Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Western Command, conducted a comprehensive review of operational preparedness in the Amritsar sector today. His visit emphasized the importance of joint readiness, strategic coordination, and inter-agency synergy along the sensitive Indo-Pak border.
Senior commanders from the 54 Infantry Brigade, 96 Infantry Brigade, and 23 Armoured Brigade delivered detailed briefings to Lt. Gen. Katiyar, outlining their operational strategies, troop deployments, and counter-response mechanisms tailored for evolving threat scenarios in the region. The session reflected a clear focus on proactive defense and agile response systems designed to secure this strategically vital border zone.
A central theme of the visit was the close collaboration between the Indian Army and the Border Security Force (BSF), especially during the recently concluded Operation Sindoor. This multi-domain operation, which responded to asymmetric threats targeting both civilian areas and military installations, demonstrated the increasing self-reliance of India’s defense ecosystem. Advanced systems such as the Akash air defense platform were effectively deployed during the operation, showcasing indigenous capability and technological integration across armed services.
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Lt. Gen. Katiyar personally interacted with Army and BSF troops, applauding their professionalism and high level of preparedness. He lauded the operational synergy achieved between the two forces, which played a vital role in the swift execution and success of Operation Sindoor. The General noted that continuous, coordinated training between the BSF and Army units is essential to maintain high readiness levels and to fortify the defenses of forward Border Outposts (BOPs).
The visit also highlighted the increasing involvement of women in India’s defense structure. Lt. Gen. Katiyar specifically praised the contributions of Mahila Praharis — women BSF personnel — who were actively deployed in frontline roles during Operation Sindoor. Their steadfastness and commitment, he remarked, represent a powerful shift in the traditional roles within security forces and underscore the growing empowerment of women in national defense.
The deployment of women in such positions builds on notable milestones like the 2022 deployment of an all-women BSF team in the Sundarbans — a first in the force’s history. Lt. Gen. Katiyar emphasized that the inclusion of women in operationally demanding environments enhances force capability and reflects progressive institutional values.
Today’s visit is part of the Western Command’s continued efforts to assess field preparedness and boost inter-agency collaboration in regions bordering Pakistan. The Amritsar sector remains a critical stretch in the defense matrix due to its geographical and strategic significance. The Western Command, headquartered in Chandimandir, is responsible for coordinating defense operations across key northern states and maintaining a firm posture in one of the country’s most volatile border regions.
Lt. Gen. Katiyar’s acknowledgment of troop dedication, joint operational effectiveness, and women’s contributions underscores the Indian military’s evolving doctrine of inclusive, technologically advanced, and coordinated defense strategy. The visit reaffirms the commitment of Indian armed forces to preserving national sovereignty and ensuring peace through strength along the nation’s borders.
