Army chief arrives in Kashmir on farewell visit

Srinagar: Indian army chief Gen. Bikram Singh arrived here on a farewell visit on Saturday, a defence statement said.

"General Bikram Singh, chief of the army staff (COAS) and chairman chiefs of staff committee, arrived in Srinagar today for a farewell visit to the strategically important Chinar Corps," it said.

It said it was "like homecoming" for Gen. Singh, who had commanded the corps from Nov 25, 2008 to Nov 30, 2009.

The army chief was received by northern army commander Lt. Gen. D.S. Hooda and Chinar Corps commander Lt.Gen. Subrata Saha.

"The chief commenced his visit by paying homage to the martyrs at the Chinar War memorial. The chief addressed the officers and interacted with all ranks. He complimented the Chinar Corps for ensuring a secure environment in the state," the statement said, adding that he "emphasized upon synergized people friendly operations, upholding the law of the land, respecting human rights and no collateral damage".

Gen. Singh also called on Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.