- Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth reviews Creek–Kutch preparedness, validates combat readiness through Defence of Gujarat Exercise
Mega Army Eye Camp in Bhuj restores vision to 200+, reaches 2,500 patients across 120 remote villages
Veer Naris and Veer Matas honoured in Ahmedabad; AWWA reinforces the Army’s enduring human connect
Shaurya Sandhya with CM Bhupendra Patel blends martial valour, culture and Viksit Bharat @2047 vision
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, FEB 8
In a visit that seamlessly combined operational vigilance with people-centric outreach, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, conducted a comprehensive review across Gujarat, underscoring the Indian Army’s twin mandate of border security and nation-building.
Operational Readiness in Focus: Creek & Kutch Sectors
With Gujarat’s strategic coastline, creek areas and the sensitive Kutch sector forming a critical part of India’s western security architecture, the Army Commander reviewed preparedness and response capabilities in depth. He witnessed the large-scale Defence of Gujarat Exercise, which validated operational readiness, rapid response mechanisms and multi-agency coordination across complex terrain and demanding operational environments. The exercise reaffirmed Southern Command’s capability to safeguard national interests across Gujarat’s diverse operational domains.
Healing at the Frontiers: Mega Surgical Eye Camp in Bhuj
At Bhuj Military Station, Lt Gen Seth inaugurated a mega Surgical Eye Camp Outreach Programme, organised with specialist ophthalmic teams from Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi. The camp screened over 2,500 patients from more than 120 remote villages, restoring vision to over 200 beneficiaries through advanced diagnostic and surgical interventions. The initiative reflected the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to quality healthcare, particularly for underserved and border-area communities.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, GOC-in-C Southern Command, interacts with a Veteran in Kutch sector.- NE photo
Honouring Sacrifice: Veer Naris and Veer Matas Felicitated
In Ahmedabad, the Army Commander, along with Komal Seth, Regional President, Southern Command Army Women Welfare Association (AWWA), interacted with and felicitated Veer Naris and Veer Matas. The interaction reaffirmed the Indian Army’s deep sense of responsibility towards the families of its brave soldiers, recognising their courage, resilience and sacrifice as integral to the nation’s strength.
Shaurya Sandhya: When Valour Meets Culture
The visit culminated with Shaurya Sandhya, attended by the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendrabhai Patel. The vibrant evening blended martial pride with cultural expression, anchored firmly in the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Highlights included NIFT students showcasing Indian fashion through khadi, the classical grace of Bharatanatyam, and electrifying martial performances by soldiers in Jhankh Pathak, Kalaripayattu and the Army Martial Art Routine (AMAR). Together, the programme celebrated the idea of a Saksham aur Surakshit Bharat, reinforcing the Indian Army’s enduring bond with the people.
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