In a landmark step towards Atmanirbharta in defence technology, the Indian Army has joined hands with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras to establish ‘Agnishodh’, the Indian Army Research Cell (IARC) on the IIT Madras campus. The research facility was formally inaugurated today by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), during his two-day visit to Chennai.

The initiative is part of the Indian Army’s broader transformation framework, guided by the Five Pillars of Transformation articulated by the COAS. Agnishodh specifically advances one of the pillars, Modernisation and Technology Infusion and represents the Indian Army’s drive to seamlessly integrate academic research with real-time operational applications.

Addressing a gathering at IIT Madras on the theme "Operation Sindoor – A New Chapter in India’s Fight Against Terrorism," General Upendra Dwivedi described the operation as a landmark, intelligence-driven response that redefined India’s counter-terrorism doctrine. He noted that the 88-hour operation was unprecedented in scale, range, depth, and strategic impact, and was executed across the DIME spectrum. Highlighting the evolving nature of warfare, he underscored that Indian Armed Forces are prepared for fifth-generation conflicts driven by non-contact warfare, strategic tempo, and psychological dominance. Emphasising Indian Army’s commitment to self-reliance under “Swadeshikaran Se Sashaktikaran,” he outlined key collaborations under national technology missions such as INDIAai, Chip-to-Startup, and Project QuILA, with MCTE Mhow as a strategic partner. He appreciated the projects undertaken by Indian Army Cells at IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, and IISc Bengaluru by harnessing academic innovations. Lauding IIT Madras for its excellence in defence research, he said initiatives like Project SAMBHAV and additive manufacturing partnerships with Army Base Workshops are setting new benchmarks. He concluded by stating that AGNISHODH, the new IITM–Indian Army Research Centre, would transform academic excellence into battlefield innovation, powering India's journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

The Agnishodh collaboration will further extend into the IIT Madras Research Park, working alongside entities such as the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Centre (AMTDC) and Pravartak Technologies Foundation. This will serve as a unique platform to convert lab-scale innovations into field-ready technologies.

Additionally, Agnishodh will play a vital role in upskilling military personnel in key emerging areas including additive manufacturing, cybersecurity, quantum computing, wireless communication, and unmanned aerial systems building a tech-empowered human resource base within the Armed Forces.

General Upendra Dwivedi also visited the Officers Training   Academy (OTA), where he was briefed on the academy’s infrastructure, modern training methodologies, and initiatives undertaken to prepare future military leaders for contemporary challenges. He lauded the efforts of the instructional staff in fostering excellence and instilling core military values among cadets. During his address, the COAS highlighted the transformative journey of the Indian Army, underlining the changing character of warfare marked by grey zone conflicts, technological democratisation and need for integrated responses. Reflecting on Operation SINDOOR, he stated that the tri-services offensive showcased India's ability to deliver precise, punitive and coordinated action, compelling Pakistan to seek a ceasefire within 88 hours. He emphasised that future conflicts would demand a blend of conventional strength and modern capabilities, where “boots must share space with bots.” He reiterated Indian Army’s commitment to its ‘Decade of Transformation’ through various reforms.

The COAS also interacted with a gathering of veterans, acknowledging their enduring contribution to the nation and the Armed Forces. On the occasion, he felicitated four distinguished ex-servicemen with Veteran Achievers Awards, honouring their selfless service and continued commitment to nation-building.

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(Release ID: 2152204)