Army Chief Seth Reviews Central Command Readiness Amid Regional Security Shifts

General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff, conducted a two-day operational review of the Indian Army’s Central Command on 4-5 August, assessing combat readiness, infrastructure development and capability enhancement initiatives across the Lucknow-based command amid evolving regional security challenges.

During his visit, the COAS held extensive briefings on operational posture, force modernisation and combat effectiveness measures. He also visited Headquarters Uttar Bharat Area, where he interacted with commanders and troops, stressing the need for operational preparedness, adaptability and self-reliance in responding to emerging security challenges.

Central Command, re-established in 1963 following the Sino-Indian War, has undergone significant transformation in recent years. The command now oversees critical sectors along the Uttarakhand portion of India’s northern borders, marking a shift from its earlier role as a strategic reserve. In 2024, the Indian Army combatised Central Command and raised the new XVIII Corps under its purview, integrating the Uttar Bharat Area as a full-fledged combat formation with mountain and rapid deployment units for enhanced border operations.

The Army’s broader modernisation agenda focuses on indigenous technologies and force restructuring. Seth has prioritised his vision of VIJAY, encompassing vigilance, innovation and jointness. This aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance multi-domain operational capability while maintaining high alert levels across all commands in the face of evolving strategic challenges in the region.