Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed Operation Sindoor as a testament to India’s ability to defeat its adversaries with indigenous strength, calling it a “befitting reply” to the terrorist attack on civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the BEML Rail Hub for Manufacturing (BRAHMA) in Umariya, Singh emphasised that India’s decisive response to the attack sent a clear message that the nation will not tolerate assaults on its sovereignty. “We do not provoke anyone, but those who provoke us will not be spared,” he said.
Singh described Operation Sindoor as a symbol of self-reliance and self-confidence, crediting the Armed Forces for effectively deploying indigenous equipment during the mission. “India has reached this position because we have pledged to become Aatmanirbhar in the defence sector,” he asserted.
The minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for the transformation in the defence sector, noting that India is now manufacturing advanced defence equipment domestically while meeting the security needs of friendly nations. He highlighted that annual defence production in FY 2024-25 touched a record ₹1.51 lakh crore, with exports reaching ₹23,622 crore.
Turning to the economy, Singh said India’s growth rate of 6.5% positions it to become the world’s third-largest economy, with the “double engine government” working to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
BRAHMA Project to Boost Rail Manufacturing
The BRAHMA facility, spread over 148 acres, will be a world-class manufacturing hub for rolling stock, producing Vande Bharat trainsets, metro coaches, Electrical Multiple Units, and high-speed rail coaches for domestic and export markets. Developed in phases with an investment of ₹1,800 crore, the unit will have an annual production capacity of up to 1,100 coaches within five years.
Expected to create over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, the facility will also promote local supply chains and MSMEs in Madhya Pradesh’s industrial belt, particularly in Singrauli, Satna, Rewa, and Katni. In line with green manufacturing goals, it will feature zero liquid discharge systems, renewable energy integration, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable construction materials.
Singh lauded BEML’s role in bolstering India’s industrial and defence capabilities, urging greater focus on research and development. “Projects like BRAHMA reaffirm our economic resolve to be self-reliant, globally competitive, and future ready,” he said.
The event was attended by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, senior central and state officials, and BEML CMD Shantanu Roy. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw joined the ceremony virtually.