West Bengal, Nov 7 (NVI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday reviewed the operational preparedness of the Trishakti Corps at Sukna in West Bengal, with a focus on infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and deployment of advanced military equipment and emerging technologies to strengthen the Army’s combat capabilities.
During his visit, Singh was briefed on ongoing infrastructure projects along the LAC and measures being undertaken to enhance operational effectiveness through modern military equipment and advanced technologies.
He expressed satisfaction over the operational preparedness of the Corps and appreciated its contribution towards nation-building through infrastructure development and community welfare initiatives in border areas, aimed at strengthening relations with local communities.
Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command Lt Gen V M B Krishnan and General Officer Commanding of 33 Corps Lt Gen Man Raj Singh Mann were present during the visit, along with other senior Army officers.
Later, addressing soldiers during a Barakhana organised on the eve of Diwali, the Defence Minister commended their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment towards safeguarding the country’s borders under challenging operational conditions.
Describing Sukna and its surrounding region as a crucial logistical hub, Singh said the area plays a vital role in the security architecture of eastern India, facilitating the movement of essential supplies, weapons, food, medical provisions and personnel to forward locations.
He said the geographical sensitivity of the region requires round-the-clock operational preparedness and assured that the government is continuously working to strengthen supply chains to ensure the availability of all essential requirements for soldiers deployed in forward areas.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government remains committed to strengthening logistics and improving facilities for personnel guarding the country’s frontiers, he said.
The Defence Minister said budgetary allocations for roads, tunnels, border infrastructure and modern military equipment have been increased, while the country is steadily moving towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
He noted that Indian start-ups and industries are now manufacturing drones, anti-drone systems and other advanced equipment for the armed forces.
Singh said the Defence Forces are also actively adopting emerging technologies, with personnel receiving training in drone operations, cyber security and modern warfare methodologies.
Highlighting the changing nature of warfare, he said security challenges are no longer restricted to conventional battles involving gunfire and artillery but have expanded to include hybrid warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone incursions and information warfare.
He cautioned that adversaries are increasingly using social media to spread rumours, deploying drones to monitor sensitive locations and attempting to compromise military systems through cyber-attacks.
The Defence Minister exhorted the personnel to remain vigilant and prepared to address emerging security threats across all domains.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of armed forces personnel, Singh urged senior officers to spend quality time with soldiers, saying such interactions strengthen their sense of belonging and reinforce their confidence that the government and the entire nation stand firmly behind them.
He also emphasised the importance of mental health and emotional well-being among soldiers, acknowledging that separation from families and demanding operational responsibilities can sometimes cause stress.
Encouraging personnel to communicate openly with their comrades and seek support whenever required, he said emotional well-being is equally important for maintaining the overall strength and effectiveness of the armed forces.
Describing the North-Eastern region as India’s ‘first edge’ rather than its ‘last edge’, Singh said the region represents the beginning of the country’s geographical and cultural landscape and receives the first rays of the morning sun.
He highlighted the region’s rich biodiversity, natural beauty, cultural diversity and unique traditions, describing it as an integral part of India’s identity.
The Defence Minister also extended Diwali greetings to the soldiers and their families and assured them that the government remains committed to their safety, dignity and well-being.
Describing Barakhana as a reflection of togetherness and equality, he said such gatherings transcend ranks and hierarchies and bring personnel from different regions, cultures and linguistic backgrounds together as one family.—(NVI)
