LEH: The security situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Eastern Ladakh, and along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir on his mind, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is all set to make a crucial visit to Udhampur in the union territory on Saturday.
The defence minister will engage in discussions regarding the prevailing security situation along the LAC and LoC with the top army commanders, officials said.
The defence minister’s visit comes days after India and China held a fresh round of high-level military talks to resolve the over three-and-half-year-old border row in eastern Ladakh that saw both sides agreeing to maintain ‘peace and tranquillity’ on the ground but there was no indication of any breakthrough.
The 21st round of India-China corps commander level meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on February 19.
“Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is slated to embark on a significant visit to Udhampur on February 24, where he will engage in discussions regarding the prevailing circumstances alongside senior army officials.
“The Defence Minister will interact with top Army Commanders at the Northern Command to take detailed briefing on security situation on Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Eastern Ladakh, besides in Jammu and Kashmir especially the Valley and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan,” officials informed.
Scheduled to address various matters pertinent to the security in the two neighbouring union territories, the Minister will also officiate the inauguration of the new Command Hospital building in Udhampur during his visit.
He will also address the Army officers and jawans, officials said.
The Command Hospital, known for its top-tier medical services in Jammu and Kashmir, is positioned strategically near MH Chowk in Udhampur. With a reputation for providing exemplary healthcare services to military personnel, the new facility is expected to further enhance treatment capabilities, situated near Conway Ground close to the Supply Turn.
As per the initial inputs, during his visit, Singh is anticipated to interact extensively with high-ranking Army officials within the Northern Command. Discussions will likely encompass a comprehensive review of the security landscape along the Line of Actual Control and Line of Control, including developments in Jammu and Kashmir.
The newly constructed Command Hospital boasts several modern amenities, including lifts, a central AC plant, hot water supply, and advanced fire safety systems.
With a total budget allocation of Rs 189.94 crore, the project, initiated on November 1, 2021, aimed for completion by January 31, 2024, ensuring the provision of enhanced medical services to military personnel in the region.
