Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, is central to ensuring India’s national security on its own terms, stressing that technological agility, strategic foresight and institutional innovation are critical in an increasingly volatile global security environment.
Interacting with personnel at the Eastern Air Command Headquarters in Shillong, Singh said modern warfare is no longer limited to traditional battlefields and now includes hybrid threats, cyber challenges, information warfare, supply chain disruptions and the increasing use of drones.
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“In such a situation, traditional preparedness alone is not sufficient for the defence forces,” he said, adding that India must continuously adapt to emerging security challenges.
Reiterating the government’s push for defence self-reliance, Singh said Aatmanirbharta was crucial for ensuring national security “on our own terms”. He said Operation Sindoor reflected the success of this approach and sent a clear message to adversaries.
“Through Operation Sindoor, we demonstrated to terrorists and their handlers that India will not compromise on its security and sovereignty,” Singh said, describing it as a reflection of the armed forces’ capability, vigilance and resolve.
He said the Eastern Air Command plays a critical role in safeguarding India’s eastern frontier and has consistently demonstrated operational readiness across multiple roles, including border management, disaster response and high-altitude operations.
Singh praised the personnel for their commitment under difficult conditions, noting their role in both security operations and humanitarian assistance during crises. “Whenever the nation faces a natural disaster or crisis, you are always the first to step forward,” he said.
The Defence Minister also said the North-East region is not just a geographical frontier but a key pillar of India’s security architecture and its Act East Policy.
Singh, while concluding his address, said the armed forces represent national unity and shared values, adding that the increasing role of women in the services reflects both institutional progress and India’s cultural strength.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
