The Indian Army has introduced a series of changes in its uniform regulations aimed at moving away from colonial-era symbols and practices while aligning military traditions with India’s national ethos.
The reforms have been detailed in the newly issued Army Uniforms-2026 Pamphlet, which introduces new dress elements, revises ceremonial practices, and removes certain legacy terms.
The Army said the changes represent “a deliberate move away from residual colonial-era symbols and terminology.”
Key uniform changes introduced
Bandi jacket becomes part of formal civil dress: The Indian Army has introduced the indigenous Bandi jacket as part of civil formal attire for officers. The closed-neck coat will be worn over a full-sleeved shirt with matching formal trousers and closed footwear. The manual states, "In keeping with the nation's sentiments and evolving sovereign identity, a number of deliberate refinements have been incorporated in this edition of Army Uniforms Pamphlet."
Battle Jacket replaces winter jersey-based uniform: The Army has introduced a new winter working dress featuring the Battle Jacket. The Battle Jacket will gradually replace the existing jersey-based winter uniform (Dress 3A), with the transition expected to be completed by June 2029. The jacket has been reintroduced as the standard winter outerwear for all ranks.
Sword carriage rules changed: The Army has revised ceremonial sword rules, making sword carriage optional for Reviewing Officers. Swords will now be carried only by parade commanders, contingent commanders, and designated personnel during major ceremonial events such as Republic Day, Independence Day, Army Day parades and Guards of Honour. The regulations state, "Reviewing Officers will not carry a sword on parade."
Pouch belts removed from mess dresses: The Army has removed pouch belts from Mess Dress Nos. 5 and 6 as part of the uniform reforms. The manual states that the changes include "removal of the pouch belt from Mess Dress Nos. 5 and 6, the stipulation that sword carriage by Reviewing Officer is optional, and discontinuation of archaic terminology such as 'Royal'."
Colonial-era terminology dropped
The Army has discontinued the use of certain archaic terminology, including “Royal”, which remained part of traditions inherited from the colonial period.
The manual described the move as a review of legacy practices while maintaining military dignity and traditions.
It states, “Collectively, these refinements represent a progressive review of residual colonial-era vestiges while preserving the dignity, functionality, and enduring traditions of the Indian Army.”
Renaming of military roads, buildings, and facilities
The move away from colonial legacies also extends beyond uniforms. Earlier, the Indian Army renamed 246 roads, buildings, and facilities across its establishments to strengthen an identity rooted in India’s own history, military traditions, and values.
The exercise covered 124 roads, 77 colonies, 27 buildings and other military facilities, and 18 miscellaneous facilities, including parks, training areas, sports grounds, gates and helipads.
Several British-era names were replaced with names honouring Indian soldiers, commanders, and gallantry award winners.
In Delhi Cantonment, Kirby Place was renamed Kenuguruse Vihar, while Mall Road became Arun Khetrapal Marg. In Ambala Cantonment, Patterson Road Quarters was renamed Dhan Singh Thapa Enclave, and in Mathura Cantonment, New Horn Line became Abdul Hamid Lines.
In Kolkata, Fort William was renamed Vijay Durg, while other military stations also adopted names linked to Indian military heroes.
The Army said the latest reforms are part of a broader effort to ensure that military spaces, traditions, and uniforms reflect India’s own heritage and evolving identity.