JAISALMER: Rajiv K. Sahni, Director General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (DG EME) and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of EME of the Indian Army, visited formations and EME units of the Konark Corps during his tour of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur in western Rajasthan on Monday.During the visit, the senior officer reviewed the operational and technical preparedness of units stationed in Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and other areas of the desert sector.Lt Gen Sahni assessed the maintenance, repair and engineering support systems that ensure the operational readiness of combat platforms and other critical military equipment deployed in the region. He also interacted with officers, engineers and technical staff of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers and reviewed several ongoing innovation projects.The General Officer commended the “Konark Eagles” for maintaining a high level of mission reliability of combat-critical equipment under challenging operational conditions. He particularly appreciated the units for developing an in-house ecosystem for the production and sustenance of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Counter-UAS (CUAS) capabilities.He noted that these initiatives demonstrate the spirit of self-reliance and align with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.Lt Gen Sahni also reviewed the innovative use of additive manufacturing technologies by EME units. The application of 3D printing and rapid prototyping, he observed, is helping engineers address challenges related to logistics, spares availability and maintenance support for frontline equipment, especially in remote desert locations.During his interaction with troops, the DG EME also praised the technological initiatives undertaken by the Konark Corps Technology Centre. The centre has been working on the development of advanced technical infrastructure and solutions using robotics and cobotics (collaborative robotics).These projects aim to enhance automation, improve maintenance efficiency and strengthen the Army’s ability to integrate modern technologies into its operational framework.Highlighting the importance of innovation and technical excellence, Lt Gen Sahni encouraged personnel to continue exploring indigenous solutions and cutting-edge technologies. He emphasised that such efforts play a crucial role in ensuring operational preparedness and strengthening the Army’s technological edge.The visit reinforced the Indian Army’s ongoing push towards technology integration, modernisation and self-reliance in defence maintenance and engineering support systems across operational formations.
