Rajnath Singh addressed Army commanders and released a doctrine for future land warfare. The initiative combines long-term planning with technology, joint operations and immediate combat preparedness.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday unveiled the Land Warfare Doctrine, an overarching framework designed to prepare the Indian Army for the evolving nature of warfare and future conflicts.
Addressing the Army Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on October 23, 2026, Singh called for a long-term strategic vision spanning the next 20 to 30 years while emphasising the need to remain prepared for immediate and emerging challenges.
Singh urged Army commanders to closely monitor geopolitical and regional developments and ensure the force remains ready to respond to changing security challenges.
He stressed that military strategies must remain dynamic and flexible, allowing the Army to adapt its plans and capabilities as circumstances evolve.
He also underscored the importance of an integrated approach to modern warfare, saying success would depend on multi-domain capabilities and seamless coordination during joint operations.
At the conference, senior Army commanders conducted a comprehensive review of the force’s combat readiness along the borders with China and Pakistan, according to the Press Trust of India (PTI).
OP SINDOOR HIGHLIGHTED AS EXAMPLE OF MILITARY ADAPTATION
Commending the armed forces for adapting to evolving operational conditions, Singh credited innovative thinking, enhanced synergy, superior coordination and advanced weaponry for contributing to the success of Operation Sindoor.
He said the operation sent a clear message that India would not hesitate to take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.
The defence minister also praised the military’s restructuring efforts, particularly its growing focus on drones and modern technology. He stressed the need to strengthen military capabilities, continuously assess operational performance and introduce improvements in response to changing circumstances.
Singh called for faster progress in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data analytics, cybersecurity and secure communication networks, highlighting the importance of these technologies in strengthening the armed forces’ preparedness for future conflicts.
LAND WARFARE AND GROUND FORCES REMAIN INDISPENSABLE
Singh emphasised that land warfare and ground forces would continue to play an indispensable role despite the growing significance of challenges across the air, maritime, space and cyber domains.
He called for an integrated approach that combines capabilities across these domains and enables seamless coordination during joint operations. The Land Warfare Doctrine provides an overarching framework to prepare the Indian Army for the changing character of warfare and the challenges posed by future conflicts.
The doctrine’s release formed a key part of the conference, which focused on long-term military preparedness, operational capabilities and adaptation to evolving security requirements.
DEFENCE PRODUCTION REACHES RECORD RS 1.78 LAKH CRORE
Singh acknowledged the armed forces’ efforts towards self-reliance and said India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities reflected the concerted efforts of all stakeholders.
“Amidst the changing global landscape, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government is prioritising Aatmanirbharta in defence. In the financial year 2025-26, defence production surged to a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore, with defence exports reaching an all-time high of approximately Rs 38,000 crore,” Singh said, according to PTI.
He linked the emphasis on self-reliance to the broader need to strengthen India’s military capabilities and ensure that the armed forces can respond effectively to evolving operational requirements.
SINGH CALLS FOR EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF DEFENCE REFORMS
Referring to the ‘Year of Reforms - 2025’, Singh said reform remained a continuous process and that its success depended on effective implementation.
He urged commanders to advance reforms within their respective commands and echelons, ensuring that the measures translated into tangible improvements in operational capabilities.
Singh also credited the valour, discipline, preparedness and restraint of the defence forces, alongside the dynamic leadership and diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for strengthening India’s global standing.
He called on the armed forces to maintain their focus on self-reliance, effective implementation of reforms, improved manpower management, greater participation of women and an integrated approach to national security.
UN JOURNAL UNVEILED, ARMY PERSONNEL FELICITATED
During the conference, Singh also unveiled the annual United Nations Journal and felicitated Indian Army personnel who had made notable contributions while serving as United Nations peacekeepers. He recognised their exemplary service, professionalism and contribution to international peace and security.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials attended the occasion.
The conference highlighted the Indian Army’s focus on preparing for future conflicts through long-term strategic planning, technological advancement, operational readiness, defence self-reliance and effective implementation of reforms. Singh’s address reinforced the need to combine these priorities with continued preparedness for immediate threats and stronger coordination across the armed forces.
- Ends