This paper proposes a novel placement technique based on the improved golden jackal optimization (IGJO) algorithm for multiple capacitor banks (CBs) and multi-type DGs in a distribution network considering single and multi-objective problems. The proposed algorithm incorporates memory-based equations and random walk strategy to enhance the performance of the recent golden jackal optimization in terms of accuracy and convergence speed. The optimization problem is formulated as a weighted multi-objective that seeks to enhance the voltage profiles, boost stability, and minimize the total active power loss. An index named reactive loss sensitivity (QLSI) is also employed with the developed IGJO to identify the candidate nodes for the DGs and CBs installation to reduce the search space of the optimization algorithm. The robustness of the developed IGJO algorithm is evaluated through the CEC 2020 benchmark functions, and a comparison study is conducted with the original GJO and the other nine fresh competitors using various statistical tests to confirm its dominance and superiority. Then, the proposed IGJO is implemented in single and multi-objectives for the optimal deployment of multiple CBs individually and simultaneously with multiple DGs with different operating modes to enhance the performance of the IEEE 69-bus radial distribution system (RDS). The fetched outcomes are compared with the original GJO, weevil optimizer algorithm (WeevilOA), skill optimization algorithm (SOA), and Tasmanian devil optimization (TDO) to further measure its efficacy using different statistical tests. The IGJO algorithm is also applied to deploy multiple DGs for the IEEE 118-bus RDS with the aim of minimizing active loss. The simulation findings affirmed that the proposed IGJO technique beats the other rivals in all investigated situations, qualifying for the optimal inclusion of DGs in the presence of generation and demand uncertainties. Specifically, the integration of three units of CBs synchronously with three DGs Type-I and DG Type-III reduces