as a response to challenges faced during the Galwan Valley clash of 2020, which saw Indian soldiers unexpectedly engaging in hand-to-hand combat with Chinese troops. Recognizing the need for enhanced close-combat preparedness, the Indian Army sought a new approach to train soldiers effectively for such situations.
AMAR was improved with Dr. Rao’s inputs, who reviewed the project and contributed by adding the terminations as stated later. The work earned him the COAS citation from Gen Manoj Panday. However, Dr. Rao did not guide the development of AMAR at the Army Institute of Physical Training (AIPT), Pune.
Dr. Rao’s Involvement in AMAR’s Evolution
In October 2023, the Indian Army’s Chief, General Manoj Pande, invited Dr. Rao to assess and improve the AMAR curriculum. His decades-long experience in military training provided crucial insights that resulted in further refining the program. He proposed changes to include advanced techniques aligned with modern combat needs.
The ABC Methodology
One of Dr. Rao’s most significant contributions is the ABC (Army Battle Combatives) system. The ABC method introduces techniques that emphasize swift incapacitation of opponents.
Key Elements of the ABC Method
- Choking Techniques: Rapid airway blocking to neutralize the enemy.
- Strangulation Methods: Used to render an opponent unconscious within seconds.
- Spinal Disruption: Tactical methods to immobilize opponents by targeting the spine.
These skills focus on quick termination, equipping soldiers to react decisively in high-pressure situations. By 2024, the Indian Army integrated these ABC techniques into the broader AMAR program to improve operational capabilities.
Legacy and Recognition of Honorary Major Deepak Rao
Honors and Achievements
Dr. Rao’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2011, the Indian government honored him with the title of Honorary Major—a prestigious recognition granted to civilians with exceptional service to the armed forces. His name now stands alongside other honored civilians like MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra, reflecting his pivotal role in national service.
Table: Timeline of Major Milestones
| Year | Milestone | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Began involvement in military training | Started training various units of Indian defense forces. |
| 2011 | Conferred title of Honorary Major | Recognized for his contributions to Indian military combat techniques. |
| 2020 | Galwan Valley clash | Highlighted the need for close-combat training reforms. |
| 2023 | Evaluated AMAR program | Provided recommendations to further enhance the training. |
| 2024 | Integrated ABC techniques into AMAR | Modernized the AMAR curriculum with advanced close-combat methods. |
AMAR’s Impact on the Indian Military
The introduction of AMAR has revolutionized the way Indian soldiers are trained. Previously, physical training in the Indian Army focused largely on endurance and fitness. However, AMAR integrates martial arts with combat-readiness, preparing soldiers to engage effectively in sudden conflicts.
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Expanding Dr. Rao’s Influence Across the Armed Forces
Training Programs Beyond the Army
Dr. Rao’s expertise is not confined to the Indian Army. He has conducted specialized workshops for other branches of the armed forces, such as the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. His innovative techniques have been adopted to enhance combat preparedness across all military sectors.
Philanthropic Activities and Social Impact
In addition to his military contributions, Dr. Rao actively participates in philanthropic efforts. Through his foundation, he has set up martial arts training centers in rural areas. These initiatives help young individuals, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, learn self-defense skills and develop discipline.
The Geopolitical Context: India-China Relations Post-Galwan
Strategic Preparedness
The Galwan Valley skirmish underscored the importance of physical and tactical readiness along the India-China border. This clash revealed that soldiers need hand-to-hand combat skills when facing non-lethal but hostile confrontations. Programs like AMAR, developed by Dr. Rao, are critical in addressing such geopolitical challenges.
Ongoing Negotiations and Military Readiness
As the disengagement process continues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian Army remains focused on maintaining combat readiness. Dr. Rao’s training programs ensure that soldiers are not only physically fit but also mentally prepared to respond to unexpected threats.
The Broader Impact of AMAR and ABC
Skills for Modern Warfare
Dr. Rao’s training programs focus on equipping soldiers with adaptability, agility, and resilience—qualities essential in unpredictable battlefield environments. The emphasis on close-quarter combat allows soldiers to confront enemies with confidence, whether on international borders or during internal security operations.
Expansion of AMAR Across India
The success of AMAR at the AIPT in Pune has prompted its implementation across various military academies in India. The widespread adoption ensures that soldiers from all corners of the country receive consistent, high-quality training.
A Lifelong Commitment to National Security
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Rao’s unwavering dedication has transformed the landscape of military training in India. His innovations in combat techniques, combined with his passion for mentoring soldiers, have made him a respected figure within the defense community.
Future Directions
The AMAR program, with its focus on evolving combat strategies, is set to shape the future of military training in India. Dr. Rao’s efforts ensure that the Indian Army remains prepared to tackle emerging threats efficiently. As geopolitical challenges evolve, combat-readiness programs like AMAR will continue to play a critical role in national defense.
Other Achievements:
- In 2006 and 2008, he conducted the modernization of Reflex Shooting Courses at the Corps Battle Schools of Northern Command and Eastern Command, respectively, under invitations from the then Army Commanders, General Deepak Kapoor and General V.K. Singh.
- Over two decades, he trained personnel from the Army, NSG, MARCOS, GARUD, PARA, and other Special Forces in modern Close Quarters Battle (CQB) methodology on multiple occasions.
- In 2010, he was appointed as an ATS Training Resource by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), during which he trained several State Police Anti-Terror Squads in modern methodologies.
- He authored numerous books on military training, including the Encyclopaedia of Close Combat Operations and the Commando Manual of Combat, which were inducted into the FBI and INTERPOL libraries.
- He received five Chief of Army Staff (COAS) citations in 2001, 2003, 2010, 2021, and 2024.
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Conclusion
Honorary Major Deepak Rao’s influence on the Indian Army extends far beyond the martial arts curriculum. His development of AMAR and introduction of the ABC methodology have revolutionized the way soldiers are trained for close-quarters combat.
Dr. Rao’s contributions have instilled a sense of confidence and preparedness among Indian soldiers, ensuring they can respond effectively to challenges both on the battlefield and in peacekeeping operations. His legacy will inspire generations of soldiers, leaving an indelible mark on Indian military training.
Summary Table: Major Contributions of Honorary Major Deepak Rao
| Contribution | Impact |
|---|---|
| AMAR Program | Enhanced close-combat skills and martial arts integration in the Indian Army. |
| ABC Methodology | Introduced quick termination techniques for high-stakes combat. |
| Training Workshops | Conducted sessions for Air Force, Navy, and other military units. |
| Philanthropy | Set up martial arts centers for underprivileged youth in rural India. |
As Dr. Rao nears a new milestone in his life, his dedication and vision continue to resonate within India’s defense forces. His commitment to combat training and national security ensures that the Indian Army remains agile and effective in the face of modern challenges.
