Jaipur, Jan 14 (NationPress) Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated on Wednesday that Operation Sindoor remains active, with meticulous observation of enemy actions in place.

He underscored that while India’s northern boundaries are stable, constant vigilance is paramount. Addressing the global security landscape, the Army Chief noted a significant increase in both the number and intensity of armed conflicts around the world over the past year.

“These international shifts reveal a fundamental reality — nations that stay prepared are the ones that prevail,” he remarked during an investiture ceremony at the South Western Command in this region.

General Dwivedi recalled that following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, a decisive resolution was made at the highest levels to take assertive action.

“Operation Sindoor emerged from that determination. During this operation, the joint capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force successfully targeted nine terrorist camps and associated infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK within a mere 22 minutes. Out of these nine targets, seven were obliterated by the Indian Army, inflicting severe damage on terrorist operations. Within 88 hours, through precision, professionalism, and operational superiority, we compelled Pakistan to concede to a ceasefire. This exemplified the Indian Army’s decisive abilities in defending national sovereignty and interests,” he conveyed.

Discussing the upcoming 78th Army Day Parade in Rajasthan, the Army Chief mentioned its unique significance this year. “Tomorrow, the Indian Army will display its full glory, discipline, and indomitable strength,” he indicated.

He congratulated the units receiving COAS Citations and Certificates of Appreciation, extending his best wishes to all officers, JCOs, and soldiers whose outstanding performance earned these accolades. He reiterated that Operation Sindoor is ongoing, and enemy activities are under stringent surveillance.

“Our deployment along the LAC is balanced and robust. Under the Whole-of-Nation approach, capability development and infrastructure enhancement are advancing consistently,” he added.

General Dwivedi explained that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains sensitive yet firmly under Army control. Development initiatives have remarkably decreased terrorist recruitment to unprecedented lows.

“The peaceful execution of the Shri Amarnath Yatra is a clear sign of trust and normalcy,” he stated. Regarding the Northeast, he noted that the Government’s proactive measures and decisive actions by security forces have resulted in noticeable improvements in security, particularly in Manipur.

“Cultural events like the Shirui Lily Festival, the revival of the Durand Cup, and the reinstatement of the Suspension of Operations signify strong signs of normalcy. Our aim is to ensure that peace and dialogue become enduring,” he expressed. The Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the Home Ministry, is implementing a multi-agency security framework to safeguard against cross-border spillover effects.

The Army Chief also commended the Indian Army’s exemplary efforts in the field of HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief). “This year, we have rescued over 30,000 individuals. In border states, the Army continues to be the natural first responder,” he remarked. He emphasized that future conflicts cannot solely rely on military might — they require a collective national effort.

Following the Prime Minister’s call for Jointness, Self-Reliance, and Innovation, along with the Defence Minister’s Era of Reforms, the Indian Army is hastening operational preparedness, modernization, and functional effectiveness. Significant organizational measures are being taken to bolster the force structure. “For multi-domain operations, the Rudra Brigade has been formed; for stealth-based missions, the Bhairav Battalion has been established; and for drone-enabled precision strikes in artillery, the Shaktibhan Regiment has been created. Numerous additional concrete steps are underway,” he added.

General Dwivedi noted that many of the assets featured in tomorrow's parade have been indigenously developed under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

“We have embraced technology as a force multiplier and ensured Army involvement in all major national technology missions. Indian Army Cells have been established in IITs. Initiatives to empower women in the Army are ongoing — women are now being commissioned as officers, joining the TA (non-technical), Army Education Corps, and serving as soldiers. You will also witness their courage and enthusiasm in the parade,” he concluded.