Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday underscored the necessity for India to remain vigilant and prepared for war-like situations. His remarks came in light of a recent four-day military conflict with Pakistan in May.
During a strategic event in New Delhi, Singh stated, “We must anchor our preparedness on our own foundation,” emphasizing that challenges can appear suddenly at the borders.
The Defence Minister referred to the operation conducted during the clash, highlighting that India provided a “firm response” in what has been termed Operation Sindoor. He described this incident as a pivotal moment that should guide future national security strategies.
Singh articulated, “While our forces stood ready to defend the country, we must also continue to introspect on our actions.” He advised stakeholders to treat Operation Sindoor as a lesson to learn from, indicating that unexpected incidents can emerge at any time.
Notably, the Defence Minister emphasized the role of indigenously developed weapons systems, such as the Akash missile and BrahMos, which were crucial in providing India with a strategic advantage during the operation. This showcase significantly enhanced India’s image on the global stage.
Singh declared, “Indigenisation is our sustainable path to navigate emerging global uncertainties.” His comments reflect the Indian government’s efforts to foster a self-reliant defence ecosystem.
Furthermore, Singh highlighted the current initiatives aimed at creating a level-playing field for defence manufacturing within India. “Our goal is clear,” he stated. “Defence equipment should be truly manufactured in India, resonating with the spirit of ‘Made in India, Made for the World’.”
He shared that since 2014, India’s defence production has surged from ₹46,000 crore to an impressive ₹1.51 lakh crore. The contribution from the private sector stands at ₹33,000 crore, reinforcing the role of private players in national security.
Regarding defence exports, Singh reported a remarkable rise to nearly ₹24,000 crore, with expectations to hit ₹30,000 crore by March 2026. These statistics underscore India’s commitment to establish itself as a prominent player in the global defence market.
