Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan visited Indian Army’s Northern Command at Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir and Western Command at Chandimandir Military Station, Haryana on May 25, 2025.
He interacted with the Army Commanders, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma and Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, and senior Staff Officers who were actively involved in the planning and execution of Operation Sindoor.
He conducted a strategic review and operational assessment in the Northern and Western theatres during the visit. At Udhampur, the CDS was briefed on the success of the Northern Army in neutralising the terror network, adversary’s assets that supported terror and counter measures taken to protect own military assets & civil population during Operation Sindoor.
He was apprised about the efforts by the Northern Army in the rehabilitation of the civilians of the border areas who were targeted by the adversary. The Northern Army Commander gave an update on the continued operational & logistics preparedness of the Northern Army and assured the CDS of its commitment in protecting the borders, while also launching an all-out effort to eradicate terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.
At Chandimandir, a comprehensive brief on the kinetic & non-kinetic punitive response during Operation Sindoor was given by the Western Army Commander. A detailed overview of the operational environment, defence preparedness and key outcomes of the operation were provided, while underscoring the prevailing security situation along the Western borders.
Inputs on technological infusion and enhanced logistics capability, contributing to high operational efficiency, real-time situational awareness, strengthening the military capability of Western Army were also highlighted.
The CDS was also given an insight into Veterans’ Care & Medicare facilities extended to serving & retired personnel reflecting the Indian Army’s firm commitment to welfare of those who serve the national cause.
General Anil Chauhan remembered the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty during Operation Sindoor, lauding the valour, resolve, precision & discipline of all ranks.
He acknowledged the operational excellence achieved by the field formations responsible for the Northern and Western borders in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab. The CDS commended the overall synergy & timely accomplishment of operational tasks under challenging conditions.
He emphasised the importance of continued vigilance, jointness & synergy across the Services to address evolving threats. He exhorted them to render a helping hand in rehabilitation of the civilians who were targeted by the adversary.
The visit concluded with the CDS expressing his deep appreciation for the exemplary conduct and successful execution of military operations which reaffirmed the faith reposed by the nation in its Armed Forces.
He attributed the overall success achieved in attaining national security objectives to high morale, discipline and unwavering commitment of the Indian Army.