Enemy Continues Proxy War, Infiltration Attempts; Indian Armed Forces Ready to Defeat Every Challenge: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Pays Tribute to Kargil Heroes in Drass, Highlights Military Preparedness, Modernisation and Push for Self-Reliance
Drass (Ladakh), July 26 (KNC): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that despite the passage of time, India’s adversaries have not changed their intentions and continue to wage proxy wars and attempt cross-border infiltration. He, however, asserted that the Indian Armed Forces remain fully prepared, alert and capable of responding to every challenge posed to the country’s security.
Addressing Army personnel during programmes held in Drass ahead of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Rajnath Singh said hostile forces continue to adopt indirect means of warfare, including sponsoring terrorism and infiltration, but added that India’s armed forces possess the strength, determination and operational readiness to effectively safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Paying glowing tributes to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, the Defence Minister described their courage, patriotism and supreme sacrifice as a timeless source of inspiration for every Indian. He said the heroic deeds of the Kargil martyrs continue to strengthen the resolve of the armed forces and the nation in protecting the country’s borders.
“As long as our soldiers remain committed to the defence of the nation with unwavering courage and dedication, no enemy will dare cast an evil eye on India,” Rajnath Singh said, reaffirming the government’s unwavering support for the armed forces.
The Defence Minister said that while India proudly celebrates the historic victory achieved during the Kargil War, the country must remain vigilant as security challenges continue to evolve. He stressed that the Government of India is giving top priority to strengthening the country’s defence capabilities by equipping the armed forces with modern weapons, advanced technologies and world-class training.
Highlighting the government’s emphasis on Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector, Rajnath Singh said India is rapidly progressing towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. He expressed confidence that the Indian Armed Forces will soon rank among the finest military forces in the world due to continuous technological advancement, indigenous defence production and enhanced operational capabilities.
During his visit to Drass, the Defence Minister participated in the Shaurya Sandhya and Shaurya Bhoj programmes, where he honoured Kargil War veterans, serving soldiers, Veer Naris and the families of martyrs. He also interacted with Army personnel and appreciated their dedication and service under challenging conditions.
The commemorative events featured cultural performances, military demonstrations and exhibitions showcasing modern defence technologies, including drones, robotic systems and other advanced equipment, while paying tribute to the heroes of Operation Vijay.
Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to attend the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemoration at the Kargil War Memorial, where the nation will pay homage to the 545 brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War in defence of India’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. (KNC)
