Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Indian Army’s Central Command, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the operational and logistical preparedness of the Golden Key Gunners and the 116th Infantry Brigade, popularly known as the Sabse Aagey Brigade, in Dehradun. The visit is part of the Indian Army’s sustained efforts under the ‘Year of Defence Reforms’ to modernize its forces and enhance combat readiness.
During the visit, Lt Gen Sengupta closely reviewed the facilities at the Drone Training Lab, a pivotal unit supporting the Army’s push for technological absorption and innovation. He was briefed on the formation’s strides in adopting advanced tools such as drones, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Addressing officers and personnel, the Army Commander emphasized the growing role of technology in modern warfare and encouraged all ranks to upskill and adapt to evolving combat requirements.
The 116th Infantry Brigade, with a distinguished lineage tracing back to World War II under the British Indian Army, continues to lead the way in operational agility and modern military practices. Likewise, the Golden Key Gunners remain integral to Central Command’s modernization roadmap, aligning with the Army’s long-term vision of self-reliance and indigenization in defense systems.
Lt Gen Sengupta’s visit reflects the priorities of the Indian Army’s ‘Decade of Transformation’ (2023–32), which builds upon milestones achieved during the 2023 ‘Year of Technology Absorption.’ The roadmap includes deepening collaborations with Indian academia, defense startups, and industries to boost indigenous capabilities in surveillance, logistics, and strike precision.
Commending the professionalism and dedication of the troops, the Army Commander urged the formations to maintain the highest standards of readiness. He referenced lessons from contemporary global conflicts, noting that hybrid warfare, rapid technological shifts, and non-conventional threats require a dynamic and forward-thinking defense strategy.
The visit also marks Lt Gen Sengupta’s continued engagement with frontline formations following his inspection of the Ibex Brigade in October 2024. His review in Dehradun underscores Central Command’s resolve to ensure that formations across varied terrains—from high-altitude Himalayan sectors to the complex Northeast—remain fully prepared and technologically empowered to meet emerging security challenges.
