“We have adequate reserves to deal with any contingencies. As new technologies and weapon systems are introduced, our capability development is an ongoing effort. Likewise, we are focusing on infrastructure development, especially in advanced areas such as roads, helipads, etc.” Gen Pande he said, speaking at the India Today conclave.
China ramps up troops on LAC in eastern sector, India deploys adequate troops: Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande
The army chief has expressed hope that diplomatic and military talks with China will resolve remaining “points of friction” in the strategic Depsang Plains and Demchok in eastern Ladakh.
“It is only through dialogue and talking to each other that we can find a solution. At the friction points of balance, this is our goal and our commitment. Until such time as our deployment of forces happens, the alert level will continue to remain at a high level,” General Pande said.
Turning to Pakistan, he said that while levels of infiltration across the 778km Line of Control (LoC) have reduced due to the army’s “robust” counter-infiltration network, attempts across the International Border (IB) and the use of drones there for drop weapons and drugs have shown an increase. Furthermore, there has been “no major reduction in the terrorist infrastructure” existing in Pakistan. “Despite the internal situation in Pakistan, be it the political instability, the economic downturn and the internal security situation, I think we need to be extremely attentive to what happens along the LoC and the IB,” Gen Pande said.
