Pakistan paid for its misadventure in 1965, says Manohar Parrikar

Army Chief General Dalbir Singh, who too spoke at the event, accused Pakistan of using new methods for creating unrest in Jammu and Kashmir and added that the Army is prepared in light of the swift nature of future wars.

[related-post]

Parrikar said, “The security environment today is complex, nuanced compared to earlier. Therefore, we need to be vigilant taking into account all dimensions so that all emerging challenges are suitably addressed.”

Referring to the 1965 war, the Union minister said the present day environment also requires a similar approach, with alertness and readiness, “so that we can deter any such action and ensure a peaceful environment”.

Praising the leadership of then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, Parrikar called the 1965 war a victory and said India won the war despite claims by sections to call it a draw. He also stressed that the stories of the war should be made part of school textbooks.

The Army chief said the “frequency of ceasefire violations and infiltration bids by our western neighbour” ensures that “the border remains live and active”.

Singh added that Pakistan is resorting to new methods to create unrest in J&K. “Recent incidents of terrorist violence are clear pointers to extend this arc of violence to other areas.”