Eye on reforms, Army to focus on tech, restructuring, joint ops

The Army has prepared a blueprint for making 2025 a ‘Year of Reforms’. It will be anchored on five pillars of force restructuring, joint operations, modernisation, systems and human resource issues.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ last week. These reforms will be aimed at enhancing operational readiness, embracing technological advancements, and fostering integration, sources said.

They added that five pillars in the blueprint are — integration; force restructuring; modernisation and technology infusion; systems and processes; and human resource management.

The Army has envisioned that this year of reform would make the force capable of executing multi-domain, integrated operations. It has already identified the period from 2023 to 2032 as the ‘Decade of Transformation’.

It would allow seamless rollout of integrated theatre commands (ITCs). Its other initiatives would include joint doctrines, shared tactics and cross-service staffing between the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Citing opportunities in new domains like cybersecurity, space and artificial intelligence (AI), the Army also plans to harness indigenous solutions in AI, machine learning, hypersonic technology and robotics.

Besides, the Army is looking for the creation of specialised units to leverage niche technologies and newer domains. Procurement procedures are being streamlined to ensure reduced timelines and greater alignment with the technology, enabling faster and more effective acquisition of critical assets.

Bilateral and multilateral exercises will be leveraged to showcase indigenous defence capabilities and promote the Indian defence industry at the global stage.

At the HR-management level, policy reviews and initiatives are being undertaken to cultivate a motivated workforce, deeply rooted in India’s military heritage and traditions. Special emphasis will be on the induction of women, the Agnipath scheme and veterans’ welfare, ensuring a well-rounded approach to talent management.