'Multipronged plans drawn to boost Army's capabilities': Gen. Bikram Singh

Army Chief General Bikram Singh on Wednesday said that the army has drawn up a multi-pronged plan to boost its capabilities and a number of projects, including acquiring of night vision devices, upgrading of mechanised forces and augmentation of artillery firepower.

Addressing an Army Day function, General Singh said that the army had also submitted a time-bound plan to the government to enhance the capabilities of its aviation corps.

"We have made plans. The government has approved many. Some of them have been completed while others will get approval by the end of the fiscal," he told media here today.

"For the country to achieve its rightful place globally, it is must that our Army becomes a capable, effective, responsible and contemporary power and contributes to the progress of the country," he added.

He also mentioned about the approval granted for raising a mountain strike corps to underline the growing capability of the Army, and added that special attention was being paid to infrastructure development along the borders.

An impressive parade was held at Army Parade Ground here showcasing the competency of the world's second largest military in which tanks and the latest weaponry took part. Various Regiments marched in perfect unison at the 66th Army Day.

The Army Chief reviewed the parade and bestowed awards to Officers, Junior commissioned officers and other ranks in recognition of their gallantry and distinguished service to the Army and the nation.

The Parade also revealed the might of the Indian Army by the eye catching display of OSA-AK, SMERCH and BRAHMOS Missiles. The Punch of Indian Army, the T-90 main battle tank drew applaud from the audience as it proudly rolled. The grand finale was the Combat Demonstration.