Major General Manish Kumar, YSM, SM**, Additional Director General (ADG) of Headquarters Recruiting Zone (Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand), visited Army Recruiting Office (ARO) Lansdowne during the active candidate dispatch phase for the recruitment year 2025–26.
The visit focused on overseeing recruitment activities and managing the substantial increase in candidate intake, with the current recruitment cycle witnessing nearly a threefold rise in vacancies compared to previous years.
During his interaction with candidates, Maj Gen Manish Kumar congratulated them on successfully reaching an advanced stage of the recruitment process and shared valuable insights on military service, leadership and the responsibilities associated with joining the Indian Army. His address served as a source of motivation and encouragement for aspiring Agniveers preparing to begin their military careers.
The ADG was briefed by Colonel R.S. Panwar, Director Recruiting, ARO Lansdowne, on preparations for the upcoming recruitment rallies for the recruitment year 2027. The briefing also highlighted several technological and infrastructural upgrades introduced over the past year to improve transparency, efficiency and candidate administration throughout the recruitment process.
The enhancements are aimed at streamlining recruitment procedures and ensuring a fair, technology-driven and candidate-friendly system in line with the Indian Army’s modernisation efforts.
As part of the visit, Maj Gen Manish Kumar also interacted with Brigadier V.S. Negi, VSM, Commandant of the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre (GRRC), to review and strengthen the post-recruitment training curriculum for incoming Agniveers. Discussions focused on ensuring that training programmes remain aligned with contemporary operational requirements while maintaining the highest standards of military professionalism.
The visit concluded with the General Officer engaging directly with young candidates and recruitment staff, boosting morale and reinforcing the Army’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of soldiers.
Officials noted that the interaction highlighted the Indian Army’s continued focus on transparent recruitment, effective training and the development of capable, motivated and future-ready Agniveers prepared to serve the nation with dedication and professionalism.
