Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, conducted an extensive operational review in Gujarat, reinforcing the Indian Army’s focus on strengthening border security while deepening its connect with the people.
The visit placed particular emphasis on preparedness along the strategically significant Creek and Kutch sectors. Lt Gen Seth oversaw the large-scale Defence of Gujarat Exercise, designed to validate operational readiness, rapid response mechanisms and seamless coordination among multiple agencies in demanding terrain and complex operational conditions. The exercise reaffirmed Southern Command’s capability to effectively safeguard national interests across Gujarat’s diverse operational domains.
At Bhuj Military Station, the Army Commander inaugurated a mega Surgical Eye Camp Outreach Programme, organised with the support of specialist ophthalmic teams from Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi. The camp screened more than 2,500 patients from over 120 remote villages, restoring vision to over 200 beneficiaries through advanced diagnostic and surgical procedures. The initiative highlighted the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to delivering quality healthcare to remote and underserved communities.
Continuing his engagements in Ahmedabad, Lt Gen Seth, accompanied by Mrs Komal Seth, Regional President of the Southern Command Army Women Welfare Association (AWWA), interacted with and felicitated Veer Naris and Veer Matas. The interaction acknowledged their courage and sacrifice, underscoring the Army’s deep sense of responsibility towards the families of its brave soldiers.
The visit concluded with Shaurya Sandhya, a vibrant cultural and martial evening attended by the Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel. Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat, the programme blended martial pride with cultural expression, featuring NIFT students showcasing Indian fashion through khadi, classical Bharatanatyam performances, and dynamic martial displays by soldiers in Jhankh Pathak, Kalaripayattu and the Army Martial Art Routine (AMAR).
Together, the operational review, humanitarian outreach and cultural engagements reflected the spirit of a Saksham aur Surakshit Bharat, reinforcing the Indian Army’s enduring bond with the people of Gujarat as the nation moves steadily towards Viksit Bharat @2047.