Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi recently conducted a visit to forward posts in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, reinforcing the Indian Army's commitment to maintaining a strong presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The visit, which took place on Sunday, June 8, 2025, aimed to review the operational readiness and assess the security situation in this strategically important sector.
During his visit, General Dwivedi interacted with the troops stationed at the forward posts, commending them for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and professionalism in safeguarding the nation's borders. He emphasized the critical importance of maintaining high standards of operational preparedness and constant vigilance, particularly in the face of evolving security challenges. Uttarakhand, along with Himachal Pradesh, constitutes the Middle Sector of the LAC, making it a vital area for India's defense strategy. The 3,488-kilometer-long LAC remains an undemarcated border between India and China, where both countries exercise actual control on the ground, often leading to differing perceptions of the boundary.
In addition to reviewing operational readiness, General Dwivedi inaugurated Ibex Tarana 88.4 FM, the first community radio station in Jyotirmath, Uttarakhand. This initiative is envisioned as a crucial platform for local expression, knowledge sharing, and the preservation of the region's rich cultural heritage. The radio station will broadcast programs on a variety of topics, including education, environment, weather, entertainment, employment, disaster preparedness, tourism, health, and traditional arts.
During his inaugural podcast, General Dwivedi highlighted the significance of Ibex Tarana as a medium to amplify the voices of the youth, promote local talent, and reconnect people with their cultural roots. He also felicitated distinguished veterans with the Veterans Achievement Award, recognizing their outstanding contributions to nation-building and social development.
General Dwivedi's visit also underscored the Indian Army's focus on technology absorption and modernization. He reiterated the need to integrate advanced systems to enhance defense capabilities in challenging terrains and evolving threat environments. This aligns with the Indian Army's ongoing modernization agenda, emphasizing automation and the use of niche technologies to strengthen its operational effectiveness.
The visit to the forward posts in Uttarakhand and the inauguration of the community radio station demonstrate the Indian Army's commitment to both national security and community development. By maintaining a strong military presence and fostering engagement with local communities, the Army aims to safeguard the nation's borders while promoting the well-being and prosperity of the people living in these strategic areas.
