New Delhi, Jan 13: The Indian Army remains in a state of high alert along the Line of Actual Control, with General Manoj Dwivedi describing the northern border as stable yet requiring continuous oversight. During his annual press conference ahead of Army Day, the Army Chief confirmed that military deployments remain balanced to counter any shifts in the regional security landscape.
“Situation at northern front remains stable but needs constant monitoring,” General Dwivedi stated. “Our deployment along the Line of Actual Control remains balanced.”
This assessment follows a pivotal October 2024 agreement between India and China regarding patrolling arrangements in Eastern Ladakh’s Depsang area. That deal effectively concluded a tense military standoff that had persisted since April 2020. Since the breakthrough, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi have met twice to progress toward formal boundary demarcation.
The General also addressed historical tensions with Pakistan, specifically dismissing previous concerns regarding nuclear escalations during past skirmishes. He noted that such threats were not part of military-to-military communications.
“There was no mention of nuclear during the talks the two DGMO’s had during that period,” General Dwivedi clarified. He noted that such rhetoric originated elsewhere, adding, “The nuclear rhetoric was being pushed by the political class.”
Regarding the current posture following the May 10 cessation of hostilities, the Army Chief noted that while some forward units moved back by late May, the force maintains total situational awareness.
“Our eyes and ears are open,” he remarked.
Looking toward the future, the Army is undergoing a massive structural overhaul aimed at deep-strike capabilities and seamless integration. This transformation includes the development of theatre commands and the raising of specialized units such as Bhairav light commando battalions, Shaktibaan regiments, Divyaastra artillery batteries, and Ashni platoons.
“By 2026, we will have an Indian Army capable of striking deep,” General Dwivedi said, pointing to the ongoing restructuring and technological upgrades designed to modernize the force.
