Defence Minister A.K Antony has said that the security situation in country's neighbourhood poses serious challenges. Sounding an alert on increasing volatility in the region, Mr. A.K.Antony emphasised the need to strengthen the country's internal social fabric with the help of ex-servicemen, to generate more strength to meet such challenges.

Inaugurating a joint venture project between the Indian Army and Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) 'Gyandeep Centre of Excellence'in New Delhi today, he said , empowerment of soldiers is an important issue that must be addressed and monitored at all levels on a regular basis as it would improve their professional competence.

Our correspondent reports, the Army has over the last two years embarked upon an ambitions initiative for empowerment of its cadre. The frontrunner in the series is 'Gyandeep' which was started in association with IGNOU for certification of 'in-service training' by it. It will also facilitate and promote research by the servicemen and ex-servicemen at IGNOU and other affiliated educational institutions.