Army Commanders'&nbsp;Conference is being organised from October 09 to October 15, in New Delhi to discuss a number of operations, including logistics among others.

The last Army Commanders'&nbsp;Conference was held in April 2018. A large number of issues ranging from operational challenges, administrative issues, logistics to human resource related issues will be discussed during the conference which will last for seven days.

As part of the conclave, commanders and directorates at Army Headquarters will in a collegiate deliberate on important studies that have been ordered to meet future operational challenges.

There are four studies examining the operational and optimization issues of Army and the headquarters as well as of human resources management aspects, a statement said.

The aim of these studies is to improve the teeth to tail ratio, with the purpose of strengthening the structures within the Army, to make it combat ready for the future.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on September 23 had said that the Indian Army was fit to fight wars.

Speaking to ANI, General Rawat had said, "We have got an organisation which helped us fight the previous wars. If we are looking at future wars, they will necessitate imbibing technology, technologies of all kinds.

Therefore, we have to reorganise ourselves to ensure that technologies and the weaponry and the man behind the weapon are integrated. But it is more important to imbibe the technology and for doing so, you have to carry out some changes in the organisation and you have to ensure that your men understand the need for technology, only then can you move forward."

Army Commanders' Conference is being organised from October 09 to October 15, in New Delhi to discuss a number of operations, including logistics among others. The last Army Commanders' Conference was held in April 2018.

Army Commanders' Conference is being organised from October 09 to October 15, in New Delhi to discuss a number of operations, including logistics among others. The last Army Commanders' Conference was held in April 2018. A large number of issues ranging from operational challenges, administrative issues, logistics to human resource related issues will be discussed during the conference which will last for seven days. As part of the conclave, commanders and directorates at Army Headquarters will in a collegiate deliberate on important studies that have been ordered to meet future operational challenges. There are four studies examining the operational and optimization issues of Army and the headquarters as well as of human resources management aspects, a statement said. The aim of these studies is to improve the teeth to tail ratio, with the purpose of strengthening the structures within the Army, to make it combat ready for the future. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on September 23 had said that the Indian Army was fit to fight wars. Speaking to ANI, General Rawat had said, "We have got an organisation which helped us fight the previous wars. If we are looking at future wars, they will necessitate imbibing technology, technologies of all kinds. Therefore, we have to reorganise ourselves to ensure that technologies and the weaponry and the man behind the weapon are integrated. But it is more important to imbibe the technology and for doing so, you have to carry out some changes in the organisation and you have to ensure that your men understand the need for technology, only then can you move forward."

Army Commanders' Conference to begin in Delhi from today

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat is leading a high-level delegation on an official visit to Russia from October 1 to 6, the Army said on Monday.

The delegation is scheduled to meet Russia`s military brass and visit key military formations and establishments.

General Rawat will visit the Mikhailovskaya Artillery Academy and the headquarters of a Motorised Rifle Division in Moscow.&nbsp;

"The visit is yet another milestone in giving impetus to the strategic partnership between India and Russia and taking forward the military to military cooperation to the next level," Army spokesman Colonel Aman Anand said.

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat is leading a high-level delegation on an official visit to Russia from October 1 to 6, the Army said on Monday. The delegation is scheduled to meet Russia`s military brass and visit key military formations and establishments.

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat is leading a high-level delegation on an official visit to Russia from October 1 to 6, the Army said on Monday. The delegation is scheduled to meet Russia`s military brass and visit key military formations and establishments. General Rawat will visit the Mikhailovskaya Artillery Academy and the headquarters of a Motorised Rifle Division in Moscow. "The visit is yet another milestone in giving impetus to the strategic partnership between India and Russia and taking forward the military to military cooperation to the next level," Army spokesman Colonel Aman Anand said.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat leads delegation to Russia 

The Indian Army can take another <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-surgical-strikes-video-shows-indian-army-destroying-terror-launch-pads-in-pok-147550">surgical strike-like action</a> if infiltration doesn't stop from the Pakistan side, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has said.

Speaking to WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary, General Rawat said, "The surgical strikes, which were carried out two years ago, was a well though-out plan against the brutality committed in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri. We (the Indian Army) keep devising plans to check infiltration from across the border and will not hesitate to take another similar action if Pakistan doesn't stop supporting terrorists or fails to check infiltration."

We will not let infiltration go on year after year; either Pakistan stops supporting terrorists or we will be forced to take action, he said affirmatively.

"Terrorism emanating from Pakistan is the biggest challenge to the country. But <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/surgical-strikes-were-conducted-in-the-interest-of-national-security-not-for-political-mileage-148036">surgical strikes</a> are not the only option we have. The armed forces have several other better options for tackling cross-border infiltration and terrorism," General Rawat said.

The Army had conducted a massive <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-rejects-video-clips-of-indian-surgical-strikes-calls-it-farcical-147801">surgical strikes</a> on terror launch pads across the Line of Control on September 29, two years ago.

General Rawat also discussed India's Pakistan policy, what steps the Indian Army is taking, or planning to take, to deal with terrorism.

"India is progressing rapidly, we are taking rapid strides in development. But look at Pakistan. Its economy is falling, the education and healthcare sectors are in shambles. So Pakistan needs to understand that supporting terrorism is adversely affecting its policy and is not in sync with India's vision," General Rawat said.

He also gave some words of advice to the new Pakistan government led by Imran Khan and its army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa. General Rawat said that peace and stability in the region can be established only if the civilian government in the neighbouring nation and its armed forces make an honest effort towards it.

"Peace can come, insurgency and cross-border terrorism can end if the Imran Khan government in Pakistan takes an honest effort in that direction. Till the time the civilian government in Pakistan remains under the clutches of its army (ISI) peace will remain a distant dream," he said.

General Rawat also said that he feels sad as well as surprised when human rights activists raise concerns when a terrorist is eliminated. "How can you talk about human rights of a terrorist? He attacks innocent people. Such activists and organisations need to sit together and rethink their strategies," he said.

The Army Chief also said that Pakistan-backed terrorists are utterly frustrated with Indian Army's counter-terror operations in which several top terrorists had been eliminated.

General Rawat, while praising the officers and jawans of the armed forces, said that the country is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality and to protect the national borders.

The Army Chief also referred to the ongoing row over Rafale defence deal. He said that defence procurement should be done through Government-to-Government channels, which will eliminate the risk of middlemen and ensure transparency.

When asked if he harboured any political ambitions, General Rawat said, "No".

"I am not cut out for that. I would like to be remembered as an Army officer who lived his dream, who led his side with pride, and the one who always admired and respected his olive green uniform," he said. 
&nbsp; 
The no-holds-barred interview with Army Chief came nearly a week after a BSF soldier was shot dead by Pakistani forces and his mutilated body was found later.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UbckFevUsQo" width="560"></iframe>

The Indian Army can take another surgical strike-like action if infiltration doesn't stop from the Pakistan side, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has said. Speaking to WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary, General Rawat said, "The surgical strikes, which were carried out two years ago, was a well though-out plan against the brutality committed in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri.

The Indian Army can take another surgical strike-like action if infiltration doesn't stop from the Pakistan side, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has said. Speaking to WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary, General Rawat said, "The surgical strikes, which were carried out two years ago, was a well though-out plan against the brutality committed in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri. We (the Indian Army) keep devising plans to check infiltration from across the border and will not hesitate to take another similar action if Pakistan doesn't stop supporting terrorists or fails to check infiltration." We will not let infiltration go on year after year; either Pakistan stops supporting terrorists or we will be forced to take action, he said affirmatively. "Terrorism emanating from Pakistan is the biggest challenge to the country. But surgical strikes are not the only option we have. The armed forces have several other better options for tackling cross-border infiltration and terrorism," General Rawat said. The Army had conducted a massive surgical strikes on terror launch pads across the Line of Control on September 29, two years ago. General Rawat also discussed India's Pakistan policy, what steps the Indian Army is taking, or planning to take, to deal with terrorism. "India is progressing rapidly, we are taking rapid strides in development. But look at Pakistan. Its economy is falling, the education and healthcare sectors are in shambles. So Pakistan needs to understand that supporting terrorism is adversely affecting its policy and is not in sync with India's vision," General Rawat said. He also gave some words of advice to the new Pakistan government led by Imran Khan and its army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa. General Rawat said that peace and stability in the region can be established only if the civilian government in the neighbouring nation and its armed forces make an honest effort towards it. "Peace can come, insurgency and cross-border terrorism can end if the Imran Khan government in Pakistan takes an honest effort in that direction. Till the time the civilian government in Pakistan remains under the clutches of its army (ISI) peace will remain a distant dream," he said. General Rawat also said that he feels sad as well as surprised when human rights activists raise concerns when a terrorist is eliminated. "How can you talk about human rights of a terrorist? He attacks innocent people. Such activists and organisations need to sit together and rethink their strategies," he said. The Army Chief also said that Pakistan-backed terrorists are utterly frustrated with Indian Army's counter-terror operations in which several top terrorists had been eliminated. General Rawat, while praising the officers and jawans of the armed forces, said that the country is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality and to protect the national borders. The Army Chief also referred to the ongoing row over Rafale defence deal. He said that defence procurement should be done through Government-to-Government channels, which will eliminate the risk of middlemen and ensure transparency. When asked if he harboured any political ambitions, General Rawat said, "No". "I am not cut out for that. I would like to be remembered as an Army officer who lived his dream, who led his side with pride, and the one who always admired and respected his olive green uniform," he said. The no-holds-barred interview with Army Chief came nearly a week after a BSF soldier was shot dead by Pakistani forces and his mutilated body was found later.

Ready for another surgical strike-like action: Army Chief Bipin Rawat to WION

Pakistan on Wednesday reacted to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ready-another-surgical-strike-action-army-chief-bipin-rawat-167735">exclusive interview to WION</a>. Rana Sanaullah, Pak lawmaker from PML(N) party stated that "Pakistan is ready for any eventuality." &nbsp;

Sanaullah described General Rawat's statements as "big talk by India".&nbsp;

"We are more than ready for any eventuality. The world knows Pakistan army's professionalism. This is a just big talk from India. We will give a befitting reply," he added.&nbsp;

Another PML(N) leader, Mian Javed, noted that "India always wanted war with Pakistan."

"India never wanted to accept our sovereignty. But we will respond appropriately," Javed added.&nbsp;

"We have always given the message of peace," stated PML(N)'s Tahira Aurangzeb.&nbsp;

In his interview to WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary, General Rawat suggested the Indian Army can take another surgical strike-like action if infiltration doesn't stop from the Pakistan side.

"The surgical strikes, which were carried out two years ago, was a well-thought-out plan against the brutality committed in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri. We (the Indian Army) keep devising plans to check infiltration from across the border and will not hesitate to take another similar action if Pakistan doesn't stop supporting terrorists or fails to check infiltration," General Rawat told WION.&nbsp;

We will not let infiltration go on year after year; either Pakistan stops supporting terrorists or we will be forced to take action, he said affirmatively.

"Terrorism emanating from Pakistan is the biggest challenge to the country. But surgical strikes are not the only option we have. The armed forces have several other better options for tackling cross-border infiltration and terrorism," General Rawat said.

Pakistan on Wednesday reacted to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's exclusive interview to WION. Rana Sanaullah, Pak lawmaker from PML(N) party stated that "Pakistan is ready for any eventuality.

Pakistan on Wednesday reacted to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's exclusive interview to WION. Rana Sanaullah, Pak lawmaker from PML(N) party stated that "Pakistan is ready for any eventuality." Sanaullah described General Rawat's statements as "big talk by India". "We are more than ready for any eventuality. The world knows Pakistan army's professionalism. This is a just big talk from India. We will give a befitting reply," he added. Another PML(N) leader, Mian Javed, noted that "India always wanted war with Pakistan." "India never wanted to accept our sovereignty. But we will respond appropriately," Javed added. "We have always given the message of peace," stated PML(N)'s Tahira Aurangzeb. In his interview to WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary, General Rawat suggested the Indian Army can take another surgical strike-like action if infiltration doesn't stop from the Pakistan side. "The surgical strikes, which were carried out two years ago, was a well-thought-out plan against the brutality committed in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri. We (the Indian Army) keep devising plans to check infiltration from across the border and will not hesitate to take another similar action if Pakistan doesn't stop supporting terrorists or fails to check infiltration," General Rawat told WION. We will not let infiltration go on year after year; either Pakistan stops supporting terrorists or we will be forced to take action, he said affirmatively. "Terrorism emanating from Pakistan is the biggest challenge to the country. But surgical strikes are not the only option we have. The armed forces have several other better options for tackling cross-border infiltration and terrorism," General Rawat said.

We will give befitting reply: Pak lawmakers react to Army Chief General Rawat's interview to WION 

Migration from Bangladesh into India is &quot;plannned&quot;, Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Wednesday. The migration, he added, is part of a proxy war by Pakistan and is supported by China, to keep India&#39;s Northeast region on the boil.&nbsp;

&quot;Other issue is planned immigration taking place because of our western neighbour. They will always try and ensure that this area is taken over. This proxy dimension of warfare is well played by our western neighbour and supported by our northern neighbour,&quot; Rawat said.&nbsp;

Rawat was speaking in Delhi at a conference on securing borders in India&#39;s Northeast region.

To back up his argument, Rawat said the AIUDF (All India United Democratic Front) has grown faster in Assam than the BJP over the years. The AIUDF is led by Badruddin Ajmal.&nbsp;

&quot;When we talk of Jan Sangh with two MPs and where they have reached, AIUDF is moving at a faster pace in the state of Assam,&quot; said Rawat.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
AIUDF (All India United Democratic Front) have grown in a faster time-frame than the BJP grew over the years. When we talk of Jan Sangh with two MPs &amp; where they have reached, AIUDF is moving at a faster pace in the state of Assam: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat (21.02.18) <a href="https://t.co/XUIlBDhef6">pic.twitter.com/XUIlBDhef6</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/966478959234793472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Rawat however did concede that migration from Bangladesh also takes place because of the pressure of population.&nbsp;

&quot;Migration from Bangladesh is due to two reasons. One, they are running out of space. Large areas get flooded during the monsoon and they have constricted area to stay,&quot; said Rawat.&nbsp;

Former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon also spoke at the conference.&nbsp;

&quot;One reason why we saw that activity in Doklam last year was not because they (China) had a clear military option or superiority but because they had the political goal of splitting us from the Bhutanese,&quot; Menon said.&nbsp;

&quot;China wanted to show the Bhutanese that India could not defend their security and also to arouse Bhutanese opinion. I am glad we chose to react the way we did,&quot; he added.&nbsp;

Rawat has made a number of comments of late, for some of which he has drawn flak with commentators saying he has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wont-allow-anti-india-activities-in-kashmir-army-chief-29627" target="_blank">overstepped his brief</a> as army chief.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

'Other issue is planned immigration taking place because of our western neighbour. They will always try and ensure that this area is taken over. This proxy dimension of warfare is well played by our western neighbour and supported by our northern neighbour,' Rawat said

Migration from Bangladesh into India is "plannned", Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Wednesday. The migration, he added, is part of a proxy war by Pakistan and is supported by China, to keep India's Northeast region on the boil. "Other issue is planned immigration taking place because of our western neighbour. They will always try and ensure that this area is taken over. This proxy dimension of warfare is well played by our western neighbour and supported by our northern neighbour," Rawat said. Rawat was speaking in Delhi at a conference on securing borders in India's Northeast region. To back up his argument, Rawat said the AIUDF (All India United Democratic Front) has grown faster in Assam than the BJP over the years. The AIUDF is led by Badruddin Ajmal. "When we talk of Jan Sangh with two MPs and where they have reached, AIUDF is moving at a faster pace in the state of Assam," said Rawat. AIUDF (All India United Democratic Front) have grown in a faster time-frame than the BJP grew over the years. When we talk of Jan Sangh with two MPs & where they have reached, AIUDF is moving at a faster pace in the state of Assam: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat (21.02.18) pic.twitter.com/XUIlBDhef6 — ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2018 × Rawat however did concede that migration from Bangladesh also takes place because of the pressure of population. "Migration from Bangladesh is due to two reasons. One, they are running out of space. Large areas get flooded during the monsoon and they have constricted area to stay," said Rawat. Former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon also spoke at the conference. "One reason why we saw that activity in Doklam last year was not because they (China) had a clear military option or superiority but because they had the political goal of splitting us from the Bhutanese," Menon said. "China wanted to show the Bhutanese that India could not defend their security and also to arouse Bhutanese opinion. I am glad we chose to react the way we did," he added. Rawat has made a number of comments of late, for some of which he has drawn flak with commentators saying he has overstepped his brief as army chief.

Migration from Bangladesh part of proxy war by Pakistan, supported by China: Army Chief

The Chinese military on Thursday criticised Army Chief General Bipin Rawat&#39;s recent remarks that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/status-quo-not-altered-at-doklam-india-29981" target="_blank">Doklam is a disputed territory</a>, asserting that it is very much part of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-military-asks-india-to-control-its-border-troops-27978" target="_blank">China</a>, and India should draw lessons from the 73-day standoff to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Reacting for the first time to General Rawat&#39;s comments, Colonel Wu Qian, spokesman of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-silent-over-gen-rawats-remarks-on-pla-troop-reduction-in-dokalam-29018" target="_blank">Chinese Ministry of Defence</a>, told a media briefing that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-china-justifies-building-infrastructure-in-doklam-india-says-keeping-a-close-vigil-30065" target="_blank">Doklam is part of China</a>.

General&nbsp;Rawat earlier this month said that India needs to shift focus from its border with Pakistan to that of China and spoke of pressure being exerted by Beijing along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

&quot;The People&#39;s Liberation Army (PLA) of China has occupied the area in the west of Torsa nullah called northern Doklam. At the actual spot the two sides have disengaged. The tents remain. The observation posts remain. This is a territory disputed between Bhutan and China,&quot; the army chief had said on January 12 on the eve of the Army Day.

Wu said: &quot;the remarks of the Indian side also shows that the illegal crossing of the Indian border troops is clear in fact and nature&quot;.

&quot;Donglong (Doklam) is part of China,&quot; Wu said, while responding to the recent remarks of Gen Rawat that the Doklam is a disputed territory between China and Bhutan.

Wu said the Indian side should draw lessons from the incident to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day-long standoff in Doklam since June 16 after the Indian side stopped construction of a road in the disputed area by the Chinese Army. Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam. The face-off had ended on August 28.

Referring to General Rawat&#39;s remarks that India should take the neighbouring countries along with it, Wu said: &quot;I want to emphasise that the country should be treated equally regardless of its size. 
&quot;The concept sphere of influence is demonstration of Cold War mentality. The Chinese side (is) always opposed to it,&quot; he said.

Rawat had said that countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have to be kept on board as part of a broader strategy to deal with China, and India must make &quot;wholehearted&quot; efforts to continue extending support to them.

Wu also denied reports that China plans to establish a military base or counter-terrorism base in Afghanistan.

&quot;The report on China building a military base in Afghanistan is totally groundless,&quot; he added.

General Rawat earlier this month said that India needs to shift focus from its border with Pakistan to that of China and spoke of pressure being exerted by Beijing along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)

The Chinese military on Thursday criticised Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's recent remarks that Doklam is a disputed territory, asserting that it is very much part of China, and India should draw lessons from the 73-day standoff to avoid similar incidents in the future. Reacting for the first time to General Rawat's comments, Colonel Wu Qian, spokesman of the Chinese Ministry of Defence, told a media briefing that Doklam is part of China. General Rawat earlier this month said that India needs to shift focus from its border with Pakistan to that of China and spoke of pressure being exerted by Beijing along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). "The People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China has occupied the area in the west of Torsa nullah called northern Doklam. At the actual spot the two sides have disengaged. The tents remain. The observation posts remain. This is a territory disputed between Bhutan and China," the army chief had said on January 12 on the eve of the Army Day. Wu said: "the remarks of the Indian side also shows that the illegal crossing of the Indian border troops is clear in fact and nature". "Donglong (Doklam) is part of China," Wu said, while responding to the recent remarks of Gen Rawat that the Doklam is a disputed territory between China and Bhutan. Wu said the Indian side should draw lessons from the incident to avoid similar incidents in the future. Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day-long standoff in Doklam since June 16 after the Indian side stopped construction of a road in the disputed area by the Chinese Army. Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam. The face-off had ended on August 28. Referring to General Rawat's remarks that India should take the neighbouring countries along with it, Wu said: "I want to emphasise that the country should be treated equally regardless of its size. "The concept sphere of influence is demonstration of Cold War mentality. The Chinese side (is) always opposed to it," he said. Rawat had said that countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have to be kept on board as part of a broader strategy to deal with China, and India must make "wholehearted" efforts to continue extending support to them. Wu also denied reports that China plans to establish a military base or counter-terrorism base in Afghanistan. "The report on China building a military base in Afghanistan is totally groundless," he added.

Draw lessons to avoid another Doklam: Chinese military to India

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/wont-allow-anti-india-activities-in-kashmir-army-chief-29627">General Bipin Rawat indicated that the Indian Army</a> could cross the border to tackle terrorism in J&amp;K, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major General Asif Ghafoor hit back saying Indian army chief&#39;s statement was &quot;irresponsible&quot; and &quot;unbecoming&quot; of a four-star general.

On the occasion of Army Day, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-rawats-remarks-on-dokalam-unconstructive-china-29595">General Rawat had said that the military</a> was ready to escalate the offensive in J&amp;K to combat cross-border terrorism, in a clear reference to crossing the LoC, asserting&nbsp;&quot;if we are forced, then we may escalate our military action and carry out &#39;other action&#39;.&quot;

In a tit-for-tat response, Ghafoor told Pakistan&#39;s Dawn newspaper: &quot;Should India wish to test our resolve they may try and see it for themselves. We have a credible nuclear capability exclusively meant for threats from the East.&quot;

Pakistan&#39;s military wing added that Pakistan considers its nuclear capability to be a &quot;weapon of deterrence&quot; and not an &quot;option for war&quot;.

&quot;The only thing stopping them is our credible nuclear deterrence as there is no space of war between the two nuclear states,&quot; Ghafoor said, adding,&quot;Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state with a professional army, therefore India must not remain in illusion.&quot;

Pakistan&#39;s foreign ministry in a statement said: &quot;These are not issues to be taken lightly. There must not be any misadventure based on a miscalculation.&quot;

&quot;Pakistan is fully capable of defending itself,&quot; the statement added.

General Rawat had said the Pakistan Army was continuously trying to help terrorists sneak into India along the Line of Control (LoC) in J&amp;K, adding that the Indian Army is using its might &quot;to teach them a lesson.&quot;

General Rawat had said that the military was ready to escalate the offensive in J&K to combat cross-border terrorism

After General Bipin Rawat indicated that the Indian Army could cross the border to tackle terrorism in J&K, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major General Asif Ghafoor hit back saying Indian army chief's statement was "irresponsible" and "unbecoming" of a four-star general. On the occasion of Army Day, General Rawat had said that the military was ready to escalate the offensive in J&K to combat cross-border terrorism, in a clear reference to crossing the LoC, asserting "if we are forced, then we may escalate our military action and carry out 'other action'." In a tit-for-tat response, Ghafoor told Pakistan's Dawn newspaper: "Should India wish to test our resolve they may try and see it for themselves. We have a credible nuclear capability exclusively meant for threats from the East." Pakistan's military wing added that Pakistan considers its nuclear capability to be a "weapon of deterrence" and not an "option for war". "The only thing stopping them is our credible nuclear deterrence as there is no space of war between the two nuclear states," Ghafoor said, adding,"Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state with a professional army, therefore India must not remain in illusion." Pakistan's foreign ministry in a statement said: "These are not issues to be taken lightly. There must not be any misadventure based on a miscalculation." "Pakistan is fully capable of defending itself," the statement added. General Rawat had said the Pakistan Army was continuously trying to help terrorists sneak into India along the Line of Control (LoC) in J&K, adding that the Indian Army is using its might "to teach them a lesson."

We have credible nuclear capability should India test our resolve: Pakistan

India&#39;s two-nuclear powered neighbours are in news again. General Bipin Rawat, the Indian Army Chief, gave a statement that India is capable of calling Pakistan&rsquo;s nuclear bluff. The statement was a generalised one but was taken very seriously by not only the political leadership of Pakistan but also their Army.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan had been threatening India with its nukes all the time. Their leaders start giving statements that Pakistan is a nuclear-powered nation and India should not mess up with it. To understand the reality, we must know the truth and myths behind Pakistan&rsquo;s nuclear capabilities.

&nbsp;

A nation does not become nuclear empowered just by testing a few warheads under standard testing conditions. It needs a robust Nuclear doctrine and reliable mechanism for the delivery of these warheads to the right place in the enemy&rsquo;s territory.&nbsp; Any nuclear-powered country would need land, sea or aerial means to deliver these weapons. This translates into possession of land and sea-based missiles, including aircrafts modified with suitable missile systems to launch the weapons and locating them at a place which cannot be detected easily.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It is well known that in any war, the locations of these strike capabilities are targeted first, creating decoys and preparing for contingencies is a critical factor. In the case of Pakistan, we can be sure that the country will take, at least, few days to assemble its nukes for an attack and that will be too late.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

At present, in addition to the ballistic missiles, the only second method of delivery Pakistan has is through its aircrafts, for instance, few F-16s and J-17 can deliver them through toss bombing. But for such daring operations, and that too in the absence of a nuclear-powered Air to Surface Missile, these aircrafts have to come closer to Indian targets. In the current scenario, that does not look possible. This is mainly due to the technical superiority of Indian Forces in terms of Radar surveillance and possible situation of air superiority in the initial phase of war itself.

&nbsp;

Further, if we take the examples of its missiles, there are serious doubts about the so-called nuclear deliverables of Pakistan. While Pakistan tested its various missiles over the last two decades, the operational status of them is still not very clear.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If we take the medium and long-range missiles, Ghauri series of missiles are liquid fuel-based and their readiness time is very high, while Ababeel and Shaheen series are not yet operational. Abdali and Ghaznavi are only capable of carrying conventional warheads. Nasr as well as Babur are operational but has a payload capacity of lesser than 500 Kgs and it can carry only tactical warheads of 10-30 kilotons. Out of these, operational versions of Babur have a range of about 400-450Kms while Nasr is just 60-80Kms. While Nasr can be used in the initial stages of war due to its limited range, the operational number of Babur Missile is very less due to import of some of its critical components from China. All of these are land-based missiles and there is no operational missile with Pakistan, which can be launched from the sea or air-based platforms, leaving the country with very few options.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There are other things also which matter for a nuclear strike and these are pertaining to availability and readiness of nuclear warheads. These things include: safeguarding its triggers, devices and pits (Uranium or Plutonium fuel for the warhead) which any country keeps in partially dis-assembled storages at various locations across the country. How can they be made available in a ready form in minimum possible time is an important concern.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

So far, in case of Pakistan, important things are still in the hands of its scientists under Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA); very little is known about the operationalisation or availability with Defence forces in the form of ready to launch warheads.&nbsp;

Not only this, the country needs a robust communication mechanism which works on a diverse mechanism of Radio, Satellite and other communication links. These are required to pass the concerned nuclear code and directions from the top leaders to the missile launch sites. In case of Pakistan, these instructions will come from NCA (National Command Authority) and Strategic Planning Division (SPD).&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the absence of any communication satellite of Pakistan, the country relies only on radio and line communications for the passage of this information which will be the first to be jammed or destroyed in the scenario of a war. Pakistan can claim that they can take help of Chinese satellites or their communication tools but relying on these satellites is like handing over the control of Nukes to China itself.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

When we talk about the safeguarding the nuclear assets, Pakistan is a unique nation where the differentiation between the country&rsquo;s loyal forces and terrorists is very negligible. This was evident from the active involvement of a large number of Pakistani Naval officers on PNS Zulfiqar in September 2014 which was later claimed by ISIS. Imagine any such vessel loaded with nuclear warheads comes under control of the terrorists, what would be the outcome?

&nbsp;

The past terror incidents have been horrible when Pakistan Aeronautical Complex at Kamra was attacked not once but twice in 2007 and 2009. The General Headquarters at Rawalpindi was attacked in 2009 and was kept in seize for several hours. In May 2011, the Mehran Base at Karachi which is known to stock nuclear weapons in its vicinity was attacked too. In 2012, Peshawar airbase was attacked too.

&nbsp;

In the wake of ISIS looking for alternative territories for its operations, Pakistan is an ideal location and the possibilities of its nukes going into the hands of terrorists very high.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

&nbsp;

While Pakistan tested its various missiles over the last two decades, the operational status of them is still not very clear.

India's two-nuclear powered neighbours are in news again. General Bipin Rawat, the Indian Army Chief, gave a statement that India is capable of calling Pakistan’s nuclear bluff. The statement was a generalised one but was taken very seriously by not only the political leadership of Pakistan but also their Army. Pakistan had been threatening India with its nukes all the time. Their leaders start giving statements that Pakistan is a nuclear-powered nation and India should not mess up with it. To understand the reality, we must know the truth and myths behind Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities. A nation does not become nuclear empowered just by testing a few warheads under standard testing conditions. It needs a robust Nuclear doctrine and reliable mechanism for the delivery of these warheads to the right place in the enemy’s territory. Any nuclear-powered country would need land, sea or aerial means to deliver these weapons. This translates into possession of land and sea-based missiles, including aircrafts modified with suitable missile systems to launch the weapons and locating them at a place which cannot be detected easily. It is well known that in any war, the locations of these strike capabilities are targeted first, creating decoys and preparing for contingencies is a critical factor. In the case of Pakistan, we can be sure that the country will take, at least, few days to assemble its nukes for an attack and that will be too late. At present, in addition to the ballistic missiles, the only second method of delivery Pakistan has is through its aircrafts, for instance, few F-16s and J-17 can deliver them through toss bombing. But for such daring operations, and that too in the absence of a nuclear-powered Air to Surface Missile, these aircrafts have to come closer to Indian targets. In the current scenario, that does not look possible. This is mainly due to the technical superiority of Indian Forces in terms of Radar surveillance and possible situation of air superiority in the initial phase of war itself. Further, if we take the examples of its missiles, there are serious doubts about the so-called nuclear deliverables of Pakistan. While Pakistan tested its various missiles over the last two decades, the operational status of them is still not very clear. If we take the medium and long-range missiles, Ghauri series of missiles are liquid fuel-based and their readiness time is very high, while Ababeel and Shaheen series are not yet operational. Abdali and Ghaznavi are only capable of carrying conventional warheads. Nasr as well as Babur are operational but has a payload capacity of lesser than 500 Kgs and it can carry only tactical warheads of 10-30 kilotons. Out of these, operational versions of Babur have a range of about 400-450Kms while Nasr is just 60-80Kms. While Nasr can be used in the initial stages of war due to its limited range, the operational number of Babur Missile is very less due to import of some of its critical components from China. All of these are land-based missiles and there is no operational missile with Pakistan, which can be launched from the sea or air-based platforms, leaving the country with very few options. There are other things also which matter for a nuclear strike and these are pertaining to availability and readiness of nuclear warheads. These things include: safeguarding its triggers, devices and pits (Uranium or Plutonium fuel for the warhead) which any country keeps in partially dis-assembled storages at various locations across the country. How can they be made available in a ready form in minimum possible time is an important concern. So far, in case of Pakistan, important things are still in the hands of its scientists under Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA); very little is known about the operationalisation or availability with Defence forces in the form of ready to launch warheads. Not only this, the country needs a robust communication mechanism which works on a diverse mechanism of Radio, Satellite and other communication links. These are required to pass the concerned nuclear code and directions from the top leaders to the missile launch sites. In case of Pakistan, these instructions will come from NCA (National Command Authority) and Strategic Planning Division (SPD). In the absence of any communication satellite of Pakistan, the country relies only on radio and line communications for the passage of this information which will be the first to be jammed or destroyed in the scenario of a war. Pakistan can claim that they can take help of Chinese satellites or their communication tools but relying on these satellites is like handing over the control of Nukes to China itself. When we talk about the safeguarding the nuclear assets, Pakistan is a unique nation where the differentiation between the country’s loyal forces and terrorists is very negligible. This was evident from the active involvement of a large number of Pakistani Naval officers on PNS Zulfiqar in September 2014 which was later claimed by ISIS. Imagine any such vessel loaded with nuclear warheads comes under control of the terrorists, what would be the outcome? The past terror incidents have been horrible when Pakistan Aeronautical Complex at Kamra was attacked not once but twice in 2007 and 2009. The General Headquarters at Rawalpindi was attacked in 2009 and was kept in seize for several hours. In May 2011, the Mehran Base at Karachi which is known to stock nuclear weapons in its vicinity was attacked too. In 2012, Peshawar airbase was attacked too. In the wake of ISIS looking for alternative territories for its operations, Pakistan is an ideal location and the possibilities of its nukes going into the hands of terrorists very high. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: Is Pakistan telling the truth about its nuclear weapons?

China today hit out at Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat for calling Dokalam a disputed territory and said that his &quot;unconstructive&quot; comments were not helpful for maintaining peace at the borders.

In an angry rebuttal to Gen Rawat&#39;s comments, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said his comments went against the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit last September to bring ties back on track and preserve peace on the border.

The Chinese reaction came following comments by Gen Rawat two days ago that India needs to shift focus from its border with Pakistan to that of China and spoke of pressure being exerted by Beijing along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

&quot;Last year, India-China relations have witnessed some twists and turns,&quot; Lu said and referred to Modi-Xi consensus and the high-level talks since December to improve the ties.

&quot;The dialogue and consultation have shown sound momentum of improvement and development,&quot; he said.

&quot;Under such background, the unconstructive remarks by the Indian senior official (Gen Rawat) not only go against the consensus reached by the two heads of state but also do not conform to the efforts made by the two sides to improve and develop bilateral relations,&quot; Lu said.

The remarks &quot;cannot help to preserve the tranquillity and peace at the border areas,&quot; areas he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/wont-allow-anti-india-activities-in-kashmir-army-chief-29627" target="_blank">Won&#39;t allow anti-India activities in Kashmir, says Army Chief</a>

Asked what were Gen Rawat&#39;s specific comments that China is taking exception to, Lu pointed to the Indian Army chief&#39;s remarks on Dokalam wherein he said it is a disputed territory between Bhutan and China.

&quot;I have made myself clear, if the senior official according to the report referred to the Donglang - I think you are clear about our position - Donglang belongs to China and has always been in the effective jurisdiction of China,&quot; Lu asserted.

He reiterated China&#39;s stand that the Sikkim section of the India-China boundary has been delimited by the 1890 &quot;historical convention&quot; between the then British government and China, which Beijing claims settled the boundary in that particular section spanning to about 200 kms.

China wants India to settle the boundary in that particular section based on the treaty while the two sides negotiated for a settlement for the rest of the LAC which spans about 3,488 kms. So far the two sides have held 20 rounds of border talks to resolve the issue.

&quot;Donglang is China&#39;s territory. China will continue to exercise its sovereignty rights in accordance with the historical convention and steadfastly uphold its territorial sovereignty,&quot; Lu said.

On its part, Bhutan had lodged a diplomatic protest with China when Chinese troops began building a road in the Dokalam area in June. Indian troops had objected to the construction of the road resulting in a 73-day standoff.

The standoff was resolved after Chinese troops stopped road building and India withdrew its troops from the area.

In an apparent reference to Gen Rawat&#39;s comment that Dokalam is a disputed territory between Bhutan and China, Lu said, &quot;the remarks of the Army chief mentioned by you once again showed that the illegal trespass of the Indian border troops is quite clear-cut in nature. Donglang belong to China.&quot;

&quot;We require the Indian military to learn lessons and abide by the historical convention and earnestly uphold the peace and tranquillity for the border areas and create sound atmosphere for the political development of bilateral relations,&quot; he said.

On Gen Rawat&#39;s comments that China is exhorting pressure on India along the LAC, Lu said, &quot;if he refers to the situation in whole India-China boundary, I have also said that last September the two heads of state have reached important consensus during the Xiamen (BRICS) summit&quot;.

&quot;Both sides have maintained effective communication since then. The aim is to enhance strategic mutual trust and create enabling atmosphere for strategic communication. Recently, the bilateral relations have shown positive momentum.&quot; Lu said, referring to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi&#39;s visit to India in December followed by 20th round of border talks between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi.

&quot;On such background, the official mentioned by you made such kind of remarks that go against the consensus of the states and do not conform to the general trend of improvement of bilateral relations. We believe such kinds of remarks are not conducive to maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas,&quot; Lu said.

He did not directly respond to a question about Gen Rawat&#39;s earlier remarks about major reduction of Chinese troops from the Dokalam area and reiterated China?s stand that area belonged to China.

&quot;China and India are important neighbours. They are both at the critical stage of the national development and rejuvenation. The two countries should enhance strategic communication and eliminate strategic doubt and conduct strategic cooperation,&quot; he said.

&quot;We urge the Indian side to follow through on the important consensus of the two leaders to do more things to preserve peace and stability of the border area and refrain from doing things which may complicate the situation, constructively handle the relevant affairs and promote steady development of bilateral relations.

&quot;This serves the common interest of the whole region and the interest o the Indian side,&quot; Lu added.&nbsp;

China said Rawat's unconstructive comments were not helpful for maintaining peace at the borders

China today hit out at Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat for calling Dokalam a disputed territory and said that his "unconstructive" comments were not helpful for maintaining peace at the borders. In an angry rebuttal to Gen Rawat's comments, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said his comments went against the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit last September to bring ties back on track and preserve peace on the border. The Chinese reaction came following comments by Gen Rawat two days ago that India needs to shift focus from its border with Pakistan to that of China and spoke of pressure being exerted by Beijing along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). "Last year, India-China relations have witnessed some twists and turns," Lu said and referred to Modi-Xi consensus and the high-level talks since December to improve the ties. "The dialogue and consultation have shown sound momentum of improvement and development," he said. "Under such background, the unconstructive remarks by the Indian senior official (Gen Rawat) not only go against the consensus reached by the two heads of state but also do not conform to the efforts made by the two sides to improve and develop bilateral relations," Lu said. The remarks "cannot help to preserve the tranquillity and peace at the border areas," areas he said. Also read: Won't allow anti-India activities in Kashmir, says Army Chief Asked what were Gen Rawat's specific comments that China is taking exception to, Lu pointed to the Indian Army chief's remarks on Dokalam wherein he said it is a disputed territory between Bhutan and China. "I have made myself clear, if the senior official according to the report referred to the Donglang - I think you are clear about our position - Donglang belongs to China and has always been in the effective jurisdiction of China," Lu asserted. He reiterated China's stand that the Sikkim section of the India-China boundary has been delimited by the 1890 "historical convention" between the then British government and China, which Beijing claims settled the boundary in that particular section spanning to about 200 kms. China wants India to settle the boundary in that particular section based on the treaty while the two sides negotiated for a settlement for the rest of the LAC which spans about 3,488 kms. So far the two sides have held 20 rounds of border talks to resolve the issue. "Donglang is China's territory. China will continue to exercise its sovereignty rights in accordance with the historical convention and steadfastly uphold its territorial sovereignty," Lu said. On its part, Bhutan had lodged a diplomatic protest with China when Chinese troops began building a road in the Dokalam area in June. Indian troops had objected to the construction of the road resulting in a 73-day standoff. The standoff was resolved after Chinese troops stopped road building and India withdrew its troops from the area. In an apparent reference to Gen Rawat's comment that Dokalam is a disputed territory between Bhutan and China, Lu said, "the remarks of the Army chief mentioned by you once again showed that the illegal trespass of the Indian border troops is quite clear-cut in nature. Donglang belong to China." "We require the Indian military to learn lessons and abide by the historical convention and earnestly uphold the peace and tranquillity for the border areas and create sound atmosphere for the political development of bilateral relations," he said. On Gen Rawat's comments that China is exhorting pressure on India along the LAC, Lu said, "if he refers to the situation in whole India-China boundary, I have also said that last September the two heads of state have reached important consensus during the Xiamen (BRICS) summit". "Both sides have maintained effective communication since then. The aim is to enhance strategic mutual trust and create enabling atmosphere for strategic communication. Recently, the bilateral relations have shown positive momentum." Lu said, referring to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to India in December followed by 20th round of border talks between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi. "On such background, the official mentioned by you made such kind of remarks that go against the consensus of the states and do not conform to the general trend of improvement of bilateral relations. We believe such kinds of remarks are not conducive to maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas," Lu said. He did not directly respond to a question about Gen Rawat's earlier remarks about major reduction of Chinese troops from the Dokalam area and reiterated China?s stand that area belonged to China. "China and India are important neighbours. They are both at the critical stage of the national development and rejuvenation. The two countries should enhance strategic communication and eliminate strategic doubt and conduct strategic cooperation," he said. "We urge the Indian side to follow through on the important consensus of the two leaders to do more things to preserve peace and stability of the border area and refrain from doing things which may complicate the situation, constructively handle the relevant affairs and promote steady development of bilateral relations. "This serves the common interest of the whole region and the interest o the Indian side," Lu added.

China says General Rawat's remarks on Dokalam 'unconstructive'

A day after Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Altaf Ahmed Bukhari asked Army Chief General Bipin Rawat not to &quot;meddle in the state&#39;s affairs&quot;, the BJP on Sunday asked him &quot;not to lock horns with the army chief&quot;.

On Friday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-do-teachers-in-jk-use-separate-map-for-state-asks-army-chief-29358">the army chief had blamed</a> social media and government schools in the state for spreading a &quot;disinformation campaign&quot; resulting in radicalisation of youths. He had said that schools in Jammu and Kashmir were instilling wrong information into students&#39; mind by showing them a separate map of their state and not one map of India.

General Rawat had also called for &quot;some control&quot; over mosques and madrassas in the state and suggested a &quot;major revamp&quot; of the education system.

Bukhari had then accused the Army of &quot;meddling in the state&#39;s affairs&quot;.

BJP&#39;s Jammu and Kashmir unit spokesperson Brigadier Anil Gupta (retd) in a statement asked &quot;the minister to be pragmatic and accept the reality rather than locking horns&quot; with the Army chief. He said General Rawat&#39;s remarks should be viewed positively and not turned into a political issue.

The Army chief&#39;s &quot;statement was based on his vast experience in the valley and interactions with students at various levels&quot;, the BJP leader said.

&quot;Even the chief minister has voiced her concern over radicalisation and indoctrination of youths in her recent speech on the floor of the House while replying to the motion of thanks on the Governor&#39;s address,&quot; the statement read.

The Army is an important stakeholder in the restoration of peace and normalcy in the state, Gupta said, adding Gen. Rawat was &quot;well within his rights and democratic mandate to voice concern on issues which affect national integration&quot;.

(With inputs from PTI)

BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit spokesperson Brigadier Anil Gupta said General Rawat's remarks should be viewed positively and not turned into a political issue

A day after Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Altaf Ahmed Bukhari asked Army Chief General Bipin Rawat not to "meddle in the state's affairs", the BJP on Sunday asked him "not to lock horns with the army chief". On Friday, the army chief had blamed social media and government schools in the state for spreading a "disinformation campaign" resulting in radicalisation of youths. He had said that schools in Jammu and Kashmir were instilling wrong information into students' mind by showing them a separate map of their state and not one map of India. General Rawat had also called for "some control" over mosques and madrassas in the state and suggested a "major revamp" of the education system. Bukhari had then accused the Army of "meddling in the state's affairs". BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit spokesperson Brigadier Anil Gupta (retd) in a statement asked "the minister to be pragmatic and accept the reality rather than locking horns" with the Army chief. He said General Rawat's remarks should be viewed positively and not turned into a political issue. The Army chief's "statement was based on his vast experience in the valley and interactions with students at various levels", the BJP leader said. "Even the chief minister has voiced her concern over radicalisation and indoctrination of youths in her recent speech on the floor of the House while replying to the motion of thanks on the Governor's address," the statement read. The Army is an important stakeholder in the restoration of peace and normalcy in the state, Gupta said, adding Gen. Rawat was "well within his rights and democratic mandate to voice concern on issues which affect national integration". (With inputs from PTI)

Accept reality rather than locking horns with army chief: BJP to J&K education minister

News reports said Monday that China had agreed to stop road-construction work in the Tuting area of Arunachal Pradesh, and that India had returned the two excavators and other equipment seized from the Chinese last month.&nbsp;

Government sources had said late last month that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-road-building-teams-entered-1-km-into-arunachal-forced-back-sources-28477" target="_blank">Chinese&nbsp;teams had intruded</a> a kilometre into Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

The teams -- consisting of civilians and uniformed personnel -- had turned back after they were confronted by Indian troops.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>Local villagers had at the time said the Chinese had left behind two excavators and other equipment</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Local villagers had at the time said the Chinese had left behind two excavators and other equipment" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

The intrusion had taken place on December 28.&nbsp;

Local villagers had at the time said the Chinese had left behind two excavators and other equipment.&nbsp;

That equipment, the reports said Monday, had been returned. With China agreeing to put a stop to road construction activity in the area.&nbsp;

Army chief General Bipin Rawat had on Monday said that the Tuting issue had been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/army-chief-clears-air-on-chinese-intrusion-says-tutingincident-resolved-28869" target="_blank">&quot;resolved&quot;</a> at a border personnel meeting on January 6.

He did not however give out any further details.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Government sources had said that Chinese teams had intruded a kilometre into Arunachal Pradesh late last month

News reports said Monday that China had agreed to stop road-construction work in the Tuting area of Arunachal Pradesh, and that India had returned the two excavators and other equipment seized from the Chinese last month. Government sources had said late last month that Chinese teams had intruded a kilometre into Arunachal Pradesh. The teams -- consisting of civilians and uniformed personnel -- had turned back after they were confronted by Indian troops. Local villagers had at the time said the Chinese had left behind two excavators and other equipment × The intrusion had taken place on December 28. Local villagers had at the time said the Chinese had left behind two excavators and other equipment. That equipment, the reports said Monday, had been returned. With China agreeing to put a stop to road construction activity in the area. Army chief General Bipin Rawat had on Monday said that the Tuting issue had been "resolved" at a border personnel meeting on January 6. He did not however give out any further details.

After Arunachal intrusion, China says will stop road-construction work, India returns equipment

Indian army chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday criticised Pakistan for not taking action against terrorists and for increasing terror in Jammu and Kashmir.

The army chief said that it did not seem that Pakistan wanted peace with India.

&quot;We also want better relations but from actions taken by them, like increasing terror in Jammu and Kashmir, it doesn&#39;t seems like they want peace. If they take right initiatives against terrorists, we can have talks,&quot; General Rawat said.

The army chief was speaking at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-hamesha-vijayee-indian-air-force-army-conduct-joint-military-drill-in-rajasthan-27461">&quot;Hamesha Vijayee&quot; exercise</a> in Rajasthan&#39;s Jaisalmer.

The Indian Army and Air Force have been carrying out joint military drill in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan for the past three days.

&nbsp;

Indian army chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday criticised Pakistan for not taking action against terrorists and for increasing terror in Jammu and Kashmir

Indian army chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday criticised Pakistan for not taking action against terrorists and for increasing terror in Jammu and Kashmir. The army chief said that it did not seem that Pakistan wanted peace with India. "We also want better relations but from actions taken by them, like increasing terror in Jammu and Kashmir, it doesn't seems like they want peace. If they take right initiatives against terrorists, we can have talks," General Rawat said. The army chief was speaking at the "Hamesha Vijayee" exercise in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer. The Indian Army and Air Force have been carrying out joint military drill in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan for the past three days.

Doesn't seem like Pakistan wants peace: Indian army chief

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Wednesday stressed that the military must be kept out of politics and said that&nbsp;unlike in the &quot;good old days&quot;, the army establishment was moving towards discussing politics which should be avoided.

General Rawat also said that one must avoid linking the military establishment with a political entity because the defence forces of India will do well if they remain above where they are expected to and do not meddle in the political affairs.

&quot;Military must be kept out of politics. It is important to evolve a strategy which ensures that only that much goes out to the media which is necessary for the information of the public. There are some issues related to defence which have to be kept out of the public domain. We can develop a relationship with the media through building confidence and gaining their support rather than keeping them away, the army chief said at the third national security lecture on &#39;Media as a forced multiplier for national security&#39; in New Delhi.

&quot;In the good old days we always said we do not discuss politics and women in the Army in any establishment, but gradually we find that we are inching towards that but that is best avoided. I think the media can help us in doing that,&quot; General Rawat said.

The army chief called the media an important part of the information pillar of &quot;National Power&quot; and one could not avoid the media since &quot;they are everywhere&quot; but one could take advantage by clearly identifying what military wants from the media.&quot;

&quot;Now we have to start looking at the media differently. Moulding public opinion is one of the areas where we need to focus. In India, the media has proliferated, whether it is print, social, or video, we cannot shy away from them because they are everywhere. We can take the advantage by clearly identifying what military wants from the media,&quot; he said, adding that daily interaction between military and the media was required as &#39;they cannot have things coming at distinct intervals.&#39;&nbsp;

&quot;We have psychological operations which are very important and relevant to the military. The purpose of the media is to come out with the truth and highlight it keeping the citizens informed but relevant information only,&quot; General Rawat said. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

General Bipin Rawat said that that?unlike in the past, the army establishment was moving towards discussing politics which should be avoided.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Wednesday stressed that the military must be kept out of politics and said that unlike in the "good old days", the army establishment was moving towards discussing politics which should be avoided. General Rawat also said that one must avoid linking the military establishment with a political entity because the defence forces of India will do well if they remain above where they are expected to and do not meddle in the political affairs. "Military must be kept out of politics. It is important to evolve a strategy which ensures that only that much goes out to the media which is necessary for the information of the public. There are some issues related to defence which have to be kept out of the public domain. We can develop a relationship with the media through building confidence and gaining their support rather than keeping them away, the army chief said at the third national security lecture on 'Media as a forced multiplier for national security' in New Delhi. "In the good old days we always said we do not discuss politics and women in the Army in any establishment, but gradually we find that we are inching towards that but that is best avoided. I think the media can help us in doing that," General Rawat said. The army chief called the media an important part of the information pillar of "National Power" and one could not avoid the media since "they are everywhere" but one could take advantage by clearly identifying what military wants from the media." "Now we have to start looking at the media differently. Moulding public opinion is one of the areas where we need to focus. In India, the media has proliferated, whether it is print, social, or video, we cannot shy away from them because they are everywhere. We can take the advantage by clearly identifying what military wants from the media," he said, adding that daily interaction between military and the media was required as 'they cannot have things coming at distinct intervals.' "We have psychological operations which are very important and relevant to the military. The purpose of the media is to come out with the truth and highlight it keeping the citizens informed but relevant information only," General Rawat said. (With inputs from ANI)

Military must be kept out of politics, says army chief

Battlefields of the future will be &quot;complex&quot; and warfare &quot;hybrid&quot; in nature, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said on Wednesday while stressing the need for enhancing required capabilities to tackle such scenarios.

With changing patterns in terrain, armoured vehicles like battle tanks must have the capacity and capability to operate on the western as well the northern borders, the Army chief said.

He was addressing the inaugural session of a seminar on &#39;Future Armoured Vehicles India 2017&#39; here.

&quot;The future battlefield will be complex,&quot; Gen Rawat said. While fighting battles in conventional domains, the sub-conventional domain &quot;just cannot be overlooked&quot;. The two have to be concurrent, he noted.

&quot;And of course, there will be the hybrid use of warfare that will get entwined within. So there will be the use of space, cyber, there will be information warfare in war time,&quot; Rawat said.

Battlefields of the future will be 'complex' and warfare 'hybrid' in nature, General Bipin Rawat said while stressing the need for enhancing required capabilities to tackle such scenarios.

Battlefields of the future will be "complex" and warfare "hybrid" in nature, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said on Wednesday while stressing the need for enhancing required capabilities to tackle such scenarios. With changing patterns in terrain, armoured vehicles like battle tanks must have the capacity and capability to operate on the western as well the northern borders, the Army chief said. He was addressing the inaugural session of a seminar on 'Future Armoured Vehicles India 2017' here. "The future battlefield will be complex," Gen Rawat said. While fighting battles in conventional domains, the sub-conventional domain "just cannot be overlooked". The two have to be concurrent, he noted. "And of course, there will be the hybrid use of warfare that will get entwined within. So there will be the use of space, cyber, there will be information warfare in war time," Rawat said.

Future warfare to be 'hybrid', need to enhance capabilities: Army chief

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat clarified on Wednesday that the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-ib-director-dineshwar-sharma-will-be-governments-representative-in-jk-rajnath-singh-22764"> appointment of a government representative in Jammu and Kashmir</a> would not impact the operations of the army in the state.

General Rawat&nbsp;said that the situation in Kashmir had improved and the government was speaking from a position of strength in the state.

&quot;Government strategy on Kashmir has worked, we are negotiating from a point of strength. The situation has improved, infiltration has come down, the army chief said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>&quot;Government strategy on Kashmir has worked, we are negotiating from a point of strength. The situation has improved, infiltration has come down, the army chief said.&quot;</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Government strategy on Kashmir has worked, we are negotiating from a point of strength. The situation has improved, infiltration has come down, the army chief said." target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

&nbsp;

The government has appointed him, let him work. It will not affect Army&#39;s operations,&quot; he added.

On October 23, home minister Rajnath Singh said the government would start a sustained dialogue in the terrorist-infested state.

The home minister said director of Intelligence Bureau Dineshwar Sharma will be the representative of the government of India in the state.

The home minister said that Dineshwar Sharma will initiate dialogue with elected representatives of Jammu and Kashmir, political parties, different organisations and people.

He added that, as a representative of Government of India, Dineshwar Sharma will initiate sustained interaction and dialogue to understand legitimate aspirations of people in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

General Rawat?said that the situation in Kashmir had improved and the government was speaking from a position of strength in the state

Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat clarified on Wednesday that the appointment of a government representative in Jammu and Kashmir would not impact the operations of the army in the state. General Rawat said that the situation in Kashmir had improved and the government was speaking from a position of strength in the state. "Government strategy on Kashmir has worked, we are negotiating from a point of strength. The situation has improved, infiltration has come down, the army chief said. "Government strategy on Kashmir has worked, we are negotiating from a point of strength. The situation has improved, infiltration has come down, the army chief said." × The government has appointed him, let him work. It will not affect Army's operations," he added. On October 23, home minister Rajnath Singh said the government would start a sustained dialogue in the terrorist-infested state. The home minister said director of Intelligence Bureau Dineshwar Sharma will be the representative of the government of India in the state. The home minister said that Dineshwar Sharma will initiate dialogue with elected representatives of Jammu and Kashmir, political parties, different organisations and people. He added that, as a representative of Government of India, Dineshwar Sharma will initiate sustained interaction and dialogue to understand legitimate aspirations of people in Jammu and Kashmir.

Appointment of interlocutor will not impact Army operations in J&K: Army chief

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said Kashmir is being radicalised, and that the Army is addressing it.&nbsp;

He blamed social media for the problem.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Radicalization is taking place, it is a worldwide phenomenon &amp; we are addressing it seriously: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat in Jammu <a href="https://t.co/H1TrZFz0P8">pic.twitter.com/H1TrZFz0P8</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/921623276132040704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
J&amp;K govt,Police&amp;administration are concerned;trying to ensure ppl are weaned away; happening due to social media-ArmyChief on radicalization
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/921624273516511232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&quot;J&amp;K government, police and administration are concerned; trying to ensure people are weaned away,&quot; ANI reported Rawat as saying.

&quot;Happening due to social media,&quot; Rawat said.&nbsp;

He added however that the situation in Kashmir is improving, saying &quot;what is happening&quot; only shows the &quot;frustration of terrorists&quot;.&nbsp;

There have been a number of militants gunned down in Kashmir in recent months.&nbsp;

At the same time, the number of attacks on security forces, infiltration attempts across the border, and the number of casualties amongst the security forces have also gone up.&nbsp;

As have reports of locals pelting stones at security forces as they take on militants.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kashmiris-who-support-terrorists-will-be-considered-anti-national-indian-army-chief-12443" target="_blank">Also read -- Kashmiris who support terrorists will be considered anti-national: Indian Army chief</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cannot-tell-my-men-just-wait-and-die-when-people-throwing-stones-petrol-bombs-indian-army-chief-16147" target="_blank">Also read -- Cannot tell my men &#39;just wait and die&#39; when people throwing stones, petrol bombs: Indian Army Chief</a>

Rawat was speaking in Jammu, where he presented the President&#39;s Standard to the 47 Armoured Regiment.&nbsp;

Rawat said the Army was following the government&#39;s approach in Kashmir and that the NIA raids were a part of that.&nbsp;

&quot;Whatever success it (the NIA raids) achieved will emerge in future,&quot; Rawat added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In Kashmir we are following govt approach &amp; NIA raids is part of it, whatever success it achieved will emerge in future: Army Chief in Jammu <a href="https://t.co/CpWJNg4Yrx">pic.twitter.com/CpWJNg4Yrx</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/921621755369631744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Military has a task &amp; we will continue to perform that task, decision on any talks has to be decided politically: Army Chief on Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/Wp3DZkabkQ">pic.twitter.com/Wp3DZkabkQ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/921622456703500288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nia-arrests-seven-separatists-in-kashmir-in-terror-funding-case-18235" target="_blank">Also read:&nbsp;NIA arrests seven Hurriyat separatists in Kashmir in terror funding case</a>

He also added that the Army had a task to perform and that it would continue to do so.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

'J&K government, police and administration are concerned; trying to ensure people are weaned away,' Rawat said

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said Kashmir is being radicalised, and that the Army is addressing it. He blamed social media for the problem. Radicalization is taking place, it is a worldwide phenomenon & we are addressing it seriously: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat in Jammu pic.twitter.com/H1TrZFz0P8 — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2017 × J&K govt,Police&administration are concerned;trying to ensure ppl are weaned away; happening due to social media-ArmyChief on radicalization — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2017 × "J&K government, police and administration are concerned; trying to ensure people are weaned away," ANI reported Rawat as saying. "Happening due to social media," Rawat said. He added however that the situation in Kashmir is improving, saying "what is happening" only shows the "frustration of terrorists". There have been a number of militants gunned down in Kashmir in recent months. At the same time, the number of attacks on security forces, infiltration attempts across the border, and the number of casualties amongst the security forces have also gone up. As have reports of locals pelting stones at security forces as they take on militants. Also read -- Kashmiris who support terrorists will be considered anti-national: Indian Army chief Also read -- Cannot tell my men 'just wait and die' when people throwing stones, petrol bombs: Indian Army Chief Rawat was speaking in Jammu, where he presented the President's Standard to the 47 Armoured Regiment. Rawat said the Army was following the government's approach in Kashmir and that the NIA raids were a part of that. "Whatever success it (the NIA raids) achieved will emerge in future," Rawat added. In Kashmir we are following govt approach & NIA raids is part of it, whatever success it achieved will emerge in future: Army Chief in Jammu pic.twitter.com/CpWJNg4Yrx — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2017 × Military has a task & we will continue to perform that task, decision on any talks has to be decided politically: Army Chief on Pakistan pic.twitter.com/Wp3DZkabkQ — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2017 × Also read: NIA arrests seven Hurriyat separatists in Kashmir in terror funding case He also added that the Army had a task to perform and that it would continue to do so.

Army chief blames radicalisation in Kashmir on social media

Taking note of his exceptional courage, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced an award of three lakh rupees for Salim Sheikh, the driver of the bus that was attacked by terrorists in Kashmir&#39;s Anantnag district on Monday.

&quot;God gave me the strength, he gave me the strength to save lives. All of a sudden they (terrorists) started firing on us, but I kept on driving and did not stop,&quot; said Sheikh.

The incident occurred between Baltal and Mir Bazar in which seven pilgrims were killed and several injured.

The Jammu and Kashmir government announced a compensation of six lakh rupees to the next of kin of those killed, two lakh ruupees to those seriously injured and one lakh rupees to those with minor injuries. &nbsp;

Massive protests were seen in the Jammu division against the attack. Protestors demanded that the Jammu and Kashmir government be dismissed for its failure to protect the Amarnath pilgrims.&nbsp;

Army chief General Bipin Rawat also reached Srinagar where he reveiwed the security situation with Army&#39;s top brass.

Massive protests were seen in the Jammu division against the attack

Taking note of his exceptional courage, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced an award of three lakh rupees for Salim Sheikh, the driver of the bus that was attacked by terrorists in Kashmir's Anantnag district on Monday. "God gave me the strength, he gave me the strength to save lives. All of a sudden they (terrorists) started firing on us, but I kept on driving and did not stop," said Sheikh. The incident occurred between Baltal and Mir Bazar in which seven pilgrims were killed and several injured. The Jammu and Kashmir government announced a compensation of six lakh rupees to the next of kin of those killed, two lakh ruupees to those seriously injured and one lakh rupees to those with minor injuries. Massive protests were seen in the Jammu division against the attack. Protestors demanded that the Jammu and Kashmir government be dismissed for its failure to protect the Amarnath pilgrims. Army chief General Bipin Rawat also reached Srinagar where he reveiwed the security situation with Army's top brass.

J&K: Govt announces Rs 3 lakh award for bus driver who saved lives during Amarnath attack

Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat on Saturday said that women would first be inducted into the military police before considering other options in the armed force for them.

&quot;Firstly, we will start with women as military police jawans, will take next step after success,&quot; General Rawat told media after attending a Passing out Parade (PoP) ceremony here.

&quot;Because many times, when people go to the operation, we have to face the people and many a times ladies come in front of us,&quot; he said.

Reportedly, General Rawat had announced a few days back that soon the Indian Army would be considering women for combat roles.

General Rawat said that the process to allow women in combat roles is ongoing and they will be recruited for positions in the military police.

Presently, women are only being recruited into selective areas of the army like medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings.

According to reports, India will be joining countries like Germany, Australia, Canada, the United States, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden and Israel that have already allowed women in combat roles in their army.

Last year, in a major step forward, Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh became the first women fighter pilots to be formally commissioned by the Indian Air Force.

Answering a question on the ongoing unrest in Kashmir, General Rawat claimed youth in the valley are being instigated through a campaign of misinformation on social media.

&quot;Youth in Kashmir are being instigated by a misinformation campaign on social media,&quot; he said.

On June 8, General Rawat said the situation in Kashmir would be normal soon.

Kashmir has remained in a volatile state since July 2016, following the elimination of poster-boy militant Burhan Wani in an encounter in Tral. Some of the protests have taken place in the middle of active security operations, leading to security forces adopting a tougher stance under duress.

The army chief said social media is an important tool being used by Pakistan to create unrest in Kashmir.

He said, &quot;Pakistan is spreading disinformation among the youth of Kashmir with doctored videos and messages. This is further supported by some of the people in the valley who spread it and glamorise the young boys who have joined terrorist organisations.&quot;

Also on the government radar are social media networks like WhatsApp which aid in the spread of disinformation to stone-pelting protesters.&nbsp;

(ANI)

"Because many times, when people go to the operation, we have to face the people and many a times ladies come in front of us," General Rawat told media

Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat on Saturday said that women would first be inducted into the military police before considering other options in the armed force for them. "Firstly, we will start with women as military police jawans, will take next step after success," General Rawat told media after attending a Passing out Parade (PoP) ceremony here. "Because many times, when people go to the operation, we have to face the people and many a times ladies come in front of us," he said. Reportedly, General Rawat had announced a few days back that soon the Indian Army would be considering women for combat roles. General Rawat said that the process to allow women in combat roles is ongoing and they will be recruited for positions in the military police. Presently, women are only being recruited into selective areas of the army like medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings. According to reports, India will be joining countries like Germany, Australia, Canada, the United States, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden and Israel that have already allowed women in combat roles in their army. Last year, in a major step forward, Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh became the first women fighter pilots to be formally commissioned by the Indian Air Force. Answering a question on the ongoing unrest in Kashmir, General Rawat claimed youth in the valley are being instigated through a campaign of misinformation on social media. "Youth in Kashmir are being instigated by a misinformation campaign on social media," he said. On June 8, General Rawat said the situation in Kashmir would be normal soon. Kashmir has remained in a volatile state since July 2016, following the elimination of poster-boy militant Burhan Wani in an encounter in Tral. Some of the protests have taken place in the middle of active security operations, leading to security forces adopting a tougher stance under duress. The army chief said social media is an important tool being used by Pakistan to create unrest in Kashmir. He said, "Pakistan is spreading disinformation among the youth of Kashmir with doctored videos and messages. This is further supported by some of the people in the valley who spread it and glamorise the young boys who have joined terrorist organisations." Also on the government radar are social media networks like WhatsApp which aid in the spread of disinformation to stone-pelting protesters. (ANI)

Indian Army to recruit women in military police first: Army chief

The newly appointed chief of the Indian Army General Bipin Rawat, while addressing his first press conference, has said that soldiers having any grievances should raise the issue internally through grievance boxes rather than resorting to social media.&nbsp;

The army chief&#39;s comments come in the wake of the controversy generated by an Indian soldier Tej Bahadur Yadav, posted along the Line of Control (LoC), taking to social media and posting a series of videos showing the bad quality of food being served to them.&nbsp;

On the issue of General Praveen Bakshi, the head of the Eastern Command of Indian army, who was superseded by General Bipin Rawat to become Indian army chief, alleging that certain elements within the army ran a malicious campaign that could have possibily sabotaged his chances of elevation as army chief, General Rawat said that he will help him and order a probe if he comes with formal information.

The army chief also said that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has been brought under control with the &quot;synergised efforts of security forces&quot;.

Indian Kashmir has&nbsp;witnessed protests after a militant commander Burhan Wani was shot dead in an encounter with the India security forces in July last year.

The army chief further added that proxy war, in a reference to militancy in Indian Kashmir, is affecting the secular fabric of India.

Addressing the issue of induction of women in combat roles, the head of the second-largest army in the world said that with equal opportunity comes equal responsibilty.

(WION with inputs from PTI)

The Indian Army chief's comments come in the wake of an Indian soldier voicing his displeasure with the bad quality of food being served

The newly appointed chief of the Indian Army General Bipin Rawat, while addressing his first press conference, has said that soldiers having any grievances should raise the issue internally through grievance boxes rather than resorting to social media. The army chief's comments come in the wake of the controversy generated by an Indian soldier Tej Bahadur Yadav, posted along the Line of Control (LoC), taking to social media and posting a series of videos showing the bad quality of food being served to them. On the issue of General Praveen Bakshi, the head of the Eastern Command of Indian army, who was superseded by General Bipin Rawat to become Indian army chief, alleging that certain elements within the army ran a malicious campaign that could have possibily sabotaged his chances of elevation as army chief, General Rawat said that he will help him and order a probe if he comes with formal information. The army chief also said that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has been brought under control with the "synergised efforts of security forces". Indian Kashmir has witnessed protests after a militant commander Burhan Wani was shot dead in an encounter with the India security forces in July last year. The army chief further added that proxy war, in a reference to militancy in Indian Kashmir, is affecting the secular fabric of India. Addressing the issue of induction of women in combat roles, the head of the second-largest army in the world said that with equal opportunity comes equal responsibilty. (WION with inputs from PTI)

Indian Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat to troops: Use grievance boxes, not social media, to voice complaints