Operational preparedness to face challenges from Pakistan and China, ceasefire violations on the line of Control (loC) and International Border in Jammu & Kashmir and ongoing modernisation will come up for discussion during the four-day Army commanders' conference which began here on Monday.
Besides these issues, the security situation in Kashmir with regard to infiltration will also be reviewed by the top echelon of the Army. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Combined Commanders' Conference comprising the three services on Friday after getting updated about the situation in India's strategic neighbourhood, including Pakistan, China and Afghanistan.
The Army meet will review its preparedness on the Chinese border in the backdrop of the 16-day stand-off in Chumar, ladakh, last month, officials said here on Monday. The commanders will also take stock of progress of the China- specific Mountain Strike Corps. The UPA Government had given the go-ahead for raising the Corps last year and it is likely to cost more than Rs 80,000 crore, including inducting personnel and procuring artillery guns, helicopters and other relevant weaponry. The Corps as per plan will be raised in the next seven to eight years.
Ceasefire violations by Pakistan during the last fortnight will also come up for discussion, officials said, adding, the commanders will review their strategy to effectively deal with it. Preparedness of counter-infiltration and counter-insurgency grid in Jammu and Kashmir will also figure prominently during the conference with special focus on the strategy to ensure peace during forthcoming Assembly polls in the State.
The IAF and Navy top brass will review their ongoing modernization drive including induction of the latest aircraft and ships. With 45 ships and submarines under construction within the country, the Navy will stress on adhering to timelines to reduce cost overruns.