Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Southern Command, visited Jaisalmer Military Station to review the operational preparedness, technology absorption and capability enhancement initiatives of the Battle Axe Division. The visit reflected the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on strengthening combat readiness through technological innovation, modern training methodologies and infrastructure development while preserving the rich legacy of its battlefield heroes.
During the visit, the Army Commander received a comprehensive briefing on the division’s operational responsibilities, deployment preparedness and ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing combat capability. Senior commanders highlighted measures undertaken to maintain a high level of operational readiness through realistic training, continuous capability development and the integration of advanced technologies into military operations.
Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar reviewed several key operational aspects of the formation, including innovative training methodologies designed to prepare troops for the evolving nature of modern warfare. The briefing showcased how the Battle Axe Division has incorporated technology-driven learning, simulation-based exercises and mission-oriented training to enhance the operational proficiency and decision-making capabilities of its personnel.
The Army Commander also reviewed ongoing infrastructure development projects across the formation, aimed at improving operational efficiency, troop welfare and training facilities. These initiatives form part of the Indian Army’s broader modernisation efforts to ensure that frontline formations remain agile, self-reliant and capable of responding effectively to emerging security challenges.
A major highlight of the visit was Lt Gen Pushkar’s inspection of the formation’s Centre of Excellence and Drone & Robotics Lab. The facilities are at the forefront of the Army’s efforts to integrate emerging technologies into military operations, providing soldiers with exposure to unmanned systems, robotics, artificial intelligence-enabled applications and modern battlefield innovations.
The Army Commander appreciated the division’s efforts to embrace technology as a force multiplier and encouraged continuous refinement of modern warfighting capabilities. He stressed that future battlefields would increasingly be shaped by technological superiority, rapid adaptation and the effective integration of autonomous systems, making innovation an essential component of operational success.
Highlighting the importance of continuous learning and experimentation, Lt Gen Pushkar urged commanders and troops to remain committed to adopting emerging technologies that enhance situational awareness, operational flexibility and combat effectiveness. He observed that investments in drone technology, robotics and advanced training infrastructure would significantly strengthen the Army’s preparedness for multidomain operations.
During his visit to Jaisalmer, the Army Commander also paid homage to the brave soldiers who fought in the historic Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. At the Longewala Yudh Sthal, he laid tribute to the Bravehearts whose courage, determination and unwavering resolve became one of the defining chapters in India’s military history.
The Battle of Longewala remains one of the Indian Army’s most celebrated victories, where a small force of Indian soldiers successfully defended a strategically important post against a much larger Pakistani armoured assault. Their extraordinary courage, combined with timely support from the Indian Air Force, played a decisive role in safeguarding India’s western frontier during the 1971 war.
Remembering the sacrifices of the Bravehearts, Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar saluted their unparalleled bravery and selfless service, stating that their legacy continues to inspire generations of soldiers serving the nation. He emphasised that the values of courage, duty and sacrifice displayed during the Battle of Longewala remain deeply embedded in the ethos of the Indian Army.
Interacting with officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and soldiers of the Battle Axe Division, the Army Commander commended all ranks for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to maintaining high operational standards. He appreciated the formation’s sustained focus on technological innovation, capability enhancement and mission-oriented training, which collectively contribute to strengthening combat effectiveness.
In recognition of exceptional performance, Lt Gen Pushkar presented On-the-Spot Commendations to selected personnel for their exemplary service, professionalism and outstanding contribution to the formation. The commendations reflected the Army’s tradition of recognising excellence and motivating soldiers who consistently demonstrate exceptional commitment to duty.
Addressing the troops, the Army Commander encouraged all ranks to embrace emerging technologies, innovation and modern force multipliers to effectively tackle the evolving challenges of contemporary warfare. He stressed that future military success would depend not only on physical endurance and tactical proficiency but also on technological adaptability, continuous learning and professional excellence.
The visit reaffirmed Southern Command’s commitment to building a technologically advanced, operationally agile and future-ready force capable of addressing both conventional and emerging security challenges. By combining cutting-edge technological innovation with realistic training, infrastructure modernisation and the enduring legacy of its military heritage, the Battle Axe Division continues to strengthen its position as a highly capable and combat-ready formation of the Indian Army.
