As the government is busy preparing Budget, the Army on Thursday sought more funds for the force, saying this would help in its modernisation process.

"The Army is keenly interested in the modernisation of the force and if we get the budget allocation, we will be happy," Army chief General Deepak Kapoor told reporters on the sidelines of his visit to the NCC Republic Day Camp.

His comments came when asked what would be the Army's demand before Union Finance Ministry as it began the consultation process for finalising the budget for 2008-09.

On the Sixth Pay Commission, Kapoor said the soldiers were confident that they would get a fair deal.

"Defence Minister A K Antony himself has assured us that the interests of the soldiers will be kept in mind," he said.

The Army chief also expressed hope that the government would approve the project for constructing a War Memorial at the India Gate soon.

Earlier, addressing the cadets, Kapoor said the NCC has been playing a vital role in channelising the energy of the youth into constructive activities and had commendable achievements.