General Dhiraj Seth has taken charge as the 31st Chief of the Indian Army, setting out a reform agenda focused on modernisation, technology and self-reliance under the “VIJAY” framework. He said the Army will prioritise vigilance, innovation, jointness, indigenous capability and soldier welfare to meet evolving security challenges…reports Asian Lite News Desk
General Dhiraj Seth has taken charge as the 31st Chief of the Indian Army, outlining an ambitious roadmap to transform the force into a technology-driven and future-ready institution under a strategic framework he has named “VIJAY”.
In his first address after assuming office, General Seth said it was a moment of “pride and humility” to lead the Indian Army, adding that he remained committed to the values of “Duty, Honour, and Nation First”. He also thanked the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister for the trust placed in him.
Paying tribute to soldiers who have died in service, he said their courage, devotion and sacrifice would continue to inspire future generations. He also acknowledged his predecessors, including General Upendra Dwivedi, crediting earlier leadership for shaping the Army into a “strong, robust and reliable force”.
Central to his vision is the “VIJAY” framework, which he described as the guiding structure for modernising the Army in response to evolving security challenges and changing forms of warfare. He said the framework reflects the broader national direction on jointness, innovation and self-reliance.
The first pillar, “V”, stands for Vigilance and Readiness. General Seth said the Army would maintain constant vigilance along borders and emerging threat areas, alongside a high level of operational readiness to respond to any security challenge.
“I” represents Innovation and Transformation, with the Army Chief stressing the need for both doctrinal and technological advancement. He said innovation must be embedded in the Army’s mindset, operational methods and capability development, while transformation would be essential to adapt to future battlefields.
“J” stands for Jointness and Integration, which he described as vital for modern military effectiveness. He called for greater synergy between the Army, Air Force and Navy, adding that integrated operations would enhance national defence capability and contribute to broader national goals, including “Viksit Bharat 2047”.
“A” stands for Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, with a focus on increasing the use of indigenous defence technologies and reducing dependence on foreign systems. General Seth said the Army’s aim would be to “win wars with indigenous solutions”.
“Y” represents Yoddha First, which he described as his guiding principle. He said every member of the force, from the youngest Agniveer to the most senior veteran, is a warrior. He also emphasised training, professional excellence, technological competence, and the welfare of veterans and Veer Naris.
General Seth said the Indian Army remains a “combat ready and battle hardened force”, but noted that the evolving security environment requires deeper integration of technology, innovation and coordination across domains. He added that the Army would align its transformation with the Defence Minister’s broader “Decade of Transformation” vision.
He also extended the idea of jointness beyond the military, referring to a “whole of nation” approach involving civil-military coordination to strengthen national security preparedness.
Reiterating his commitment to India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Army Chief said the force would continue to remain prepared to address any challenge. He concluded his address by linking the VIJAY framework to national priorities, stating that it is rooted in the philosophy of jointness, innovation and atmanirbharta.
General Seth also referred to his slogan, “Jai se Vijay”, and concluded with “Jai Hind, Jai Bharat”, expressing readiness to work with all stakeholders in shaping a future-ready Army.
