Pune, Jan 15: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday described the situation along India’s northern border as stable yet sensitive, emphasizing the imperative to prevent a recurrence of incidents like the Galwan clash. “Whatever was done in Galwan should not get repeated,” he asserted, underlining the Indian Army’s readiness and capability to address any challenge.
Addressing the 77th Army Day celebrations in Pune, Gen Dwivedi emphasized the development of modern equipment and critical infrastructure along the northern border. He stressed the importance of a unified national approach, combining diplomatic, military, and internal security efforts.
“Whether it’s through diplomatic channels, military preparedness, or contributions from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Central Armed Police Forces, we must ensure there are no surprises in the future,” the Army chief remarked.
The eastern Ladakh standoff, which began in May 2020, culminated in the deadly Galwan Valley clash in June that year, straining India-China relations. However, a recent agreement on troop patrolling and disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh marks progress in reducing tensions. Gen Dwivedi affirmed the Army’s commitment to maintaining vigilance. “The northern borders are safe because the Indian Army is deployed with adequate strength to hold the fort,” he said.
The Army chief also addressed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, noting a reduction in violence due to sustained security operations. “The ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) is maintained, but infiltration attempts continue,” he said, reiterating the Army’s dedication to modernization and adaptability.
Historic Army Day Parade Showcases Diversity and Innovation
The 77th Army Day celebrations in Pune, hosted for the first time, highlighted the city’s historical significance as a bastion of valor since the Maratha era. The event, held at the Bombay Engineers Group (BEG) and Centre under the Army’s Southern Command, featured a range of firsts.
A parade showcasing cutting-edge military platforms included a fly-past by three Su-30 aircraft, marching contingents, and innovative displays like robotic mules. An all-girl National Cadet Corps (NCC) contingent and an all-woman Agniveer contingent from the Corps of Military Police also marked their inaugural presence in the parade.
General Dwivedi hailed the significance of hosting Army Day in Pune, calling it a reflection of the Army’s deep connection with the heritage of the region. “We aim to make the Indian Army a modern, agile, and technology-enabled force capable of meeting future challenges,” he declared, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to progress and resilience.
This year’s celebration underscores the evolving role of the Indian Army as a custodian of both national security and tradition, blending technological advancements with its storied legacy.
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