PM Modi lauds military's resolute dedication on border despite pandemic

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the "resolute dedication" shown by the Indian armed forces over the past year, in the context of the "challenging situation on the northern border" and while facing the coronavirus pandemic.

Addressing the valedictory session of the Combined Commanders Conference at Kevadia in his home state Gujarat, Modi also asked the Indian military to develop as a "future force," an official statement said.

"Modi stressed on indigenisation of national security system not just in sourcing weapons but also in the doctrines, procedures and customs," the statement said.

The prime minister was briefed by the Chief of Defence Staff about the discussions during the conference. Modi expressed his appreciation for the structure and agenda of the conference, the statement said.

Modi appreciated the inclusion of Junior Commissioned Officers and Non Commissioned Officers in the three-day long conference organised by the Defence Ministry.

"Speaking to the highest civilian and military leadership of the national defence system, the Prime Minister conveyed his strong appreciation for the resolute dedication shown by the Indian Armed Forces over the past year, in the context of the COVID pandemic and the challenging situation on the northern border," it said.

Modi emphasised the need to optimise manpower planning in both military and civilian parts of the national security architecture and called for a holistic approach, focused on breaking down civil-military silos and on expediting the speed of decision making.

He advised the Services to rid themselves of legacy systems and practices that have outlived their utility and relevance, the statement said.

Taking note of the rapidly changing technological landscape, the prime minister highlighted the need to develop the Indian military into a 'future force'.

He said the country would be celebrating 75 years of its independence next year, and asked the armed forces to use the occasion to undertake activities and initiatives that would inspire the youth.

Earlier in the day, after landing at Ahmedabad airport, Modi left for Kevadia, which is around 200 km from the state capital.

At Ahmedabad airport, the prime minister was received by Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel.