Par panel to examine operational preparedness of armed forces

A parliamentary panel will examine the operational preparedness of the armed forces and review the accidents involving strategic defence assets.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence, headed by BJP MP B C Khanduri, will also assess the procurement policy relating to defence equipment.
The issue of preparedness of the armed forces is likely to be discussed in the next meeting of the panel, which is scheduled for next month, a member said.
The committee has also decided to "critically review" the accidents involving strategic defence assets and look into the quality of ration given to the forces especially in border areas, according to a Lok Sabha bulletin.

Since March last year, various accidents have been reported in naval ships including fire on the soon-to-be decommissioned aircraft carrier INS Viraat and explosion of an oxygen cylinder on board INS Nireekshak.
Earlier this month, an Indian Air force helicopter crashed in the north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, killing a few military personnel.
The panel of MPs from different parties will also assess the major research and development initiatives, including private sector participation, leading to innovation and import substitution during the last 10 years.
Revamping of training for defence personnel in the light of latest technological advancements will also be taken up for discussion by the committee.