Chinese patrol, activity along borders have increased, says Army Commander, raises concern

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Oct 19, 2021: Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen Manoj Pande has said there has been a marginal increase in the border patrolling by the Chinese Army and also in the annual training exercises.

 

“China is carrying out integrated joint operation exercises. They are bringing together various elements of their armed forces. This year there has been an increase in scale and they have continued for a longer duration,” said Lt Gen Pande.

He further added, “There has been a marginal increase in PLA patrols in some areas but there is no noticeable change in patrolling patterns. There has been some increase in the annual training in exercises in depth areas. Reserved formations continue to remain in training areas.”

“Last one and a half years have been a matter of concern for us. The Eastern command enhanced the preparedness levels and capability to respond to any contingency,” said the Eastern Army Commander.

The Commander further said that while there is some increase in the level of Chinese activity, both sides are attempting to develop infrastructure closer to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and that leads to friction at times.

“We’ve enhanced our surveillance both in LAC and depth areas. We have adequate force available in each sector to deal with any contingency that arrives. Patrolling pattern has not increased or changed much, in some areas there is a marginal increase,” said the Army Commander.

The officer further said that the Indian Army has inducted surveillance drones, better surveillance radars, communication systems and also better night vision ability. “Introduction of technology has remained one of our key areas and a number of steps have been taken towards it,” said Lt Gen Pande.

Courtesy:India Today