Army ready for all challenges, says Bikram Singh

"I want to assure the nation that the Indian Army is prepared to face all challenges and foil the designs of the enemy," the army chief said on the occasion of the 65th Army Day here.

Amid tensions along the Jammu and Kashmir border, he said the operational preparedness of the Indian military was being kept at the highest level.

"The Indian Army has been able to fulfil the country's expectations," he said.

"Our country has been facing both internal as well as external challenges," he said. "Let me assure you that the Indian Army is ready for all the challenges."

Gen Bikram Singh said the army was increasing its operational and surveillance capacity.

"We are modernising equipment. We are laying emphasis on surveillance through unmanned aerial vehicles and attack helicopters will be inducted into the aviation wing."

He said the army's record on maintaining human rights was the best in the world.

He said infrastructure was being strengthened in the northeast and facilities improved in forward areas.

"All commanders should keep in mind the secular and non-political image of the army," he said.

The army, the general said, had rendered useful service during disasters. He spoke of steps taken for the welfare of ex-servicemen, widows and army personnel disabled in action.

He said 6,900 Indian soldiers were serving in UN missions.

The general gave away medals for gallantry and took salute at an impressive parade comprising marching and mechanised contingents.

The mechanised contingent included the main battle tank Arjun, Brahmos missile launcher, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher, Sarvatra bridging system, mobile integrated network terminal and radio trunk system.

It included a vehicle to recce chemical and biological radiation.

The parade was followed by a display of military power with soliders performing action in "enemy territory".

Helicopters and mechanised vehicles were used in the display to show coordinated and quick action of man and machine in the battlefield.

Earlier, the army chief paid homage at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate here. Gallantry awards were presented to soldiers.

Gen Bikram Singh Monday described the killing of two Indian soldiers - one of whom was beheaded - by Pakistani troops Jan 8 as "an unpardonable act" and said his forces reserved the "right to retaliate".

Army Day is celebrated Jan 15. It is the day Lt Gen K.M. Cariappa took over as the first commander-in-chief of the Indian Army from Sir Francis Butcher, the last British commander, in 1948.