Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the Indian Army has played a crucial role in ensuring peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370. Calling it a historic move, the minister said that since the abrogation, the streets in the region are filled with hope, and not unrest.
“People are confident about their future. Most importantly, the decision-making system is now in the hands of the local people. The Indian Army has played a crucial role in this endeavour,” he said. Singh was speaking at the ongoing Army Commanders’ Conference in Jaisalmer.
Revisiting the de-escalation process in the eastern Ladakh areas of Demchok and Depsang following a series of talks between India and China in October 2024, the Defence Minister said that the ongoing talks and de-escalation steps have demonstrated a balanced and firm foreign policy of India. “Our policy is clear that there will be dialogue, and our readiness on the border will remain intact,” he said.
The Defence Minister further said that the actions taken by the Indian Armed Forces against terrorists during Operation Sindoor reflected both policy precision and respect for human dignity. His statement comes a day after he claimed that the operation had sent a clear signal, compelling Pakistan to think twice before attempting any provocation against India.
While taking stock of the security situation and the operational preparedness of the Indian Army, the Defence Minister also visited the forward areas of Tanot and Longewala in Rajasthan.
During the conference, detailed deliberations were held with the senior leadership of the Indian Army on key aspects, such as Grey Zone Warfare and the roadmap for Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Innovation. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, and all Army Commanders were in attendance.
Describing Operation Sindoor as an embodiment of India’s military prowess and national character, Singh said that it was a demonstration by the soldiers that their strength lies not only in weapons but also in their ethical discipline and strategic clarity.
“Operation Sindoor will go down in history as not just a military operation, but also a symbol of the nation’s courage and restraint. The action taken by our forces against terrorists was in keeping with both policy precision and human dignity. The operation isn’t over. Our mission for peace will continue as long as even a single terrorist mindset remains alive,” he said.
He further stated that the action has given rise to a new strategic thinking that India responds to any terrorist activity on its own terms. “This is New India’s Defence Doctrine, which embodies both resolve and courage,” he said. He further cautioned the soldiers to never underestimate the adversaries and remain alert and ready always.
The Defence Minister also urged the Commanders to continue focusing on defence diplomacy, Atmanirbharta, Information Warfare, Defence Infrastructure, and Force Modernisation to ensure a Future-Ready Army.
He further emphasised that while present-day warfare is technology-driven, the soldiers remain the greatest assets of the country. He stated that machines multiply strength, but it’s the human spirit that possesses the power to deliver results. He asserted that modern-day warfare is fought in invisible domains such as cyberspace, information, electronic disruption, and space control, and what matters, along with adapting to the latest technological advancements, is quick decision-making and willpower of the soldiers.
Later, Singh also carried out the virtual inauguration of Technology Enablers, including the Edge Data Centres of Konark and Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army. By next year, all Corps will have Edge Data Centres across the nation. He also launched the Equipment Helpline for the Indian Army, Sainik Yatri Mitra App, and released the ‘Defence Millet Dishes Compendium’, compiled by the Army Service Corps Centre & College, Bengaluru. He also inaugurated Naman Centres for the facilitation of the veterans and Next-of-Kin. At Longewala, the Raksha Mantri laid a wreath at the iconic Longewala Yudh Sthal and paid homage to the bravehearts of the Indian Army.