Capacity building must continue unabated: Parrikar

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday said capacity building must continue unabated, as he met top commanders in the national capital.

The minister presided over two separate meetings of the army commandos and the Air Force commandos.

Addressing a meet of commanders of the Air Force, Parrikar asked them to focus on safety and conservation of available resources.

While addressing the bi-annual meet of Army commanders, the minister congratulated the Indian Army, stating that it was one of the most professional institutions of the country, an official statement said.

He also complemented the way the Indian Army dealt with very difficult challenges including the proxy war, and highlighted the selfless response by the army in dealing with Jammu and Kashmir floods.

According to officials, Parrikar said, one of the topmost priorities of the government was the welfare of ex-servicemen in which the 'One Rank One Pension' scheme implementation process is underway.

Army Chief General Dalbir Singh, meanwhile, stressed on various major operational, logistics, training and manpower issues.

During the meet of Air Force commanders, Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha updated the minister on operational status of the force, induction of C-17 Globemasters and operationalisation of C-130 Hercules aircraft.

He also highlighted the efforts put in to increase the aircraft serviceability and the corresponding increase in flying task of the Air Force as compared to the previous year.

Parrikar also congratulated the Air Force for their contribution in various relief and rescue operations, especially during Jammu and Kashmir floods and rescue of Indians from Yemen.

The minister emphasised on aviation safety and conserve available resources.