Underlining that self-reliance has become a strategic necessity, President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said ‘’Operation Sindoor’’ against Pakistan in May last year highlighted how indigenous defence capabilities, advanced technology and a robust domestic industrial base are integral to enhancing a nation’s operational readiness and strategic effectiveness.
President Murmu was addressing a group of Officer Trainees of Military Engineer Services (MES), 2023 and 2024 batches, who called on her at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The President said that the MES forms the backbone of defence infrastructure in the country. By developing and maintaining strategic installations, it plays a vital role in strengthening the operational capabilities of the country’s Armed Forces.
“The skill, dedication and hard work of the MES officers are fundamental to ensuring that our soldiers, sailors, and air warriors can perform their duties of defending the nation effectively and efficiently,” she said.
The President urged the young officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, technical excellence and dedication to duty. She advised them to embrace innovation, leverage emerging technologies and strive for excellence in every project they undertake.
President Murmu noted that in today’s world, marked by conflicts and geopolitical tensions, self-reliance has become a strategic necessity for nations. A self-reliant country is better equipped to maintain its economic stability and undertake developmental priorities during times of crisis, she added.
She said that today, the world is facing climate change and various environmental challenges. In this scenario, sustainable development is no longer an option, but a necessity.
As engineers, MES officers have the responsibility to promote environmentally sustainable practices in planning, construction, and maintenance. She said that their efforts should contribute not only to a strong and secure India but also to a clean, green, and sustainable India.