Infiltration from Pakistan into Jammu and Kashmir continues unabated, General Nirmal Chand Vij said after addressing the Army Day parade in New Delhi on Wednesday morning.

Gen Vij, who became army chief on December 31, 2002, said the army is countering the menace through a 'strong counter-infiltration grid' and sophisticated surveillance equipment.

According to the general, there will be no reduction of forces in Jammu and Kashmir. "We need to consolidate our gains in the Valley," he said after the parade, during which he presented Sena medals to soldiers, some of them posthumously, for their courageous acts during the past year. He also presented Unit Citations to various arms of the army.

T-90 tanks, which are being procured from Russia, were on display for the first time during the parade. These tanks, the general said, are 'versatile' with 'good missile systems', which gives the army an edge over its enemies.

The tanks have laser-guided missile systems and are effective against a range of targets, including helicopters.

Gen Vij said his priority would be to modernise the army. Besides inducting the T-90s, 'we are in the process of upgrading our existing fleet of tanks and BMP's [Bronevaya Maschina Piekhota -- Infantry Combat Vehicle] with thermal imaging sights, which can track enemy targets in the night', he said.

"We have also equipped our units and formations with advanced surveillance equipment along the LoC [Line of Control] to thwart attempts of infiltration across the borders. Our artillery is also in the process of being equipped with 155mm guns. Modernisation of our communication equipment is another priority area," Gen Vij told the gathering.

The shortage of over 10,000 officers in the army also figures in the general agenda.

He called on 'young boys and girls to come forward and join the army and contribute their services in the defence of the nation. We are considering a number of schemes to woo ladies and gentlemen to the officer cadre'.

Gen Vij asked the Centre to utilise the services of ex-servicemen 'judiciously and meaningfully'.

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