Curbing Covid risks army’s key focus area

NEWDELHI: From the possibility of terrorists “intentionally spreading” the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in Kashmir to likely military logistics challenges, from restrictions on training to rotation of units aimed to prevent soldiers from getting infected, the army is focusing on mitigating risks emerging from Covid-19 that could affect its operations, three army officers said Thursday on condition of anonymity.

“We are going through extraordinary times and the challenges we face as a fighting force are new and unexpected. We are keeping a close watch on every aspect related to the Covid-19 pandemic and how it could impact us. Even the remote possibility of terrorists somehow attempting to spread the disease, or creating a scare among people, has not escaped our attention,” said the first officer cited above. He added that raising awareness among troops was critical.

The army, which is an important institutional pillar in the country’s fight against the pandemic, has taken a raft of preventive measures to stop the spread of the infection within its ranks.

These included cancellation of non-essential training, conferences and travel; a freeze on postings and foreign assignments; avoiding assembly that involves more than 50 personnel; postponing of all courses for officers; and encouraging personnel to work from home wherever possible.

“Training has taken a hit. The balance between the peacetime and field profile of units will be affected as no rotation can happen until the situation is under control,” said the second officer cited above.

Experts said the army was prepared to handle the Covid-19 outbreak and its operations were unlikely to get affected.

“The army has taken aggressive measures to ensure Covid-19 does not affect it. Operations in field areas are going on,” said lieutenant general (retd) SL Narasimhan, member of the National Security Advisory Board.