The Indian Army’s apex leadership recently gathered in New Delhi for the biannual Army Commanders’ Conference, a critical event that comprehensively deliberated on various aspects of existing security scenarios, border situations, challenges in the hinterland, and organizational restructuring.
Addressing the senior Army leadership on the third day of the conference, Raksha Mantri, Mr Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the faith of over a billion Indian citizens in the Army as one of the most trusted and inspiring organizations in the country. He highlighted the stellar role played by the Army in guarding borders, fighting terrorism, and providing assistance to civil administration whenever needed.
Mr Singh emphasized the Army’s crucial role in nation-building and overall national development, praising the leadership for successfully taking forward the nation’s defense and security vision to new heights. He also commended the Indian Army’s approach to infusing and absorbing cutting-edge technology.
The Raksha Mantri stressed that unconventional and asymmetric warfare, including hybrid war, will be part of future conventional wars. He stated that cyber, information, communication, trade, and finance have become inseparable parts of future conflicts, necessitating the Armed Forces to consider all these facets while planning and formulating strategies.
On the current situation along the Northern borders, Mr Singh expressed full confidence in the troops standing firm, while ongoing talks for a peaceful resolution continue. He emphasized that disengagement and de-escalation are the way forward. The Raksha Mantri also commended the Border Roads Organization (BRO) for significantly improving road communication in the border areas, both Western and Northern, despite difficult conditions.
Regarding the situation along the Western borders, he complimented the Indian Army’s response to cross-border terrorism, although the proxy war by the adversary continues. Mr Singh praised the excellent synergy between the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Police forces, and the Army in tackling the menace of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to increased stability in the region.
The Raksha Mantri applauded the Armed Forces for aptly incorporating technological advancements in every sphere of life. He appreciated the Army’s efforts to develop niche technologies in collaboration with civil industries and premier educational institutions, progressing towards the aim of ‘Modernization through Indigenization’ or ‘Atmanirbharta’.
Mr Singh emphasized that a regular interface between the Armed Forces and emerging technologies is a must. He also remarked that the government is committed to the welfare of veterans and the next of kin of all categories of battle casualties, acknowledging the nation’s indebtedness to the sacrifices made by valiant soldiers and their families. The Army Commanders’ Conference provided a platform for the Indian Army’s leadership to address critical security challenges, emphasize modernization through indigenization, and underscore the government’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers and their families.
