India's Defense Readiness: Rajnath Singh Emphasizes Preparedness for War-Like Scenarios Following Operation Sindoor

New Delhi:

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized on Monday that India must maintain readiness for potential "war-like situations," citing the four-day military conflict with Pakistan in May as evidence that border situations can escalate unexpectedly at any time.

During his address at an event, Singh stated that while India delivered a "firm response" to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, the experience should serve as a valuable case study for learning and developing future national security strategies.

The Defence Minister highlighted how the effective deployment of domestically manufactured military equipment during the May 7-10 operation significantly enhanced India's standing both regionally and internationally.

"Despite our firm response and the complete readiness of our forces to defend national borders, continuous introspection remains essential," he remarked.

"Operation Sindoor provides a critical case study from which we can derive lessons and determine our path forward. This incident has reaffirmed that border situations can develop anywhere, at any moment," the minister stated.

"We must maintain preparedness for war-like scenarios, with our readiness founded on our own capabilities," he added.

Singh stressed that current global uncertainties necessitate comprehensive evaluation of every domain, with indigenization representing the only viable approach to addressing these challenges.

"The established global order is deteriorating, with conflict zones multiplying across various regions. Consequently, India must redefine its security framework and strategic approach," he explained.

Singh noted that during Operation Sindoor, the world witnessed the capabilities of the Akash missile system, BrahMos, Akashteer air defence control system, and other indigenous equipment and platforms.

He attributed the operation's success not only to the courageous armed forces but also to "industry warriors" who worked at the forefront of innovation, design, and manufacturing processes.

The Defence Minister characterized the Indian industry as a critical defense pillar alongside the traditional armed forces—Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Singh outlined how the government is creating equitable opportunities to boost defense manufacturing and strengthen the domestic ecosystem, urging industry leaders to fully capitalize on these opportunities.

"Our aim extends beyond mere assembly of defence equipment within the country—we're establishing a genuine manufacturing foundation to create equipment embodying the 'Made in India, Made for the World' philosophy," he explained.

"We've launched numerous initiatives including the Quantum Mission, Atal Innovation Mission, and the National Research Foundation to cultivate innovation and R&D culture. Our industry must achieve what has previously remained unaccomplished in our country," he said.

The Defence Minister observed that prior to 2014, India was entirely dependent on imports for its security requirements, whereas today the country manufactures defense equipment domestically.

"Our defense production value, previously approximately Rs 46,000 crore in 2014, has now reached a record Rs 1.51 lakh crore, with Rs 33,000 crore contributed by the private sector," he revealed.

"Our defense exports, which were under Rs 1,000 crore a decade ago, have achieved a record of approximately Rs 24,000 crore. I'm confident that defense exports will reach Rs 30,000 crore by March 2026," he concluded.