The Government is making all efforts to modernise the armed forces with state-of-the-art weaponry and the best training, to protect the country from all future challenges, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in his message to soldiers through Akashvani on the eve of the 77th Independence Day.
He also said today the armed forces are being trained with simulators and other modern techniques and their capabilities are being enhanced through several exercises with friendly countries across the globe, as training on niche systems, newly-developing technologies and changing concepts of warfare is the need of the hour.
Highlighting various welfare measures taken for veterans in recent years, he said, special attention is being paid to ensure a dignified life for the soldiers not only during service but even after retirement. Rajnath pointed out that the long-pending demand of the Armed Forces for the ‘One Rank, One Pension’ scheme was fulfilled by the Government as soon as it came to power in 2014. “The scheme has been revised this year and an amount of Rs 8,413 crore has been paid to more than 17 lakh pensioners,” he said. Highlighting the role of soldiers in maintaining the sovereignty and independence of India, Rajnath said, the nation stands with its gallant soldiers who protect the borders by putting their lives at stake, without bothering for their comforts and facilities. He stated that India has always been a peace-loving nation, but that does not mean that it would spare those who cast an evil eye. “We not only seek peace but also express our commitment to peace through our actions. But at the same time, we are also very clear that if anyone dares to look at us with ill intention or hostility, our forces will give a befitting reply,” he added.