Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Unveils Land Warfare Doctrine to Strengthen Armys Future Preparedness

New Delhi, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed Army commanders in New Delhi on October 23, 2026, urging them to closely monitor geopolitical developments and prepare for future challenges. He highlighted the necessity of a long-term strategic vision for the next 20 to 30 years and called on senior military leaders to remain agile in responding to emerging threats.

Singh praised the Defence Forces for their adaptability to changing operational conditions, noting that new strategies, improved coordination, and advanced weaponry contributed to the success of Operation Sindoor. He asserted that India will not hesitate to take necessary steps to protect its national interests.

The minister emphasized the importance of modernizing the army, particularly through the use of drones and advanced technologies. He stressed the need for continuous performance assessment and timely reforms to strengthen capabilities. Areas such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data analytics, cybersecurity, and secure communication networks were highlighted as critical for future military operations.

Despite the growing significance of air, sea, space, and cyber domains, Singh maintained that ground warfare and land forces remain essential. He advocated for an integrated approach to modern combat, asserting that success hinges on multi-domain capabilities and effective joint operations.

Singh acknowledged India’s strides toward self-reliance in defense manufacturing, attributing these advancements to collaborative efforts among stakeholders. He noted that the current global landscape has prompted the Modi government to prioritize self-sufficiency in the defense sector. In the financial year 2025-26, defense production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore, while defense exports soared to an all-time high of approximately ₹38,000 crore.

Referring to 2025 as the “Year of Reforms,” Singh emphasized that successful reforms depend on effective implementation. He urged commanders to advance these reforms within their respective commands to enhance operational capabilities.

The minister credited the bravery, discipline, and preparedness of the Defence Forces, along with Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and diplomatic efforts, for strengthening India’s global standing. He called for continued focus on self-reliance, effective implementation of reforms, improved manpower management, increased participation of women, and an integrated approach to national security.

During the conference, Singh released the Land Warfare Doctrine, which provides a comprehensive framework for preparing the Indian Army to face the evolving nature of warfare and future conflicts. He also unveiled the annual United Nations Journal, honoring Indian soldiers who have significantly contributed as United Nations peacekeepers, recognizing their exceptional service, professionalism, and role in international peace and security.

Attendees included Defence State Minister Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani, Chief of Army Staff General Dheeraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and other senior officials. This conference served as a vital forum for the senior leadership of the Indian Army to review ongoing efforts, identify crucial future areas, and formulate policies aimed at creating a progressive, adaptive, technology-equipped, and future-ready military.