IT GENERAL PRADEEP BALI (RETD)
THE INDIAN ARMY IS a much respected and loved organisation. War anniversaries bring it into focus for the citizenry and any perfidy by inimical neighbours on the borders suddenly energises a nationwide interest in this very fine organisation. Beyond that, its role and understanding remain hazy or unknown. In fact, there are often critical voices raised about the drain of the defence budget on the national exchequer. There is a definite need for an understanding of the larger and ubiquitous role played by the army in nation-building.
Ensuring a Secure Environment
First and foremost, it is the secure environment provided by the army as a guarantor of national and territorial integrity that ensures the path to prosperity and development for the country as a whole. Today the dimensions of conflict are manifold and not restricted to the border areas alone. Once again, it is this organisation which is combating the scourge of violence and terrorism unleashed by secessionist elements, aided and abetted by adversarial powers. As a vital organ of the state, it is the army, the ultimate arbiter of national safety and security which ensures a safe environment for internal progress and prosperity. Post COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian economy is set for a northward trajectory and the stress by the government is on inclusive development. All this is not feasible without adequate assurance of a safe and secure nation and the armed forces represent this insurance policy.
Humanitarian Assistance
This story is from the December 2020 - January 2021 edition of SP's Land Forces.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2020 - January 2021 edition of SP's Land Forces.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Stryker Production under 'Make in India'?
India explores joint production of Stryker armoured vehicles with the US as part of their Strategic Alliance
Rosoboronexport goes on to work on Technology Partnership Contracts with Friendly Countries
Empowering Global Defence Production through Innovation, Collaboration and Pioneering Technology Partnerships in the evolving landscape of Military Cooperation
Yugoimport - A Global Player in Artillery
Yugoimport-SDPR has constantly innovated itself as a manufacturer of complex weapon systems and defence equipment
Womanpower in Uniform: Republic@75
India takes a big stride into the future as Women Warriors lead the charge in India's 75th Republic Day Celebration
Defending DRDO: Restructure the Responsibilities
A strategic transformation of DRDO is needed to chart a course for excellence in defence technology and a more agile and responsive future
Fighting Terror: Armies in New Urban Warfare
Navigating the realities of Urban Warfare and lessons drawn from the ongoing global fight against terror
Indian Army: In Quest of Greater Firepower and Policy Recommendations for Gaps
Charting the Future under General Manoj Pande's Vision for a Tech-Driven Army, the Indian Army is driving ahead for Next-Gen Combat Capabilities
Year of Technology Absorption
Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande sets out goal for the Indian Army in 2024
Striking the Right Balance
In an interview with Jayant Baranwal, Editor-in-Chief, SP's Land Forces, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande charts the ongoing evolution of Indian Army with a balanced approach that combines platform-centric capabilities with technology-centric enhancements
The Future of Infantry Combat Vehicle
The Future Infantry Combat Vehicle FICV) programme of the Indian Army is a technological leap forward for the Next-Generation Infantry Combat Vehicles that will give soldiers a decisive edge on the battlefield