As India and Pakistan agreed to expedite resolution of the Siachen issue, the army on Monday hoped that its views on demilitarisation of the icy battlefield will be considered before arriving at any decision.
"Army has submitted its views to the government on the issue. I am sure the government will keep them in mind," Army Chief General J J Singh told reporters in New Delhi when asked whether it was ready for demilitarisation of the glacier.
His comments came two days after both the sides decided to speed up talks on Siachen, the world's highest battlefield, with New Delhi making it clear that it was not possible to fix a timeframe to resolve the issue.
On the army's crackdown on banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom in Assam in the wake of the spurt in attacks, Singh said the operation has been stepped up.
"I am sure that we will be able to succeed," he said on the sidelines of the 59th Army Day Parade.
Addressing the parade, Singh described 2006 as a historic year for the army as it emerged successful in anti-terror, humanitarian and peace-time operations and achieved progress in modernisation efforts.
The highlight of the year was the release of its sub-conventional warfare doctrine, which he said banks on the army's vast experience and gives due consideration to human rights while striving to produce results.
"The iron fist and velvet glove will go hand in hand. While there will be no mercy for hardcore terrorists, the misguided youths will be given a chance to abdicate violence," he added.
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