India not unduly concerned over China’s military modernization: Antony

NEW DELHI - Expressing concern over modernization of China’s armed forces, Defence Minister A K Antony on Wednesday said India is not unduly worried, as it is now modernising its armed forces to meet any challenge from any quarters.

Responding to a question on China’s military growth, Antony said: “Modernisation of China’s armed forces and its ever increasing military spending is a matter of serious concern. But we are not unduly worried because what we need to do is we have to modernise our own armed forces.”

“We must also increase our capabilities and also strengthen our infrastructure. That, now, we are doing. The Indian government is also now modernising its armed forces to meet any challenge from any quarters. We are also strengthening our infrastructure along our borders,” he added.

Antony asserting that the process is going on said the government is carryings out a defence review to assess the modernisation and preparedness.

“We have to always assess the modernisation and preparedness around us. Every now and then we have to review our modernisation and preparedness. Wherever we feel there is a gap, we have to fill up that gap. That process is going on,” he told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.

“We are not unduly concerned about China’s military modernisation but we need to carry out a comprehensive review of our defence preparedness and remain vigilant at all times

Commenting on India’s long border dispute with China, Antony said the intricate issue could be settled only through dialogue and discussions

Talking about the India-US Malabar series of naval exercises in April, he said the drill was meant to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy and was not against any nation. (ANI)