New Delhi, August 14 (HS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday hailed Operation Sindoor as a model of balanced, modern military strategy, combining precision strikes, advanced technology, and self-reliance, while avoiding civilian or non-terror targets. Delivering his annual ‘Sandesh to Soldiers’ on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, he said the operation, led under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was India’s measured response to asymmetric warfare.

Singh said the Armed Forces used drones, layered air defence, electronic warfare, and network-centric operations — all indigenously enabled — to destroy nine major terror training facilities, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters, without crossing the LoC or violating international borders. He called it “a clear message that India is tolerant, but will act decisively when its security and dignity are challenged.”

Recalling the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev were India’s response — neutralising key perpetrators and avenging past attacks, from the Parliament assault to the Mumbai 26/11 and Pulwama incidents.

He credited policy reforms for boosting defence self-reliance — India now manufactures 65% of its defence needs (up from 30–35%), with output touching ₹1.51 lakh crore and exports reaching ₹23,622 crore. Targets have been set to triple production and double exports by 2029. Modern platforms such as the INS Arihant, Rafale-M, Prachand helicopters, and AMCA fighter jets are part of the modernisation push.

The Defence Minister also highlighted:

- Border infrastructure gains, including the world’s highest Shinkun La tunnel in Ladakh.

- Women’s growing role in the Armed Forces, citing all-women naval voyages and the first batch of NDA women cadets.

- The forces’ role in disaster relief, from Assam floods to Uttarkashi’s cloudburst, and evacuations during the Iran–Israel conflict (Operation Sindhu).

Singh praised soldiers, veterans, and their families for their sacrifice, reaffirming schemes like One Rank One Pension and pledging continued welfare measures. He urged citizens, particularly youth, to help build a “New India” through initiatives like Digital India and Make in India, guided by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar