Q. No. 2508 Shortage of special clothing for soldiers posted in high altitude areas

Question: Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to satate :-

(a) whether there is shortage of special clothing and equipment for the soldiers deployed in high altitude areas;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and

(c) the steps taken / proposed to be taken by Government to ensure the adequate and timely supply of these items to the soldiers?

Answer: Minister of Defence (Shri A.K. Antony)

(a)to(c):There is no shortage of Special Clothing and Equipment to meet the operational needs of the troops deployed in high altitudes areas. An Empowered Committee is in existence under the Chairman of Master General of Ordnance (MGO) of Army Headquarters with full powers of Competent Financial Authority. The Empowered Committee ensures fast track procurement of such items as per authorization.