Gangtok, Dec. 1: Defence minister A.K. Antony today said the government would look into ways to improve living conditions of soldiers in inhospitable border regions and develop infrastructure in these areas.

Although much was being read into the minister’s two-day visit to Sikkim, which has come amid reports of Chinese incursions, Antony was careful not to add fuel to the controversy. He said these were “minor problems” that could be solved through amicable discussions.

“I have visited Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast and now I am here in Sikkim to have first-hand knowledge of the ground situation and the difficulties faced by our forces,” Antony said.