Shimla, September 28: The Army Training Command (ARTRAC) marked its 35th Raising Day in Shimla on Sunday with a series of events that combined celebration, fitness, and a renewed emphasis on preparing the Army for future challenges.
The celebrations began with a band display at the Ridge Maidan, where the Army Symphony Band performed a mix of military music and popular Bollywood numbers, drawing an appreciative crowd. A three-kilometre “run for excellence” from the Institute of Advanced Studies to the Ridge was flagged off by Lt Gen Devendra Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC.
The run, featuring troops, families, and children, showcased unity and camaraderie. “Staying fit and healthy is of utmost importance, especially in today’s digital age,” Lt Gen Sharma said, underscoring ARTRAC’s commitment to the Fit India initiative.
Raised in 1991 at Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, with Lt Gen A.S. Kalkat as its first commander, ARTRAC was relocated to Shimla in 1993. It is one of the seven Army commands and is tasked with institutionalised training through 34 establishments across the country. The Command formulates doctrines, integrates innovations and technologies into training, and studies global military trends to refine India’s preparedness.
With modern warfare expected to be defined by advanced technology, ARTRAC has launched an ambitious plan to transform 15 major Army training institutions into “Centres of Expertise” in 33 niche technologies by 2030. This initiative is supported by an investment of Rs 390 crore over the next five years, covering research, development, infrastructure, and training.
As part of the Army’s “Decade of Transformation” and “Year of Technology Absorption,” ARTRAC has rolled out 57 initiatives spanning jointness and integration, force restructuring, modernisation, systems and processes, and human resource management.
Officials said ARTRAC’s evolving role is central to developing leadership and training strategies to ensure the Army remains agile and future-ready.
