Strengthening of armed forces needed for effective deterrence, says Antony

New Delhi, Feb.15 (ANI): Defense Minister A.K. Antony on Monday said that the strengthening of army's presence in the country's northeast region was not aimed at China but it was required for an effective deterrence in the border areas.

Speaking in the national capital after the inauguration of the 6th Defence Expo, 2010, Antony said that the Army was raising two new mountain divisions in the North East, along the borders with China.

"Coming to the specific question of two divisions in the northeast, it is not against China. It is an overall policy of our government to strengthen our army's presence in the northeast just as we are strengthening the Army, Navy, Air Force presence all over India," Antony stated

Defense Minister said that despite India being a peace loving country, it needs to always remain on guard and its strengthening of armed forces is required to ensure so that they can act as an effective deterrence.

"We have to strengthen our armed forces so that they can act as an effective deterrence. That is our policy. To act as an effective deterrence we have to strengthen them that is why we are procuring all this kind of equipments." (ANI)