PM makes surprise visit to army's summer drill camp

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has made an unannounced visit to the Bangladesh Army's summer exercise in Singair upazila, Manikganj, marking the first time a head of government has personally visited a field-level training area and spent extended time with soldiers.

The prime minister arrived at the 9 Infantry Division's 8 Bir summer training area around 9:20 am on Tuesday, July 7, and walked through the vast exercise grounds.

According to the Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Roni, the prime minister toured various parts of the 'Farm Base', received briefings from the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and unit Commanding Officers on training activities and strategic preparations, listened attentively to a commander's oral operational directive, and witnessed a 'raid' exercise conducted by the soldiers.

He also inspected various aspects of soldiers' positioning, tactics, weapon use and realistic training. He went down to army bunkers and exchanged views on tactics with officers and soldiers participating in the exercise. He even approached soldiers camouflaged behind leaves to enquire about their welfare and encourage them.

At one point, the prime minister had an instant meal prepared for the soldiers and had tea with them. The soldiers expressed great enthusiasm over the head of government spending extended time with them in the field.

Later, addressing the soldiers, the prime minister said the people of the country have deep trust in the Bangladesh Army. Praising the army's glorious role in national crises and maintaining law and order, he emphasised maintaining professional training, discipline and the highest level of preparedness. He also wished the Bangladesh Army continued success.

Defence Adviser to the Prime Minister Brigadier General (Retd) Dr A K M Shamsul Islam, Bangladesh Army Chief General Wakar-uz-Zaman, Prime Minister's Military Secretary Major General Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq and senior army officers were present.