Zeenews Bureau
New Delhi, Jan 15: Just a day after assuring the country about Army’s war preparedness in case of any hostility with Pakistan, Army Chief Major General Deepak Kapoor on Thursday said that 26/11 is actually a test of India’s patience.
The General, while addressing the gathering of officers at the 61st Foundation Day of the Indian Army in New Delhi said, “26/11 is a test of our patience”.
He also cautioned Pakistan and the militant outfits operating from its soil that the Indian Army will explore all options to ensure that there is no threat to country’s integrity and sovereignty.
Kapoor on Wednesday said that Indian Army is ready for war in view of escalating Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan and reports of troop build-up post 26/11.
Reiterating that the perpetrators of Mumbai terror attacks were from Pakistan, General Kapoor said, "We do feel that the perpetrators of 26/11 were from Pakistan. In view of that, in India we are keeping all our options open.”
Admitting that the tensions between the two nations have increased post Mumbai terror attack the Army Chief said that the Indian troops are war ready. "It must be understood that it is not to create any war hysteria and the options include diplomatic, economic and, as a last resort, fighting," he said at a press conference.
Gen Kapoor added that the Army was aware about troop movement from FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) to Pakistan`s eastern border with India. "Having known this fact, let me assure you that the Indian Army has factored this in its plans."
On being asked about the recent Poonch encounter in Mendhar, General Kapoor accepted that the gun battle was a tough one.
Replying to a question on the alleged marriage of an Indian Army medic posted in Afghanistan Gen Kapoor said, "According to that woman, her marriage took place in the month of December but as per our records the doctor was posted there from January to November."
Besides, General Deepak Kapoor, Navy Chief Admiral Sureesh Mehta and Chief of Air Staff Air Marshall Fali Homi Major also paid floral tributes at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate here.
Army Day is celebrated on Jan 15 every year to commemorate the appointment in 1949 of General K.M. Cariappa as commander-in-chief of the Indian Army - the first Indian officer to hold the post.
On the occasion, the Army chief took the salute at a parade held at the Delhi Cantonment. He also presented Sena Medals for gallantry and unit citations.
Addressing the gathering, General Kapoor said, "The country, especially in Jammu and Kashmir and the northeast, has been facing challenges from elements who want to destroy peace in India and we are working to tackle it."
The Army Day parade showcased technological prowess and achievements of the Indian Army.
Several serving and retired defence officers were present on the occasion.
