Indian Army Launches 'Agnishodh' Research Cell at IIT Madras for Advancing Indigenous Defence Technology
Chennai, August 4 – In a significant move towards enhancing self-reliance in defense technology, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), inaugurated the 'Agnishodh' Indian Army Research Cell (IARC) at IIT Madras. This launch represents a key collaboration between the Indian Army and the prominent technical institute, with a focus on accelerating research-driven solutions for real-time military applications.
The establishment of Agnishodh is in line with the Army’s broader transformation agenda, particularly the Five Pillars of Transformation outlined by the COAS. The research facility aims to advance the pillar of Modernisation and Technology Infusion, merging academic excellence with operational defense requirements.
Speaking at IIT Madras on the theme "Operation Sindoor – A New Chapter in India’s Fight Against Terrorism," General Dwivedi praised the recent tri-services operation as a landmark in India's counter-terrorism strategy. He noted that the 88-hour offensive was unprecedented in its scope, impact, and strategic depth. Emphasizing the changing nature of warfare, the COAS asserted that the Armed Forces are prepared for fifth-generation warfare, involving non-contact combat, psychological operations, and rapid strategic execution.
He reiterated the Indian Army’s dedication to Swadeshikaran Se Sashaktikaran, highlighting crucial technological partnerships under national missions such as INDIAai, Chip-to-Startup, and Project QuILA. He acknowledged successful collaborations with IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, and IISc Bengaluru, and commended IIT Madras for initiatives like SAMBHAV and additive manufacturing projects with Army Base Workshops.
General Dwivedi stated that Agnishodh would act as a catalyst in transforming lab-scale innovations into field-ready military technologies. The cell will also collaborate with the IIT Madras Research Park and leading institutions like the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Centre (AMTDC) and Pravartak Technologies Foundation.
Agnishodh will further focus on upskilling soldiers in emerging technological domains such as cybersecurity, quantum computing, additive manufacturing, wireless communication, and unmanned aerial systems, ensuring a defense force that is prepared for the future.
Later, the COAS visited the Officers Training Academy (OTA), where he reviewed infrastructure and training advancements. Praising the instructional staff, he stressed the importance of preparing future leaders to address contemporary and hybrid warfare challenges. Reflecting on Operation Sindoor, he noted that the swift and precise execution prompted Pakistan to call for a ceasefire within 88 hours.
He also engaged with veterans and honored four ex-servicemen with the Veteran Achievers Awards, recognizing their continued service to the nation post-retirement.
This initiative represents another significant step in the Indian Army’s journey towards becoming a technologically empowered and future-ready force by 2047.
