Antony asks troops to be ready to tackle any misadventure

Jaisalmer, May 2 (ANI): Defence Minister A. K. Antony, who reviewed the operational preparedness of the Army along the desert borders today, asked them to be prepared to tackle any 'misadventure by our adversary'.

Antony, who visited the Jaisalmer Military Station, complimented all ranks for their display of unflinching morale, high fighting spirit and operational preparedness in such a difficult terrain and adverse climatic conditions.

He also interacted with the Jawans, Junior Commissioned Officers and Officers during a Barakhana and enquired about their well being.

The Defence Minister was received by Lieutenant General AK Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Army and Lieutenant General Narendra Singh, General Officer Commanding Konark Corps, on his arrival at the Jaisalmer Air Force station.

The Chief of Army Staff, General VK Singh, and Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar accompanied him during his visit.

Immediately on his arrival, the Defence Minister along with the field commanders, embarked on a tour of the forward most locations of the Southern Army to be with the troops braving extremely harsh conditions of sweltering heat and frequent dust storms.

He was briefed in detail on operational and infrastructure issues and he interacted intimately with troops present at the post, expressing his pleasure at their high morale, motivation and confidence.

The Defence Minister also expressed his satisfaction at the operational preparedness along the borders and gave his assurance to look into the aspects of enhancing infrastructure and habitat for troops.

Antony later visited the Jaisalmer Military Station, where he was received by Station Commander and introduced to the officers of the military station. The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief gave a detailed briefing on operational aspects to him.

The need for enhancing infrastructure at key Military Stations and forward locations was stressed upon for enhancing the operational and fighting efficiency of fighting units.

While addressing all ranks during 'Sainik Sammelan', he complimented all ranks for their display of unflinching morale, high fighting spirit and operational preparedness in such a difficult terrain and adverse climatic conditions.

In the end, the Defence Minister thanked the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief for a highly fruitful visit to the Desert sector of Southern Command. (ANI)