Vadodara, 2 December (H.S.):

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday underscored India's unwavering commitment to national security, asserting that Operation Sindoor demonstrates the nation's resolve to deliver a decisive response to those who disregard peaceful overtures.

Addressing a gathering at the Sardar Sabha in Vadodara as part of the 'Unity March' commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Singh drew parallels between India's contemporary counter-terrorism operations and Patel's principled approach to nation-building.

India is a peace-loving nation, but it won't spare those who cast an evil eye, Singh declared, lauding the courage and professionalism of the Armed Forces in executing Operation Sindoor. He emphasized that the world is increasingly recognizing India's military prowess and the capabilities of Indian soldiers, while the operation conveyed a clear message: India neither provokes nor tolerates aggression.

Singh characterized Sardar Patel as instrumental in forging national unity, noting that his vision of 'One India, Best India' has been fortified under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stewardship.

The Defence Minister highlighted the abrogation of Article 370 as a landmark achievement that seamlessly integrated Jammu and Kashmir into the nation's mainstream, further strengthening Patel's unification legacy.

Tracing India's economic ascendancy, Singh pointed out that the nation has climbed from the 11th position globally in 2014 to the fourth-largest economy today, with aspirations to enter the top three. He underscored the government's commitment to 'Minimum Government, Maximum Governance' while advancing Sardar Patel's vision of political and geographical unity through cultural, social, spiritual, and economic cohesion.

On defence self-reliance, Singh announced ambitious targets aligned with Sardar Patel's emphasis on indigenous military production. Our defence exports have surged nearly 34-fold over the past 11 years. We aim to achieve defence production valued at Rs 3 lakh crore and defence exports of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029, he stated, highlighting India's transformation into an Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) defence producer and exporter.

Singh also referenced the proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill 2025, designed to enforce ethical governance standards and combat corruption—principles inspired by Sardar Patel's exemplary integrity. Under the bill, officials arrested on serious charges without bail within 30 days would be automatically relieved of their posts.

Addressing India's youth, the Defence Minister urged them to champion the vision of a developed India while safeguarding the nation's unity, integrity, and sovereignty—responsibilities Sardar Patel bequeathed to future generations.The event was attended by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Labour and Youth Affairs Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and other senior officials.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar