Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday released the Land Warfare Doctrine, which provides an overarching framework to prepare the Indian Army for the challenges posed by the evolving character of warfare and future conflicts.
Addressing the Army Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi, he called for a long-term strategic vision spanning the next 20–30 years and urged Army Commanders to closely monitor geopolitical and regional developments while remaining equally prepared to respond to immediate and emerging challenges.
Dynamic Strategies and Lessons from Operation Sindoor
Rajnath Singh emphasised that military strategies must remain dynamic and flexible to enable timely adjustments to changing circumstances. Commending the Defence Forces for adapting to evolving operational requirements, he highlighted how innovative thinking, enhanced synergy, superior coordination and advanced weaponry contributed to the success of Operation Sindoor, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Defence.
He said the operation sent a clear message that India would not hesitate to take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.
Focus on Technology, Modernisation and Multi-Domain Operations
The Defence Minister appreciated the Indian Army’s restructuring efforts, particularly the adoption of drones and modern technologies. He stressed the need to strengthen capabilities, continuously assess performance and introduce necessary improvements in response to evolving circumstances.
He underscored the importance of accelerating efforts in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data analytics, cybersecurity and secure communication networks.
Highlighting the growing significance of challenges across the air, maritime, space and cyber domains, Rajnath Singh emphasised that land warfare and ground forces would remain indispensable. He called for an integrated approach to modern warfare, stressing that success would depend on multi-domain capabilities and seamless coordination in joint operations.
Defence Production Hits Record High Amid Push for Self-Reliance
Rajnath Singh acknowledged the efforts of the Defence Forces towards self-reliance and said India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities reflected the concerted efforts of all stakeholders.
“Amidst the changing global landscape, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government is prioritising Aatmanirbharta in defence. In the financial year 2025-26, defence production surged to a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore, with defence exports reaching an all-time high of approx. Rs 38,000 crore,” he said.
Calls for Effective Implementation of Defence Reforms
Referring to the ‘Year of Reforms – 2025’, the Defence Minister said reform was a continuous process whose success depended on effective implementation. He urged Army Commanders to drive reforms forward within their respective commands and echelons, ensuring that they translated into tangible improvements in operational capabilities.
He credited the valour, discipline, preparedness and restraint of the Defence Forces, along with the dynamic leadership and diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for strengthening India’s global standing.
He called upon the Defence Forces to maintain their focus on self-reliance, effective implementation of reforms, improved manpower management, greater participation of women and an integrated approach to national security.
UN Journal Unveiled, Army Personnel Honoured for Peacekeeping Service
Alongside the release of the Land Warfare Doctrine, Rajnath Singh unveiled the annual United Nations Journal and felicitated Indian Army personnel who had made notable contributions while serving as United Nations peacekeepers. The recognition acknowledged their exemplary service, professionalism and contribution to international peace and security.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials were present on the occasion.
The Army Commanders’ Conference provides a forum for the Indian Army’s senior leadership to review ongoing initiatives, identify future priorities and formulate policy directions towards building a progressive, adaptive, technologically enabled and future-ready force.
-PIB Inputs
