Defence Minister Rajnath Singh marked the eve of Vijayadashami with a visit to soldiers in Bhuj, emphasizing the need for adaptability, discipline, and technological readiness to tackle contemporary security challenges.
During a traditional Barakhana, Singh extended festival greetings to the troops and commended the courage and resilience exhibited by the people of Kutch. He reflected on their sacrifices during significant conflicts like the 1971 war and the Kargil conflict, as well as their remarkable recovery following the devastating earthquake in 2001.
In his address, Singh pointed out that the nature of modern threats, including terrorism, cyber warfare, drone technology, and information warfare, necessitates not only sophisticated weaponry but also mental fortitude and continuous education. “Wars are not won by weapons alone,” he declared, “but by discipline, morale, and constant readiness. Embrace new technologies, make training an integral part of your routine, and prepare yourself for every situation.”
The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s “non-negotiable” commitment to the welfare and modernization of the armed forces, emphasizing that the well-being of soldiers and their families is a top priority. He highlighted India’s rapid progress towards self-reliance in defense under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the armed forces in building a robust and developed nation.
The event was attended by several key military figures, including Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Southern Army Commander Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, and Corps Commander of the 12 Corps, Lieutenant General Aditya Vikram Singh Rathee.
Singh’s engagement with the troops served to reinforce critical themes of discipline, training, welfare, and technological adaptation, while honoring the enduring spirit of Bhuj and Kutch as symbols of valor.
