General Upendra Dwivedi Assesses Combat Readiness and Tech Advancements at Likabali Military Station
On September 17, 2025, General Upendra Dwivedi, who has served as India's 30th Chief of Army Staff since June 2024, made an official visit to the Likabali Military Station. The visit was aimed at assessing the combat readiness of the formation amidst ongoing tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
With more than 60,000 troops stationed in the area since the 2020 Galwan Valley incident, the strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh, situated near the disputed McMahon Line, remains a significant focus for military operations.
During his visit, General Dwivedi received briefings on several critical aspects, including operational strategies, the internal security landscape, and the integration of technology with other security agencies, as well as initiatives for national development.
General Dwivedi praised the troops for their dedication and steadfast commitment while operating in one of the world's most challenging terrains. He also acknowledged the formation's innovative efforts to integrate next-generation technology into the security framework.
His review coincides with the Indian Army's 2024 "Year of Tech Absorption" initiative, part of a broader strategy to modernize warfare capabilities. A study by the RAND Corporation in 2023 supports this approach, suggesting that tech-enhanced militaries can increase operational efficiency by up to 30% in difficult terrains like Arunachal Pradesh.
The emphasis on technological progress draws lessons from the 1962 Sino-Indian War, where the challenging terrain played a crucial role in military operations. This factor remains pertinent today as the Army seeks to improve coordination with other security forces.
General Dwivedi's visit underscores the Indian Army's dedication to maintaining a high level of readiness and adaptability along its northeastern borders, a vital area in the current geopolitical climate.
