"The decision to cut the tail of the (Pakistan Army) by 50,000 troops was Pakistan's unilateral decision but the idea of reduction in troops could be discussed with New Delhi if India agrees to a mutual agreement in this regard," military spokesman Maj. Gen. Shaukat Sultan told a TV channel.

Sultan, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, said a joint formula could be agreed on in this regard for improving the regional situation.

Pakistan did not want to join any arms race or increase the strength of its army but would maintain a minimum deterrence for its defence purposes, he asserted.

A meeting of Pakistan Army commanders chaired by President Pervez Musharraf, who is also the army chief, formally announced Wednesday that the force would be made leaner by pruning non-combatants.

The Formation Commanders' Conference at Rawalpindi also reviewed the new war doctrine of the Indian Army.

Commenting on the Formation Commanders' Conference's decision, Sultan said it was aimed at generating more resources for fulfilling the army's technical requirements.

The army would save Rs.11 billion with the removal of batmen. The decision would also help in enhancing professional skill and efficiency and in inducting the latest technology for the army, he noted.

Each soldier would be given a rifle, night vision equipment, laser sights, bulletproof jackets and other equipment. The funds for this would be generated through indigenous means instead of putting a burden on the national exchequer.

Sultan said downsizing would help in providing professional training to soldiers. More educated youths were joining the Pakistan Army, he said, noting that 70 percent of new recruits were matriculates, 15 percent had completed intermediate school while one percent were BA degree holders.