Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday reviewed the security situation and the Indian Army’s operational preparedness during the ongoing Army Commanders’ Conference in Jaisalmer. He also visited the forward areas of Tanot and Laungewala in Rajasthan and interacted with troops deployed along the western frontier.
During the conference, senior Army leadership held detailed discussions on key issues such as Grey Zone Warfare, Jointness, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), and innovation. The meeting was attended by Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan, Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chief Lt. Gen. Pushpendra Singh and all Army Commanders.
In his address, Singh described Operation Sindoor as an embodiment of India’s military prowess and national character, saying it demonstrated that the strength of Indian soldiers lies not only in weapons but also in ethical discipline and strategic clarity.
“Operation Sindoor will go down in history not just as a military operation but as a symbol of the nation’s courage and restraint. The action taken by our forces against terrorists reflected both policy precision and human dignity,” he said, adding that the mission for peace would continue as long as a single terrorist mindset remained alive.
The Defence Minister said the operation had shaped a new strategic approach under which India responds to terrorism on its own terms. “This is New India’s Defence Doctrine, which embodies both resolve and courage,” he said, urging troops to never underestimate adversaries and remain alert and ready at all times.
Singh called on commanders to focus on defence diplomacy, indigenous manufacturing, information warfare, infrastructure and force modernisation to ensure a future-ready Army. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art technology, infrastructure and support to maintain high levels of preparedness.
He praised the Army’s role in maintaining peace and fostering development in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370. “Today, the streets there are filled with hope, not unrest. People are confident about their future, and decision-making is now in the hands of local citizens,” he said.
On the situation along the northern border, Singh said that the ongoing talks and de-escalation measures reflect India’s balanced and firm foreign policy. “There will be dialogue, but our readiness on the border will remain intact,” he asserted.
Highlighting the adaptability and resilience of Indian soldiers, he said they have demonstrated strength and commitment in all terrains—from the icy heights of Siachen to the deserts of Rajasthan and in counter-insurgency operations in dense forests.
He emphasised that while modern warfare is increasingly technology-driven, the human spirit remains central to success. “Machines multiply strength, but it is the soldier who delivers results,” he said, noting the importance of readiness in cyberspace, information, and space domains.
As part of the conference, Singh virtually inaugurated several technology enablers, including Edge Data Centres for the Konark and Fire & Fury Corps. By next year, all Corps are expected to be equipped with such data centres. He also launched an Equipment Helpline, the Sainik Yatri Mitra App, and released a Defence Millet Dishes Compendium compiled by the Army Service Corps Centre and College, Bengaluru. Additionally, he inaugurated Naman Centres to support veterans and their families.
At Laungewala, the Defence Minister laid a wreath at the Laungewala Yudh Sthal to honour soldiers who fought in the 1971 battle. He inaugurated the Chandpuri Hall, an audio-visual room dedicated to Brigadier Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, who led the defence during the battle, and felicitated veterans who participated in the operation.
Singh also reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at developing Laungewala as a national heritage site to commemorate the valour of the Indian Army. He later witnessed a capability demonstration exercise featuring new organisations such as the Bhairav Battalion and Ashni Platoon, along with the latest military technologies, reflecting the Army’s focus on capability development and innovation.