Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged India to remain vigilant and prepared for ‘war-like situations’ during a recent event in New Delhi. His remarks come in the wake of a four-day military conflict with Pakistan in May, illustrating how swiftly border challenges can escalate.
Singh stated, “We must continue to introspect,” addressing the nation’s military responses and strategies. He referred to Operation Sindoor, which showcased India’s capability to respond decisively to threats, asserting that it should inform future security protocols. “This incident has shown that anything can happen at our borders, anywhere, anytime,” he added.
Highlighting self-reliance in defence, Singh pointed to the achievements of indigenously developed weapons systems like the Akash missile and BrahMos as crucial components of India’s military operation. “We need to prepare for war-like situations, and our groundwork must stem from our own resources,” he emphasized. He underscored the significance of indigenisation in addressing unpredictable global challenges.
Singh elaborated on the government’s efforts to bolster the domestic defence manufacturing sector, aiming to transition from mere assembly to actual production. “We are dedicated to ensuring that defence equipment is not just assembled in India, but truly manufactured here,” he said, echoing the ethos of ‘Made in India, Made for the World’.
The Defence Minister also provided key statistics illustrating the growth of India’s defence sector, noting a substantial rise in defence production from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to ₹1.51 lakh crore currently, with local industries contributing ₹33,000 crore. Defence exports surged to approximately ₹24,000 crore and are projected to reach ₹30,000 crore by March 2026.
Singh’s comments resonate with national security experts who advocate for a proactive approach to defence readiness. As geopolitical tensions evolve, securing India’s borders remains a paramount concern. His statements reflect a commitment to enhancing military infrastructure while securing India’s position in global defence.
