Attacks in Afghanistan: Antony asks armed forces to be vigilant

Antony asked the commanders to be more vigilant and to take appropriate steps in the light of yesterday8217;s developments in Afghanistan,which saw a series of suicide bomb attacks,Defence Ministry officials said.

The Defence Minister also reiterated India8217;s commitment in supporting and assisting Afghanistan for its development.

8220;India remains steadfast in its commitment to provide support and assistance to Afghanistan so that it evolves into a stable country,strengthened by pluralism and free from external interference,8221; he said.

Heavily-armed suicide bombers unleashed a wave of coordinated attacks at the diplomatic enclave in Kabul and three other cities on Sunday.

All Indians in Afghanistan were reported to be safe.

During the three-day-long Commanders8217; Conference,the Army will assess its preparedness in the light of the prevailing security situation in the country and its immediate neighbourhood,the officials said.

The commanders will also discuss various ways address the issues concerning their personnel.

On April 10,Antony had addressed the top commanders of the Indian Air Force IAF and had expressed confidence over the state of preparedness of the three armed services.

Commenting on reports which suggested that only four days of ammunition were left with the Army8217;s armoured regiments,he had said that India is in a more strong position as compared to the past.

8220;These are all rumours. I can assure you that the country is fully prepared8230; There will always be some shortcomings and that is also in the process,8221; he had said.

The Defence Minister will address the Unified Commanders Conference which will be attended by top commanders of all the three services on April 24.