Scams hurt forces image

Some recent instances of corruption in high places in the Army have brought some harm to its credibility and image. All of you must perform duties with sincerity and ensure that the sense of pride and dignity of the Army is maintained at all times, the minister said.

We will take very strict action whenever any case of corruption comes,or is brought to our notice, he added. He was speaking in the presence of the Chief of the Army Staff,Gen VK Singh,Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar and Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen Bikram Singh besides other senior officers.

The minister is on a two-day visit to the Northeast,where he is meeting jawans and gathering suggestions for improving their living conditions. One of the points that he has agreed to was raised by a number of troops who asked for the issuing of a new pair of boots every 12 months instead of the current provision of 26 months. Soldiers have also requested him for chartered air service to Delhi so that they can proceed on leave easily.