Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the significance of Operation Sindoor as a judicious military action amid global uncertainties during the 78th Indian Army Day celebrations held in Jaipur. He heralded the operation as a testament to India’s courage, strength, restraint, and national character.
In his address, Singh commended the Indian Army for its formidable bravery, steadfast dedication, and adaptability to evolving warfare dynamics. He stated that the operation against terrorists was executed following a thorough assessment, upholding humanitarian values throughout the process.
Singh highlighted the unexpected speed and valor exhibited by Indian soldiers in confronting terrorism. He noted, “The situation was difficult and there was immense pressure, but the restraint, unity, and patience displayed by our soldiers were unprecedented and praiseworthy.” He reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace efforts, emphasizing that such endeavors would persist until terrorist ideologies are completely dismantled.
A significant focus of Singh’s address was the promotion of Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, in defense. He noted the increased reliance on indigenous weapons during the operation, stating that self-sufficiency in defense is a strategic necessity rather than mere pride. The Defence Minister revealed that domestic defense production has grown from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to a remarkable ₹1.51 lakh crore, while defense exports have escalated from under ₹1,000 crore to approximately ₹24,000 crore.
Rajnath Singh discussed the Modi government’s initiative to equip the Armed Forces with cutting-edge indigenous platforms that cater to India’s operational demands. He stressed the importance of enhancing inter-service collaborations as warfare increasingly spans multiple domains.
With an eye on the future, Singh stated that the Indian Army is on track to become the world’s most powerful military by 2047, thanks to ongoing reforms that include phases of transformation, consolidation, and excellence.
He characterized the Indian Army as a torchbearer of unity in diversity, where soldiers from various cultural and regional backgrounds unite for a common national cause. Singh underscored that the Army is not merely a military entity, but a foundational pillar of nation-building and social cohesion. He emphasized that the public’s trust in the Armed Forces represents India’s most formidable strategic asset.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to veterans’ welfare, the Defence Minister also acknowledged the expanding roles of women in the military, such as their entry into the National Defence Academy and the introduction of Permanent Commissions. He called upon the youth to consider joining the Armed Forces, asserting that leadership, moral courage, and decision-making skills are equally crucial as physical prowess.
The Army Day celebrations included an interactive session with troops at the Jaipur Military Station and a program titled “Shaurya Sandhya,” which showcased the Army’s valor, traditions, and operational readiness. The event featured various activities, including martial arts displays, traditional sports, a performance by a Nepalese Army band, and a dramatic reenactment of Operation Sindoor, culminating in a drone display.
Additionally, during the event, fifty NAMAN centres were virtually launched to provide comprehensive support to veterans, pensioners, Veer Naris, and their next of kin through SPARSH-enabled pension and citizen services.
The occasion was attended by senior civil and military leaders, including Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, along with state dignitaries, veterans, and citizens, further fortifying the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the nation.
