Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Western Command, recently visited the Double Victory Brigade under Vajra Corps in Punjab. The visit focused on evaluating the operational readiness of the brigade, which holds strategic importance due to its deployment along the India-Pakistan border.
The General Officer reviewed the high level of training maintained by the formation and expressed satisfaction with the preparedness of the mechanized units. These units are positioned in a region historically shaped by the aftermath of partition and the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war, continuing to serve as a frontline defense element in India’s western sector.
As part of his visit, Lt Gen Katiyar also toured the Army Public School (APS) in Beas, Kapurthala. He was briefed on the school’s development projects and encouraged the staff to continue focusing on both academic excellence and holistic development of students. Established in 1995 by the late Gen BC Joshi, APS Beas caters primarily to children of serving personnel, contributing to a supportive and stable environment for military families. Studies suggest that access to quality education can significantly enhance morale and retention within the armed forces community.
Lt Gen Katiyar, who assumed command of the Western Command in July 2023, has over 37 years of experience in key operational areas including Siachen and the Line of Actual Control. His visit reflects the Army’s dual focus on operational strength and the welfare of personnel and their families, reinforcing long-term defense readiness and institutional support.
