In recent years, the Indian Army has embraced environmentally sustainable practices to combat climate change. Some key green initiatives include solid waste management, induction of electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and the construction of the new Thal Sena Bhawan with green norms.
Solid Waste Management: The Indian Army recognizes the importance of effective waste management to protect the environment. Initiatives include segregating waste at source, promoting recycling and composting, and using eco-friendly disposal methods. The “Apashisht Mukt Sainya Abhiyan” (AMSA) launched in October 2023 aims to make the army landfill-free by March 2027, ensuring compliance with Government of India Solid Waste Management Rules 2016 at a cost of approximately 550 crores across all military stations.
Electric Vehicles: The Indian Army is transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric alternatives to reduce emissions, noise pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels. Electric cars, motorcycles, and utility vehicles are being procured, with charging infrastructure being developed at military installations. By the end of 2025, the army plans to introduce about 60-70 electric buses, 400 electric cars, and 425 electric motorcycles across 30 stations and 150 establishments.
New Thal Sena Bhawan: The construction of the new Thal Sena Bhawan showcases the Indian Army’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure. The new headquarters will feature green building principles such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. Sustainable materials and innovative technologies will minimize environmental impact, including fly ash bricks, tree transplantation, solar energy harnessing, rainwater harvesting, and solid waste treatment to generate compost.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology: To reduce carbon emissions and fossil fuel dependence, the Indian Army is exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology. On March 21, 2023, it became the first government entity to sign an MoU with NTPC Renewable Energy Limited for green hydrogen-based microgrid power plants. A pilot project at Chushul will provide clean electricity to troops. On May 27, 2024, an MoU with IOCL introduced a hydrogen fuel cell bus, emphasizing innovation in sustainable transport solutions.
Solarisation: The Indian Army has completed around 70 solar projects, generating a cumulative capacity of approximately 85 MW. Solar power plants have been installed even at the high-altitude Siachen Glacier, and plans are underway to install large solar projects on vacant defence land with assistance from NEEPCO and NTPC.
Afforestation Drives: Celebrating India’s 75th Independence Day, the Indian Army undertook large-scale afforestation drives at all military stations. Over the past two years, more than 1.35 million trees have been planted using traditional and scientific techniques like ‘Miyawaki.’
The Indian Army is setting an example by adopting green practices, ensuring environmental sustainability while maintaining operational readiness and effectiveness.