Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reiterated India’s position regarding cross-border terrorism, stating that any future terrorist activities originating from Pakistan will elicit a more robust response. Singh emphasised that India’s cultural values promote dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, but clarified that this commitment to peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness.

Singh pointed to significant military operations such as Operation Sindoor, the Balakot Airstrikes, and Surgical Strikes as indicative of a transformative shift in India’s approach to terrorism. He noted that these operations represented a move from mere diplomatic condemnation to proactive measures aimed at eliminating terrorism at its source.

Since 2014, Singh claimed that the ‘shelf life’ of most terrorists has decreased to less than a year, with security forces effectively neutralising them shortly after they take up arms against the country. He underscored the importance of strength and capability in maintaining peace, asserting that while India aspires for harmony, it remains prepared for the possibility of war to protect its national interests.

Evolving Security Threats

In discussing the changing landscape of security, Singh highlighted the necessity for heightened vigilance in an era characterised by hybrid warfare and advanced technological threats. He described the emerging ‘5D Security Threat’—comprising Disinformation, Destabilisation, Disruption, Deception, and Destruction—as a complex challenge for security agencies.

Singh remarked that terrorism is evolving beyond traditional organised groups, with new threats such as ‘lone-wolf’ attacks and ‘white-collar terrorism’ complicating identification and prevention efforts. He cited a recent incident involving a co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash a passenger aircraft, showcasing the potential dangers posed by individual attackers.

He commended Captain Smit Machhar for his bravery in averting what could have been a major terror incident, illustrating how individual acts of courage can thwart larger plots. Singh stressed that combating terrorism requires not only the resources of security agencies but also the active involvement of vigilant citizens.

Defence Sector Growth and Preparedness

Singh addressed the advancements in India’s defence sector, noting that defence production has surged to over ₹1.78 lakh crore from ₹40,000 crore in 2014. He reported that defence exports have reached an all-time high of ₹39,000 crore, a significant increase from ₹686 crore in 2013-14, with Indian defence products now reaching nearly 100 countries.

The Defence Minister expressed confidence that the nation would meet its defence production target of ₹2 lakh crore this year and aim for ₹3 lakh crore by 2029, alongside plans to export defence equipment worth ₹50,000 crore by that same year. He attributed this growth to reforms that simplified export procedures and enhanced India’s global standing in the defence market.

Singh highlighted that the Ministry of Defence has approved procurement worth over ₹2,400 crore from start-ups and MSMEs, along with projects exceeding ₹1,500 crore for new technology development. He noted that the iDEX initiative has engaged 676 start-ups, facilitating the signing of 551 contracts, showcasing the burgeoning defence start-up ecosystem.

He also pointed out that 159 of the 175 ammunition variants used by the Defence Forces are now produced domestically, achieving over 90 per cent self-reliance in this area. Singh concluded by mentioning India’s status as the fourth country globally to establish a national standard for bulletproof jackets, aligning with international norms, along with significant measures like the One Rank One Pension scheme and the establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff position.

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