Officers from Army War College Undergo Desert Warfare Training at Konark Corps Headquarters, Jodhpur

Senior officers participating in the 54th Higher Command Course at the Army War College in Mhow recently engaged in a specialized training session at the Konark Corps headquarters located in Jodhpur. The training was centered on the complexities of desert warfare, aiming to equip future military commanders with the skills needed to handle the operational challenges specific to India's arid western frontiers.

The Konark Corps, established in 1987 during Operation Trident amid heightened Indo-Pak tensions, is pivotal in securing the desert areas of Rajasthan and the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. During their visit, officers including Colonels, Captains, and Group Captains received briefings on tactical maneuvers, operational planning, and strategies spanning multiple domains that are vital for operations in desert environments.

A key part of the session involved an in-depth discussion of Operation Sindoor, which was launched earlier this year following the terror attack in Pahalgam on August 15 that resulted in the loss of 26 civilian lives. The successful counter-operation received commendation from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 25, highlighting the effective collaboration between the Indian Army and local border communities in thwarting Pakistan-backed threats.

The training also covered the sensitive regions of the Rann of Kutch and Sir Creek, where the unresolved maritime boundary with Pakistan presents ongoing strategic and economic challenges. A joint survey conducted in 2007 identified a 1.5 km eastward shift in the boundary, emphasizing the area's potential for hydrocarbon resources and increasing the stakes involved.

The Army War College, which trains approximately 3,000 officers each year, frequently includes such real-world case studies in its Higher Command Course curriculum. By immersing officers in complex environments like deserts, the program is designed to enhance leadership capabilities, adaptability, and strategic insight.

This initiative highlights India's ongoing commitment to maintaining combat readiness and underscores its focus on preparing senior military leaders for future conflicts in regions characterized by historical disputes and emerging security challenges.