New Delhi, August 5: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth concluded a two-day visit to formations under the Central Command on 4 and 5 August 2026, where he reviewed the prevailing security environment, operational preparedness and ongoing capability enhancement initiatives.
During his visit, the Army Chief assessed the Command’s operational posture and interacted with commanders and troops, reaffirming the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining a high level of combat readiness.
Reviews Security and Modernisation
At the Headquarters Central Command in Lucknow, General Dhiraj Seth was briefed on:
- The prevailing security situation
- Operational preparedness
- Infrastructure development
- Force modernisation initiatives
- Capability enhancement programmes
- Measures to strengthen combat readiness
The COAS later visited the Headquarters Uttar Bharat Area, where he interacted with senior commanders and personnel.
Message to Troops
Addressing officers and soldiers, General Dhiraj Seth emphasised that operational preparedness, adaptability and self-reliance remain the cornerstone of the Indian Army’s effectiveness.
He urged all ranks to:
- Remain vigilant
- Maintain high operational readiness
- Stay agile in responding to emerging threats
- Build future-ready capabilities
- Continue supporting the Army’s self-reliance initiatives under Aatmanirbhar Bharat
He highlighted the importance of continuously adapting to the evolving security environment and emerging technological challenges.
Yoddha Seva Samman Presented
During the visit, the Army Chief honoured four retired Army veterans with the Yoddha Seva Samman, recognising their outstanding contributions to society after retirement.
The awardees are:
- Major General Harsh Kakar (Retd.)
- Colonel Arvind Singh Kushwaha (Retd.)
- Naib Subedar Radhey Shyam (Retd.)
- Risaldar Major (Honorary Captain) Vijay Kumar (Retd.)
The honours were conferred for exemplary work in:
- Social service
- Education
- Healthcare
- Environmental conservation
- Agriculture
- Sports
- Veterans’ welfare
The Yoddha Seva Samman recognises retired military personnel who continue to serve the nation through meaningful contributions beyond active military service.
Focus on Future-Ready Force
The visit underscored the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on:
- Maintaining high operational readiness
- Accelerating modernisation
- Enhancing indigenous capabilities
- Leveraging technology for future warfare
- Building a self-reliant and technologically empowered force
Officials said the review reflects the Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen preparedness across all operational theatres while ensuring the force remains capable of meeting evolving security challenges.