China border

1. Faizal stresses adherence to the “integrated Island management plan” for sustainable tourism.
2. The plan determines the carrying capacity and the permissible number of tourists for the islands.
3. Lakshadweep focuses on high-end controlled tourism to maximize revenue while ensuring environmental controls.

New Delhi, Jan 15: As tensions persist along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande reassured on Monday that the Indian Army is fully prepared to handle any situation along the northern borders with China.

Speaking after reviewing the Army Day parade in Lucknow, he also expressed concerns about a recent surge in terrorist activities in the Rajouri-Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

Border Preparedness:

  • General Pande stated that the Indian Army has taken concrete measures to enhance its capabilities along the northern borders with China. Despite ongoing negotiations, the military standoff, which began in May 2020, continues in the Ladakh region.
  • Emergency financial powers have been invoked to procure modern weapons and systems, and infrastructure development in border areas is a top priority to strengthen defenses.

Security Challenges in Jammu and Kashmir:

  • While the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is under control, General Pande highlighted an increase in terrorist activities in the Rajouri-Poonch sector over the last few months.
  • The cease-fire on the Line of Control (LoC) is holding, but infiltration attempts suggest the persistence of intact terror infrastructure. The efforts of security forces have led to a significant drop in violence in the hinterland.

Efforts for Counter-Terror Operations:

  • Following a resurgence of terror activities in the sensitive Rajouri-Poonch sector, additional troops have been deployed, units have been reoriented, and intelligence networks are being strengthened for effective counter-terror operations.
  • General Pande emphasized the army’s determination to root out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, collaborating with all stakeholders to achieve this goal.

Army Day Parade Highlights:

  • The Army Day parade showcased a variety of weapons and systems, including tanks, artillery guns, rocket systems, anti-air weapons, and assault bridging systems. Upgraded artillery guns and modern weaponry were featured to demonstrate the army’s technological advancements.
  • Lieutenant Aishwarya AG, a woman officer, served as the parade adjutant, reflecting the army’s commitment to promoting Nari Shakti.
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Gallantry Awards:

  • General Pande presented 15 gallantry awards and 23 unit citations during the Army Day parade, recognizing the valor and meritorious service of army personnel and units.

Celebrations and Greetings:

  • Army Day is celebrated on January 15 to commemorate the achievements of the first Indian Commander-in-Chief, General KM Cariappa, who took command in 1949.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended their wishes and saluted the dedication and sacrifices of the Indian Army.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “On Army Day, we honour the extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment and sacrifices of our Army personnel. Their relentless dedication to protecting our nation and upholding our sovereignty is a testament to their bravery. They are pillars of strength and resilience.”

Defence minister Rajnath Singh also took to X to greet the army.

“Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the brave soldiers and their families on Army Day. Every Indian is not only aware of the courage, bravery and valour of the army but also has a feeling of gratitude towards them. The Indian Army has always protected the country and has made countless sacrifices for it. On behalf of all the countrymen, I salute and congratulate the Indian Army,” Singh wrote.

As the Indian Army remains vigilant along the China border and addresses security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir, the Army Day celebrations serve as a tribute to the bravery and commitment of the soldiers in safeguarding the nation.

The event also prompts discussions on the delicate balance between maintaining border security and upholding ethical standards in military operations.