Army fully capable of meeting any challenges, says Gen Dwivedi | India News

In remarks to the media after inspecting a guard of honor at the South Block in the Raisina Hills, he said the army faces “unique operational challenges” and to remain prepared for such threats, it is crucial to continue to equip soldiers with the most recent weapons.

“I am fully aware of the responsibility assigned to me and I assure the country and my fellow citizens that the Indian Army is fully capable and ready to face all current and future challenges,” he said.

The new army chief also said he would encourage the integration of indigenously manufactured military hardware into the force to enhance defense self-reliance.

“The geopolitical landscape is changing rapidly and technology is evolving at a very rapid pace,” he said.

“The Indian Army faces unique operational challenges and to remain ready to face such threats and unique requirements, it is crucial that we continuously equip our soldiers with cutting-edge weapons and technologies and continue to evolve our warfighting strategies,” he added.

General Dwivedi said the Indian Army is on a “transformation path” and aspires to be “Atmanirbhar” (self-reliant) in defence.
“To achieve this, we will encourage indigenous initiatives and introduce maximum systems and war equipment manufactured in our country,” he said.

General Dwivedi said he would ensure the army was ready to operate across the “entire spectrum of conflict”.

“I will strive to ensure that the Indian Army is always ready to operate across the spectrum of conflict, maintaining complete synergy with the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and other stakeholders,” he said.

“This will ensure that India’s interests are protected and we become a major pillar of nation building to realise the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat-2047’,” General Dwivedi said.

The army chief said it was a matter of immense pride for him to lead this force.

“It is a matter of immense honour and pride for me to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading the Indian Army,” he said. “The glorious traditions of the Indian Army are built on the legacy of valour and sacrifice of our soldiers. On this occasion, I pay solemn tribute to the brave men who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty,” he added.

The army chief said he was fully committed to protecting the interests of all personnel of the force and providing full support to ex-servicemen and their families.

“My priority will be to ensure that the interests and welfare of all ranks and defence civilians of the Indian Army are taken care of,” he said.

“My responsibility towards the veterans, the ‘veer naris’ and their families is a sacred commitment and I assure this extended family of my full support,” he said.

General Dwivedi briefly met with a group of religious leaders before his welcoming ceremony at the South Block.

An alumnus of Sainik School, Rewa (MP), General Dwivedi was commissioned into the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment in 1984. He has a unique distinction of balanced command as well as personnel exposure in the Northern, Eastern and Western Theatres in varied operational environments.

General Dwivedi had been serving as Vice Chief of the Army since February 19.

Prior to becoming Vice Chief, he served as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command from 2022 to 2024.