In a major initiative to strengthen leadership development among junior ranks, the Indian Army has released a new guidebook titled The Profession of Arms: A Guide for Young Army Officers. Authored by retired Major General P K Mallick, the book was unveiled today at the Army Headquarters in the presence of senior military leaders.
Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Chief of Army Staff, presided over the launch event alongside Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, Director General of Organisation and Personnel Services. The book is a curated collection of essays and lectures by esteemed military professionals and is intended to serve as a foundational resource for officers during the early years of their service.
Aimed at reinforcing values such as leadership, discipline, and professional integrity, the guide reflects the Indian Army’s sustained commitment to building capable and ethical military leaders. The electronic version of the book is now available for free download on the Indian Army’s official website, extending its reach beyond traditional classrooms.
Lt Gen Subramani, who took over as Vice Chief of Army Staff on July 1, 2024, brings with him years of operational experience, including command of the Central Command and leadership in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. His presence at the event highlighted the Army’s strategic focus on mentorship as a core element of officer development.
According to recent internal assessments, early career guidance and structured mentorship can significantly reduce attrition rates among officers. The guidebook is expected to support this objective, offering clarity and direction to young officers navigating the complexities of military service.
The launch of The Profession of Arms signals a progressive step in the Indian Army’s modernization efforts, reinforcing its legacy of professionalism while adapting to the challenges of contemporary military leadership.
