New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday warned that Pakistan would think carefully before attempting any future misadventure against India, asserting that Operation Sindoor had already given it a strong message. Speaking with soldiers during a Barakhana event in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, he said the operation was still active and that any provocation from across the border would invite an even tougher response.
“Our pilots only gave a glimpse of India’s strength,” Singh said, adding that if the situation demanded, the armed forces would demonstrate their full capability. He urged troops to remain vigilant at all times and to continue safeguarding the nation’s borders with the same determination and discipline.
The Defence Minister praised the Armed Forces for their role not just in national security but also in shaping India’s progress toward becoming a developed and self-reliant nation by 2047. He said soldiers were the true protectors and builders of modern India. “This century belongs to us. With our strides in self-reliance, I have full confidence that the Indian military will emerge as the best in the world,” he remarked.
Highlighting ongoing infrastructure and defence projects along the border, Singh said these developments would further strengthen India’s operational readiness. He described the traditional Barakhana gathering as a symbol of India’s cultural and moral ethos, representing equality and unity among all ranks.
Earlier in the day, Singh inaugurated Shauryavan a unique Cacti-cum-Botanical Garden established by the Indian Army in Jaisalmer to honour the bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. He also visited the Jaisalmer War Memorial, where he paid tribute to fallen heroes and viewed the collection of war trophies and artifacts that commemorate the Army’s valour in different conflicts.
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, and other senior officials attended the event.
In a separate meeting in Delhi, the Defence Acquisition Council chaired by Singh approved defence procurement proposals worth about Rs 79,000 crore, including advanced missile systems, electronic intelligence platforms, and high-mobility vehicles for the Army.
