Hot weather poses significant challenges to military training as it increases the risk of exertional heat illnesses such as exhaustion, fluid loss and stroke

The severe climatic shifts afflicting the globe are also leading the Army to change its training schedules. With extreme heat and humidity hitting parts of the country between March to November having an adverse impact on the training of recruits, the Army is tweaking the time table at some centres to carry out more activities at night.

Transformation of raw youth into “battle-ready and razor-sharp Agniveers” is fraught with challenges of overcoming inclement weather conditions. Early start to the day and extended night training to overcome vagaries of weather, says a post on X by the Army’s Surya Command.

“Institutionalising night training as a forward-looking step towards climate-responsive military training. In response to intense summer conditions, structured night training has been integrated as a regular feature for Summer Batch Agniveers at #ArmyAirDefenceCentre. This calibrated shift ensures uninterrupted training cycles while maintaining peak physical efficiency and instructional effectiveness,” the post says.

Operating under low-visibility conditions enhances discipline, coordination and adaptability, preparing Agniveers for round-the-clock operational scenarios. The initiative reflects a balanced blend of innovation and practicality, optimising training hours without compromising on standards, the post adds.

Operational training is biased towards current generation equipment and institutionalised training is focusing on technology infusion and absorption in niche domains, according to the Command.

With India among the countries most affected by climatic change, summers are becoming hotter, with some regions experiencing heatwaves that start earlier and last longer. According to reports, Central India is already experiencing intense heat wave conditions, with temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius in many areas, along with a high ultraviolet index.

Weather experts have predicted a harsh summer over parts of India in 2026, with above-normal heat wave days expected from April to June, Temperatures are projected to frequently hover between 42-45 degrees Celsius that may peak to 48 degrees Celsius, and nights are expected to be warmer than usual.

Hot weather poses significant challenges to military training as it increases the risk of exertional heat illnesses such as exhaustion, fluid loss and stroke and requires intense hydration protocols to prevent casualties among personnel, particularly new recruits. It also reduces physical and cognitive performance.

A large part of military training, especially that for recruits, involves outdoor activities such as physical fitness, weapons, drill, fieldcraft, route marches and firing. Many regimental centres and training establishments are located in the plains that frequently encounter hot and humid climate.