As the total number of coronavirus cases in India touched 223, the Indian Army stepped up its battle against the deadly disease. Army chief General MM Naravane, on Friday, said that 35 per cent officers and 50 per cent jawans of the Indian Army will work from home starting March 23. Earlier today, Naravane reviewed the preparations of the force in light of COVID-19. “As per new Army advisory, 35% officers & 50% Jawans to work from home adhering to home quarantine for a week starting 23 March. 2nd group to proceed on home quarantine from 30 March,” an Army advisory said.
According to the advisory, the force has decided to reduce attendance in offices with effect from March 23 except personnel engaged in essential/emergency services directly involved in taking measures to control the spread of COVID-19. The advisory also states that postings and transfers of personnel have been deferred in light of coronavirus. “Temporary duty of all ranks rescheduled/cancelled till 15th April 2020. Leave of personnel already on leave to be extended till 15th April 2020 at the discretion of the competent authority,” the advisory further stated.
On Tuesday, the Army recorded its first case of coronavirus. An Army jawan of Ladakh Scouts was detected positive and was quarantined by the Army. Further, in light of COVID-19, the Army has already postponed its exercises and training. The Army HQ also wrote to Command HQs asking them to postpone conferences and exercises in light of coronavirus.
