New Delhi, 10 July (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended warm birthday greetings to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, praising his leadership in strengthening India's defence capabilities and his commitment to making the country self-reliant in the defence sector.

In his message, the Prime Minister said Rajnath Singh has been at the forefront of building a strong and secure India through his efforts to advance the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence. Modi also lauded Singh's deep understanding of governance and public administration, describing it as one of his notable strengths. He concluded by praying for the Defence Minister's long life, good health and continued service to the nation.

Rajnath Singh, who turned 75 on Friday, has served as India's Defence Minister since May 2019. During his tenure, the government has accelerated the modernisation of the armed forces, promoted indigenous defence manufacturing, expanded domestic production of military equipment and encouraged private sector participation as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

A senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader, Rajnath Singh has held several key positions in public life over the past four decades. He previously served as the Union Home Minister from 2014 to 2019, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Union Minister for Agriculture and Union Minister for Surface Transport. He has also served as the National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party and currently represents the Lucknow parliamentary constituency in the Lok Sabha.

Leaders from the Union Cabinet and across the political spectrum also conveyed birthday wishes to Rajnath Singh on Friday, acknowledging his contributions to national security, governance and public service.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar