Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored India’s critical need for military preparedness during a speech in New Delhi on Monday. He stated that the country must stay ready for a “war-like situation” as recent developments illustrate that challenges can emerge unexpectedly along borders.
Singh’s remarks follow India’s recent four-day military engagement with Pakistan in May, an event he deemed a vital case study for shaping future security strategies. He noted, “Although we responded firmly and our forces are fully prepared to defend the country’s borders, we must continue to introspect.”
The Defence Minister emphasized the significance of Operation Sindoor, arguing it should inform India’s strategic approach to national security. “It has shown that anything can happen at our borders, anywhere, anytime,” Singh warned, highlighting the unpredictable nature of border dynamics.
Asserting the importance of self-reliance, Singh highlighted how India’s indigenously developed weapons systems, such as the Akash missile and the BrahMos, were pivotal during the operation. These systems have notably bolstered India’s global reputation.
“We need to be ready for a war-like situation, and our preparedness must rest on our own foundation,” he added, stressing that indigenisation is the sustainable approach for addressing emerging global uncertainties.
Furthermore, Singh revealed that the government is committed to establishing a level-playing field for defence manufacturing in India. He remarked, “We are striving to ensure that defence equipment is not merely assembled in India but genuinely manufactured here, embodying the spirit of ‘Made in India, Made for the World’.”
During his address, Singh provided compelling statistics regarding India’s growing defence production, which surged from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to approximately ₹1.51 lakh crore. The private sector contributed ₹33,000 crore to this growth. Additionally, defence exports have shown impressive momentum, increasing to nearly ₹24,000 crore and projected to reach ₹30,000 crore by March 2026.
Singh’s comments resonate with India’s broader defense strategy, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-sufficiency in military capabilities. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, strategic readiness remains a central tenet of India’s defence policy.
