SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SHRIMATI PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL, AT THE INNAUGURAL CEREMONY OF THE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS OF THE CORPS OF SIGNALS

New Delhi, 15th February, 2010

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am very happy to be here today, at the Centenary Commemoration Ceremony of the Corps of Signals of the Indian Army. Today, the Corps of Signals enters into the 100th year of its odyssey, as communicators for our Defence Forces. It was on this historic day in 1911, that the first two Signal Companies were raised at Fatehgarh. It is now a 90,000 strong and vibrant force engaged in diverse activities, of the provision of Communication, Information Technology, Electronic Warfare and Signal Intelligence.

Communications have always played a vital role in the functioning of the Armed Forces. In fact, effective communication systems are essential to build a truly networked and a responsive force. Mandated to provide secure and reliable strategic, operational and tactical communications, the dedicated officers and men of the Corps of Signals, have performed their duties with excellence by providing vital communication support to the Armed Forces, through the years, both in times of peace and war. It has done stellar work in setting up an extensive 'Info-structure' for the Armed Forces, as well as in bringing about convergence in the information systems within the Armed Forces. It is spearheading the execution of large Inter-Service projects, to bring in greater synergy between the three Services.

The Corps of Signals has undertaken path breaking initiatives and chartered a progressive path full of vision and determination. It has evolved from the early methods of signalling, to the use of multifarious communication systems and equipment, in consonance with emerging technologies and imperatives of national defence.

The work of the Corps of Signals is a perennial commitment - 24 x 7, day after day. Given its onerous tasks, the men of the Corps of Signals, are referred to as 'Information Warriors'. The task is made all the more onerous, by the extent and spread of the deployment of our Armed Forces, including in extremely inhospitable areas. To keep these dispersed forces "Connected", is a stupendous task. And now, when warfare makes its foray into net centricity, their tasks become ever more relevant.

The Corps of Signals has also played a significant role in aid to civil authorities and disaster relief. Be it the earthquakes of Latur and Jammu and Kashmir, or flood and cyclone relief operations, or the Tsunami disaster, they have been at the forefront, in providing round the clock communications.

I am also heartened to see, that the Corps is doing well in sports and adventure activities and must compliment the "Dare Devils" of the Corps, whose performance in various national functions is worthy of praise.

In recognizing the achievements of the Corps of Signals, the nation also acknowledges the immense contribution of the Indian Army and our Armed Forces, in nation building. They protect our borders with determination and great vigil. For their selfless devotion, professionalism and courage, the nation salutes them with a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation.

On this historic day, I extend my good wishes to all members of the Signals fraternity and also wish them continued success in all their future endeavours. I am sure that this important milestone will provide the Corps with an opportunity to reflect on their glorious past and look forward to the future, with renewed optimism and continue to respond to challenges with alacrity and confidence, in accordance with its motto "Teevra Chaukas", that is - "Swift and Secure".

Thank you,

JAI HIND.