KARACHI: Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa on Tuesday visited Pannu Aqil where he was given a detailed briefing on operational preparedness of the desert formation training in field.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief witnessed training of formation at the Field Firing Ranges, Salehpat.

The participating troops demonstrated integrated battle drills by various components as part of defensive battle in desert including fire and manoeuvre.

Interacting with troops, Gen Bajwa appreciated their combat readiness, training standards and high morale while training under such tough conditions.

“Effective integration of various arms and services during training is imperative for befitting response to adversary during war,” he emphasised.

The army chief also planted a tree as part of the Sarsabz-o-Shadab Pakistan campaign. He commended formation for this undertaking in unfavourable desert conditions aimed at preservation of environment and strengthening defence of the area.

Later, Gen Bajwa visited the family of Shaheed Sepoy Hizb Ullah Jatoi, who embraced martyrdom on Sept 5 due to an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on FC troops deployed at Quetta.

He inquired about the well-being of his family and directed all concerned to ensure welfare of the families of all martyrs, who have sacrificed their lives for defence of motherland.

Published in Dawn, September 15th, 2021