Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 10: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed Operation Sindoor as a powerful demonstration of India’s military might and self-reliance in defence, declaring that those who challenge the country’s sovereignty will face severe consequences.

Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of BEML’s Greenfield Rail Manufacturing Facility (BRAHMA) in Umariya, Madhya Pradesh, Singh said the recent operation was a “befitting reply” to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and underscored the successful use of indigenously developed military equipment.

“We do not provoke anyone, but those who provoke us will not be spared,” he asserted.

Operation Sindoor: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta

The Defence Minister praised the Armed Forces for executing the operation using locally manufactured weaponry and technology, calling it a reflection of the country’s growing self-confidence and commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

“Our success was possible only because of our focus on indigenous defence production,” Singh said.

He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for transforming India’s defence sector, noting that the country is now not only meeting its own security needs but also exporting military hardware to friendly nations.

Record-Breaking Growth in Defence Production

Singh highlighted that in FY 2024–25, India’s defence production reached a record Rs 1.51 lakh crore, with exports hitting an all-time high of Rs 23,622 crore.

“This is the new defence sector of the new India,” he declared.

BRAHMA Facility: A Strategic Boost

Referring to the new BRAHMA rail facility, Singh said it would play a crucial role in strengthening both civilian and military mobility infrastructure, and emphasized the importance of increased research and development in building a resilient technological base.

India’s Broader Economic Vision

Singh also spoke about India’s economic trajectory, projecting 6.5% annual growth and reiterating the government’s vision of making India the third-largest economy and a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, with defence self-reliance as a key pillar.

The Defence Minister’s remarks come at a time of heightened national focus on security, indigenous innovation, and strategic deterrence in the face of regional and global challenges.