Army to be modernised despite resource constraints: PM

"Despite resource constraints we are implementing programmes for modernisation and strengthening of the armed forces," she told officers and jawans of the 11 Infantry Division of Bangladesh Army at a "Darbar" after witnessing a joint winter exercise at Bhaduria of Nababganj upazila in Dinajpur district.

Khaleda, who is also holding the defence portfolio, appreciated the exercise saying it reflected the high standard of professional excellence and efficiency.

"We feel proud for whatever you have achieved with limited resources and facilities," she told the soldiers and asked them to keep it in mind that training and exercise have no alternative.

On arrival at the exercise area, the Prime Minister was received by Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Moeen U Ahmed and General Officer Commanding of the 11 Infantry Division Major General Manjurul Alam.

The 93 Armed Brigade of the Bogra-based division, one para commando battalion, army aviation and Bangladesh Air Force took part in the joint exercise led by Brigadier General Abu M Aslam. The exercise began on December 4 and will conclude on December 29.

The round the year training activities of armed forces are reflected in the winter exercises.

Water Resources Minister Major (Retd) Hafizuddin Ahmed, Women and Children Affairs Minister Khurshid Jahan Haque, State Minister for Finance Major General (Retd) Anwarul Kabir Talukdar, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence Ministry and former Army Chief Lieutenant General (Retd) Mahbubur Rahman, Whip Rezaul Bari Dina and senior civil and military officials also witnessed the exercise.

The BNP government in its 1991-1996 term had established the 19 division, Khaleda said, adding "in our current tenure we have established three more infantry brigades and several units."

Referring to the current month of historic victory in the Liberation War in 1971, she paid tributes to the martyrs and valiant freedom fighters and termed the army as the symbol of national independence and sovereignty. The role of army in the War of Liberation was always a matter of national pride, she said.

Upholding that tradition, Khaleda said, the army is always discharging its duties with devotion and making significant contribution to the peace and progress of the country.

They stand by the people in calamities and work with them shoulder to shoulder, she said adding: "Their role in the UN peacekeeping missions has brightened the country's image in the world."