NEW DELHI : New Army Chief General Bipin Rawat today started his innings, expressing confidence that the superseded officers will continue to work with him, in the interest of the Army.
After paying tribute at Amar Jawan Jyoti and inspecting a ceremonial Guard of Honour presented to him to mark the beginning of his tenure, Gen Rawat said appointing him as the Army Chief was a government decision.
“It was a government decision. The superseded officers have worked with me and will continue to do so in the interest of Army,” he said.
On being asked about the neighbouring Pakistan, the new Army Chief said, “our Army seeks peace and tranquility along the borders, but it does not mean we are weak.”
He said the Army was duty bound to maintain the security and sanctity of the borders.
Eastern Army Commander Praveen Bakshi, whose seniority was overlooked by the government while appointing Gen Rawat as the new Army Chief, yesterday clarified that he will continue to lead the command. He has also congratulated the new Army Chief on assuming his charge. General Rawat, who was selected ignoring the seniority of Lt Gen and Lt Gen P M Hariz.
He took over as the new Chief of the Army Staff from General Dalbir Singh at a ceremony held in South Block yesterday.
Gen Rawat, a Gorkha Rifles officer, will be the 27 Army Chief. Gen Rawat has held key appointments in the Army headquarters and with the UN peacekeeping force, and has extensive experience in Kashmir and in the Eastern region. (AGENCIES)
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