The North NEWS
(Dras ) Ladakh, July 26
India’s Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, on Saturday signalled a significant expansion in the country’s defence posture, announcing the creation of a new combat brigade equipped with mechanised infantry, armoured units, artillery, and special forces.
Speaking at a ceremony in Dras, Ladakh, to mark the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas — commemorating India’s 1999 military victory over Pakistan — Gen Dwivedi said the newly sanctioned brigade would be designed to deliver swift, high-impact responses along India’s borders.
“The forces that conspire against India’s sovereignty, integrity and people will be met with a befitting reply — this is the new normal,” Gen Dwivedi said. “Special forces are also being established to deliver rapid and unexpected responses to hostile actions. This will multiply our combat strength.”
“We are moving towards becoming a modern, developed, and futuristic power,” he said, adding that the Army is also contributing to infrastructure and development projects in frontier regions such as Ladakh.
“Today, I feel proud and emotional as I pay tribute to our immortal martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation,” he said, addressing the families of Kargil War soldiers present at the commemoration.

