Indian Army Declares 2024 as the “Year of Technology Absorption” for Transformative Change

The Indian Army has declared 2024 as the “Year of Technology Absorption.” The Indian Army, emphasizing its commitment to using technology as a catalyst for transformative change, intends to use in-house expertise to develop solutions for operational and logistical needs. The emphasis will be on working with the domestic defence industry to shape these projects and accelerate technological advancements.

As part of this initiative, the Indian Army has commenced a mission to enhance its cyberspace capability. Personnel are undergoing training to effectively leverage technology and exploit the cyber domain through institutionalized, procedural, and technological measures. One notable project, named SAMBHAV, introduces an end-to-end, secure, network-agnostic mobile ecosystem designed to provide secure communication with instant connectivity on the move. Operating on state-of-the-art contemporary 5G technology, SAMBHAV represents a significant leap forward in India’s defence capability.

Addressing connectivity challenges, the Indian Army has identified 355 army posts for which it has requested 4G connectivity from the telecom ministry. Infrastructure improvements extend to forward airfields, villages, and helipads, with a focus on underground storage facilities. Army Chief General Manoj Pande affirmed progress in all domains along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

In addition to technological strides, the Indian Army is implementing restructuring initiatives, including artillery units, electronic warfare, and electronic intelligence units. Notably, the Army is reducing reliance on animal transport units, replacing them with drones. A comprehensive plan aims to optimize strength, with a target of achieving a reduction of 1 lakh personnel by 2027, pending government approval.

Highlighting a transformative human resource initiative, the Indian Army emphasized a project aimed at productive and fruitful employment for over 62,000 retiring soldiers annually. This initiative also seeks to empower the skilling and employment of veterans, contributing to their post-military career opportunities.