New Delhi, 18 December (H.S.): India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday called upon Indian Air Force (IAF) commanders to draw crucial lessons from Operation Sindoor and remain fully prepared to meet every emerging challenge of the future.
Speaking at the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave in New Delhi, he praised the Air Force for its courage, speed, and precision during the operation against Pakistan.Emphasizing the evolving nature of warfare, Singh said that 21st-century conflicts are no longer confined to conventional weapons but are increasingly driven by ideas and technology. He asserted that the Indian government remains deeply committed to further strengthening the nation’s security architecture.
Referring to Operation Sindoor as a demonstration of India’s “high-impact, short-duration operational capability,” Singh hailed the IAF warriors for destroying terrorist camps and effectively handling Pakistan’s “irresponsible reaction” following the strikes. He noted that when Pakistan attempted to target Indian positions, the calm displayed by citizens underscored their confidence in India’s air defence preparedness.
Drawing insights from global conflicts, including the Russia–Ukraine war, the Israel–Hamas conflict, the Balakot air strikes, and Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister underlined that air power has emerged as a decisive element of modern warfare. He highlighted the critical role played by cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial vehicles, satellite-based surveillance, and space-enabled capabilities in redefining the future battlefield.
Rajnath Singh further expressed confidence that the Sudershan Chakra defence system would play a key role in safeguarding the nation’s strategic assets in the years ahead. He described the indigenous jet engine programme as a “national mission,” affirming that the government is fully committed to achieving self-reliance in advanced defence technologies.
Highlighting India’s ongoing collaboration with the private sector, the Defence Minister revealed that under the IDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) initiative, 672 winners have emerged from 565 innovation challenges announced till November, including 96 winners from the 77 challenges related to the Air Force. He said this progress reflects the growing enthusiasm of young innovators and private enterprises for contributing to the defence ecosystem.
Singh also stressed the importance of jointness among the three armed services, stating that better integration would significantly enhance India’s security framework and operational efficiency.
Lauding the humanitarian role of the Air Force, the Minister commended its consistent and timely assistance during natural disasters, often under extremely challenging conditions. Such missions, he noted, have strengthened public trust and admiration for the IAF’s air warriors.
The conclave was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and senior Air Force commanders. Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh welcomed the Defence Minister and briefed him on the operational preparedness of the force.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
