Security forces given free hand to deal with terrorism: President Kovind

The government is working with "full force" to rid India of terrorism and security forces have been given a free hand in taking the "strongest" measures possible to deal with the menace, President Ram Nath Kovind said on Friday, sending a clear message to Pakistan to contain cross-border terrorism.

In an address at a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament, the president touched on key foreign policy and military related issues and asserted that the world will witness an inclusive, prosperous, capable and powerful "New India" in this decade.

He said the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff and creation of a Department of Military Affairs will improve coordination among the three services, besides speeding up their modernisation.

Referring to foreign policy issues, Kovind said India is stimulating economic growth and prosperity by increasing connectivity with its neighbouring countries and the "Neighbourhood First" policy has been a priority.

"My government is of the view that