Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has stressed on the need for jointness of the three Services to optimise resources and enhance cost effectiveness, so that maximum funds can be made available for modernisation of the Armed Forces. <br/><br/>Addressing the two day Annual Unified Commanders' Conference (UCC) of Tri-Services Commanders in New Delhi today, Mr Parrikar emphasised on Make in India initiative and indigenisation of defence production to achieve self-reliance. <br/><br/>To keep in tune with the India's Act East Policy, he asked the Armed Forces for conduct of Joint Exercises involving more than one Service with friendly foreign countries specially, in South East Asia. <br/><br/>He commended the Armed Forces for their devotion to duty and the stellar role played by them in safeguarding the country's unity and integrity. <br/><br/>The Minister also paid homage to all valiant soldiers, sailors and air warriors for their supreme sacrifice in honour of the nation. <br/><br/>Earlier, opening remarks were given by the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha covering Tri-Services issues. <br/><br/>The Chief of the Army Staff General Dalbir Singh and the Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba also addressed the conclave highlighting the major issues pertaining to their respective Services. <br/><br/>AIR correspondent reports that during the daylong conference, key security issues facing the Nation and important strategic, operational, logistical, administrative aspects pertaining to Tri-Services were deliberated upon.