Paying homage to martyr's of the 1999 Kargil War, outgoing Chief of Army Staff, General Bikram Singh, on Friday assured the countrymen about his troops readiness to protect the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"As Chief of the Army Staff, I want to assure you that the army is deployed along the border, and it has the ability to safeguard the nation's territorial integrity and its sovereignty," General Singh said.
On the issue of firing coming from across the border, General Singh said, "Firing has been on every month, every year, but I assure you that the soldiers are taking necessary action as is required."
When asked if the conditions of the soldiers in the army has improved in the 15 years since the war, General Singh replied: "It has improved by leaps and bounds in a very distinct manner. Whether it is regards to aspirations of the security needs, the esteem needs, are being addressed by the government. Let me assure you that the present government is committed to ensuring that the aspirations of soldiers are met."
Earlier, the Army Chief paid homage to Kargil martyrs at the war memorial in the Drass Sector by laying a wreath at its base.
Later, he met with the family members of the martyrs.
Besides the Army Chief, other top army commanders, martyrs' families, and other dignitaries were present at the ceremony.
Each year, since 1999, the 'Vijay Diwas' is celebrated on 26 July to pay homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives fighting for their motherland.
