Top Army commanders have convened to deliberate on critical national security challenges along India's borders with China and Pakistan. The conference, which spans five days, seeks to enhance the overall combat capabilities of the Indian Army while addressing a range of strategic issues. Chaired by Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande, the commanders are exploring various topics, including the ongoing reform process within the 1.3 million-strong force, matters related to joint operations among the three services, and key geopolitical developments, news agency PTI reported.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to address the conference on October 18.
Key figures in India's defense hierarchy are contributing their insights to this high-profile gathering, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan and Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, as per PTI's report. Additionally, Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, will deliver a talk on "Leveraging Technology for National Security."
The Indian Army, in a statement, noted, "The apex leadership will brainstorm current or emerging security scenarios besides reviewing the operational preparedness of the Indian Army." The commanders will also delve into pivotal subjects such as the ongoing transformation process, training matters, human resources management, and issues affecting both serving personnel and veterans.
The conference's discussions are expected to cover the regional security situation and geopolitical developments, including the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war.
PTI reported officials as confirming that the overall situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the border with Pakistan will be thoroughly analysed during the conference.
The Army commanders' conference is a biannual apex-level event held in April and October each year. It serves as an institutional platform for high-level deliberations, culminating in critical policy decisions for the Indian Army.
The conference will also address anti-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the overall situation in the Union territory, according to officials cited by PTI.