Indian Army Follows Procedures for Convoy Movement, Ensures Ambulance Priority: Govt

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 30th Nov. The Indian Army follows established procedures for convoy movements, ensuring minimal disruption to civilian traffic, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth told Parliament on Friday. Responding to queries regarding the stoppage of traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for Army or paramilitary movements, Seth clarified that the Indian Army does not “harass or stop any civil movement” on the highway.

He further explained that regular convoy movements between Jammu and Srinagar occur for operational and administrative purposes. To maintain security and prevent attacks or ambushes, road opening parties are sent ahead of convoys. As a result, traffic is temporarily regulated, particularly at junctions and U-turns where security forces’ convoys meet civilian routes.

Seth also addressed concerns over ambulances being stopped by security forces, affirming that ambulances are always given priority and are never obstructed during these movements.

In response to another query, Seth confirmed that the government has not considered constructing memorials in the villages where martyred soldiers are cremated. The government, however, has established the National War Memorial in Delhi to honor the sacrifices of all soldiers. The names of all fallen soldiers are etched on the memorial’s walls.

Regarding support for innovation and industries, Seth disclosed that the government has allocated Rs 120 crore to industries under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme since January 2023. Of this, Rs 43.89 crore has already been disbursed. The TDF scheme has supported 16 MSMEs and 20 startups since its inception in 2022, with a total of 42 MSME projects and 25 startup projects receiving financial backing.

Additionally, 26 technologies have been successfully developed under the scheme, contributing to India’s defense and technology sectors.