GENERAL Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff, has aptly described the situation being dealt with by the Indian Army as ‘stable, but sensitive’. During the annual press conference, he indicated that though there was stability in certain areas, there was need for the Indian forces to keep a watchful eye. This statement itself indicates that the Indian Army is well aware of the situation. As is the case, an aware force is well prepared to tackle the challenges in a befitting manner. The Army chief made specific reference to the northern borders of India. Given the situation since the abrogation of Article 370, and making Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh as the Union Territories, there has been a great change in the erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir. It has not only given a boost to development, but also deepened the process of integration of the population there with the other parts of India. The results are slowly becoming visible in the form of peace prevailing to a great extent in the Kashmir Valley area. Ladakh’s development also has got a fillip, as one can see from the infusion of funds in infrastructure and tourism development. Thus, there is a stability to a large extent.

 

At the same time, certain old concerns remain and new ones have emerged. For instance, the Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and separatist elements still existing like thorn in the flesh have turned to Rajouri and Poonch areas as the focus of the Indian security establishments was more towards establishing peace in the Kashmir Valley. Besides, troops had to be mobilised along the Line of Actual Control with China in Ladakh region. The adversary is trying to revive terrorism in Rajouri and Poonch areas. This again highlights that the region is witnessing stability in main cities but the situation is sensitive in border areas. The ‘no war, no peace’ situation still prevails there. This is quite a challenge. Hence, General Manoj Pande’s statement that the situation is stable but sensitive is very apt. His statement also made it clear that the Indian forces were keeping a close eye on the prevailing situation. The measures he highlighted in his address to the mediapersons came as assurance to ordinary Indians that the Indian Army was actively working to not only establish peace in the troubled areas but also create an atmosphere conducive for giving a push to development.

 

Of course, this is not an easy task. But, the Indian Army is a professional force known for dynamic evolution through innovative response to the existing and the emerging challenges. One of the responses has been adoption of technology to aid human efforts and intelligence. General Manoj Pande has called 2024 as the year of ‘technology absorption’ for the Indian Army. India has made rapid strides in defence indigenisation and is emerging as a defence equipment exporting country. This stature unlocks the possibilities of greater co-operation and collaboration with technologically advanced countries, as well as making new friends in geopolitical chess-board. As time passes by, with greater absorption of technology, India can keep better vigil along the borders, reduce sensitivity and increase stability quotient. Another important aspect that comes along with absorption of technology is force optimisation. The Army chief has revealed the plans to optimise force strength by one lakh by 2027. The idea to have a ‘right-sized’ force through restructuring is in tune with reorganising the priorities with changing times. Overall, the Indian Army is well prepared on the counts of manpower, equipment, awareness, and objectives. It augurs well for the rising stature of India.