Gwalior: President Pratibha Patil on Tuesday said
India did not believe in encouraging conflict, but if it was
thrust upon the country, its armed forces will take action
valiantly as they have always done in the past.
"We do not encourage conflict, but should it be thrust
upon us, I am confident that our Armed Forces will take action
valiantly and bring glory to the nation as they have always
done in the past," Patil said.
She was addressing a function at the Air Force base here
after awarding Standards to 47 Squadron and Tactics and Air
Combat Development Establishment (TACDE).
"We believe in a strong defence and an offensive
potential to secure the country's interests. As a nation, we
are firmly committed to peace but we will take all necessary
action to safeguard the sovereignty of the nation," she said.
"Our armed forces, exemplified by the men and women
who stand before us, reflect our determination and readiness
to protect our borders," the President said.
Praising the two units for their valour in protecting
country's frontiers, she said the 47 Squadron actively
participated in India-Pakistan conflicts of 1965 and 1971. It
stands at the threshold of entering the 50th year of its
glorious service to the nation.
Lauding TACDE, Patil said that it has developed into a
multi-faceted organisation and expressed confidence that it
will continue to innovate and excel.
Bureau Report
First Published: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 18:00