New Delhi, March 6

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called for a holistic approach focused on breaking down civil-military silos and expediting the speed of decision-making.

Lauds forces for diligence

• PM Narendra Modi called upon the forces to optimise manpower planning in military and civilian parts of the national security architecture.
• The forces were appreciated for the resolute dedication shown in context of the Covid pandemic and challenging situation on the northern borders.

Modi advised the services to rid themselves of legacy systems and practices that had outlived their utility and relevance. Doctrines, procedures and customs practided in the armed forces needed to be indigenous, the PM suggested. He was addressing the valedictory session of the Combined Commanders Conference at Kevadia, Gujarat. Taking note of the rapidly changing technological landscape, the PM highlighted the need to develop the Indian military into a ‘future force’.

Maritime command – a giant leap

• India will set up an overarching maritime command. It will have warships, fighter jets, helicopters, submarines, aircraft carriers and special amphibious brigades of the Army.
• The maritime theatre commander will be responsible for securing the sea lanes of communications and maritime security along the 7,500-km coastline.

The PM was briefed by the Chief of Defence Staff about the discussions during this year’s conference. This included setting up of theatre commands which would mean all forces operating under a single commander in a demarcated area. — TNS