The second Army Commanders’ Conference of year 2024, commenced in a hybrid format on October 10 in Gangtok. During the conference, Indian Army’s apex leadership deliberated upon all aspects of existing security scenarios, situation along the borders and in the hinterland and challenges for the present security apparatus.
The conference also focussed on issues pertaining to organisational restructuring, logistics, administration and human resource management. The main highlight of the second day of the conference was the address by defence minister Rajnath Singh, which owing to bad weather at Gangtok was done in a virtual mode from Sukna.
The defence minister stressed upon the present complex and ambiguous world situation which affects everyone globally. He stated that, “Unconventional and asymmetric warfare, including hybrid war will be part of the future conventional wars and the same is evident in the recent conflicts happening in various parts of world. This necessitates that the armed forces should keep all these facets in consideration while planning and formulating strategies. We must keep learning from the incidents, including the global ones…, regularly modernise and prepare continuously for various contingencies.”
Commenting on the current situation along the northern borders, the minister expressed full confidence in the army for any contingency, though the ongoing talks for peaceful resolution will continue at all levels. He complimented the efforts of the BRO, which has led to the incomparable improvement of road communication in the borders both western and northern, while working under difficult conditions.
Referring to the situation along the western borders, he complimented the Indian Army’s response to cross border terrorism, even though the proxy war by the adversary continues. “I compliment the excellent synergy between the CAPF/ police forces and the army in tackling the menace of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. “The synergised operations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are contributing to increased stability and peace in the region which was also evident in the recently conducted elections.”
The minister commended the army for the high standard of operational preparedness and capabilities. He complimented the significant contributions made by the army in military diplomacy to further our national security interests by creating sustainable cooperative relationships with foreign armies. Singh stressed upon the technological advancement taking place in every sphere and applauded the armed forces for aptly incorporating them. He appreciated the army’s efforts to develop niche technologies in collaboration with civil industries, including premier educational institutions and thereby progressing towards the aim of ‘modernisation through indigenisation’.