Army Commanders’ Meet: Impact of Russia-Ukraine War On Agenda

New Delhi: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its impact on India will be among the topics of discussion during the five-day Army Commanders’ Conference which begins on Monday.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will address the conference, to be held in the national capital, on Day 4 (April 21).

“During the conference, the senior leadership of the Indian Army will review the operational situation along the active borders, assess threats in the entire spectrum of conflict and undertake analysis of capability voids to further focus on capability development and operational preparedness plans,” a Defence Ministry statement said.

“Discussions on aspects pertaining to infrastructure development in border areas, modernization through indigenisation, induction of niche tech and assessment on any impact of the Russia-Ukraine war are also scheduled.”

War has been going on in eastern Europe since February 24, when Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a special military operation on Ukraine.

The prolonged war could have implications for India, which is dependent on Russia for defence equipment procurement in the light of severe Western sanctions against Russia.

“These days, there have been challenges in ensuring supply lines. External situation has affected the serviceability of critical weapons and equipment. Therefore, we are leaving no stone unturned to achieve self-reliance. Earlier, the country was dependent on imports from other countries to bolster the defence sector. This government believes in strengthening our own shoulders to protect ourselves. We are making sure that India is not dependent on anyone,” the Defence minister had said earlier this month while addressing IAF officers in Hyderabad.