The Defence Minister A.K. Antony cautioned that the global security environment continues to be a cause of concern and the situation in our neighbourhood poses various challenges.

Inaugurating a joint venture project between Indian Army and the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) ‘Gyandeep Centre of Excellence’ in Delhi he emphasised the need to strengthen the internal fabric of the society to generate more strength to meet such challenges.

“Our armed forces have given a good account of themselves during external aggression or internal strife. These veterans must be integrated into the society, as they could no doubt continue to work with the same dedication and commitment that they displayed as members of our armed forces,” he said.

Empowerment of soldiers is an important issue that must be addressed and monitored at all levels on a regular basis.

The Chief of the Army Staff General V.K. Singh, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, Professor V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai and Adjutant General Lt General Mukesh Sabharwal also addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of the programme for army personnel.