T he Indian Army is undergoing a process of transformation to reorganise itself into a lethal networked force. Keeping this in mind, a number of studies covering the entire gamut of operational synergy have been completed. Ahead of the Army Day, Chief of the Army Staff, Gen VK Singh, in an exclusive interview to Sainik Samachar, says the initiative will have a far-reaching impact and, once implemented, ensure that the Army is fully capable of meeting its current and future obligations.
What is the vision for the Army and how is it sought to be achieved?
The vision for our Army is to be a highly motivated, modernised, optimally equipped and operationally ready force capable of operating in a synergised joint services environment, across the entire spectrum of conflict. It is this vision that we seek to achieve through 'transformation', following a road-map focused on preparing our forces through re-organisation, equipping and training while seeking to mould our military values, traditions and outlook to follow the best practices in a progressive Indian Army of the future. The process, initiated in 2008, takes into account the current orientation of the Indian Army and both the prevailing and future operational environmental factors to identify areas and aspects that need to be transformed with a view to re-organise our force into an agile, lethal, versatile and networked force.
In this context, all subsidiary studies covering force restructuring, theaterisation, operational logistics, reorganisation of Headquarters, procurements, infrastructure development, modernisation and greater operational synergy have been finalised. While a number of recommendations have already been implemented, those requiring operational validation are being test-bedded in specific formations to evaluate various recommended concepts.
The initiative is wide in scope having far-reaching positive impact with a definitive road-map indicating clear transition periods. Once fully implemented, it will ensure that our army is capable of meeting current and future obligations more effectively based on a 'threat-cum-capability approach'.
What are the joint doctrine and joint structures for integrated operations?
The three Services have gone a long way towards achieving 'jointness' in various operational, training and administrative fields. The structures for joint intelligence, planning and conduct of operations at the highest level are already in place and joint doctrines have been formulated. We have made considerable progress and are confident of undertaking integrated operations in future.
HQ Integrated Defence Staff and the Service HQs have been jointly developing various joint war fighting doctrines and concepts. The establishment of Defence Intelligence Agency and creation of the Tri-Services Strategic Forces Command and Andaman and Nicobar Command have demonstrated the capability and efficacy for integrated operational planning and execution. The individual services have felt the need for jointness and, today, a fair amount of synergy has been achieved amongst the services for conduct of integrated the operations.
What is Army's role in tackling Naxalism?
Law and order situation is a state subject and is dealt by the Police Forces and the central para-military forces. The Government has evolved a comprehensive plan to tackle the Naxal menace. We should allow it to fructify and mature without basing its efficacy on a few incidents. It is our concerted view that the problem is manageable by the central para-military forces, which are competent to face the challenge, with adequate resources being made available to them.
We are assisting the State Police Forces and the central para-military forces to build their capabilities to fight Naxals by providing training and advice. Overcoming such a situation takes time and effort which needs to be kept in mind before deriving any conclusions.
What have been the advantages of joint exercises with friendly foreign countries?
We are operating in a globalised environment. To this end, it is imperative that our troops get an international exposure with a view to get a better understanding of other nation's armies in terms of their organisation, tactics, equipment and battle-drills.
Military-to-military cooperation between India and other friendly countries has helped in not only familiarising with available technologies and best practices but has also enhanced mutual understanding with friendly foreign countries. I view the gains accruing to us, from this aspect, in terms of developing mutual trust and confidence, and the capability to operate alongside other armies to undertake international military engagements. This is also the basis for addressing shared concerns over threats like terrorism, extremism and militancy. Besides, such interaction also keeps abreast of latest developments worldwide, in technology and doctrinal concepts. Our focus remains on engaging countries in our immediate and strategic neighbourhood as also with leading world powers to strengthen defence relationships, thereby, promoting peace and stability in the region.
Joint exercises are initiated, planned, coordinated with specific aims, objectives vis-à-vis a friendly foreign countries or region. The tangible gains are-learning doctrinal, conceptual, developmental and transformation aspects, albeit at tactical levels; mutual sharing of tactics, techniques and procedures and selective incorporation into our battle drills or procedures at different unit and formation levels and showcasing own military professionalism.
There are some intangible gains as well. They are: developing mutual trust and confidence amongst regional countries or friendly foreign countries to shape regional dynamics and to enhance stability in the region; asserting or extending our sphere of influence in the region and countering or minimising influence of inimical countries.
Why are there delays in procurements and acquisitions?
The procurement process is long and fairly detailed and there is a large number of stake-holders at each stage. Also military modernisation and capability development is a capital-intensive venture with long gestation periods. As per the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), normal time taken for procurement of any equipment involving trials is 34 months. However, despite best efforts and seamless action, cases do slip the stipulated time lines, due to reasons like lack of adequate response due to limited Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Transfer of Technology (ToT) issues, representations by vendors and associated complaints from environments, CBI/CVC status with respect to major equipment and vendors, lack of adequate OEM for major equipment of Armoured, Artillery and Air Defence and time and cost overruns in DRDO design and development projects.
We have instituted some measures to speed up the procurement process. To overcome the delays, Defence Procurement Procedure is amended on regular basis to ensure a continuous streamlining of procedures. The latest edition of the Defence Procurement Procedure, DPP-2011 has been issued in Jan 2011 whereas equipment required due to urgent operational necessity is being procured through Fast Track Procedure (FTP). As per DPP 2011, FTP cuts down the procurement time from 34 months to six months. Regular interactions between MoD and Service HQ officers are being carried out to resolve procedural problems in a collegiate manner in order to avoid delays.
The Army is to procure a new assault rifle. What is the rationale behind this?
INSAS rifle was conceived in early eighties and it has been in service for two decades. There is thus, a need to procure state-of-the-art, modern in technology and reliable assault rifle.
Army is now seeking to procure a multi-calibre assault rifle which will meet the operational challenges faced by troops in conventional operations and counter insurgency/counter terrorist operations. The assault rifle is being procured from global OEMs to meet present requirements of Infantry soldiers deployed along the Line of Control and for counter terrorist operations. It will replace the existing INSAS Rifle. The remainder requirement of Infantry will be met with indigenous production at OFB after absorption of Transfer of Technology.
Are the reported Chinese encroachments and transgressions alarming?
There are no encroachments on Indian territory by the neighbouring countries. There are few areas along the border where India and China have different perception of Line of Actual Control (LAC). Both sides patrol up to their respective perceptions of LAC. Due to perceived differences in alignment of LAC, some minor incidents of local nature occur which are resolved through the established mechanisms of hot lines, flag meetings and Border Personnel Meetings. The areas along LAC are being kept under surveillance by regular patrolling by troops and other aerial, optronic and electronic means.
Why does Army oppose the partial withdrawal of AFSPA from parts of Kashmir?
J&K has been affected by a Pakistan-sponsored proxy war since the last two decades. Though the quantum of violence has decreased, the terror infrastructure in Pakistan/POK remains intact. The support of Pakistan establishment in aiding and abetting the terrorists continues unabated. The security forces are combating heavily armed and trained terrorists. The operational flexibility of the troops will be severely restricted and the efforts to further stabilise and consolidate the situation in J&K will receive a setback.
The partial revocation of Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) will result in the emergence of sanctuaries and safe havens for terrorists while the Army will be constrained from operating against them. In addition, there are issues with respect to safety of Army personnel, company operating bases, units, installations, HQs located in non-AFSPA areas and protection of convoys moving through them. One should not view the security situation of reduced violence in one summer but allow consolidation of the gains made before taking a call on revocation of AFSPA.
Just one summer of peace does not mean normalcy. In the past also, periods of relative calm have been followed by enhanced violence. Even though Army has not operated in some parts of Kashmir, since AFSPA is still applicable, it can be called upon to operate if required. If AFSPA is revoked, Army will not have the legal protection to operate even if the situation goes bad. Diluting of AFSPA in any form will be, therefore, detrimental to the national interest.
What are the priorities for the infrastructure development?
IHQ of MoD (Army) is fully aware of requirement of development of infrastructure along India-China border. A holistic review of our infrastructural development and military modernisation programme has been undertaken in concert with the overall Border Areas Development Programme. Our road infrastructure along the border with China is being developed under the strategic 73 Roads Project. The probable date of completion (PDC) for the project is 2012. As on date, 15 roads have been completed and work is under progress on 53 of the balance roads.
What are the measures for management of stress in Army?
Stress manifests itself in various ways in peacetime and wartime environment and can affect anyone serving at any level. The rapid changes in society have also led to an upheaval in the soldier's life. The change from joint family to the nuclear family system, increasing aspirations for a good quality of life, frequent dislocations and long wait for married accommodation have caused additional stress and strain.
We are undertaking better man-management and prompt attendance of grievances by units and formations and other measures like improved accessibility of leaders and frequent interaction to attend to domestic problems along with the identification and counselling of persons who are at higher risk of suicide by Regimental Medical Officers, junior leaders and unit commanders. Stress management capsules are being conducted at various levels. Counselling of susceptible individuals by psychological counsellors and psychiatrists, where required, is being undertaken. Also training capsules in relaxation, including yoga, meditation, pranayam, are being held. Units and individuals are being rotated to minimise exposure to stress.
MoD has written to all Chief Secretaries and DGsP of states to address problems of soldiers on priority. A monitoring mechanism in eight states has already been agreed to. Soldiers' problems have been taken up in the Army-civil coordinating conference at the level of corps and command headquarters to give impetus to the redressal of grievances.
In your time the historic decision to grant permanent commission to women in selected branches has been taken and implemented; how far it will succeed?
Decision to grant permanent commission to women officers in Judge Advocate General and Army Education Corps had been taken in 2008. These are the only departments and service in Army which are non-combatant. Besides there is no element of command involved. We are certain that women officers will be able to acquit themselves commendably even in higher appointments in Judge Advocate General and Army Education Corps which are admissible on grant of permanent commission.
Army Aviation Corps played a significant role in the recent exercise, Sudarshan Shakti. What are your plans for the future?
Army already has its own Army Aviation Corps, presently equipped with light helicopters and utility helicopters. Army has initiated the proposal for induction of tactical lift capability and combat helicopter capability for the tactical battle area as is the practice in other contemporary armies, the world over. The requirement is a quick availability of such support in the tactical battle area which is dynamic and keeps in tune with the progress of operations.
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