Army gears up to extend help to Rajasthan govt in dealing with COVID-19

On the direction of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Indian Army's South Western Command is gearing up to provide every possible assistance to the Rajasthan government in dealing with the COVID situation.

Jaipur:As India battles a massive spike in COVID-19 cases, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has asked the armed forces to extend assistance to state governments in dealing with the raging pandemic.

Following this, the Indian Army's South Western Command is gearing up to provide every possible assistance to the Rajasthan government if and when the need arises, said sources related to the development.

According to them, the Rajasthan government will decide whether it requires the Army's assistance or not, accordingly, further steps will be taken.

While reviewing the preparedness to deal with the COVID menace, Singh also announced granting emergency financial powers to the three services and other defence agencies to make necessary procurement to enhance medical infrastructure in view of the pandemic.

The 15-lakh armed forces, in turn, will reach out to state chief ministers to offer whatever help is possible in dealing with the situation, including treatment of civilians in military hospitals.

The 67 Cantonment Board hospitals will also ensure medical help to both cantonment residents as well as non-residents.

(With inputs from PTI)