Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted on Monday that India must maintain readiness for a “war-like situation” at all times. His remarks followed recent military encounters with Pakistan, highlighting that challenges can arise unexpectedly along the borders.
Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Singh emphasized that the nation gave a “firm response” during Operation Sindoor. He pointed out that this event serves as a crucial case study to inform future security strategies.
“Although we responded firmly and our forces are fully prepared to defend the country’s borders, we must continue to introspect,” Singh stated. “Operation Sindoor should serve as a case study from which we can learn and chart our future course. It has reaffirmed how anything can happen at our borders, anywhere, anytime.”
Highlighting the significance of self-reliance, Singh noted that India’s indigenously developed weapons systems, such as the Akash missile, BrahMos, and the Akashteer air defence control system, were instrumental in the operation. He remarked that these advancements have significantly enhanced India’s global defense reputation.
“We need to be ready for a war-like situation, and our preparedness must rest on our own foundation,” he asserted, stressing that indigenisation is key to sustainable defense solutions amid rising global uncertainties.
Singh also pointed out that the government is committed to creating a level-playing field for defence manufacturing. He stated, “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’.”
In terms of financial growth, he indicated that India’s defence production has seen a remarkable increase, from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to an impressive ₹1.51 lakh crore today. The private sector alone contributes ₹33,000 crore to this figure.
Defence exports have also surged, achieving nearly ₹24,000 crore and projected to reach ₹30,000 crore by March 2026. This growth reflects the robustness of India’s defense manufacturing sector and its role in global markets.
Singh’s statements underscore the strategic importance of preparedness and self-reliance in the nation’s defense framework. With the evolving geopolitical landscape, the Defence Minister’s message resonates as a call for comprehensive readiness against unforeseen challenges.
