New Army Chief Dhiraj Seth outlines VIJAY roadmap for future readiness
NEW DELHI, July 1, 2026:- A day after assuming charge as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff, General Dhiraj Seth paid solemn homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation at the National War Memorial. Dhiraj Seth, who took over the appointment on the afternoon of June 30, 2026, laid a wreath at the memorial and paid tributes to the fallen soldiers, whose courage, devotion to duty, and selfless service continue to inspire generations.
Following the tribute, the Chief of the Army Staff reviewed a Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns. After the ceremonial event, Dhiraj Seth addressed the media, expressing great pride and humility in assuming the responsibility of leading the Indian Army. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the ideals of duty, honour, and nation first, while thanking the Prime Minister and the Raksha Mantri for reposing their trust in him. He also paid his respects to General Upendra Dwivedi and all former Chiefs of the Army Staff for their vision in shaping the force.
Describing the Indian Army as a combat-ready and battle-hardened force, Dhiraj Seth stated that the Army remains fully prepared to meet every challenge in the operational domain. He emphasised that, in view of the evolving security environment, the modernisation of the Army would be taken forward with renewed energy to build a technology-enabled, future-ready force capable of operating effectively across multiple domains.
The new chief outlined his key focus areas through the acronym VIJAY, drawing inspiration from the guidance of the Raksha Mantri under the Decade of Transformation. He explained that V stands for Vigilance, focusing on constant alertness along the borders, while I stands for Innovation and Transformation in doctrine, technology, and capability development to match the changing character of warfare.
Further detailing the roadmap, Dhiraj Seth stated that J stands for Jointness and Integration, highlighting the need for complete synergy with the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. He underlined that national security requires military-civil fusion and a whole-of-nation approach, which will also contribute to the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Referring to A for Atmanirbharta, Dhiraj Seth said the Army would continue to strengthen indigenous capabilities with the aim of winning wars with indigenous solutions. Finally, he explained Y as Yodha First, stating that every soldier, from the Agniveer to the senior-most veteran, is the greatest strength of the Indian Army. Enhancing their training, technological threshold, and welfare remains a foremost priority.
Concluding his address, he assured citizens that the Army is fully prepared to protect national interests, noting that the Prime Minister’s mantra of JAI forms the foundation of his priorities, guiding the Army with the motto JAI se VIJAY.