Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command, conducted a comprehensive review of the operational preparedness of the Ambala-based Kharga Corps, a key formation of the Indian Army tasked with securing the nation’s Western front. During his visit, Lt Gen Katiyar commended the Corps for its professionalism, high state of readiness, and unwavering commitment to excellence in operations, underscoring the Army’s focus on maintaining a robust defense posture amid regional geopolitical tensions.
The event, held at the Yana facility, also marked a moment of celebration as Lt Gen Katiyar felicitated the Western Command Shooting Team for their stellar achievement in securing the 18th General JJ Singh Officers Shooting Championship title for the third consecutive year. The championship, named after General Joginder Jaswant Singh—the first Sikh Chief of Army Staff who led the Indian Army from 2005 to 2007—honors his legacy as an ace shooter and a distinguished military leader. The shooting team’s consistent success reflects the Army’s emphasis on precision, discipline, and competitive excellence.
The Kharga Corps has long been a cornerstone of India’s military strategy, particularly along the Western borders, where it plays a critical role in ensuring operational readiness. Previous reviews, such as the one conducted by Lt Gen R.P. Singh in 2021, have similarly highlighted the Corps’ preparedness for challenges along the Line of Control with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control with China—regions that remain flashpoints for India’s national security.
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Lt Gen Katiyar, who assumed his role as the head of Western Command in July 2023 after serving as the Director General of Military Operations, emphasized the importance of maintaining a high degree of vigilance and capability. His leadership continues to strengthen the Army’s operational framework, ensuring that formations like the Kharga Corps remain at the forefront of India’s defense strategy.
The ceremony was attended by several senior officers and personnel, who gathered in front of a banner proclaiming the Kharga Corps as the “Imposers of National Will,” a testament to their role in upholding the nation’s sovereignty. The event also featured the presence of flags representing the Corps and the Western Command, symbolizing unity and pride in their shared mission.
