Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India]: Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Surya Command, met with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday to discuss strengthening civil-military cooperation, enhancing border area development, and promoting tourism in strategic regions of the state, according to a press release from PRO Defence Chandigarh.
Also present were Lt Gen DG Misra, General Officer Commanding, Uttar Bharat Area, and Brig Anurag Pandey, Commander of the Tripeaks Brigade.
Key Discussion Areas:
- Strategic infrastructure enhancement
- Boosting tourism in remote and border villages
- Disaster management coordination
- Strengthening local law enforcement linkages
- Socio-economic development and reverse migration initiatives
Lt Gen Sengupta highlighted the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts in border security and national defence, particularly given Himachal’s strategic geographical location. He briefed CM Sukhu on current security measures and discussed ways to bolster collaboration with civil authorities.
The meeting acknowledged the Army’s critical role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. A recent example cited was the Army’s swift response in the Samej Khad region of Rampur, aiding rescue and rehabilitation during a natural calamity.
Army Proposals Discussed:
- Construction of a dual-use airstrip in Spiti Valley to improve connectivity and tourism.
- Provision of an alternate access route to Military Hospital, Shimla, for smoother casualty evacuation during disasters and better routine patient movement.
- Promotion of border tourism and support for reverse migration to villages like Giu, Kaurik, Tashigang, Komik, Lepcha, Khanadumti, and Shipki La.
CM Sukhu’s Remarks:
The Chief Minister praised the Indian Army’s humanitarian service and swift responses during emergencies. He emphasized the state’s willingness to cooperate on projects that boost national security, regional development, and strategic mobility.
The interaction marked a significant step in aligning military and civil efforts to address both security challenges and developmental goals in Himachal’s border regions.