Archive · 12 Sep 2026
Army Chief Reviews Southern Command Readiness, Honors Veterans
General Dhiraj Seth, the head of the Indian Army, visited an Army headquarters in Pune.
He checked how prepared the Southern Command was for its missions.
Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar explained the command’s operations, training and plans.
The Army chief asked soldiers to stay ready and adapt to changing technology and warfare.
He also encouraged realistic training and teamwork with other parts of the military.
He said developing equipment and capabilities in India was important.
During the visit, he honored veterans with the Yoddha Seva Samman.
The veterans were recognized for helping other veterans, young people, the environment and their communities.
General Dhiraj Seth reviewed Southern Command’s operational preparedness at its headquarters in Pune.
Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar briefed the COAS on operations, training and combat-effectiveness measures.
The COAS stressed readiness, adaptability, technology absorption and improved warfighting procedures.
He called for realistic training, greater jointness and stronger indigenous capability development.
General Dhiraj Seth presented Yoddha Seva Samman awards to veterans for welfare and community contributions.
- Who
- General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar and Southern Command personnel and veterans.
- What
- The COAS reviewed operational preparedness and capability-enhancement initiatives, and honored distinguished veterans.
- When
- During General Dhiraj Seth’s reported visit; the date was not specified.
- Where
- Headquarters Southern Command in Pune.
- Why
- To assess and strengthen mission readiness while recognizing veterans’ contributions to welfare, youth empowerment, environmental conservation and community service.
- Visiting official
- General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff
- Location
- Headquarters Southern Command, Pune
- Briefing official
- Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command
- Review focus
- Operational posture, training initiatives and capability enhancement
- Readiness priorities
- Adaptability, technology absorption, realistic training and jointness
- Award
- Yoddha Seva Samman
- Award recipients
- Distinguished veterans recognized for veteran welfare, youth empowerment, environmental conservation and community service