Rajnath urges IAF to be ready for any eventuality on China border

New Delhi, July 22 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the Indian Air Force's operational capabilities and deployments at forward locations on Wednesday amid the tense border situation with China. Singh also urged the IAF to stand ready to handle any eventuality on the border with China.

Singh addressed the inaugural session of the Air Force Commanders' Conference in New Delhi that started on Wednesday. The minister appreciated the proactive response by the IAF in bolstering its operational capabilities over the past few months.

He stated that the professional manner in which the IAF conducted the air strikes in Balakot as well as rapid deployment of IAF assets at forward locations in response to the prevailing situation in eastern Ladakh has sent a strong message to the nation's adversaries.

Singh said that the nation's resolve to defend its sovereignty stands firm on the faith its people have in the capability of its armed forces. He alluded to the ongoing efforts for de-escalation on the Line of Actual Control and urged the IAF to be ready.

He also praised the stellar contribution by IAF in supporting the nation's response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the role played during several humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.

He highlighted the need to achieve self-reliance in defence production and noted that the theme chosen for this Air Force Commanders' Conference – ‘IAF in the Next Decade' - was very apt for enhancing efforts towards indigenisation in the days to come.

The minister lauded the progress made towards enhancing synergy and integration within the three services since the appointment of Chief of Defence Staff and creation of Department of Military Affairs.