Common uniform in Army for officers from the rank of Brigadier from August 1

• In a significant move, the Army has decided to go for a common uniform for officers of the rank of Brigadier and above from August 1 irrespective of their parent cadre or regiment
• The decision was taken after detailed deliberations during last month’s Army Commanders’ Conference and extensive consultations with all stakeholders

Key highlights

• The Indian Army has decided to adopt a common uniform for Brigadier and above rank officers in order to promote and strengthen common identity and approach in service matters amongst senior leadership, beyond the boundaries of regimentation
• This will also reinforce the Indian Army’s character to be a fair and equitable organisation

Common identity

• The headgear, shoulder rank badges, gorget patches, belt and shoes of flag rank Brigadier and above will now be standardised in view of the decision
• The flag-rank officers will now not wear any lanyards.
• There will be no change to the uniform worn by Colonels and below-rank officers.
• In the Army, officers of the rank of Brigadier and above are mostly posted at headquarters or establishments where those from all arms and services work and function together.
• According to sources, a standard uniform will ensure a common identity for all senior-rank officers, while reflecting the true ethos of the Indian Army.

Prelims take away

• Ranking in Indian army