Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in the Army Commanders' Conference, reiterating the trust of over a billion citizens in the Indian Army as one of the nation's most reliable and motivating institutions. He highlighted the Army's commendable contributions in securing borders, combating terrorism, and offering support to civil authorities in times of crisis.

He emphasized the exceptional role of the Army in safeguarding our borders, combating terrorism, and extending aid to civil administration during times of urgency.

The Army Commanders' Conference, an apex-level biannual event, took place in the national capital. It was conducted virtually on March 28 and then in physical mode on April 1-2.

During the event, the top leadership of the Indian Army extensively discussed various aspects of the current security landscape, including situations along the borders, in the hinterland, and the challenges faced by the existing security framework.

Furthermore, the conference addressed matters concerning organisational restructuring, logistics, administration, human resource management, modernisation through indigenisation, the adoption of niche technologies, and the evaluation of the effects of various global situations.

The main highlight of the third day of the conference was Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's address to the senior leadership of the Indian Army. His address followed speeches by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), and Chief of Air Staff (CAS). Additionally, there was a briefing on the "Technological Infusion and Absorption Roadmap for Indian Army" plan.

He highlighted the significant presence of the Army across various domains such as Security, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and Medical Assistance, along with its role in maintaining internal stability.

He emphasised the vital importance of the Indian Army in nation-building and overall national development. Additionally, he praised the Army leadership for advancing the nation's 'Defence and Security' vision and commended their approach to adopting and integrating cutting-edge technology.

Singh emphasised the impact of the current complex global situation, stating that "unconventional and asymmetric warfare" will be integrated into future conventional conflicts. He highlighted the significance of cyber, information, communication, trade, and finance in upcoming conflicts, stressing the need for the Armed Forces to account for these aspects when devising strategies and plans.

The Defence Minister expressed full confidence in the troops stationed along the Northern borders, affirming ongoing talks for peaceful resolution and emphasising that disengagement and de-escalation are the way forward, according to a release.

Singh commended the excellent synergy between the CAPF/Police forces and the Army in addressing terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that synergised operations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir contribute to increased stability in the region, advocating for their continuation.

Singh stressed the importance of discussing defence diplomacy, indigenisation, information warfare, defence infrastructure, and force modernisation in forums like the Commanders Conference.

He emphasized the need for doctrinal changes to ensure the Armed Forces are future-ready and urged for thorough consideration of recommendations and suggestions from senior leadership, with room for midcourse review and modification. Singh affirmed the government's commitment to facilitating the Army's progress towards reforms and capability modernisation.

Image source: Economic Times