Indian Army - Revision history

Chief Editor at 16:24, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T16:24:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:24, 22 December 2025
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	==== Technical Entry Scheme (TES) ====		==== Technical Entry Scheme (TES) ====
			[[File:CME Pune.png\|thumb\|300x300px\|CME Pune, the professional training academy for the TES cadets]]
	The Technical entry scheme (TES) is a specialized route for 10+2, students who have opted Physics, Chemistry and Maths as their main subjects; to join the Army as engineering officers in technical branches. Candidates applying for TES shall be unmarried male indian citizens, aged 16½ to 19½ years, and must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics with at least 60% aggregate, and appeared in Joint Entrance Examination - Main with 85-90 percentile score. Unlike NDA or CDSE, TES has no written exam and selection is based on academic performance, SSB evaluation and final medical tests.		The Technical entry scheme (TES) is a specialized route for 10+2, students who have opted Physics, Chemistry and Maths as their main subjects; to join the Army as engineering officers in technical branches. Candidates applying for TES shall be unmarried male indian citizens, aged 16½ to 19½ years, and must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics with at least 60% aggregate, and appeared in Joint Entrance Examination - Main with 85-90 percentile score. Unlike NDA or CDSE, TES has no written exam and selection is based on academic performance, SSB evaluation and final medical tests.

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	== Equipment ==		== Equipment ==
			[[File:Akash Indian Army.jpg\|center\|thumb\|1000x1000px\|Akash Surface to Air Missile]]
	Most of the army equipment is imported, but efforts are being made to manufacture indigenous equipment. The Defence Research and Development Organisation has developed a range of weapons for the Indian Army, including small arms, artillery, radars, and the Arjun tank. All Indian military small-arms are manufactured under the umbrella administration of the Ordnance Factories Board, with principal firearm manufacturing facilities in Ichhapore, Cossipore, Kanpur, Jabalpur, and Tiruchirapalli. The Indian Small Arms System (INSAS) rifle, which has been successfully deployed since 1997, is a product of Rifle Factory Ishapore, while ammunition is manufactured at Khadki, and possibly at Bolangir.		Most of the army equipment is imported, but efforts are being made to manufacture indigenous equipment. The Defence Research and Development Organisation has developed a range of weapons for the Indian Army, including small arms, artillery, radars, and the Arjun tank. All Indian military small-arms are manufactured under the umbrella administration of the Ordnance Factories Board, with principal firearm manufacturing facilities in Ichhapore, Cossipore, Kanpur, Jabalpur, and Tiruchirapalli. The Indian Small Arms System (INSAS) rifle, which has been successfully deployed since 1997, is a product of Rifle Factory Ishapore, while ammunition is manufactured at Khadki, and possibly at Bolangir.

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	=== Aircraft ===		=== Aircraft ===
			[[File:Indian Army Rudra MK-IV.jpg\|thumb\|HAL Rudra]]
	The Army Aviation Corps is the main body of the Indian Army for tactical air transport, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation, while the Indian Air Force's helicopter assets are responsible for assisting army troop transport and close air support. The Aviation Corps operates approximately 150 helicopters. The Indian army had projected a requirement for a helicopter that can carry loads of up to 750 kilograms (1,650 lb) to heights of 7,000 m (23,000 ft) on the Siachen Glacier in Jammu and Kashmir. Flying at these heights poses unique challenges due to the rarefied atmosphere. The Indian Army will induct the HAL Light Utility Helicopter to replace its ageing fleet of Chetaks and Cheetahs, some of which were deployed more than three decades ago.		The Army Aviation Corps is the main body of the Indian Army for tactical air transport, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation, while the Indian Air Force's helicopter assets are responsible for assisting army troop transport and close air support. The Aviation Corps operates approximately 150 helicopters. The Indian army had projected a requirement for a helicopter that can carry loads of up to 750 kilograms (1,650 lb) to heights of 7,000 m (23,000 ft) on the Siachen Glacier in Jammu and Kashmir. Flying at these heights poses unique challenges due to the rarefied atmosphere. The Indian Army will induct the HAL Light Utility Helicopter to replace its ageing fleet of Chetaks and Cheetahs, some of which were deployed more than three decades ago.

Chief Editor at 16:05, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T16:05:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:05, 22 December 2025
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	The new uniforms would not be available in the open market. The uniforms will be barcoded and QR coded to maintain their uniqueness and will be available only through the ordnance chain or military canteens. To control random proliferation, they will come in over a dozen pre-stitched standard sizes. The new uniform will be made available in a phased manner to the nearly 1.2 million personnel of the Indian Army.		The new uniforms would not be available in the open market. The uniforms will be barcoded and QR coded to maintain their uniqueness and will be available only through the ordnance chain or military canteens. To control random proliferation, they will come in over a dozen pre-stitched standard sizes. The new uniform will be made available in a phased manner to the nearly 1.2 million personnel of the Indian Army.

	The modern Indian Army wears distinctive parade uniforms characterised by variegated turbans and waist-sashes in regimental colours. The Gurkha and Garhwal Rifles and the Assam, Kumaon, and Naga Regiments wear broad-brimmed hats of traditional style. Traditionally, all rifle regiments (the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, the Garhwal Rifles, all Gorkha Rifles, and the Rajputana Rifles), as well as the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, wear rank badges, buttons, and wire-embroidered articles in black, instead of the usual brass (or gold) colour, as the original role of the rifle regiments was camouflage and concealment.<gallery mode="packed">		The modern Indian Army wears distinctive parade uniforms characterised by variegated turbans and waist-sashes in regimental colours. The Gurkha and Garhwal Rifles and the Assam, Kumaon, and Naga Regiments wear broad-brimmed hats of traditional style. Traditionally, all rifle regiments (the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, the Garhwal Rifles, all Gorkha Rifles, and the Rajputana Rifles), as well as the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, wear rank badges, buttons, and wire-embroidered articles in black, instead of the usual brass (or gold) colour, as the original role of the rifle regiments was camouflage and concealment.<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
	File:WLUS 131.jpg\|Indian Army officer in green service uniform		File:WLUS 131.jpg\|Indian Army officer in green service uniform
	File:IndianArmyDelhi.JPG\|Soldiers of the Assam Regiment wearing the Angola winter shirt.		File:IndianArmyDelhi.JPG\|Soldiers of the Assam Regiment wearing the Angola winter shirt.

Chief Editor at 16:04, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T16:04:04Z

@@ Line 935: / Line 935: @@
 The new uniforms would not be available in the open market. The uniforms will be barcoded and QR coded to maintain their uniqueness and will be available only through the ordnance chain or military canteens. To control random proliferation, they will come in over a dozen pre-stitched standard sizes. The new uniform will be made available in a phased manner to the nearly 1.2 million personnel of the Indian Army.
-The modern Indian Army wears distinctive parade uniforms characterised by variegated turbans and waist-sashes in regimental colours. The Gurkha and Garhwal Rifles and the Assam, Kumaon, and Naga Regiments wear broad-brimmed hats of traditional style. Traditionally, all rifle regiments (the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, the Garhwal Rifles, all Gorkha Rifles, and the Rajputana Rifles), as well as the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, wear rank badges, buttons, and wire-embroidered articles in black, instead of the usual brass (or gold) colour, as the original role of the rifle regiments was camouflage and concealment.
+The modern Indian Army wears distinctive parade uniforms characterised by variegated turbans and waist-sashes in regimental colours. The Gurkha and Garhwal Rifles and the Assam, Kumaon, and Naga Regiments wear broad-brimmed hats of traditional style. Traditionally, all rifle regiments (the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, the Garhwal Rifles, all Gorkha Rifles, and the Rajputana Rifles), as well as the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, wear rank badges, buttons, and wire-embroidered articles in black, instead of the usual brass (or gold) colour, as the original role of the rifle regiments was camouflage and concealment.<gallery mode="packed">
 === Medals and awards ===

Chief Editor at 15:58, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:58:00Z

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	\|}		\|}
	An Indian Army paratrooper with the 50th Parachute Brigade jumps from a helicopter		An Indian Army paratrooper with the 50th Parachute Brigade jumps from a helicopter
			[[File:An Indian Army paratrooper with the 50th Independent Para Brigade exits a CH47 Chinook helicopter during a partnered airborne training exercise with U.S. Army paratroopers in 2013.jpg\|right\|frameless\|An Indian Army paratrooper with the 50th Parachute Brigade jumps from a helicopter]]
	'''Other Ranks'''		[[File:An Indian Army paratrooper with the 50th Independent Para Brigade exits a CH47 Chinook helicopter in 2013.jpg\|thumb\|An Indian Army paratrooper with the 50th Parachute Brigade jumps from a helicopter]]
			'''Other Ranks'''
	{\| class="wikitable"		{\| class="wikitable"
	!Rank group		!Rank group
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	\|-		\|-
	\| rowspan="2" \| '''Indian Army'''		\| rowspan="2" \| '''Indian Army'''

	* <abbr>v</abbr>		* <abbr>v</abbr>
	* <abbr>t</abbr>		* <abbr>t</abbr>
	* <abbr>e</abbr>		* <abbr>e</abbr>
	\| colspan="6" \|		\| colspan="6" \|[[File:Subedar Major - Risaldar Major of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|121x121px]]
	\| colspan="2" \|		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Subedar - Risaldar of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|121x121px]]
	\| colspan="2" \|		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Naib Subedar - Naib Risaldar of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|121x121px]]
	\| colspan="12" \|		\| colspan="12" \|[[File:India-Army-OR-6.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|50x50px]]
	\| colspan="4" \|		\| colspan="4" \|[[File:India-Army-OR-4.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|50x50px]]
	\| colspan="2" \|		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:India-Army-OR-3.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|50x50px]]
	\| colspan="8" \|'''No insignia'''		\| colspan="8" \|'''No insignia'''
	\|-		\|-

Chief Editor at 15:47, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:47:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:47, 22 December 2025
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	== Personnel ==		== Personnel ==
			[[File:National War Memorial on the 21st anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, 2020.jpg\|thumb\|National War Memorial in honour of soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.]]
	The Indian Army is a voluntary service, and although a provision for military conscription exists in the Indian constitution, conscription has never been imposed. As of 1 July 2017, the Indian Army has a sanctioned strength of 49,932 officers (42,253 serving, being 7,679 under strength), and 1,215,049 enlisted personnel (1,194,864 serving, being 20,185 under strength). Recently, it has been proposed to increase the strength of the army by more than 90,000, to counter the increasing presence of Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, in 2020 the army had a strength of 1,237,000 active personnel and 960,000 reserve personnel. Of those in reserve, 300,000 are first-line reserves (within 5 years of active service), 500,000 are committed to return if called until the age of 50, and 160,000 were in the Indian Territorial Army, with 40,000 in regular establishment. This makes the Indian Army the world's largest standing volunteer army.		The Indian Army is a voluntary service, and although a provision for military conscription exists in the Indian constitution, conscription has never been imposed. As of 1 July 2017, the Indian Army has a sanctioned strength of 49,932 officers (42,253 serving, being 7,679 under strength), and 1,215,049 enlisted personnel (1,194,864 serving, being 20,185 under strength). Recently, it has been proposed to increase the strength of the army by more than 90,000, to counter the increasing presence of Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, in 2020 the army had a strength of 1,237,000 active personnel and 960,000 reserve personnel. Of those in reserve, 300,000 are first-line reserves (within 5 years of active service), 500,000 are committed to return if called until the age of 50, and 160,000 were in the Indian Territorial Army, with 40,000 in regular establishment. This makes the Indian Army the world's largest standing volunteer army.

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	\| colspan="6" \|		\| colspan="6" \|
	\|-		\|-
	\| colspan="2" \|Field marshal		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Field Marshal of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Field marshal
	फील्ड मार्शल		फील्ड मार्शल
	\| colspan="2" \|General		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:General of the Indian Army.svg-2.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]General
	जनरल		जनरल
	\| colspan="2" \|Lieutenant general		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Lieutenant General of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Lieutenant general
	लेफ्टिनेंट जनरल		लेफ्टिनेंट जनरल
	\| colspan="2" \|Major general		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Major General of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Major general
	मेजर जनरल		मेजर जनरल
	\| colspan="2" \|Brigadier		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Brigadier of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Brigadier
	ब्रिगेडियर		ब्रिगेडियर
	\| colspan="2" \|Colonel		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Colonel of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Colonel
	कर्नल		कर्नल
	\| colspan="2" \|Lieutenant colonel		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Lieutenant Colonel of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Lieutenant colonel
	लेफ्टिनेंट कर्नल		लेफ्टिनेंट कर्नल
	\| colspan="2" \|Major		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Major of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Major
	मेजर		मेजर
	\| colspan="2" \|Captain		\| colspan="2" \|[[File:Captain of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Captain
	कैप्टन		कैप्टन
	\| colspan="6" \|Lieutenant		\| colspan="6" \|[[File:Lieutenant of the Indian Army.svg.png\|center\|frameless\|102x102px]]Lieutenant
	लेफ्टिनेंट		लेफ्टिनेंट
	\|-		\|-

Chief Editor at 15:36, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:36:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:36, 22 December 2025
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	Not to be confused with the field corps listed above, the corps mentioned below are divisions entrusted with specific pan-Army tasks.		Not to be confused with the field corps listed above, the corps mentioned below are divisions entrusted with specific pan-Army tasks.
			[[File:Cyclone Exercise 2023 between Indian Army and Egyptian Army Img1.jpg\|thumb]]
	The Indian Territorial Army has battalions affiliated with different infantry regiments and some department units that are from the Corps of Engineers, Army Medical Corps, or the Army Service Corps. They serve as a part-time reserve. On 4 June 2017, the chief of staff announced that the Army was planning to open combat positions to women, who would first be appointed to positions in the military police.~~<sup>[''citation needed'']</sup>~~		[[File:Indian Army soldiers move into position while demonstrating a platoon-level ambush to U.S. Army paratroopers during Yudh Abhyas 2013.jpg\|thumb\|Indian Army soldiers move into position while demonstrating a platoon level ambush to U.S. Army paratroopers.]]
			[[File:Indian Army Band.jpg\|thumb\|Indian army band in Russia during the Moscow Victory Day Parade]]
			The Indian Territorial Army has battalions affiliated with different infantry regiments and some department units that are from the Corps of Engineers, Army Medical Corps, or the Army Service Corps. They serve as a part-time reserve. On 4 June 2017, the chief of staff announced that the Army was planning to open combat positions to women, who would first be appointed to positions in the military police.
	{\| class="wikitable"		{\| class="wikitable"
	!Name		!Name
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	\|Multiple centres		\|Multiple centres
	\|}		\|}
			[[File:Presidents' Body Guard.jpg\|thumb\|President's Bodyguard in summer ceremonial uniforms in Rashtrapati Bhavancourtyard during changing of the guard]]

	==== Armoured Corps ====		==== Armoured Corps ====
	There are 65 armoured regiments in the Indian Army. These include the President's Bodyguard and the 61st Cavalry as well as the following historic regiments dating back to the nineteenth century or earlier: 1st (Skinner's) Horse, the 2nd Lancers (Gardner's Horse), the 3rd Cavalry, the 4th (Hodson's) Horse, the 7th Light Cavalry, the 8th Light Cavalry, the 9th (Deccan) Horse, the 14th (Scinde) Horse, the 17th (Poona) Horse, the 15th Lancers, the 16th Light Cavalry, the 18th Cavalry, the 20th Lancers and the 21st (Central India) Horse. A substantial number of additional units designated as either "Cavalry" or "Armoured" Regiments have been raised since Independence.		There are 65 armoured regiments in the Indian Army. These include the President's Bodyguard and the 61st Cavalry as well as the following historic regiments dating back to the nineteenth century or earlier: 1st (Skinner's) Horse, the 2nd Lancers (Gardner's Horse), the 3rd Cavalry, the 4th (Hodson's) Horse, the 7th Light Cavalry, the 8th Light Cavalry, the 9th (Deccan) Horse, the 14th (Scinde) Horse, the 17th (Poona) Horse, the 15th Lancers, the 16th Light Cavalry, the 18th Cavalry, the 20th Lancers and the 21st (Central India) Horse. A substantial number of additional units designated as either "Cavalry" or "Armoured" Regiments have been raised since Independence.
			[[File:Kalyani and Tata Mine Protected Vehicles - Republic day parade 2024.jpg\|thumb\|Kalyani and Tata Mine Protected Vehicles]]

	==== Mechanised Infantry ====		==== Mechanised Infantry ====
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	There are 50 mechanised infantry battalions in the Army. Of these, 10 are for reconnaissance and support battalions (5 wheeled and 5 tracked) and 40 are standard mechanised infantry battalions (10 wheeled and 30 tracked).		There are 50 mechanised infantry battalions in the Army. Of these, 10 are for reconnaissance and support battalions (5 wheeled and 5 tracked) and 40 are standard mechanised infantry battalions (10 wheeled and 30 tracked).
			[[File:WHAP During Defence Expo 2018.jpg\|thumb\|TATA Kestrel of the Indian Army]]
	The Standard and Recce & Support Tracked battalions are equipped with BMP-2 while the Wheeled ones are equipped with Jeep (mounted ATGM launchers) and BRDM-2. The recce and support battalions also included 4 ATGM battalions (including 17 Guards battalion). These were later converted to R&S battalions.		The Standard and Recce & Support Tracked battalions are equipped with BMP-2 while the Wheeled ones are equipped with Jeep (mounted ATGM launchers) and BRDM-2. The recce and support battalions also included 4 ATGM battalions (including 17 Guards battalion). These were later converted to R&S battalions.

	==== Infantry ====		==== Infantry ====
	Upon its inception, the Indian Army inherited the British Army's organisational structure, which is still maintained today. Therefore, like its predecessor, an Indian infantry regiment's responsibility is not to undertake field operations but to provide battalions and well-trained personnel to the field formations. As such, it is common to find battalions of the same regiment spread across several brigades, divisions, corps, commands, and even theatres. Like its British and Commonwealth counterparts, troops enlisted within the regiment are immensely loyal, take great pride in the regiment to which they are assigned, and generally spend their entire career within the regiment.		Upon its inception, the Indian Army inherited the British Army's organisational structure, which is still maintained today. Therefore, like its predecessor, an Indian infantry regiment's responsibility is not to undertake field operations but to provide battalions and well-trained personnel to the field formations. As such, it is common to find battalions of the same regiment spread across several brigades, divisions, corps, commands, and even theatres. Like its British and Commonwealth counterparts, troops enlisted within the regiment are immensely loyal, take great pride in the regiment to which they are assigned, and generally spend their entire career within the regiment.
			[[File:Indian Army personnel with Sig 716i.jpg\|thumb\|Indian soldier from White Knight Corpsarmed with a standard issued Sig 716i, 202]]
	Most Indian Army infantry regiments recruit based on certain selection criteria, such as region (for example, the Assam Regiment), caste/community (Jat Regiment), or religion (Sikh Regiment). Most regiments continue the heritage of regiments raised under the British Raj, but some have been raised after independence, some of which have specialised in border defence, in particular the Ladakh Scouts, the Arunachal Scouts, and the Sikkim Scouts.		Most Indian Army infantry regiments recruit based on certain selection criteria, such as region (for example, the Assam Regiment), caste/community (Jat Regiment), or religion (Sikh Regiment). Most regiments continue the heritage of regiments raised under the British Raj, but some have been raised after independence, some of which have specialised in border defence, in particular the Ladakh Scouts, the Arunachal Scouts, and the Sikkim Scouts.

	Over the years there have been fears that troops' allegiance lay more with their regiments and the regions/castes/communities/religions from which they were recruited, as opposed to the Indian union as a whole. Thus some "all India" or "all class" regiments have been created, which recruit troops from all over India, regardless of region, caste, community, or religion: such as the Brigade of the Guards (which later converted to the Mechanised Infantry profile) and the Parachute Regiment.		Over the years there have been fears that troops' allegiance lay more with their regiments and the regions/castes/communities/religions from which they were recruited, as opposed to the Indian union as a whole. Thus some "all India" or "all class" regiments have been created, which recruit troops from all over India, regardless of region, caste, community, or religion: such as the Brigade of the Guards (which later converted to the Mechanised Infantry profile) and the Parachute Regiment.
			[[File:Indian Army-Rajput regiment.jpeg.jpg\|thumb\|Soldiers of the Rajput Regiment during a Republic Day Parade]]
			[[File:Indian Army-Sikh Light Infantry regiment.jpeg.jpg\|thumb\|Soldiers of the Sikh Light Infantry during a Republic Day Parade]]
	Given the rise in drone warfare, the Indian Army included drone platoons to each of its infantry battalions.		Given the rise in drone warfare, the Indian Army included drone platoons to each of its infantry battalions.
	{\| class="wikitable sortable"		{\| class="wikitable sortable"
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	\|2013		\|2013
	\|}		\|}
			[[File:The DRDO's Pinaka Launcher system gliding down the Rajpath during the Republic Day Parade - 2006, in New Delhi on January 26, 2006.jpg\|thumb\|Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcherswere used during the Kargil War.]]

	==== Artillery ====		==== Artillery ====
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	As an integral part of nearly all combat operations conducted by the Indian Army, the Regiment of Artillery has a history of being a major contributor to its military success. During the Kargil War, it was the Indian Artillery that inflicted the most damage. Over the years, five artillery officers have gone on to the Army's highest post as Chief of Army Staff.		As an integral part of nearly all combat operations conducted by the Indian Army, the Regiment of Artillery has a history of being a major contributor to its military success. During the Kargil War, it was the Indian Artillery that inflicted the most damage. Over the years, five artillery officers have gone on to the Army's highest post as Chief of Army Staff.
			[[File:Indian Army Aviation Corps and Air Defence Arty Joint Display Ex 2.jpg\|thumb\|Dhanush artillery gun]]
	For some time, the Regiment of Artillery commanded a significantly larger share of the Army's personnel than it does now, as it was also responsible for air defence artillery and some aviation assets. The 1990s saw the formation of the Corps of Army Air Defence and the coalescing of all aviation assets into the Army Aviation Corps. The arm is now focused on field artillery and supplies regiments and batteries to each of the operational commands. The home of the Regiment is in Nashik, Maharashtra, where their headquarters is located, along with the service's museum. The School of Artillery of the Indian Army is located nearby, in Devlali.		For some time, the Regiment of Artillery commanded a significantly larger share of the Army's personnel than it does now, as it was also responsible for air defence artillery and some aviation assets. The 1990s saw the formation of the Corps of Army Air Defence and the coalescing of all aviation assets into the Army Aviation Corps. The arm is now focused on field artillery and supplies regiments and batteries to each of the operational commands. The home of the Regiment is in Nashik, Maharashtra, where their headquarters is located, along with the service's museum. The School of Artillery of the Indian Army is located nearby, in Devlali.

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	==== Corps of Army Air Defence ====		==== Corps of Army Air Defence ====
			[[File:Akashteer C4ISR.png\|thumb\|During Operation Sindoor, Akashteerplayed a central role in neutralizing drone and air attacks by Pakistan]]
	The Corps of Army Air Defence (abbreviated AAD) is an active corps of the Indian Army, and a major combat formation tasked with the air defences of the country from foreign threats. The Corps is responsible for the protection of Indian air space from enemy aircraft and missiles, especially those below 5,000 feet.		The Corps of Army Air Defence (abbreviated AAD) is an active corps of the Indian Army, and a major combat formation tasked with the air defences of the country from foreign threats. The Corps is responsible for the protection of Indian air space from enemy aircraft and missiles, especially those below 5,000 feet.

Chief Editor at 15:30, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:30:21Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:30, 22 December 2025
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	!Few of known Subordinate Unit(s)/ Formation(s)		!Few of known Subordinate Unit(s)/ Formation(s)
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Indian Army Headquarters formation sign.png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Headquarters, Indian Army'''		\|'''Headquarters, Indian Army'''
	\|New Delhi		\|New Delhi
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	\|50th Independent Parachute Brigade		\|50th Independent Parachute Brigade
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Central Command (India).png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Central Command'''		\|'''Central Command'''
	\|Lucknow		\|Lucknow
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	\|6th Mountain Division		\|6th Mountain Division
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Eastern Command (India).png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Eastern Command'''		\|'''Eastern Command'''
	\|Kolkata		\|Kolkata
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	*		*
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Northern Command (India)-2.png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Northern Command'''		\|'''Northern Command'''
	\|Udhampur		\|Udhampur
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	*		*
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Southern Command (India).png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Southern Command'''		\|'''Southern Command'''
	\|Pune		\|Pune
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	*		*
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:South Western Command (India).png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''South Western Command'''		\|'''South Western Command'''
	\|Jaipur		\|Jaipur
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	*		*
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Western Command (India).png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Western Command'''		\|'''Western Command'''
	\|Chandimandir		\|Chandimandir
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	*		*
	\|-		\|-
	\|		\|[[File:Army Training Command (India).png\|center\|frameless\|150x150px]]
	\|'''Army Training Command'''		\|'''Army Training Command'''
	\|Shimla		\|Shimla

Chief Editor at 15:24, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:24:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:24, 22 December 2025
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	==== Kargil war (1999) ====		==== Kargil war (1999) ====
	In 1998, India carried out nuclear tests; and a few days later, Pakistan responded with nuclear tests of its own, giving both countries nuclear deterrence capability, although India had tested a hydrogen bomb, which Pakistan lacked. Diplomatic tensions eased after the Lahore Summit was held in 1999. However, the sense of optimism was short-lived. In mid-1999, Pakistani paramilitary forces and Kashmiri insurgents captured the deserted, but strategic, Himalayan heights in the Kargil district of India. These had been vacated by the Indian Army during the onset of the inhospitable winter and were to be reoccupied in spring. The troops that took control of these areas received important support, of both arms and supplies, from Pakistan. Some of the heights under their control, which also included the Tiger Hill, overlooked the vital Srinagar–LehHighway (NH 1A), Batalik, and Dras.		In 1998, India carried out nuclear tests; and a few days later, Pakistan responded with nuclear tests of its own, giving both countries nuclear deterrence capability, although India had tested a hydrogen bomb, which Pakistan lacked. Diplomatic tensions eased after the Lahore Summit was held in 1999. However, the sense of optimism was short-lived. In mid-1999, Pakistani paramilitary forces and Kashmiri insurgents captured the deserted, but strategic, Himalayan heights in the Kargil district of India. These had been vacated by the Indian Army during the onset of the inhospitable winter and were to be reoccupied in spring. The troops that took control of these areas received important support, of both arms and supplies, from Pakistan. Some of the heights under their control, which also included the Tiger Hill, overlooked the vital Srinagar–LehHighway (NH 1A), Batalik, and Dras.
			[[File:Indian Army patrolling team.jpg\|thumb\|333x333px\|Indian Army soldiers patrolling snow clad mountain range.]]
	Once the scale of the Pakistani incursion was realised, the Indian Army quickly mobilised about 200,000 troops, and Operation Vijay was launched. However, since the heights were under Pakistani control, India was at a clear strategic disadvantage. From their observation posts, the Pakistani forces had a clear line-of-sight to lay down indirect artillery fire on NH 1A, inflicting heavy casualties on the Indians. This was a serious problem for the Indian Army as the highway was its main supply route. Thus, the Indian Army's priority was to recapture peaks near NH 1A. This resulted in Indian troops first targeting the Tiger Hill and Tololing complex in Dras. This was soon followed by more attacks on the Batalik–Turtok sub-sector, which provided access to Siachen Glacier. Point 4590, which had the nearest view of the NH 1A, was successfully recaptured by Indian forces on 14 June.		Once the scale of the Pakistani incursion was realised, the Indian Army quickly mobilised about 200,000 troops, and Operation Vijay was launched. However, since the heights were under Pakistani control, India was at a clear strategic disadvantage. From their observation posts, the Pakistani forces had a clear line-of-sight to lay down indirect artillery fire on NH 1A, inflicting heavy casualties on the Indians. This was a serious problem for the Indian Army as the highway was its main supply route. Thus, the Indian Army's priority was to recapture peaks near NH 1A. This resulted in Indian troops first targeting the Tiger Hill and Tololing complex in Dras. This was soon followed by more attacks on the Batalik–Turtok sub-sector, which provided access to Siachen Glacier. Point 4590, which had the nearest view of the NH 1A, was successfully recaptured by Indian forces on 14 June.

	Though most of the posts in the vicinity of the highway were cleared of the enemy by mid-June, some posts near Dras endured sporadic shelling until the end of the war. Once the NH 1A area was cleared, the Indian Army turned to drive the invading force back across the Line of Control. The Battle of Tololing, among others, slowly tilted the war in India's favour. Nevertheless, some Pakistani posts put up a stiff resistance, including Tiger Hill (Point 5140), which fell only later in the war. As the operation was fully underway, about 250 artillery guns were brought in to clear the infiltrators in posts that were in the line-of-sight. At many vital points, neither artillery nor air power could dislodge the Pakistan soldiers, who were out of visible range. The Indian Army mounted some direct frontal ground assaults, which were slow and took a heavy toll, given the steep ascents that had to be made on peaks as high as 5,500 m (18,000 ft). Two months into the conflict, Indian troops had slowly retaken most of the ridges they had lost. According to official accounts, an estimated 75%–80% of the enemy-occupied area, and nearly all the high ground, was back under Indian control.		Though most of the posts in the vicinity of the highway were cleared of the enemy by mid-June, some posts near Dras endured sporadic shelling until the end of the war. Once the NH 1A area was cleared, the Indian Army turned to drive the invading force back across the Line of Control. The Battle of Tololing, among others, slowly tilted the war in India's favour. Nevertheless, some Pakistani posts put up a stiff resistance, including Tiger Hill (Point 5140), which fell only later in the war. As the operation was fully underway, about 250 artillery guns were brought in to clear the infiltrators in posts that were in the line-of-sight. At many vital points, neither artillery nor air power could dislodge the Pakistan soldiers, who were out of visible range. The Indian Army mounted some direct frontal ground assaults, which were slow and took a heavy toll, given the steep ascents that had to be made on peaks as high as 5,500 m (18,000 ft). Two months into the conflict, Indian troops had slowly retaken most of the ridges they had lost. According to official accounts, an estimated 75%–80% of the enemy-occupied area, and nearly all the high ground, was back under Indian control.
			[[File:1280px-KWM.jpg\|thumb\|250x250px\|Kargil War Memorial looking at National Highway 1 from the foot of Tololing]]
	Following the Washington Accord of 4 July, where Sharif agreed to withdraw Pakistani troops, most of the fighting came to a gradual halt; but some Pakistani forces remained in positions on the Indian side of the LOC. In addition, the United Jihad Council (an umbrella group for all extremists) rejected Pakistan's plan for a draw-down, deciding instead to fight on. The Indian Army launched its final attacks in the last week of July. As soon as the Dras sub-sector had been cleared of Pakistani forces, the fighting ceased on 26 July, which has since been celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas (Kargil Victory Day) in India. By the end of the war, India had resumed control of all the territory south and east of the Line of Control, as was established in July 1972 per the Shimla Accord. By the time all hostilities had ended, the number of Indian soldiers killed during the conflict stood at 527, while more than 700 regular members of the Pakistani Army had been killed. The number of Islamist fighters, also known as Mujahideen, killed by Indian armed forces during the conflict stood at about 3,000.		Following the Washington Accord of 4 July, where Sharif agreed to withdraw Pakistani troops, most of the fighting came to a gradual halt; but some Pakistani forces remained in positions on the Indian side of the LOC. In addition, the United Jihad Council (an umbrella group for all extremists) rejected Pakistan's plan for a draw-down, deciding instead to fight on. The Indian Army launched its final attacks in the last week of July. As soon as the Dras sub-sector had been cleared of Pakistani forces, the fighting ceased on 26 July, which has since been celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas (Kargil Victory Day) in India. By the end of the war, India had resumed control of all the territory south and east of the Line of Control, as was established in July 1972 per the Shimla Accord. By the time all hostilities had ended, the number of Indian soldiers killed during the conflict stood at 527, while more than 700 regular members of the Pakistani Army had been killed. The number of Islamist fighters, also known as Mujahideen, killed by Indian armed forces during the conflict stood at about 3,000.

	==== 2016 Surgical Strikes on Kashmir and the 2016–2018 India-Pakistan conflict ====		==== 2016 Surgical Strikes on Kashmir and the 2016–2018 India-Pakistan conflict ====
			[[File:Kargil war.jpg\|thumb\|200x200px\|Indian soldiers after winning a battle during the Kargil War.]]
	On 18 September 2016, a ''fedayeen'' attack was made by four armed militants on an army base near the town of Uri. Nineteen Indian Army soldiers were killed. India accused Jaish-e-Muhammad, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation. On 29 September 2016, the India Army announced that it conducted "surgical strikes" against militant launch pads across the Line of Control, in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, and inflicted "significant casualties". Indian media reported the casualty figures variously from 35 to 70 killed. Partial footage of the strikes was released to the Indian media on 27 June 2018 as proof of the strike. The incident triggered the 2016–2018 India-Pakistan border conflict, which ended on 16 June 2018 with both India and Pakistan agreeing on a ceasefire.		On 18 September 2016, a ''fedayeen'' attack was made by four armed militants on an army base near the town of Uri. Nineteen Indian Army soldiers were killed. India accused Jaish-e-Muhammad, a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation. On 29 September 2016, the India Army announced that it conducted "surgical strikes" against militant launch pads across the Line of Control, in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, and inflicted "significant casualties". Indian media reported the casualty figures variously from 35 to 70 killed. Partial footage of the strikes was released to the Indian media on 27 June 2018 as proof of the strike. The incident triggered the 2016–2018 India-Pakistan border conflict, which ended on 16 June 2018 with both India and Pakistan agreeing on a ceasefire.

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	After over a month-long skirmish, both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan agreed on a peace offer on 22 March 2019 ending hostilities and vowed to fight against terrorism together.		After over a month-long skirmish, both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan agreed on a peace offer on 22 March 2019 ending hostilities and vowed to fight against terrorism together.
			[[File:2560px-9 avril 2015. Binza, Nord Kivu, RD Congo. Un casque bleu d’INBATT 2 et un soldat des FARDC se saluent et s’encouragent mutuellement. (16534163503).jpg\|thumb\|An Indian Army peacekeeper and an FARDC soldier shake hands and encourage each other]]

	==== United Nations peacekeeping missions ====		==== United Nations peacekeeping missions ====
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	==== Operation Brasstacks ====		==== Operation Brasstacks ====
			[[File:Army Aviation India deploying US troops.jpg\|thumb\|Indian Army Aviation Corps Dhruv helicopter ferrying U.S. soldiers during the Yudh Abhyas training exercise in 2009]]
	Operation Brasstacks was launched by the Indian Army in November 1986 to simulate a full-scale war on India's western border. The exercise was the largest ever conducted in India; it included nine infantry, three mechanised, three armoured divisions, and one air assault division, as well as three independent armoured brigades. Amphibious assault exercises were also conducted with the Indian Navy. Brasstacks also allegedly incorporated nuclear attack drills. It led to tensions with Pakistan and a subsequent rapprochement in mid-1987.		Operation Brasstacks was launched by the Indian Army in November 1986 to simulate a full-scale war on India's western border. The exercise was the largest ever conducted in India; it included nine infantry, three mechanised, three armoured divisions, and one air assault division, as well as three independent armoured brigades. Amphibious assault exercises were also conducted with the Indian Navy. Brasstacks also allegedly incorporated nuclear attack drills. It led to tensions with Pakistan and a subsequent rapprochement in mid-1987.

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	==== Exercise Ashwamedha ====		==== Exercise Ashwamedha ====
	Indian Army tested its network-centric warfare capabilities in the Ashwamedha exercise. The exercise was held in the Thar desert, and over 300,000 troops participated. Asymmetric warfare capability was also tested by the Indian Army during the exercise.		[[File:T-90 Bhisma cropped.jpg\|thumb\|Indian army armoured vehicles during Yudh Abhyas exercises]]
			Indian Army tested its network-centric warfare capabilities in the Ashwamedha exercise. The exercise was held in the Thar desert, and over 300,000 troops participated. Asymmetric warfare capability was also tested by the Indian Army during the exercise.

	==== Exercise Yudh Abhyas ====		==== Exercise Yudh Abhyas ====
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	The eighth edition of Yudh Abhyas was conducted from 3 to 17 May 2013 as a U.S.-Army-Pacific-sponsored bilateral training exercise with the Indian Army, an exercise that focused on the two countries' cultures, weapons training, and tactics. Units from the United States included the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, from Fort Bragg, N.C., and the 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment. Units from India were the Indian Army's 99th Mountain Brigade; the 2nd Battalion, 5th Gurka Rifles; the 50th Independent Parachute Brigade; and the 54th Engineers Regiment.		The eighth edition of Yudh Abhyas was conducted from 3 to 17 May 2013 as a U.S.-Army-Pacific-sponsored bilateral training exercise with the Indian Army, an exercise that focused on the two countries' cultures, weapons training, and tactics. Units from the United States included the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, from Fort Bragg, N.C., and the 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment. Units from India were the Indian Army's 99th Mountain Brigade; the 2nd Battalion, 5th Gurka Rifles; the 50th Independent Parachute Brigade; and the 54th Engineers Regiment.
			[[File:Exercise Shakti - ASMI gun being shown to visiting French soldier.jpg\|thumb\|Indian Army showcasing ASMI to French soldier during Exercise Shakti]]

	==== Exercise Shakti ====		==== Exercise Shakti ====
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	=== Command structure ===		=== Command structure ===
	The army operates six operational commands and one training command. Each command is headed by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief with the rank of Lieutenant General. Each command directly reports to Army HQ in New Delhi. These commands are given below in order of creation, with location (city) and commanders listed. There is also the Army Training Command (ARTRAC).		The army operates six operational commands and one training command. Each command is headed by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief with the rank of Lieutenant General. Each command directly reports to Army HQ in New Delhi. These commands are given below in order of creation, with location (city) and commanders listed. There is also the Army Training Command (ARTRAC).
			[[File:Indian Army Structure-2.png\|center\|thumb\|1000x1000px\|Indian Army Structure (click to enlarge)]]

	Six Area Headquarters are also part of the operational commands, alongside corps and divisions: Delhi; Dakshin Bharat (Southern Command); Madhiya; Uttar Pradesh; MG&G; and 101 Areas.		Six Area Headquarters are also part of the operational commands, alongside corps and divisions: Delhi; Dakshin Bharat (Southern Command); Madhiya; Uttar Pradesh; MG&G; and 101 Areas.

Chief Editor at 15:18, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:18:46Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:18, 22 December 2025
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	==== Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 ====		==== Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 ====
	[[File:1971 Instrument of Surrender WaPo-2.jpg\|center\|thumb\|900x900px]]		[[File:1971 Instrument of Surrender WaPo-2.jpg\|center\|thumb\|900x900px\|Lt Gen A A K Niazi (right), Commander of the Pakistani Eastern Command, signing the Instrument of Surrender (93000+ Paki Soldiers) under the gaze of Lt Gen J S Arora.]]
	An independence movement broke out in East Pakistan which was crushed by Pakistani forces. Due to large-scale atrocities committed against them, thousands of Bengalis took refuge in neighbouring India causing a major refugee crisis there. In early 1971, India declared its full support for the Bengali freedom fighters, known as Mukti Bahini, and Indian agents were extensively involved in covert operations to aid them.		An independence movement broke out in East Pakistan which was crushed by Pakistani forces. Due to large-scale atrocities committed against them, thousands of Bengalis took refuge in neighbouring India causing a major refugee crisis there. In early 1971, India declared its full support for the Bengali freedom fighters, known as Mukti Bahini, and Indian agents were extensively involved in covert operations to aid them.

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	==== Siachen conflict (1984) ====		==== Siachen conflict (1984) ====
			[[File:22 Indian Army Medical Corps.jpg\|thumb\|A memorial for the 22 Indian Army Medical Corps at the War Cemetery in Taiping, Perak]]
	The Siachen Glacier, although a part of the Kashmir region, was not demarcated on maps prepared and exchanged between the two sides in 1947. In consequence, before the 1980s neither India nor Pakistan maintained a permanent military presence in the region. However, beginning in the 1950s, Pakistan began sending mountaineering expeditions to the glacier. By the early 1980s, the Government of Pakistan was granting special expedition permits to mountaineers and United States Army maps showed Siachen as a part of Pakistan. This practice gave rise to the term ''oropolitics''.		The Siachen Glacier, although a part of the Kashmir region, was not demarcated on maps prepared and exchanged between the two sides in 1947. In consequence, before the 1980s neither India nor Pakistan maintained a permanent military presence in the region. However, beginning in the 1950s, Pakistan began sending mountaineering expeditions to the glacier. By the early 1980s, the Government of Pakistan was granting special expedition permits to mountaineers and United States Army maps showed Siachen as a part of Pakistan. This practice gave rise to the term ''oropolitics''.

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	India continues to maintain a strong military presence in the region, despite inhospitable conditions. The conflict over Siachen is regularly cited as an example of mountain warfare. The highest peak in the Siachen Glacier region, Saltoro Kangri, could be viewed as strategically important for India because of its height, which would enable Indian forces to monitor Pakistani or Chinese movements in the area.Maintaining control over Siachen poses several logistical challenges for the Indian Army. Several infrastructure projects were constructed in the region, including a helipad at an elevation of 6,400 m (21,000 ft). In 2004, the Indian Army was spending an estimated US$2 million a month to support its personnel stationed in the region.		India continues to maintain a strong military presence in the region, despite inhospitable conditions. The conflict over Siachen is regularly cited as an example of mountain warfare. The highest peak in the Siachen Glacier region, Saltoro Kangri, could be viewed as strategically important for India because of its height, which would enable Indian forces to monitor Pakistani or Chinese movements in the area.Maintaining control over Siachen poses several logistical challenges for the Indian Army. Several infrastructure projects were constructed in the region, including a helipad at an elevation of 6,400 m (21,000 ft). In 2004, the Indian Army was spending an estimated US$2 million a month to support its personnel stationed in the region.
			[[File:An Indian Army soldier in snow camouflage.jpg\|thumb\|An Indian Army soldier, part of a patrolling group, in snow camouflage holding a SIG 716i.]]

	==== Counter-insurgency activities ====		==== Counter-insurgency activities ====

Chief Editor at 15:15, 22 December 2025

2025-12-22T15:15:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:15, 22 December 2025
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	=== World wars ===		=== World wars ===
	The Kitchener Reforms brought the British Army to a new century. In the 20th century, the Indian Army was a crucial adjunct to the forces of the British Empire in both world wars. 1.3 million Indian soldiers served in World War I (1914–1918) with the Allies, in which 74,187 Indian troops were killed or missing in action.<sup>[''failed verification'']</sup> In 1915 there was a mutiny by Indian soldiers in Singapore. The United Kingdom made promises of self-governance to the Indian National Congress in return for its support but reneged on them after the war, following which the Indian Independence movement gained strength.		The Kitchener Reforms brought the British Army to a new century. In the 20th century, the Indian Army was a crucial adjunct to the forces of the British Empire in both world wars. 1.3 million Indian soldiers served in World War I (1914–1918) with the Allies, in which 74,187 Indian troops were killed or missing in action.<sup>[''failed verification'']</sup> In 1915 there was a mutiny by Indian soldiers in Singapore. The United Kingdom made promises of self-governance to the Indian National Congress in return for its support but reneged on them after the war, following which the Indian Independence movement gained strength.
			[[File:Hodsons Horse France 1917 IWM Q 2061.jpg\|thumb\|Indian Cavalry on the Western Frontduring World War I.]]
	The "Indianisation" of the Indian Army began with the formation of the Prince of Wales Royal Indian Military College at Dehradun, in March 1912, to provide education to the scions of aristocratic and well-to-do Indian families and to prepare selected Indian boys for admission into the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Cadets were given a King's commission, after passing out, and were posted to one of the eight units selected for Indianisation. Because of the slow pace of Indianisation, with just 69 officers being commissioned between 1918 and 1932, political pressure was applied, leading to the formation of the Indian Military Academy in 1932 and greater numbers of officers of Indian origin being commissioned. On the eve of World War II, the officer corps consisted of roughly 500 Indians holding regular commissions against approximately 3,000 British officers.		The "Indianisation" of the Indian Army began with the formation of the Prince of Wales Royal Indian Military College at Dehradun, in March 1912, to provide education to the scions of aristocratic and well-to-do Indian families and to prepare selected Indian boys for admission into the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Cadets were given a King's commission, after passing out, and were posted to one of the eight units selected for Indianisation. Because of the slow pace of Indianisation, with just 69 officers being commissioned between 1918 and 1932, political pressure was applied, leading to the formation of the Indian Military Academy in 1932 and greater numbers of officers of Indian origin being commissioned. On the eve of World War II, the officer corps consisted of roughly 500 Indians holding regular commissions against approximately 3,000 British officers.
			[[File:Sikh soldier with captured Swastika flag.jpg\|thumb\|A Sikh soldier of the 4th Division (the Red Eagles) of the Indian Army, attached to the British Fifth Army in Italy. Holding a captured Nazi flag after the surrender of German forces in Italy, May 1945. Behind him, a fascist inscription says "VIVA IL DUCE", "Long live the Duce" (i.e. Mussolini).]]
	In World War II Indian soldiers fought alongside the Allies. In 1939, British officials had no plan for expansion and training of Indian forces, which comprised about 130,000 men (in addition there were 44,000 men in British units in India in 1939), whose mission was internal security and defence against a possible Soviet threat through Afghanistan. As the war progressed, the size and role of the Indian Army expanded dramatically, and troops were sent to battlefronts as soon as possible. The most serious problem was the lack of equipment. Indian units served in Burma, wherein 1944–45, five Indian divisions were engaged along with one British and three African divisions. Even larger numbers operated in the Middle East. Some 87,000 Indian soldiers died in the war. By the end of the war, it had become the largest volunteer army in history, rising to over 2.5 million men in August 1945.		In World War II Indian soldiers fought alongside the Allies. In 1939, British officials had no plan for expansion and training of Indian forces, which comprised about 130,000 men (in addition there were 44,000 men in British units in India in 1939), whose mission was internal security and defence against a possible Soviet threat through Afghanistan. As the war progressed, the size and role of the Indian Army expanded dramatically, and troops were sent to battlefronts as soon as possible. The most serious problem was the lack of equipment. Indian units served in Burma, wherein 1944–45, five Indian divisions were engaged along with one British and three African divisions. Even larger numbers operated in the Middle East. Some 87,000 Indian soldiers died in the war. By the end of the war, it had become the largest volunteer army in history, rising to over 2.5 million men in August 1945.

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	==== First Kashmir War (1947) ====		==== First Kashmir War (1947) ====
			[[File:Op Polo Surrender.jpg\|thumb\|Major General El Edroos (at right) offers his surrender of the Hyderabad State Forces to Major General (later Army Chief) J.N. Chaudhuri at Secunderabad]]
	Immediately after independence, tensions between India and Pakistan erupted into the first of three full-scale wars between the two nations over the then princely state of Kashmir. The Maharaja of Kashmir wanted to have a standstill position. Since Kashmir was a Muslim majority state, Pakistan wanted to make Kashmir a Pakistani territory. As a result, Pakistan invaded Kashmir on 22 October 1947, causing Maharaja Hari Singh to look to India, specifically to Lord Mountbatten of Burma, the governor-general, for help. He signed the Instrument of Accession to India on 26 October 1947. Indian troops were airlifted to Srinagar from dawn on 27 October. This contingent included General Thimayya who distinguished himself in the operation and in the years that followed became a Chief of the Indian Army. An intense war was waged across the state and former comrades found themselves fighting each other. Pakistan suffered significant losses. Its forces were stopped on the line formed which is now called the Line of Control (LOC).		Immediately after independence, tensions between India and Pakistan erupted into the first of three full-scale wars between the two nations over the then princely state of Kashmir. The Maharaja of Kashmir wanted to have a standstill position. Since Kashmir was a Muslim majority state, Pakistan wanted to make Kashmir a Pakistani territory. As a result, Pakistan invaded Kashmir on 22 October 1947, causing Maharaja Hari Singh to look to India, specifically to Lord Mountbatten of Burma, the governor-general, for help. He signed the Instrument of Accession to India on 26 October 1947. Indian troops were airlifted to Srinagar from dawn on 27 October. This contingent included General Thimayya who distinguished himself in the operation and in the years that followed became a Chief of the Indian Army. An intense war was waged across the state and former comrades found themselves fighting each other. Pakistan suffered significant losses. Its forces were stopped on the line formed which is now called the Line of Control (LOC).

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	==== Annexation of Goa, Daman and Diu (1961) ====		==== Annexation of Goa, Daman and Diu (1961) ====
	Even though the British and French vacated all their colonial possessions in the Indian subcontinent, Portugal refused to relinquish control of its colonies of Goa, Daman, and Diu. After repeated attempts by India to negotiate were spurned by Portuguese prime minister and dictator, António de Oliveira Salazar, on 12 December 1961 India launched Operation Vijay to capture the Portuguese colonies, which was accomplished by small contingents of Indian troops. After a brief conflict that lasted twenty-six hours—during which 31 Portuguese soldiers were killed, the Portuguese Navy frigate NRP Afonso de Albuquerque was destroyed, and over 3,000 Portuguese were captured—Portuguese General Manuel António Vassalo e Silva surrendered to Major General Kunhiraman Palat Kandoth of the Indian Army. Goa, Daman, and Diu became a part of the Republic of India.		Even though the British and French vacated all their colonial possessions in the Indian subcontinent, Portugal refused to relinquish control of its colonies of Goa, Daman, and Diu. After repeated attempts by India to negotiate were spurned by Portuguese prime minister and dictator, António de Oliveira Salazar, on 12 December 1961 India launched Operation Vijay to capture the Portuguese colonies, which was accomplished by small contingents of Indian troops. After a brief conflict that lasted twenty-six hours—during which 31 Portuguese soldiers were killed, the Portuguese Navy frigate NRP Afonso de Albuquerque was destroyed, and over 3,000 Portuguese were captured—Portuguese General Manuel António Vassalo e Silva surrendered to Major General Kunhiraman Palat Kandoth of the Indian Army. Goa, Daman, and Diu became a part of the Republic of India.
			[[File:Hall of Fame Museum, Leh.jpg\|thumb\|Indian Army Hall of Fame at Leh, near Indo-Tibet border]]

	==== Sino-Indian War (1962) ====		==== Sino-Indian War (1962) ====
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	==== Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 ====		==== Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 ====
			[[File:1965 Indo-Pak War DestroyedShermanTank.jpg\|thumb\|ndian Army officer next to a destroyed Pakistani Sherman tank, after the battle of ''Asal Uttar.'']]
	A second confrontation with Pakistan took place in 1965. Although the war is described as inconclusive, India had the better of the war and was the clear winner in tactical and strategic terms. Pakistani president Ayub Khan launched Operation Gibraltar in August 1965, during which Pakistani paramilitary troops infiltrated into Indian-administered Kashmir and attempted to ignite anti-India agitation in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani leaders believed that India, which was still recovering from the Sino-Indian War, would be unable to deal with a military thrust and a Kashmiri rebellion. India reacted swiftly and launched a counter-offensive against Pakistan. In reply, on 1 September Pakistan launched Operation Grand Slam, invading India's Chamb-Jaurian sector. In retaliation, the Indian Army launched a major offensive all along its border with Pakistan, with Lahore as its prime target.		A second confrontation with Pakistan took place in 1965. Although the war is described as inconclusive, India had the better of the war and was the clear winner in tactical and strategic terms. Pakistani president Ayub Khan launched Operation Gibraltar in August 1965, during which Pakistani paramilitary troops infiltrated into Indian-administered Kashmir and attempted to ignite anti-India agitation in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani leaders believed that India, which was still recovering from the Sino-Indian War, would be unable to deal with a military thrust and a Kashmiri rebellion. India reacted swiftly and launched a counter-offensive against Pakistan. In reply, on 1 September Pakistan launched Operation Grand Slam, invading India's Chamb-Jaurian sector. In retaliation, the Indian Army launched a major offensive all along its border with Pakistan, with Lahore as its prime target.

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	==== Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 ====		==== Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 ====
			[[File:1971 Instrument of Surrender WaPo-2.jpg\|center\|thumb\|900x900px]]
	An independence movement broke out in East Pakistan which was crushed by Pakistani forces. Due to large-scale atrocities committed against them, thousands of Bengalis took refuge in neighbouring India causing a major refugee crisis there. In early 1971, India declared its full support for the Bengali freedom fighters, known as Mukti Bahini, and Indian agents were extensively involved in covert operations to aid them.		An independence movement broke out in East Pakistan which was crushed by Pakistani forces. Due to large-scale atrocities committed against them, thousands of Bengalis took refuge in neighbouring India causing a major refugee crisis there. In early 1971, India declared its full support for the Bengali freedom fighters, known as Mukti Bahini, and Indian agents were extensively involved in covert operations to aid them.