Panaji, Jan 21 : Defence Minister AK Antony today said the Union Government has decided to modernize the armed forces and Coast Guards rapidly as the country is surrounded by too many elements inimical to India.

Addressing a gathering here during the commissioning of the Indian Coast Guards fast patrol vessel "Samrat", Antony said: "We know very well that what we have is not enough. This is less than 30 per cent of the capability we require."

"Our armed forces must be in the state of preparedness always," he added.

Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh along with officials from the Indian Navy and Coast Guard were present on the occasion. (ANI)