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Chinese incursions cause for concern, says Defence Minister

HYDERABAD: Defence Minister A. K. Antony said here on Wednesday that India was concerned over Chinese incursions in certain sectors and was taking up the issue with the neighbour at “appropriate levels.”

He told journalists after inaugurating the silver jubilee celebrations of the Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited’s (MIDHANI) Integrated Commercial Production that the India-China border was by and large peaceful. But, there were some incidents of incursion in certain sectors. “Our considered view is that whether it is China or Pakistan, we want an amicable solution and we wish for friendship with all our neighbours.”

The Minister said that a dialogue was on with China to find a solution. The 11th round of discussions was over and the talks would continue. On the issue of incursions, he quipped, “We are also concerned about that. We don’t take these things lightly.”

Mr. Antony stated that the Defence Procurement Policy-2008 would be announced within 10 days.

It would provide a level-playing field to all countries interested in doing business with India. It would be a transparent policy and not favour or show prejudice towards any country.

The main aim was to ensure that the armed forces procured world class equipment speedily from both indigenous and foreign suppliers.

It could be by way of direct procurement or through design, development, co-production and transfer of technology.

On the India-U.S. nuclear deal, he felt that it would enable the country to secure the most modern technology and also fuel for the present and future nuclear plants. Once the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Nuclear Suppliers Group gave their clearances, India could purchase nuclear material and technology from any country.

Asked about dissatisfaction in the services over the Pay Commission’s recommendations, Mr. Antony said representations were received on certain anomalies from the services and sister organisations.

He hoped that a final decision would be taken soon. The government was trying to find a fair and satisfactory solution.

Earlier, he suggested that the MIDHANI management chalk out an expansion/modernisation plan, assuring “100 per cent” support from the government.

The Chairman and Managing Director, MIDHANI, M. Narayana Rao, and Secretary, Defence Production, Pradeep Kumar, spoke.

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