The Indian Army’s Infantry School, one of its premier training institutions, successfully concluded the Battalion Support Weapons Course (BSWC) on July 17 at its Mhow campus. The rigorous course saw participation from Indian Army officers as well as international student officers from friendly foreign nations, reaffirming the school’s longstanding role as a global center for military excellence.
The closing ceremony was presided over by Lieutenant General Gajendra Joshi, Commandant of The Infantry School, whose operational experience in counter-terrorism theatres such as Kashmir and Manipur brings critical depth to the Army’s training doctrine. His leadership reflects a modernized approach to infantry instruction, a significant departure from colonial-era practices when Indian officers received limited training before 1932.
This year’s course focused on mastering battalion-level support weapon systems, integrating traditional combat skills with cutting-edge battlefield innovations. Recognition was given to top performers across key domains. Captain Ajeet Krishna Lucky was adjudged the Overall Best Student, Captain Niraj Papola was awarded for excellence in Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) systems, and Captain Pranjal Singh topped in Mortar operations. These recognitions highlight the rising emphasis on precision weapons, aligning with a RAND Corporation study noting a 30% increase in combat effectiveness with guided munitions.
The Infantry School in Mhow, which has trained more than 61,000 officers since its inception, remains at the forefront of doctrinal evolution and tactical preparedness. Through intensive courses like the BSWC, it continues to prepare the next generation of military leaders for the complexities of modern warfare, while also strengthening India’s defence diplomacy with partner nations.
