Defence Minister Visits Northern Command Areas

The Defence Minister Mr Manohar Parrikar was on a two day official visit to Army formations of Northern Command accompanied by the Army Chief Gen Dalbir Singh. He was received by Lt Gen DS Hooda, GOC-in-C, Northern Command at Thoise Airfield.He was briefed by Lt Gen BS Negi, GOC 14 Corps, on the overall security situation in the Corps Zone and along the LAC.

The Defence Minister laying a wreath at Siachen War Memorial

The Defence Minister also visited the Siachen Glacier. He carried out an aerial survey of the Siachen Glacier and on reaching the Siachen Base Camp laid a floral wreath paying tribute to the martyrs at the Siachen War memorial. He addressed the troops and applauded their efforts for the defence of the country's frozen frontier and placing the call of duty above all. The Defence Minister thereafter arrived at Leh and interacted with soldiers at the Rinchen Auditorium. He was briefed on the prevailing military situation along the borders of Ladakh. Later in the day, he visited Srinagar, where he was briefed by Lt Gen Subrata Saha, GOC 15 Corps on measures being taken by the Army to prevent infiltration, the operations being undertaken in the Area. Op Sadbhavna and various welfare activities by the Army in the State were also highlighted during the briefing.

The Defence Minister interacting with troops in Siachen Base Camp

On the second day of his visits, the Defence Minister reached Jammu and visited the forward areas in Rajouri sector. He was briefed by Lt Gen K H Singh, GOC 16 Corps on the overall security situation. The Defence Minister interacted with the local commanders and troops who apprised him on the prevailing security dynamics on the line of control.