Imphal: The second Army Commanders’ Conference of 2024 began on Thursday in a hybrid format at a forward location in Gangtok, highlighting the Indian Army’s emphasis on addressing ground realities. This conference brings together the Army’s top leadership to discuss the current security situation, border challenges, and internal security issues. It also focuses on organizational restructuring, logistics, administration, and human resource management.
A key moment of the conference was the address by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to the senior Army leadership. Despite bad weather in Gangtok, the Defence Minister delivered his speech virtually from Sukhna, after being briefed on the “Security Dynamics in the Regional Conduct: Challenges and Mitigation Measures.”
During his address, Singh reaffirmed the nation’s trust in the Indian Army, calling it one of the most reliable and respected institutions in India. He praised the Army for its vital role in defending the country’s borders, combating terrorism, and assisting civil authorities during times of need. The Defence Minister paid tribute to every soldier for their contributions, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Singh also praised the Army’s leadership for advancing the country’s defence and security vision, alongside the Prime Minister’s strategic goals.
Reflecting on his participation in Army Commanders’ Conferences over the past five years, Singh commended these leadership meetings as essential not only for the military but also for the nation. He also praised the Army’s efforts to integrate cutting-edge technology into its operations.
Singh addressed the global challenges that affect national security, pointing out that future conflicts are likely to involve unconventional, asymmetric, and hybrid warfare. He urged the Army to consider these evolving threats in its planning and strategy development. “We must continuously learn from current and past global conflicts to improve our readiness and minimize damage. Stay alert, modernize, and prepare for all contingencies,” he emphasized.
Regarding the situation along the northern borders, Singh expressed his confidence in the Army’s readiness for any potential scenario, while also reaffirming the government’s commitment to ongoing talks aimed at peaceful resolution. He applauded the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for its remarkable progress in improving road connectivity along the northern and western borders, despite difficult conditions.
Commenting on the western borders, the Defence Minister praised the Army’s effective response to cross-border terrorism, while noting that the adversary’s proxy war continues. He acknowledged the strong coordination between the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and police in tackling terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The Defence Minister noted that the Army’s joint efforts have contributed to increased peace and stability in the region, as demonstrated by the smooth conduct of recent elections in the Union Territory.
