The Indian Army has made a major change in the uniform and military traditions and has decided to remove many old signs of the era of slavery. Many important changes have been made in the new Army Uniform-2026 book of the Army. The Army says that these changes are in line with Indian identity and modern military thinking.
According to the new guidelines, it will no longer be necessary for the reviewing officer to carry a sword during the parade. The use of the sword will now be limited only to the parade commander, contingent commander and some designated officers. It will be used in big celebrations like Republic Day, Independence Day, Army Day and Guard of Honour.
Army Has also removed the pouch belt used with some mess dresses. Apart from this, the use of colonial era words like royal has been stopped.
What’s in the new uniform policy
For the first time, Swadeshi Bandi Jacket has been included in formal civil dress in the new uniform policy. This closed neck jacket can be worn with full sleeve shirt, formal trousers and closed shoes. New winter dress 3B has also been implemented for all ranks. This will include Angola shirt, battle jacket and beret.
New dress rules have also been made for women officers. They will be able to wear plain colored sarees. Wearing kurta-salwar and ankle-length straight pants with dupatta will be allowed, but sleeveless kurtas, palazzos and cigarette pants will not be allowed.
Women soldiers and officers have been banned from wearing lipstick, colored nail polish, bindi and nose pin. Applying vermilion will be permitted, but it should not be visible when wearing a beret or peak cap.
These will be banned in the new guidelines
It has been said in the new guideline that no bracelet other than a sacred thread can be worn on the wrist on the day of puja. Except Sikh soldiers, other soldiers will not be allowed to wear religious symbols.
The army has also set rules regarding personal grooming. The length of mustache cannot exceed 12 centimeters. There will be a ban on applying deo and perfume in the uniform, although after-shave lotion can be used.
In the new policy, there is also a ban on wearing uniform in programs like wedding, private party, political, religious or protest without permission. Besides, growing beard without permission, strange hairstyle, tattoo, body piercing and visible electronic gadgets will also be banned.
old traditions will end
Even before this, in February 2023, the army has ended many old traditions. These included the use of horse-drawn carriages in ceremonies, pull-out programs during retirements and the tradition of pipe bands at dinners.
This year itself, the Army has also changed the names of 246 roads, buildings and other facilities at military bases across the country. Kirby Place in Delhi Cantt has been renamed as Kenuguru Vihar and Mall Road as Arun Khetrapal Marg. The Army says that the purpose of these changes is to strengthen the Indian military heritage and the honor of brave soldiers.
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