Former Chief of the Army Staff and Honorary Colonel of the Regiment (COR) of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (JAK RIF) and Ladakh Scouts Regiment, General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM (Retd.), paid a two-day visit to the renowned “DOUBLE FIRST” Battalion on 16–17 July 2026, reaffirming his enduring bond with one of the Indian Army’s most distinguished infantry regiments. The visit reflected the Army’s continued emphasis on preserving regimental traditions while inspiring the next generation of soldiers to uphold the highest standards of operational excellence.
During his visit, General Dwivedi interacted extensively with the Commanding Officer, officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and troops of the battalion. He was also briefed on the unit’s operational responsibilities, training initiatives, and preparedness, gaining first-hand insight into the battalion’s ongoing efforts to maintain combat readiness and professional excellence.
As part of the programme, the former Army Chief also interacted with the Commanding Officer of “SARVSHRESHTA EKKIS” Battalion and the troops of “ZORAWAR” Battalion. The interaction provided an opportunity for soldiers to engage with one of the Indian Army’s most respected military leaders, whose career has been closely associated with the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. General Dwivedi shared his experiences from decades of military service, highlighting the importance of leadership, discipline, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to the nation.
Addressing all ranks, General Dwivedi exhorted the soldiers to continue upholding the cherished values, rich traditions, and proud heritage of the Regiment. He urged every soldier to remain committed to excellence in every sphere of military service and to ensure that the Regiment’s flag continues to fly high through professionalism, courage, and selfless service. His words served as a reminder that the strength of the Regiment lies not only in its battlefield achievements but also in the character and commitment of its soldiers.
The visit carried special significance given General Dwivedi’s long-standing association with the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. Commissioned into the Regiment in 1984, he has commanded at multiple levels during his distinguished military career and has consistently championed the Regiment’s ethos of courage, honour, and sacrifice. Following his retirement as the Chief of the Army Staff, he continues to serve as the Honorary Colonel of the Regiment, maintaining a close relationship with its battalions and personnel.
Throughout the visit, General Dwivedi appreciated the high standards of training, operational preparedness, and regimental spirit displayed by the units. He encouraged the troops to embrace emerging challenges with confidence while remaining rooted in the timeless military values that have earned the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles its distinguished place in the history of the Indian Army.
The interaction concluded on a highly motivational note, with officers and soldiers drawing inspiration from the former Army Chief’s words of wisdom and leadership. His visit reinforced the Regiment’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence, professional competence, and the enduring traditions that continue to define the legacy of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and the Ladakh Scouts Regiment.
