NE DEFENCE BUREAU
CHENNAI, OCT 15
Operational preparedness is not merely about being equipped for the challenges of today, but anticipating the threats of tomorrow through professionalism, innovation and technological adaptability. Delivering this message, Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Southern Command, exhorted Army personnel to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, encourage innovation and remain prepared for evolving operational challenges during his visit to Headquarters Dakshin Bharat Area in Chennai on Thursday.
The visit focused on initiatives to strengthen operational readiness, rear-area security, infrastructure development and logistical capabilities, while reinforcing institutional resilience and the adoption of emerging technologies.
- COMMANDER’S CALL: Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar exhorts troops to uphold professionalism, foster innovation and anticipate evolving operational challenges
- SECURITY & SUSTAINABILITY: Dakshin Bharat Area reviews operational readiness, rear-area security, infrastructure and logistics
- VETERANS, THE NATION’S PRIDE: Yoddha Seva Samman recognises three veterans for welfare, humanitarian outreach and nation-building
- ATMANIRBHAR DEFENCE: HTL visit spotlights indigenous optical-fibre manufacturing and industry–Army synergy for secure communications
During his review, the Army Commander assessed measures aimed at enhancing preparedness and strengthening the support systems essential to sustained military effectiveness. The emphasis on robust logistics, secure rear areas and resilient infrastructure underlined their importance in supporting operational capabilities across changing security environments.
Honouring service beyond the uniform
Recognising that military service to the nation continues long after retirement, Lt Gen Pushkar conferred the Yoddha Seva Samman on three distinguished veterans for their contributions to veteran welfare, community development, humanitarian outreach and nation-building.
Retired Brig Ramaswamy Iyenger Raghunathan was recognised for empowering lakhs of farmers through sustainable agriculture and water conservation initiatives, while promoting green spaces to support veterans’ well-being.
Col Bhupinder Singh (Retd), president of the Armed Forces Veteran Officers Association (AFVOA), was honoured for his work in free healthcare, veterans’ welfare, disaster relief and the rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy.
Nb Sub Alexander CC (Retd), who volunteers at the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinic in Chennai, received recognition for his dedicated service to ex-servicemen and efforts to improve organisational efficiency.
The honours highlighted the enduring contribution of veterans to society, extending the ethos of service, compassion and commitment beyond their years in uniform.
Indigenous technology strengthens defence connectivity
As part of the visit, the Army Commander also visited Himachal Telecommunication Limited (HTL), a subsidiary of Himachal Futuristic Communications Limited (HFCL), at Guindy in Chennai.
He was briefed on the company’s indigenous manufacturing capabilities in optical-fibre cables and connectivity solutions supporting the Indian Army’s communications infrastructure.
The visit underscored the strategic importance of domestic telecommunications manufacturing and closer industry–Army collaboration in strengthening secure communications, improving operational connectivity and building a resilient defence ecosystem.
Reliable communications infrastructure is a critical enabler of military coordination and operational effectiveness. The engagement highlighted the role Indian industry can play in supporting the Army’s technological requirements while advancing indigenous defence capabilities.
The visit reaffirmed Southern Command’s focus on operational excellence, technological advancement, robust logistics and infrastructure, alongside its recognition of veterans whose continued contributions exemplify service to the nation.