Shimla / Chandigarh, March 24
In a major shift signalling the Indian Army’s future combat doctrine, the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) on Tuesday announced that drones have become a battlefield necessity, with over 50,000 personnel already trained in drone operations.
Addressing the ARTRAC Investiture Ceremony 2026 at Shimla, Lt Gen Devendra Sharma said the Army is rapidly aligning its training ecosystem with emerging warfare technologies, drawing lessons from recent conflicts, including Operation SINDOOR.
The Army Commander revealed that 15 key establishments are being विकसित as Centres of Expertise to absorb 33 niche technologies by 2030, marking a decisive push towards tech-driven warfare.
He also announced that the ‘Vidur Vakta’ (Red Teaming) initiative will be institutionalised across the Army by 2027, aimed at strengthening strategic thinking and preparedness.
In another key reform, promotion and competitive examinations are being shifted to online mode, bringing greater transparency and efficiency into the system.
The ceremony, held at Danfe Auditorium, recognised top-performing training establishments and personnel for 2025-26.
The prestigious GOC-in-C Unit Citation was awarded to premier institutions including Army Air Defence College, Armoured Corps Centre & School, Mechanised Infantry Centre & School and Rashtriya Indian Military College, along with two affiliated units.
Awards for financial excellence, digitisation and technical innovation were also conferred, while 16 personnel received commendation cards for distinguished service.
Lt Gen Sharma underlined that ARTRAC is driving 57 transformation initiatives under the Army’s long-term modernisation roadmap. He stressed that awardees are not just contributors but central to ARTRAC’s evolving capabilities.
Reaffirming commitment towards Viksit Bharat 2047, he called for greater focus on jointness, self-reliance and innovation, urging personnel to continuously adapt to the changing nature of warfare.
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