Rajnath Singh's remarks are widely interpreted as a pointed response to the persistent tensions with China.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored India”s preparedness for any potential conflict amid the various challenges along its borders. Singh emphasised the importance for readiness, saying that “we must maintain a state of preparedness for conflict, even during times of peace”.
Historically, India has neither initiated aggression nor encroached upon any sovereign territory, but we stand firm in our resolve to defend our nation against any threat, he stressed.
“Whether from land, air, or sea… if anyone attacks India, our forces will respond strongly. We have never attacked any country nor have we occupied even an inch of anyone”s land. But if anyone attacks us, we are in position to give a befitting reply,” Singh said while addressing the Defence Summit hosted by NDTV.
Singh”s remarks are widely interpreted as a pointed response to the persistent tensions with China, particularly in regions such as Kashmir, Ladakh, and the northeast. The protracted military standoff between Indian and Chinese troops, spanning nearly four years, underscores the gravity of the situation.
The recent 20th round of Corps Commander-level talks between Delhi and Beijing, held in October at Chushul, signifies ongoing efforts towards disengagement and de-escalation. Despite these diplomatic engagements, tensions persist.
Singh”s assertions echo sentiments expressed in January, where he highlighted India”s emergence as a pivotal global economic and strategic power. While acknowledging strains in the India-China relationship, Singh reiterated India”s commitment to fostering positive relations with all nations.
Recalling the valor displayed by Indian soldiers during the Galwan Valley standoff, Singh pointed out India”s newfound strength, stating, “India is no longer a nation vulnerable to intimidation.”
“Ab aisa nhi hai ki Bharat ko ankh dikha ke jo chahe so nikal jaye (No longer can anyone show us a red eye and get away with it),” Rajnath Singh had said.
Singh also outlined the government”s focus on “Atmanirbhar Bharat” or “self-reliant India”, particularly in the defense sector. He cited numerous initiatives aimed at bolstering indigenous defense production and modernization efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi”s leadership since 2014.
While acknowledging the contributions of previous administrations to the defense sector, he said, “In 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi”s government came to power, we put defence sector as our main priority. “Atmanirbharta”, or “self-reliance”, was encouraged… we introduced many make-in-India initiatives and our focus was on military modernisation. I am not saying previous governments did not put emphasis on defence sector. But we brought “atmanirbharta” in the defence sector.”
