In a strong display of preparedness and modernization, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Western Command, carried out a detailed operational review of the Rising Star Corps formations stationed in Punjab. The visit underscored the command’s high state of readiness and its increasing reliance on technology to counter emerging threats along the Western Front.
Lt Gen Katiyar praised the troops for their exceptional combat readiness and professional conduct. He emphasized the need to seamlessly integrate technological advances to maintain superiority across modern battlefields. The inspection featured demonstrations of next-generation weapon systems, including state-of-the-art anti-drone solutions and precision artillery platforms.
A notable highlight was the use of drone swarms, a concept tested and refined during the 2019 Exercise Him Vijay, which validated the efficiency of Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs). These units have significantly reduced the army’s response time in tactical operations from 72 hours to under 24 hours.
The Western Command’s readiness initiatives are aligned with the Indian Army’s ongoing Decade of Transformation (2023–2032), a strategic roadmap that includes 2023 as the Year of Technology Absorption and 2025 as the Year of Reforms. This vision, driven by the Ministry of Defence, aims to reduce dependence on foreign military systems by boosting indigenous technological capabilities through initiatives like the Inno-Yoddha competition. This platform promotes collaboration with academia, startups, and research institutions to drive innovation in defense.
Having assumed command in July 2023, Lt Gen Katiyar brings with him over 37 years of operational experience, including critical assignments in Siachen and along the Line of Actual Control. His leadership reinforces the strategic legacy of the Western Command, which was re-established in 1947 following Partition.
The latest operational review not only highlighted advancements in firepower and surveillance but also served to enhance morale among the troops. As the Indian Army continues to evolve into a future-ready force, the Western Command remains at the forefront of innovation and strategic preparedness.
