Kolkata, June 20
India does not want an arms race with Pakistan or any other country, but it will certainly pursue the policy of nuclear-war preparedness for protecting the nation, the Union Defence Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, said at a press conference here today.

Mr Mukherjee said India would not immediately go in for Agni-3 missile test as an answer to Pakistan’s recent missiles tests. The test would be conducted as and when necessary, he added.

The minister said there was no proposal for immediate withdrawal of troops from Pakistan or China borders, though India’s relations with both countries were now friendly and cordial. He maintained that the deployment of troops at these borders would not be further strengthened.

Mr Mukherjee criticised his predecessor, Mr George Fernandes, for branding China as the country’s “enemy number one”.

The minister reiterated that India’s arms purchase and other defence deals with the USA and Israel would continue.

Mr Mukherjee said there was no proposal for setting up any new defence productions units in West Bengal in the near future.