Massive restructuring for army's infantry division

Infantry -- the largest component of the Indian army -- is undergoing massive restructuring to prepare it for the entire spectrum of modern-day conflicts ranging from counter insurgency operations to nuclear, biological and chemical warfare.

The five-pronged revamp, infantry Director General Lieutenant General Gurpreet Singh said in New Delhi, involves enhancing surveillance capability, increasing anti-tank potential, boosting fire power, providing better communications and improved mobility.

One third of the Indian army is made up by the infantry division.

Elaborating on the plans, General Singh said enhancement of surveillance capability would involve increasing the capacity to peep deeper into enemy territory.

The infantry's anti-tank potential would be boosted by replacing the 106 mm RCL guns gradually. Its firepower was being given a thrust by the induction of the indigenous INSAS system of weapons.

"The INSAS has a better range and is more lethal," General Singh said.

The director general said enhancing communications was another top priority. Hence, radio links would be developed to the maximum extent.

Singh said his force would celebrate Infantry Day on October 27, which, incidentally, is also its golden jubilee. Moreover, the day has a historical significance -- it was on this day 50 years ago that the Indian army first landed in Srinagar and defended Kashmir from falling into enemy hands.

UNI

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