Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi lauds indigenous innovations in Southern Command (Photo)

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi was briefed about the operational preparedness of the formation during his visit to Headquarters Southern Command in Pune.

“The COAS also visited the Southern Star Idea Innovation Display, which highlighted innovative projects developed in partnership with Pune-based industries and indigenous R&D initiatives,” the Indian Army said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. ”

COAS General Dwivedi interacted with innovators and industry representatives, appreciated their initiatives and stressed the importance of innovation in meeting modern military challenges.

The Army Chief said, he acknowledged the progressive mindset displayed at the event and reinforced the Indian Army's commitment to harnessing technology and supporting self-reliance to take the country forward towards the vision of a developed India 2047.

Earlier on Wednesday, COAS Dwivedi presented the prestigious President's Medals to four battalions of Mechanized Infantry during a ceremony at the Mechanized Infantry Center and School (MIC&S), Ahilyanagar.

This event was in recognition of his exemplary and meritorious service to the nation. The 26th and 27th Battalions of the Mechanized Infantry Regiment and the 20th and 22nd Battalions of the Brigade of the Guards were awarded the President's Honour, a proud moment for the youngest battalions of the Army.

A large number of veterans, service personnel and civilian dignitaries attended the grand ceremony, a release said.

The COAS reviewed the Color Presentation Parade and appreciated the impeccable standards displayed by the marching and cavalry contingents of the four mechanized infantry battalions.

He congratulated all ranks, especially the respected battalions, and commended the professionalism of the Mechanized Infantry in both war and peace.

As the youngest and most versatile combat arms of the Indian Army, the Mechanized Infantry combines the best of infantry and mechanized forces. Its battalions, renowned for their valor and skill, are deployed in all theaters and UN peacekeeping missions.