New Delhi: Three cases of spying in armed forces have been reported in the past three years in which as many army personnel have been arrested, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.
In a written reply to a question, Defence Minister A K Antony said action has been initiated against the accused.
“Three cases of alleged spying have been reported during the last three years from 2010 to 2013. Three army personnel have been arrested in these cases. Appropriate action has been initiated against the accused,” he said.
The cases are at different stages of trial at civil and military courts.
On agencies involved in the incidents of spying, Antony said, “Some inimical intelligence agencies have been reported to be allegedly involved in the spying activities. Appropriate measures are concurrently in place to prevent recurrence of such incidents.”
In reply to a question over resignation of scientists from DRDO, he provided year-wise details since 2008.
A total of 443 scientists have resigned from DRDO during the period between 2008-2012. In 2008, 162 scientists left DRDO, while last year the number was 67.
“Scientists who had resigned have indicated their personal or domestic grounds as the reasons for leaving DRDO. However, it is assumed that increased opportunities or incentives available elsewhere is the likely reasons for such resignations,” Antony said.
The government is also making all efforts to grant performance related incentive scheme to DRDO scientists at par with scientists of Department of Atomic Energy and ISRO, he said.
In reply to a question over shortage of jawans in the armed forces, Antony said, “There is no significant shortage of personnel below officers rank and airmen in Army and Air Force respectively. However, there is a more significant shortage of such personnel in Navy.”
Recruitment has been increased to address the shortage of sailors in Navy, he said.
Replying to a question over discrepancy in travel concession to recipients of gallantry awards, Antony said, “The issue was taken up with the railways and civil aviation authorities. However, due to financial constraints Air India has not agreed to the demand for the present…The issue is still under consideration of the Railway Ministry.”
