Govt always active in modernisation of armed forces: PM

All necessary measures have been taken to build up skilled, well-disciplined and professional armed force, she said reassuring of continued efforts for building it up to as a time-befitting modern force.

Khaleda said the government steps have helped the armed forces to make its presence felt in a strong way in the international arena. "They have brought laurels for the country through their contributions in different peacekeeping missions of the United Nations."

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The prime minister was speaking during the presentation of National Standard to the 1st Battalion of the Bangladesh Infantry Regiment at Rajshahi Cantonment yesterday afternoon.

On arrival at the venue, the prime minister was received by the Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Hasan Mashhud Chowdhury, Bogra Area Commander Major Gen Monjurul Alam and BIRC Commandant Brig Gen ANM Shawkat Jamal.

Khaleda said she was proud to recall the silent preparation within the Bengal Regiment along with the political, cultural, economic and social movement waged for freedom during the Pakistani period.

This preparation, she said, helped keep alive the aspirations for the nation's freedom despite the sudden military attack in 1971. "Later, we attained overall military victory."

She termed the infantry as the main pillar of the army and lauded their role in the War of Liberation and in safeguarding the independence and sovereignty and in containing insurgency in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).