New Delhi, October 25, 2026: The Indian Army’s Army Air Defence Centre at Gopalpur, Odisha, has been adjudged the Best Regimental Centre (Other than Infantry) in the Best Clean, Green and Sustainable Station of the Year Competition 2026, recognising its outstanding efforts in maintaining cleanliness, promoting environmental conservation and adopting sustainable practices.
Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth felicitated the winners during the Army Commanders’ Conference, acknowledging the Centre’s sustained commitment to environmental responsibility and ecological balance.
The recognition highlights the Army Air Defence Centre’s proactive initiatives, meticulous planning and consistent efforts towards creating a cleaner, greener and more sustainable military establishment.
The competition evaluates military establishments on their commitment to cleanliness, environmental sustainability and the adoption of eco-friendly practices. The achievement of the Gopalpur-based Centre reflects its emphasis on integrating environmental awareness into everyday military administration and infrastructure management.
The award also underscores the Indian Army’s broader commitment to fostering an environmentally conscious culture across its formations and establishments. Through various sustainability initiatives, the Army continues to encourage responsible resource utilisation, ecological conservation and improved environmental management.
The recognition aligns with the national vision of Swachhata Hi Seva, which promotes cleanliness, public participation and environmental responsibility.
The Army Air Defence Centre at Gopalpur serves as an important training establishment for the Indian Army’s Corps of Army Air Defence, responsible for preparing personnel for specialised air defence roles.
By securing the top position in the non-infantry regimental centre category, the establishment has demonstrated that operational training and military preparedness can go hand in hand with environmental stewardship.
The achievement serves as an example for other military establishments to adopt sustainable practices while maintaining high standards of discipline, administration and operational readiness.
The Indian Army’s recognition of such initiatives reflects its continuing efforts to build cleaner, greener and environmentally responsible military stations across the country.
