After a week’s worth of escalated tensions and continual firing at the line of control, India and Pakistan seemed to have come to a truce agreement to stop all military actions on land, air and sea. The truce came in force starting Saturday evening, as reported by secretary Vikram Misri.
The decision was established in the aftermath of a phone call between two of the top military officials from both sides, known as the Directors General of Military Operations. As per reports, the Pakistani DGMO contacted the Indian DGMO at 3:35 PM IST and both of them came to a mutual agreement to cease military actions and establish a Ceasefire from 5:00PM.
In a turn of events, Pakistan violated the ceasefire just a few hours later. To discuss the ceasefire violations and further discuss a long-term response for terrorism spawned by Pakistan, India’s DGMO has scheduled to hold another round of talks with his Pakistani counterpart today at Noon.
Who Are DGMOs?
DGMOs are Director General of Military Operations, a high ranking army officer who undertakes actions and oversees military planning and operations. In India the position is held by a Lieutenant General. Currently the incumbent officer in the position is Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, while Pakistan’s DGMO is Major General Kashif Abdullah.
Role of the DGMO in India
One of the main aim that the DGMO works towards would be de-escalation of potential conflicts, to achieve this the officer remains in continuous contact with his counterparts in other countries. Beyond that the officer is also responsible for planning and executing military operations, that might include combat, transportation or any other necessary action that would impact the offences on the line of control. To ensure that the Armed Forces are always ready for any kind of operation is also a key part of their role.
Beyond that the DGMO ensures a profound synergy between different arms of the army to ensure swift action whenever necessary. Communicating with different officials to preserve peace as witnessed in the case with Pakistan the DGMO communicated with the Pakistani DGMO through dedicated Hotline to ensure a de-escalation of the tensions across the border. DGMO reports to the Army Chief and the Ministry of Defense with regular operational Updates.
Significance of DGMO Role
DGMOs are the first point of contact when tensions rise. In the case of India and Pakistan the DGMO’S are equipped with hotlines. DGMO is a key role that ensures swift military actions when necessary, share real-time information with concerned authorities and oversee technical military issues like troop movement or any violations across the Line of Control.
