He highlighted ongoing talks between India and China at both military and diplomatic levels, indicating a commitment to finding resolutions for the remaining issues in the region. General Pande assured that the Indian Army maintains a high level of operational preparedness, backed by adequate reserves to address any security challenges that may arise.
Despite the completion of disengagement in several areas, Indian and Chinese troops continue to face a three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh. General Pande acknowledged this reality while expressing confidence in the overall operational readiness of the Indian Army.
Shifting focus to the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, he reported that the ceasefire understanding with Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) is holding. However, there have been infiltration attempts, which the Indian Army is actively countering. While the overall incidents of violence have decreased in Jammu and Kashmir, there has been an increase in such incidents in the Rajouri-Poonch sector.
Addressing the persistent challenge of terrorism, General Pande noted that terror infrastructure continues to thrive across the border, with a specific reference to Pakistan’s support to various terrorist groups in the Rajouri-Poonch sector.
In response to questions about the Bhutan-China boundary dispute, the Army Chief assured that India closely monitors these developments, emphasizing the robust military engagement with Bhutan. He also expressed concern about the situation along the Indo-Myanmar border, stating that it is being closely watched.
Regarding the integration of Agniveers into the Army, General Pande reported positive progress. Looking ahead, he declared that 2024 will be a year of technology adoption for the Indian Army, marking a significant step in the overall modernization of the force.