The Indian Army released the 174‑page “Army Uniforms‑2026” manual on 14 June 2026, revising dress regulations to phase out certain colonial‑era practices and standardise numbering across services.
Overview
- Manual & date: “Army Uniforms‑2026” issued 14 June 2026; 174 pages.
- Uniform Numbering: Common Uniform Numbering Scheme introduced for Army, Navy and Air Force; each uniform assigned a unique dress number.
- Core categories retained: Ceremonial Dress, Working Dress, Mess Dress and Combat Dress.
Key uniform changes
- Bandi Jacket authorised: Traditional Bandi Jacket approved as formal civil attire for officers; to be worn with full‑sleeved shirt, formal trousers and closed footwear (effective 14 June 2026).
- Winter working dress: “Battle Jacket” introduced for all ranks as winter working dress; jersey‑based Dress 3A to be phased out by 30 June 2029.
- Mess Dress alterations: Pouch belts removed from Mess Dress Nos. 5 and 6; pouch belts remain authorised for certain arms up to rank of colonel for regimental functions.
- Sword carriage: Reviewing Officers may carry swords optionally; swords retained for parade commanders, contingent commanders and designated personnel at major ceremonies.
- Terminology change: Use of colonial term “Royal” discontinued in official dress nomenclature.
Appearance, grooming & gender provisions
- Tattoos & piercings: Visible tattoos and body piercings prohibited; specific exemptions for Sikh soldiers preserved.
- Grooming standards: Moustaches limited to 12 cm; deodorants and perfumes prohibited while in uniform; after‑shave lotions permitted.
- Women officers: Sober‑coloured sarees or kurta‑salwar with ankle‑length straight pants and dupatta allowed for authorised occasions; sleeveless kurtas, palazzo and cigarette pants prohibited.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Dress 3A timeline: Legacy Dress 3A phased out 30 June 2029; transition period for issue and replacement of winter kit.
- Classification purpose: Dress numbers facilitate administration, identification and tri‑service interoperability.