The Indian Army is to provide new uniform to more than 12 lakh military personnel. Unlike the old uniform, the new uniform has a combat T – shirt underneath.

About the new uniform

The previous uniform has been in use since 2008. The new uniform has the same colour of the older one. That is, earthen shades and olive green colour. The pattern is digital. The new uniform is made of light, sturdy and more breathable fabric. The fabric was chosen considering the different terrains the army men have to cross and serve. The cotton to polyester ratio of the fabric is 70:30. This makes it more comfortable to wear in hot and humid conditions. As compared to the old uniform, the new uniform is 15% lighter and 23% stronger.

Components of style

The army men will not tuck in the new uniform as that of the older uniforms. The shirt to be worn over the T-shirt is called jacket. The jacket has top angular pockets. It also has lower pockets with vertical opening. There is one another pocket on the left sleeve. The knife pleats are located in the back. The jacket also has improved quality buttons and a pen holder on the left fore arm. The trousers of the uniform are double layered at the groin. They are adjustable at the waist with buttons and elasticity. The girth of the caps is adjustable. The army logo printed on the caps is of better quality as compared to the previous uniform.

Women uniforms

No separate uniform for the women officers. However, the uniform has been designed considering the requirements and comfort of the lady personnel. This is the first time such considerations are being made in designing and developing army uniform.

Who designed?

It was designed by a team of twelve designers from National Institute of Fashion Technology. It included seven professors and three students and also two alumni.

By: Brijesh Kumar