Jan 15, 2021, 8:22 AM IST
Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane on Friday said that the Army has been swift and decisive in its response to counter any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo on the Line of Actual Control.
On the occasion of the 73rd Army Day on January 15, the chief appreciated the brave hearts who laid their life in securing India's territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Acknowledging that 2020 as a year full of challenges and opportunities, General Naravane said that the Army stood steadfast on safeguarding the security and territorial integrity of the nation.
In a reference to border standoff with China’s PLA in eastern Ladakh, he said, "Our brave officers, JCOs, and soldiers have given a befitting reply to our adversaries, many laying down their lives in the highest traditions of the Indian Army."
On the modernisation of the army, he said a large number of projects to acquire niche technologies are underway towards capability development.
In his message, Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat said, "Your dauntless courage, indomitable spirit and unparalleled devotion to duty in the true traditions and ethos of the Indian Army will continue to inspire future generations."
Army day is celebrated every year on January 15 to mark the day when the first Indian chief Field Marshal KM Cariappa took over as the first commander-in-chief of the Indian Army in 1949.