Udhampur (J&K): Asserting that synergy between the Indian Army, administration and security forces has paid rich dividends,General-Officer-Commanding-in-Command, Northern Command, Lieutenant General M V Suchindra Kumar on Friday said that anti-infiltration grid along the Line of Control and focused Counter Terrorism operations in the hinterland have ensured an environment of peace and development in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
“In Jammu and Kashmir, our efforts are concentrating on breaking the cycle of violence and dismantling the terror ecosystem, empowering youth and women, facilitating education, promoting sports, and reviving the rich historical and cultural legacy,” the Northern Command Army Commander told reporters here at a media interaction.
He said that the core of this strategy is to strengthen the relationship between the citizens and the soldiers while encouraging nationalist and mainstream narratives, particularly amongst the youth.
“These initiatives have not only fostered greater community engagement but also supported the successful execution of kinetic operations in the region,” adding he said that through integrated military and social outreach efforts, we are contributing to the broader process of Nation-building and endeavors in Kinetic and Non-kinetic operations have facilitated greater security.
He stated that the Indian Army upholds the principle of ‘Service Before Self’ and is the key facilitator in nation-building by ensuring security along the borders, Counter Terrorism operations, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, and Aid to Civil Authority.
“We are simultaneously focused on the capability development in the Northern Theatre. Multiagency infrastructure development drive is underway along the northern borders enhancing forward area connectivity,” said Lt Gen Kumar.
He added that a variety of weapon platforms and equipment are under procurement and major impetus has also been given to upgrade, overhaul, modify, and refurbish existing equipment to enhance the operational capability.
He said that the Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri in his statement on Oct 21, 2024 has stated that over the last several weeks, Indian and Chinese diplomatic and military negotiators have been in close contact with each other in a variety of forums.
“And as a result of these discussions, agreement has been arrived at on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas, leading to disengagement and a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020,” said the Army Commander.
He stated that the Indian Army is also a major participant in the Make In India initiative to transform itself into a modern, Atmanirbhar and technologically advanced force. Northern Command with its focus on Operations has itself remained at the forefront of this drive.
“We are working in close coordination with the industry to develop niche technology equipment to further augment our capability.
In addition to our role in the internal and external security of the nation, we are also focusing on carrying out development activities in the region. Operation Sadbhavana Projects are being undertaken to execute development activities in border and remote areas of the Union Territories of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh. We are providing quality education to a large number of students from the Union Territories in the Army Goodwill Schools,” he said.
“The peace, prosperity, and improved security situation in J&K due to concerted and synergised efforts of the Indian Army and all other agencies, stakeholders. Indian Army will forever strive to provide a secure environment to the people of Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh,” he said.
