Indian Army Revamps Uniform Rules: Bandi Jackets In, Colonial-Era Pouch Belts Out

The Indian Army has introduced sweeping changes to its dress regulations, replacing several long-standing colonial-era practices with rules designed to reflect a distinctly Indian identity. From allowing bandi jackets as formal wear to removing ceremonial accessories inherited from the British era, the changes signal a wider transformation in how the force presents itself in a modern India.

The reforms have been codified in the new Army Uniforms-2026 manual, a 174-page document that updates everything from ceremonial attire and parade customs to grooming standards and personal appearance regulations. The previous edition of the manual was issued eight years ago.

A Shift Beyond Uniforms

The latest changes are being viewed as part of the military's ongoing effort to align its traditions with India's post-colonial identity.

"In keeping with the nation's sentiments and evolving sovereign identity, a number of deliberate refinements have been incorporated. Collectively, these refinements represent a progressive review of residual colonial-era vestiges while preserving the dignity, functionality and enduring traditions of the Indian Army," the document stated in a section titled "Indigenisation and Alignment with National Ethos."

The revised regulations also eliminate several symbols and terms associated with the British military legacy. Among them is the removal of the word "royal" from Army terminology, while reviewing officers will no longer be required to carry swords during parades.

Bandi Jacket Gets Formal Approval

Perhaps the most visible change is the inclusion of the closed-neck bandi jacket in the Army's formal dress code. The garment, commonly associated with Indian formal wear, has now been authorised for officers alongside traditional options such as the bandhgala and lounge suit.

"A closed neck coat (bandi jacket) may be worn over a full sleeved shirt. The bandi jacket may be with or without the neck hook fastening (both patterns are authorised) and will be of solid, sober colour only. Matching formal trousers of sober design and formal closed footwear will be worn," the manual stated.

The move marks one of the clearest examples of the Army incorporating indigenous styles into official military attire.

Ceremonial Traditions Updated

The Army has also retired the ceremonial pouch belt from Mess Dress No. 5 and No. 6, uniforms worn during high-level state functions and formal military gatherings.

"Pouch belt will not be worn with Dress No 5 and 6. However, it may be worn with ceremonial dresses during regimental/corps functions," the manual stated.

The belt will remain authorised for officers up to the rank of colonel in selected arms and regiments, preserving certain regimental traditions while reducing its broader ceremonial use.

Alongside these changes, the Army has introduced a new winter uniform known as Dress 3B, consisting of an angola shirt, battle jacket and beret for personnel across all ranks.

Detailed Rules on Appearance and Conduct

Beyond clothing, the manual lays down extensive standards governing personal appearance. Tattoos and body piercings remain prohibited, while personnel are barred from wearing bracelets in uniform except for a sacred thread during religious rituals.

Religious symbols and markings are generally not permitted, although Sikh soldiers continue to receive specific exemptions.

The Army has also retained strict grooming standards. Moustaches cannot exceed 12 centimetres, while deodorants and perfumes are prohibited in uniform. After-shave lotions remain permissible.

For women personnel, the regulations permit sarees and kurta-salwar outfits with ankle-length straight pants and dupattas as formal wear. Sleeveless kurtas, palazzo pants and cigarette pants are not allowed. Cosmetic restrictions continue as well, with lipstick, coloured nail polish, bindis and nose pins prohibited. Sindoor may be worn only if it remains concealed beneath the beret or peak cap.

Part of a Larger Indigenisation Push

The updated manual comes amid a wider effort by the armed forces to move away from colonial customs. That process gathered momentum after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the Combined Commanders' Conference in Kevadia, Gujarat, called on the military to replace colonial practices with Indian traditions and approaches.

In the foreword to the manual, Adjutant General Lt Gen VPS Kaushik described the changes as a significant step in that direction, stating that the new edition "reflects a considered step towards aligning the army's dress regulations with contemporary Indian ethos through the progressive removal of residual colonial-era practices, accoutrements and terminology."

More than a revision of uniforms, the Army's latest rulebook reflects an institution seeking to balance its historic traditions with a modern and distinctly Indian character.