Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday called for stronger cooperation between the Punjab government and the Indian Army to safeguard the state and the nation, strengthen the second line of defence along the border, boost the recruitment of Punjabis into the Armed Forces, and ensure the welfare of serving soldiers and ex-servicemen.During his meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth in Chandigarh, the chief minister also discussed national security and military matters concerning Punjab, including the need to strengthen anti-drone measures to check cross-border smuggling.Sharing a few snippets from the meeting, Mann stated on X: “Today, I had an important meeting in Chandigarh with India’s 31st Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Dhiraj Seth. During the meeting, we held meaningful discussions on the security of the country and military matters related to Punjab. Our government is fully committed to the welfare of our brave soldiers and ex-servicemen who protect the nation.”During the meeting, General Seth called on the chief minister and discussed issues related to national security and the welfare of defence personnel. Mann said, “Punjabis have always been at the forefront of safeguarding the country’s borders. The state government is already working tirelessly to enhance the recruitment of Punjabis into the Armed Forces. The Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls and the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, along with a network of C-Pyte centres, are playing a key role in this effort.”
