Page 1 - Lesson 4.xps

Armed Forces Module - II

Structure and
Role of the Forces

4

Note
ARMED FORCES

The soldiers are faced with a variety of challenges including the difficult areas like icy
glaciers, sandy deserts, mountainous jungles and the vast seas. They willingly face
these challenges and are prepared to make any sacrifice for the Nation.
The values of comradeship and brotherhood pervade all ranks of the army. The soldiers
lay down their lives for the three Ns - Naam (name or honour), Namak (loyalty to the
Nation) and Nishan (insignia or flag of the unit/regiment or Nation). They exhibit valour
when fighting the enemy. There is no discrimination on the basis of caste, religion or
any other aspect. This ensures team spirit and unity. They usually choose death over
dishonour. The forthrightness, integrity and dignity forms the ethos of every soldier.

In this lesson we shall learn about the different Commands of the Indian Army in
greater detail as well as the Ethos of the armed forces. Before we look at the
organisational structure we shall examine the ethos of the Indian Army.

Objectives

After studying this lesson, you will be able to:
• explain the role and organisational structure of Indian Army;

• describe the role and structure of Indian Navy and
• explain the role and organisational structure of Air Force.

4.1 Role of the Indian Army

The Indian Army mainly has the task to protect the territorial integrity of our country
and safeguard its sovereignty from external aggression or internal disorder. The army
also provides assistance to the civil administration in the event of a natural or manmade
disaster. The Indian Army also participates in UN peace keeping missions by sending
troops. The Indian Army maintains a high standard of operational preparedness to
play any of the roles mentioned here.

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MILITARY STUDIES 27