Defence minister tours forward areas in Arunachal

Kolkata, Nov 8 (IANS) Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman undertook a tour of the forward areas in Dau-Delal and Lohit valleys of Aruanachal Pradesh, a defence ministry release said on Thursday.

Sitharaman on Wednesday first overflew the forward-most post of Rochcham near India-China border, and Hayuliang.

At the forward post, the minister celebrated Diwali, distributed sweets to the troops and wished them happiness.

She appreciated the zeal, enthusiasm and dedication of the troops who are stationed in the high mountainous areas to ensure the sanctity of Indian borders.

At Hayuliang, the minister also interacted and distributed sweets to local civilians and GREF personnel.

Sitharaman was accompanied by Lt. Gen. M.M. Naravana, General Officer Commanding-in-chief Eastern Command and Lt. Gen. Gopal R, General Officer Commanding Spear Corps.