Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Southern Command, conducted an in-depth review of the operational readiness of the Konark Corps during a recent visit to Jodhpur. The review comes amid heightened tensions in the desert sector following the launch of Operation Sindoor, India’s ongoing military response to recent terrorist attacks and cross-border threats.
Lt Gen Seth interacted with senior commanders and staff officers of the Konark Corps, commending them for their operational preparedness and dedication to national security. He highlighted the critical importance of maintaining high levels of readiness in India’s western desert region, which shares sensitive borders and remains a key strategic theatre in the current security scenario.
The Konark Corps, also known as the Desert Corps, was established on February 26, 1987, during Operation Trident. Headquartered in Jodhpur and operating under the Pune-based Southern Command, the Corps is tasked with defending India’s desert frontiers. Its insignia, inspired by the Sun Temple at Konark, symbolizes strength and resilience in the harsh desert environment.
The visit follows the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians, mostly Hindu tourists, were killed by terrorists linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba. The attack, reportedly orchestrated by Hafeez Saeed and Saifullah Kasuri from Pakistan, and carried out on the ground by Hashim Moosa, has prompted a robust Indian response through precision strikes as part of Operation Sindoor.
Lt Gen Seth’s review also complements recent joint operational initiatives such as Exercise Desert Hunt 2025, a Tri-Service Special Forces exercise conducted to improve coordination and desert warfare capabilities. These initiatives underline the Indian Army’s commitment to modernization and inter-service synergy in high-stakes environments.
The Army Commander reiterated the need for continuous technological upgrades, seamless logistics, and rigorous training to counter evolving threats. His visit highlights the Indian Army’s determination to ensure that the desert sector remains a fortified and responsive frontier in the face of regional instability.
The review concluded with a reaffirmation of the Southern Command’s readiness to support national defence objectives and protect the integrity of India’s borders. As Operation Sindoor continues to unfold, the Konark Corps remains a vital component of India’s strategic military posture in the western theatre.
