Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding in Chief of the Indian Army’s Southern Command, carried out a comprehensive visit to Gujarat to review operational preparedness, border security, and civil outreach initiatives. The visit focused particularly on the strategically important Kutch and Creek sectors, which remain vital to India’s western security architecture.
During the tour, Lt Gen Seth conducted a detailed assessment of border management measures along the challenging terrain of the Creek and Kutch regions. These areas, known for their difficult geography and operational complexity, require constant vigilance and seamless coordination among multiple agencies. The review covered surveillance systems, troop deployment, logistics support, and rapid response mechanisms designed to address both conventional and asymmetric threats.
A key highlight of the visit was the Southern Command chief’s oversight of the large scale Defence of Gujarat exercise. The exercise was designed to test the Indian Army’s operational readiness under realistic combat conditions. It involved coordination between various military formations and civil agencies, focusing on swift mobilisation, joint planning, and effective execution in demanding environments. The drill validated the Army’s ability to respond decisively to diverse security contingencies and reinforced its preparedness to safeguard national interests across Gujarat.
The exercise also examined inter agency coordination, communication efficiency, and the ability to operate under time sensitive scenarios. Senior officers briefed Lt Gen Seth on lessons learned and areas of improvement, ensuring that operational feedback is incorporated into future planning and training.
Beyond operational matters, the visit also reflected the Indian Army’s emphasis on welfare and community engagement. Lt Gen Seth inaugurated a mega Army eye care camp aimed at providing free medical services to civilians and veterans in the region. The initiative forms part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to support public health and strengthen ties with local communities.
The Southern Command chief also interacted with Veer Naris and Veer Matas, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the families of fallen soldiers. During the interaction, he expressed gratitude for their resilience and reaffirmed the Army’s continued commitment to their welfare and support. Such engagements remain a vital aspect of the Army’s ethos, reinforcing respect and recognition for those who have served the nation.
Throughout the visit, Lt Gen Seth emphasised the importance of operational excellence, discipline, and adaptability in the face of evolving security challenges. He lauded the troops for their professionalism and dedication, particularly in maintaining high levels of readiness in demanding operational conditions.
The Gujarat tour underscored Southern Command’s balanced approach that combines combat preparedness with humanitarian outreach and cultural engagement. By integrating operational reviews with welfare initiatives, the visit reinforced the Indian Army’s role not only as a guardian of national security but also as a responsible institution deeply connected to the people it serves.
