-Defence Minister stresses amalgamation of defence, education and sports for a stronger nation

Jodhpur, August 25(HS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday lauded the people living in India’s border areas for extending “unwavering support” to the Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor, describing it as a powerful affirmation that national security is a collective responsibility, not just the duty of the military or the Government. He was speaking at the inauguration of a Defence & Sports Academy in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

Calling Operation Sindoor the identity of a “New India,” the Minister commended the commitment and courage displayed by soldiers as well as the youth in countering the cowardly terror attack in Pahalgam. The Armed Forces, he stressed, “gave a befitting reply” and achieved operational targets with precision, while civilians in the region stood firmly behind them.

Rejecting divisive politics of faith propagated by extremist groups, Singh underlined that India responds not by religion but by karma and justice. “While terrorists killed innocents on the basis of their dharma, our forces punished those who sheltered them on the basis of their deeds,” he remarked.

The Defence Minister also highlighted the wider role of youth in national building, emphasising that the confluence of defence, education and sports is essential to shaping a resilient India. “Education provides knowledge, defence ensures security, and values such as discipline, perseverance and determination are equally vital to soldiers and sportspersons. Students nurtured in this environment will bring glory to India at both national and international platforms,” he said.

Encouraging greater participation from Rajasthan’s youth, Singh noted that while the state has long contributed significantly to the Armed Forces, the proportion of commissioned officers from the region remains low compared to jawans. He urged young aspirants to step forward and take on officer-level responsibilities to further bolster national security.

Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also presided over the event alongside other dignitaries.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar