Tezpur (Assam), Oct 21 (ANI): President Pratibha Patil has assured the armed forces that the nation was aware of the difficulties faced by the troops and the government was engaged in finding ways to provide enhanced facilities so that they could continue to protect the nation’’s territorial integrity with the same determination.

Addressing troops at the 4 Corps headquarters at Tezpur on Tuesday on her maiden visit to any army sector in Eastern India, the President lauded soldiers for effectively protecting the nation’’s territorial integrity and tackling terrorism within the country.

She expressed confidence that the country was safe in the hands of the Indian Army, which was equipped to face any challenges confronting the nation.

Our armed forces possess the latest modern weapons and I am happy to note that our troops have successfully adopted the new techniques to increase their efficiency, she said.

Besides protecting the frontiers, troops have been engaged in operations against militants and have helped the state government in security-related matters.

The president further lauded the family members of the troops who also made several sacrifices in their daily lives but still continued to inspire their loved ones to protect the nation and “I as the supreme commander of such a force am proud to be the head of such a family.”

The President also praised the 4 corps for playing a prominent role in protecting the nation’’s integrity and unity.

Army Chief General Deepak Kapoor said on the occasion that the President’’s visit to the sector has been a source of inspiration to the troops and assured her that army would accomplish successfully whatever mission it is entrusted with. (ANI)