Indian Army Renames 246 Cantonment Roads and Facilities to Honor National Heroes
The Indian Army has renamed 246 roads, colonies, and other facilities across multiple cantonments as part of a nationwide initiative to replace colonial-era names with those reflecting India’s military heroes and cultural heritage. The move is aimed at aligning defence spaces with national identity and historical legacy.Officials said the renaming exercise recognizes the contributions of distinguished soldiers, war heroes, and notable figures from India’s armed forces, while removing names associated with the colonial period. The initiative is also intended to promote greater public awareness of India’s military history and values.The updated names are being implemented across signage, records, and official maps in phases. The step is part of a broader heritage-driven reform within defence establishments to celebrate indigenous legacy and commemorate acts of bravery and service.
Southern Army Commander Reviews High-Intensity Exercise Rudra Shakti at Pokhran
Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Southern Command, recently reviewed the high-intensity field exercise “Rudra Shakti” at Pokhran. The large-scale drills were conducted to validate operational readiness and enhance preparedness for integrated operations in complex and evolving battlefield scenarios.The exercise involved coordinated deployment of multiple combat arms and support elements, focusing on joint planning, rapid response, and battlefield synergy. Officials said the manoeuvres tested tactical execution, command and control systems, and interoperability under simulated combat conditions.Lt Gen Seth interacted with participating troops and commanders, appreciating their professionalism and operational standards. The review underscored the Army’s continued emphasis on realistic training, technology integration, and mission readiness to effectively respond to emerging security challenges across varied terrains and threat environments.
Army Chief Launches “Friends for Life” Global Military Engagement Platform
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has launched the “Friends for Life” website, a new digital platform designed to deepen long-term engagement between the Indian Army and military officers from 99 friendly foreign nations. The initiative aims to strengthen professional relationships built through joint training programs, defence courses, and exchange assignments in India.The platform will serve as a dedicated network for continued interaction, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among international officers associated with Indian military institutions. It is expected to support alumni-style engagement, strategic dialogue, and cooperative learning beyond formal training tenures.Officials said the portal reflects India’s growing defence diplomacy outreach and commitment to sustained military-to-military partnerships. By enabling continuous global connectivity, the initiative promotes trust, interoperability, and shared understanding among partner nations’ armed forces.
Security Forces Launch Major Search Operations in J&K’s Kishtwar After Officer’s Killing
Security forces have intensified search-and-cordon operations in Jammu & Kashmir’s Kishtwar district following the targeted killing of a senior officer. Multi-agency teams comprising the Army, police, and paramilitary units are conducting coordinated combing operations across sensitive areas to trace those responsible for the attack.Officials said additional checkpoints, patrols, and surveillance measures have been put in place, with forces focusing on forested belts and suspected hideouts. Intelligence inputs are being closely monitored, and movement in vulnerable zones is under strict watch.Authorities have termed the operation a priority security response, aimed at ensuring accountability and preventing further violence. The stepped-up action reflects heightened alertness in the region, with reinforcement deployments and area domination exercises underway to stabilize the situation and reassure local residents.
Exercise KHANJAR 2026: India–Kyrgyzstan Special Forces Drill Underway in Assam
The 13th edition of the India–Kyrgyzstan joint special forces exercise, Exercise KHANJAR 2026, is currently underway at Misamari in Assam. The annual bilateral drill brings together elite troops from India’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Kyrgyzstan’s ILBRIS Special Forces Brigade.The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability and joint operational capability in complex scenarios. Training modules include urban warfare, counter-terrorism operations, close-quarters battle, and mountain craft. Troops are also conducting coordinated tactical drills, special reconnaissance, and hostage-rescue simulations under realistic conditions.Defence officials said the exercise strengthens military-to-military ties and promotes exchange of best practices in special operations. KHANJAR has evolved into a key platform for deepening defence cooperation between the two countries while improving readiness for hybrid and high-risk mission environments.
MoD Releases Draft Defence Acquisition Procedure 2026 for Public Feedback
The Ministry of Defence has unveiled the draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2026 and invited public feedback, marking a major shift in India’s defence procurement framework. The proposed policy moves beyond “Made in India” toward an “Owned by India” approach, giving priority to domestic companies that hold their own intellectual property and design rights.DAP-2026 aims to significantly accelerate acquisitions by cutting procurement timelines by up to 50 percent through streamlined processes and faster approvals. Another key reform is the move away from the traditional lowest-bidder (L1) model toward selection based more strongly on technical superiority and overall capability.Officials say the draft framework is designed to boost indigenous defence innovation, strengthen self-reliance, and create a more efficient, technology-driven procurement ecosystem for the armed forces.
