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Jaipur, Oct 24 (IANS) Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday took stock of the security situation and operational preparedness of the Indian Army during the Army Commanders’ Conference in Jaisalmer and during his visit to the forward areas of Tanot and Longewala in Rajasthan.
During the conference, detailed discussions were held with the senior leadership of the Indian Army on key aspects including Gray Zone Warfare and the roadmap for jointness, self-reliance and innovation.
Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh and all army commanders were present.
In his address, the Defense Minister described Operation Sindoor as the embodiment of India’s military might and national character and a demonstration by the soldiers that their strength lies not only in weapons but also in their moral discipline and strategic clarity.
He said, “Operation Sindoor will go down in history not only as a military operation but also as a symbol of the courage and restraint of the country. The action taken by our forces against the terrorists was consistent with both policy precision and human dignity. The operation is not over. Our mission for peace will continue as long as even a single terrorist mentality survives.”
Rajnath Singh underlined that Operation Sindoor has given rise to a new strategic thinking that India responds to any terrorist activity on its own terms.
“This is the defense doctrine of the new India, which embodies both resolve and courage,” he said.
While the Defense Minister expressed his gratitude to the soldiers who stand guard round the clock to protect the integrity of the country, he also called upon them to never underestimate the adversaries and always remain alert and prepared.
The Defense Minister urged the commanders to continue to focus on defense diplomacy, self-reliance, information warfare, defense infrastructure and force modernization to ensure a future-ready force.
He commended the professionalism, courage and resilience of the Indian Armed Forces and reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to provide state-of-the-art technology, infrastructure and support to maintain the highest levels of operational preparedness.
He appreciated the important role of the Indian Army in ensuring peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370.
He said, “The removal of Article 370 was historic. Today the streets there are full of hope, not unrest. People are confident about their future. The most important thing is that the decision-making system is now in the hands of the local people. The Indian Army has played an important role in this effort.”
On the situation on the northern border, the Defense Minister said that the ongoing talks and steps to reduce tensions have demonstrated India’s balanced and firm foreign policy.
He said, “Our policy is clear that there will be talks and our readiness on the border will remain intact.”
Praising the willpower and discipline of the soldiers, Rajnath Singh described it as a testament to the fact that the Indian Army is considered one of the most adaptable armies in the world.
He said, “Be it the freezing snow of Siachen, or the scorching heat of the Rajasthan desert, or counter-insurgency operations in the dense forests, our soldiers have always demonstrated their capability and commitment. Despite difficult conditions and diverse challenges, they adapt to changes and further strengthen national security.”
The Defense Minister emphasized that although in the present times war is technology driven, soldiers are the biggest asset of the country. He said that machines add strength, but it is the human spirit that has the power to deliver results.
He stressed that modern war is fought in invisible areas like cyberspace, information, electronic disruption and space control and what matters is quick decision making and willpower of troops along with adoption of latest technological advancements.
As part of the conference, Rajnath Singh also virtually inaugurated technology enablers including Konark’s Edge Data Center and the Indian Army’s Fire and Fury Corps.
By next year, all cores will have edge data centers across the country. He also launched the Equipment Helpline, Sainik Yatri Mitra App for the Indian Army and released the ‘Defence Millet Recipes Collection’ compiled by the Army Service Corps Center and College, Bengaluru.
He also inaugurated Naman Centers for the convenience of ex-servicemen and their families. At Laungewala, the Defense Minister laid floral tributes at the iconic Laungewala battle site and paid tribute to the bravehearts of the Indian Army.
Rajnath Singh inaugurated ‘Chandpuri Hall’, an audio-visual chamber dedicated to the memory of Major (later Brigadier) Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri, who led the gallant defense during the Battle of Longewala in 1971.
He also honored the war veterans.
He also reviewed several infrastructure projects being undertaken to develop the historic site that showcases the valor and resilience of the Indian Army as a symbol of national pride.
Rajnath Singh also witnessed a dynamic ‘Capability Demonstration Exercise’ which showcased the integrated employment of the latest technological assets inducted into the Indian Army as well as new organizations such as the Bhairav Battalion and Ashni Platoon to conduct the operations.
The display symbolizes a seamless blend of heritage and innovation, highlighting the Indian Army’s emphasis on capability development and force modernisation.
–IANS
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