Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Monday that India must always be prepared for a “war-like situation,” following the unexpected military conflict with Pakistan earlier this year. His remarks came during an address in New Delhi, urging the nation to be vigilant and adaptable to border challenges.
Singh discussed how the recent four-day military engagement reflected possible future threats, asserting that India’s response must evolve continually. He called for the lessons from Operation Sindoor to be integral to shaping India’s security strategies. “We have shown our determination through a firm response, but introspection is vital for future preparedness,” Singh emphasized.
“Operation Sindoor should be a case study,” Singh said. “It has highlighted that incidents can occur abruptly along our borders. Continuous evaluation of our strategies is essential.” The Defence Minister reaffirmed that India’s armed forces stood ready to protect its borders, a promise he described as a cornerstone of national security.
Addressing the importance of self-reliance in defence, Singh reaffirmed the role of indigenously developed weapons systems like the Akash missile, the BrahMos, and the Akashteer air defence control system during military operations. He stated that these advancements enhance India’s global standing while preparing for unforeseen challenges.
“We must maintain a war-like readiness based on our own capabilities,” Singh asserted. He predicted that India’s path towards indigenisation would ensure sustainable security amidst unpredictable global dynamics. Singh’s comments reflect a broader government strategy aimed at reducing dependence on imported defence equipment.
He elaborated on the government’s commitment to creating a level-playing field for defence manufacturing. “It’s not enough for defence equipment to be assembled in India; it must be authentically manufactured here,” Singh said, echoing the ethos of Made in India, Made for the World.
The Defence Minister highlighted impressive growth in India’s defence production, which surged from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to ₹1.51 lakh crore today. He mentioned that the private sector made substantial contributions, reaching well over ₹33,000 crore. Furthermore, defence exports have escalated, approaching nearly ₹24,000 crore, with projections estimating this figure to rise to ₹30,000 crore by March 2026.
The ambitious targets reflect India’s strategic aim to become a global hub for defence manufacturing, mitigating future uncertainties in international relations. Singh’s vision insists that innovation within the sector not only arms the military but also promotes economic growth.
