Pathankot (Punjab), February 26, 2026 : The Indian Army is fully prepared for future contingencies and will not be deterred by nuclear threats, Western Command Chief Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar asserted on Thursday, underlining that any future conflict will see a decisive outcome on the ground.
Addressing troops after an investiture ceremony at Dhyan Singh Stadium in the Mamoon Military Station, the Army commander said that during Operation Sindoor, Pakistan sought a ceasefire while simultaneously issuing nuclear threats.
“They claimed if they went down, they would take half the world with them. We ignored those threats then, and we are even better prepared now with a clear future plan,” he said.
Lt Gen Katiyar accused Pakistan’s military leadership of sustaining a war-like narrative with India to retain domestic relevance. “Our leadership is focused on the nation’s progress, while their generals are driven by the need to stay in power. To that end, they perpetuate hostility,” he remarked, adding that Pakistan lacks the capacity for open combat and instead relies on proxy warfare.
He further alleged that Pakistan misled its own people by projecting a false narrative of victory. “They spread lies through media to promote their general and deceive the public. This time, we will not allow such a narrative,” he said.
Emphasising a shift in operational doctrine, the Western Command chief said future success would go beyond destroying posts or bases. “Our victory will be on the ground—so decisive that the enemy will be compelled to accept defeat before the world,” he asserted.
Highlighting the role of formations under Indian Army Western Command, Lt Gen Katiyar told troops their preparedness would be crucial in safeguarding Jammu and Punjab, while also being ready to seize key objectives if required.
“The nation has high expectations from its armed forces. Our preparedness must be such that the enemy thinks ten times before any misadventure,” he said.
The Army commander noted that honouring units in a field environment, alongside an operational demonstration of modern equipment, reflected the force’s focus on combat readiness rather than ceremony. Congratulating Western Command formations for their performance in Operation Sindoor, he cautioned that constant vigilance remains essential.
“History—from 1971 to Kargil—shows our neighbour has failed to learn its lessons. Operation Sindoor was another reminder. While we remain committed to peace, any future provocation will be met with far more decisive action,” Lt Gen Katiyar concluded.
