Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, addressing newly commissioned officers at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, emphasized that India’s future combat capability will rely on three core principles: jointness, Atmanirbharta (self-reliance), and innovation, collectively termed JAI. He noted that while the tempo of military operations has somewhat reduced, Operation Sindoor remains active, requiring constant vigilance and operational readiness throughout the year. General Chauhan contrasted India’s strong military institutions and professionalism with the institutional fragility observed in neighboring regions, asserting that effective military success demands purposeful action rather than mere rhetoric. He outlined JAI as a guiding ethos, where jointness fosters unified combat capabilities, Atmanirbharta focuses on developing reliable defense systems for both India and global markets, and innovation encourages proactive advancements in military technology. With the landscape of warfare evolving towards speed and intelligence, particularly in air combat, the armed forces are committed to adapting and leading in new technological frontiers, ensuring their relevance and effectiveness in future conflicts. The event culminated in the graduation of 244 cadets, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s defense capabilities.