New Delhi, Jan 1: The Indian Army has declared 2026 as the ‘Year of Networking and Data Centricity’, marking a major step toward building a technologically advanced and future-ready force. The initiative aims to boost connectivity, real-time decision-making, and combat effectiveness through deeper digital integration and indigenous innovation.
In his New Year message, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said the force is undergoing a significant transformation, anchored on the pillars of jointness, self-reliance, and innovation. “Through effective use of indigenous technologies, new ideas, and continuous reforms, we are making the Army more capable and future-ready. Networking and data-centricity are giving new impetus to this transformation,” he said in a written statement shared on the Army’s official X handle.
Reaffirming the Army’s operational readiness, Gen Dwivedi said the force continues to safeguard the nation’s security with vigilance and resolve. “Last year, the enemy’s nefarious designs were given a firm and decisive response under Operation Sindoor, which continues even today,” he added.
Sharing details of the initiative, the Army stated that the ‘Year of Networking and Data Centricity’ is driven by indigenisation, defence modernisation, and digital integration, aimed at strengthening resilience and agility across operational commands.
Earlier, in a seminar held in November last year, Gen Dwivedi had highlighted the growing importance of data and communication networks in modern warfare, stressing that this is an area in which the Army must “act faster.” The Army had previously designated 2024–25 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’ as part of its ongoing Decade of Transformation vision.
In a related engagement, the Chief of Army Staff visited the Base Hospital in Delhi Cantonment on Thursday, where he met serving personnel and veterans undergoing treatment. He commended the medical staff for their dedication and professionalism, praising their role in providing compassionate care and ensuring the welfare of soldiers and their families.
