Rajnath Singh, the Defense Minister, lauded the Army's exceptional state of operational readiness during his address and underscored the necessity for perpetual "war preparedness." Speaking at the Army Commanders’ Conference, 2023, which commenced on October 16, he illuminated the evolving dynamics of warfare and the integration of "unconventional and asymmetric warfare" into conventional conflicts.
In his articulate discourse, Singh emphasized the emerging reality that "unconventional and asymmetric warfare," encompassing hybrid warfare, will increasingly become integral to future conventional conflicts. He drew attention to the irrefutable evidence of this trend in recent global conflicts.
He asserted that this evolving landscape mandates comprehensive considerations by the Armed Forces when devising strategies and formulating plans. He advocated a process of continual learning from incidents, including those of global significance, both in the present and the past. Preparedness for the unexpected, Singh noted, necessitates strategic planning and formulation in line with the unpredictable nature of contemporary conflicts.
Addressing the situation along the India-Pakistan border, Singh commended the Army's adept response to cross-border terrorism. He lauded the exemplary synergy between the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), police forces, and the Army in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. This collaborative effort, he mentioned, has significantly contributed to enhanced stability and peace in the region, and he lauded the Indian Army for its role in this achievement.
With regard to the current scenario along the India-China border, Singh expressed his unwavering confidence in the Army's capability to address any contingencies. Significantly, these statements came shortly after the 20th round of corps commander-level talks between India and China, held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point, aimed at resolving the standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh.
Rajnath Singh also extended his accolades to the Border Roads Organization (BRO) for their remarkable work in improving road networks along the Western and Northern frontiers, even under challenging conditions.
In his address, Singh acknowledged the Army's commendable efforts in developing cutting-edge technologies through partnerships with civilian industries and prestigious educational institutions. This collaborative approach aligns with the vision of 'Modernisation through Indigenisation' or 'Atmanirbharta,' a central focus for the government. He reiterated the government's commitment to modernizing weapons for every soldier through Atmanirbharta, marking a pivotal focus area.
Additionally, Singh urged a thoughtful contemplation of defense diplomacy, indigenization, information warfare, defense infrastructure, and force modernization within such forums. He reiterated the imperative of unceasing war preparedness, underlining the need to be perpetually ready for unforeseen contingencies that may emerge at any time.
He concluded by expressing the nation's profound pride in its Army and reaffirmed the government's dedication to facilitating the Army's progress in the journey of reforms and capability modernization. The government remains steadfast in supporting the Army's forward movement in these critical aspects.
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