Defence Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said Indian armed forces are capable enough to meet any challenge to country’s security amid stand-off with China over Doklam.
Initiating a special debate to mark the 75th anniversary of Quit India Movement, Jaitley said India “learnt a lesson” from the 1962 war with China to ensure that its armed forces are capable enough on its own.
He said even today, the county faces challenges from neighbouring countries but compared to 1962, the armed forces are stronger compared to 1965 and 1971 wars.
“I agree that some challenges are still there. Some people are targeting our country’s sovereignty and integrity. But I am fully confident that our brave soldiers have capability to keep our country secure, may it be challenges on the eastern border or the western border,” he said.
His comments came against the backdrop of ongoing stand-off with China in Doklam. However, he did not directly refer to the issue.
Referring to Kashmir, he said there is still a wish among people of taking back parts of Jammu and Kashmir occupied by Pakistan.
“Initially, we faced a crisis. Our neighbour had an eye on Kashmir. Even today, we cannot forget that a part of the country has got separated. It is a wish of every Indian today as to how to retrieve that part,” Jaitley said.
Underlining the need for freeing the country from all kinds of violence, he said the country is facing a bigger challenge from terrorism and Maoist violence.
Jaitley said people from across the border and also some people within the country who have taken to arms, are trying to spread terrorism.
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