The decision has been taken as the cadets join military academies at a young age with the intention of joining as officers in the Armed Forces, showing a commitment to serve the nation in uniform, but are unfortunate in being invalidated, the Defence Ministry said in a statement on Saturday.
For decades, cadets and their parents have been demanding such resettlement opportunities.
Every year, young cadets at military academies undergo academic and military training with the prime objective of being commissioned as officers in the Armed Forces. As per extant rules, such a cadet is treated as an officer only after commissioning. Instances occur where, given the rigours of military training, some cadets (10-20 per annum) are invalidated on medical grounds due to causes attributable to or aggravated by military training, the ministry said.
In order to further enhance the opportunities for such cadets, the Defence Minister has cleared another proposal of the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, allowing the extension of benefits of schemes run by the Directorate General Resettlement.
"This will help 500 cadets who have been boarded out on medical grounds to access the schemes and ensure a brighter future for them. Future cadets in similar conditions would also get the same benefits," it added.
Speaking at the NDTV Defence Summit here, the minister said, "In 2014, when Prime Minister Modi's government came to power, we put the defence sector as one of our main priorities. Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) was encouraged and we introduced many Make-in-India initiatives. Our focus was on military modernisation," he said.
Elaborating on the new eco-system for defence manufacturing based on Aatmanirbharta, he said the country’s defence exports during the current financial year were now close to Rs 20,000 crore and he was confident by 2028-29 the figure would touch Rs 50,000 crore.
"I am not saying that previous governments did not take steps to strengthen the country’s defence sector. But the difference is that we brought Aatmanirbharta in the defence sector based on our faith in India’s capability. This faith in India’s capability was lacking among the previous governments," he added.
The Defence Minister said the government had corporatised the ordnance factories which had made them more technology-friendly and increased accountability which has resulted in an increase in production. He said the government has also put its trust in indigenous companies such as Hindustan Aeronautical Limited, Tata and L&T to boost the defence sector.
The Minister said India now imports technology "only when our own innovation falls short".
He said that as much as 75 per cent procurement of defence equipment was now being reserved from indigenous companies. The value of India-made defence equipment has now gone up from Rs 30,000 crore in 2014 to Rs 1.10 lakh crore, he added.
He pointed out that the government was encouraging startups in the defence sector, especially by young entrepreneurs, to develop cutting-edge technology and had raised the financial assistance being offered to them to Rs 25 crore.
The Defence Minister hit out at the “Anglicised elite” which had fostered a slave mentality in the country and relegated the country’s rich cultural heritage to the background.
Underlining the government's vision to reduce dependence on other countries, he said, "As a nation, adopting a mindset of technological dependence on other countries can be detrimental to our overall well-being, impacting various facets such as literature, daily life and every aspect of our existence. Prime Minister Modi is striving to break free from this mentality."
"We must break free from thinking that we are dependent on others and change the way we approach progress," he said. To drive home his point, the Defence Minister quoted lines by poet Sarveshwar Dayal Saxena. "Lik par ve chalen jinke charan durbal aur hare hain, hamein to jo hamari yatra se bane aise anirmit panth pyare hain (Those whose feet are weak and defeated should follow the trodden path, we like the path created by our journey)," he added.
A brainstorming session involving the party’s office-bearers' is being held in Bhubaneswar on Monday. The saffron party's Odisha election in-charge Vijaypal Singh Tomar and co-in-charge Lata Usendi are holding talks with senior party leaders of the state unit to finalise the strategy and implement the mantras shared by the top leadership for proper execution.
As per available information, BJP National President JP Nadda is scheduled to visit Odisha by February end. Prior to JP Nadda’s visit, senior leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will be visiting the state tomorrow. Chouhan will review the preparations for the Cuttack and Jagatsinghpur Parliamentary segments, party sources said.
Apart from Chouhan, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari will also be visiting Odisha on February 15. He is scheduled to visit Puri Jagannath temple for darshan and review the preparations of the party in the same Parliamentary constituency.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to visit Odisha on February 22 and attend several programmes here.
It is pertinent to mention here that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already held a massive programme of the party in Sambalpur recently. It seems that the saffron party is aiming to come to power in Odisha by reaching out to the voters with ‘Modi Ki Gurantee’.
Senior journalist Prasanna Mohanty said, “BJP is making big plans and focus is on Odisha and a blueprint is also ready. And the visit of top leadership to Odisha is an indication. The Prime Minister’s last visit was not so notable as there was no such indication towards upcoming elections. However, Modi’s popularity cannot be ruled out given the recent Ram temple event. It remains to be seen what would be the stand of the top leaders and whether a clear message regarding the fight against BJD is sent or not.”
Singh also said the country does not want to depend on imported weapons. The government's aim is to "Make in India, Make for the world", he said addressing a National Security Conclave here.
"No stone is being left unturned to equip the military with latest weaponry and modern technology," he said, assuring the nation that the armed forces are fully capable of protecting the borders and the seas.
"Our goal is to bring our armed forces in the frontline of modern militaries," he said.
Elaborating on the blueprint on national security, Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has been working on four directive principles which include enabling the country to deal with threats to its security and sovereignty and to take every action to protect national interests.
To create safe conditions within the country to facilitate progress, improve the lives of the people and fulfil their aspirations and to build an environment with friendly countries to tackle global challenges such as terrorism unitedly are the other two principles, the minister said.
Asserting that India has witnessed a paradigm shift in its security scenario in the last nine years, he touched upon the measures taken by the government to bolster national security, including strengthening border infrastructure and achieving Aatmanirbharta' in defence.
He listed out a number of steps taken to attain self-reliance, namely notification of positive indigenisation lists and earmarking 75 per cent of defence capital procurement budget for domestic industry in financial year 2023-24.
"India does not want to depend on imported weapons. Our national security will only strengthen when we become self-reliant in defence manufacturing. Our aim is to Make in India, Make for the world'. Our efforts are bearing fruit," he said.
The defence minister said India is manufacturing tanks, aircraft carriers, submarines and various kinds of weapons with its defence exports crossing Rs 16,000 crore from a meagre Rs 900 crore before 2014.
"The exports will touch the Rs 20,000-crore mark in the next few months," he said.
Singh also enumerated the structural reforms undertaken by the government, including the appointment of Chief of Defence Staff and setting up of the Department of Military Affairs.
"The government continues to move forward, and work is being done to set up theatre commands, which will be another revolutionary reform," he said.
The defence minister underlined the importance of coordination with major world powers, such as the US and Russia, to protect India's security interests.
"India and the US are being seen as natural allies and their strategic partnership is being further cemented," he said, adding India-US defence cooperation has grown rapidly with the expansion of military-to-military engagements, information sharing and cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence, cyber, space and mutual logistics support.
He termed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the US as a landmark event, which ushered in bilateral defence cooperation in a new era.
He called for an integrated and united response to deal with global threats and challenges. "India is a major regional power. Therefore, it is important for us to align our security concerns with other countries in our extended neighbourhood."
Singh mentioned about the General Electric Aerospace-Hindustan Aeronautics Limited deal to co-produce F-414 fighter jet engines in India.
"With this deal, we will become the fourth country to manufacture jet engines. Tejas aircraft will be fitted with these Made in India engines," he said.
Rejecting speculative reports on the price and other terms of purchase of MQ-9B drones from the US, Singh said the Ministry of Defence will compare the acquisition cost of the drones with the best price General Atomics offered to other countries.
"The acquisition will be made only by following the established procurement procedure," he said.
Referring to the stand-off in eastern Ladakh in 2020, he said that the Chinese Army ignored protocols and unilaterally tried to change the status quo on the LAC. He lauded the valour and dedication of the Indian Army which foiled the attempts by PLA to change the status quo.
Rajnath Singh reiterated the Government’s stand to resolve the border issue in a peaceful manner through dialogue. He added that talks are continuing at military and diplomatic levels to resolve the dispute. He assured the nation that the Government will never compromise on India’s border, its honour and self-respect. “We will never let the sanctity of our borders be violated,” he added.
He touched upon the measures undertaken by the Government to bolster national security, including strengthening border infrastructure and achieving ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence. He listed out a number of steps taken to attain self-reliance, namely, notification of positive indigenisation lists and earmarking 75 per cent of defence capital procurement budget for domestic industry in Financial Year 2023-24.
“India does not want to depend on imported weapons. Our national security will only strengthen when we become self-reliant in defence manufacturing. Our aim is to ‘Make in India, Make for the world’. Our efforts are bearing fruit. Today, we are manufacturing tanks, aircraft carriers, submarines and various kinds of weapons. Defence exports have crossed Rs 16,000 crore from a meagre Rs 900 crore before 2014. The exports will soon touch the Rs 20,000 crore mark,” he said.
Rajnath Singh also enumerated the structural reforms undertaken by the Government, including the appointment of Chief of Defence Staff and setting up of Department of Military Affairs. He added that the Government continues to move forward and work is being done to set up theatre commands, which will be another revolutionary reform.
Rajnath Singh underlined the importance of coordination with major world powers, such as the US and Russia, to protect India’s security interests in this globalised world. He stated that India and US are being seen as natural allies and their strategic partnership is being further cemented.
Rajnath added that India-US defence cooperation has grown rapidly with the expansion of military-to-military engagements, information sharing and cooperation in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, cyber, space and mutual logistics support. He termed the Prime Minister’s recent visit to the US as a landmark event, which ushered the bilateral defence cooperation in a new era.
Rajnath Singh mentioned about the General Electric (GE) Aerospace-Hindustan Aeronautics Limited deal to co-produce F-414 fighter jet engines in India. “With this deal, we will become the fourth country to manufacture jet engines. Tejas aircraft will be fitted with these made-in-India engines,” he said.
Rejecting speculative reports on the price and other terms of purchase of MQ-9B drones from the US, Singh stated that the Ministry of Defence will compare the acquisition cost of the drones with the best price General Atomics (GA) offered to other countries. He added that the acquisition will be made only by following the established procurement procedure.
He joined the personnel in their performance and led the celebrations on board the sprawling aircraft carrier.
Cutting across their ranks, the defence personnel positioned themselves in various rows and performed different asanas according to the instructions for nearly an hour.
'Agniveers' also performed yoga in unison, embracing the spirit of unity and well-being.
Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and other senior officers of the Navy and the Ministry of Defence were also present during the event.
The UN General Assembly declared June 21 as the International Yoga Day following a resolution moved by India and co-sponsored by a large number of nations.
The first International Yoga Day was observed on June 21, 2015.
The country's first IAF Heritage Centre, spanning over an area of 17,000 sq ft, has been set up in the Government Press building in Sector 18 to preserve the rich heritage of the IAF and to inspire the young minds to join the armed forces.
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Banwarilal Purohit, Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari and Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher were also present on the occasion, among others.
Following the approval of the Defence Minister, a memorandum of understanding on the heritage centre was signed between the Chandigarh administration and the IAF on June 3, 2022, in the presence of Punjab Governor Purohit.
The centre reflects the role of IAF in various wars through murals and memorabilia and is equipped with informative exhibits like augmented reality, virtual reality, hologram, flying simulators, aero engines, electro mechanical enclosures, multimedia and interactive kiosks, highlighting the various facets of the IAF.
This Centre depicts IAF’s role in various wars, including in 1965, 1971 and the Kargil war, and the Balakot air strike through murals and memorabilia. This Centre will be a big attraction not only for the people of Chandigarh but also for the people living in other states.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 8, 2023
The main attractions of the heritage centre are five vintage aircraft and SAM-III Pechora missiles safeguarding the Indian sky since decades.
Air Force 'Kanpur-l' is installed inside the centre, which was designed and built by late Air Vice Marshal Harjinder Singh in 1958. This aircraft is a testimony to be seen as a moment of glory for future generations to understand the significance of self-reliance, innovation and the dream of 'Make in India'.
A GNAT aircraft (Sabre Slayer) 1971 Fame is displayed on the main roundabout of Chandigarh while vintage aircraft like MiG-21, HPT-32 and MiG-23 are installed in the centre which will serve as a popular tourist attraction.
The centre displays the glorious history of IAF with the help of murals depicting various war campaigns of IAF, starting with the role of IAF in the Indo-Pak war of 1948 to electro mechanical 3D-Dioramas depicting the latest operations of IAF such as the Balakot strike.
An augmented reality enclosure and a virtual reality enclosure will give the visitors a 3D real-time experience in the theme of the historic battle of Longewala.
An audio-visual gallery will present the journey of IAF through time, tracing its evolution from its inception to the modern day.
Holographic projection depicting aircraft interceptions and various aircraft on inventory of IAF will also be shown.
The centre has scale models from the Republic Day tableau on display such as indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft, Prachand helicopter and AEW&C Netra aircraft as IAF's initiative towards the vision of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.
The Ministry of Defence said that during the meeting, both the ministers discussed various matters related to regional peace and security.
Singh and Shoigu held wide-ranging discussions on several issues of bilateral cooperation, including defence and industrial partnerships. The two ministers also discussed the participation of Russia's defence industry in the 'Make in India' initiative, and ways to further accelerate it.
It has been learnt that both expressed satisfaction "at the continued trust and mutual respect between India and Russia, particularly in the defence sector, and reiterated their commitment towards strengthening mutual partnership".
Meanwhile, during the meeting, Shoigu slammed the US and groupings like Quad while showing inclination towards China. India is part of Quad, which also comprising Australia, Japan and the US.
The Russian Defence Minister said that "a front is being set up to stop China".
He said that tensions around the 'so-called' Taiwan issue have been deliberately raised.
Shoigu said "the supporters of Washington are pursuing their strategic agenda of provoking other countries for a military confrontation with other countries, especially Russia and China".
At the conclusion of the SCO meeting, SCO Secretary General Zhang Ming also met Rajnath Singh. Various activities undertaken by India under its chairmanship were discussed.
The Defence Minister told the Secretary-General that India is committed to contribute constructively to the implementation of the SCO's mandate.
Rajnath Singh also held bilateral talks with the Defence Ministers of Uzbekistan, Belarus and Kazakhstan on the sidelines of the SCO Defence Ministers' meeting.
He held bilateral meetings with the Minister of Defence of Uzbekistan, Lt Gen Bakhodir Kurbanov; Defence Minister of Belarus, Lt Gen Victor Khrenin; and Minister of Defence of Kyrgyzstan, Lt Gen Bekbolotov B. Asankalievich.
In a statement, the Ministry of Defence said: "The entire gamut of defence cooperation with the three countries was reviewed during the meetings, with a focus on identifying beneficial avenues for furthering bilateral ties. Issues of mutual interest were also discussed."
A defence ministry official confirmed that Rajnath Singh has tested positive. The minister is currently under home quarantine with mild symptoms. A team of doctors examined him and advised him to rest.
On Wednesday, the Defence Minister addressed the first Army Commanders' Conference of the year 2023. The conference started in a hybrid format on April 17. During the event, Indian Army's apex leadership is comprehensively deliberating upon all aspects of existing security scenarios, situation along the borders and in the hinterland and challenges for the present security apparatus.
In addition, the conference is also focussing on issues pertaining to organisational restructuring, logistics, administration and human resource management.
The main highlight of the third day of the conference was the address by Rajnath Singh to the senior leadership of the Indian Army.
Rajnath Singh, who arrived in Goa on Monday afternoon, reviewed the operational capabilities of the navy during the Naval Commanders' Conference held aboard India's first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant.
He lauded the Navy for standing firm and protecting national interests with courage and dedication. "The Indian Navy has strengthened India's position as 'Preferred Security Partner' in the Indian Ocean Region," he said.
He described secured borders as the first requirement to ensure social and economic progress.
"Defence sector has emerged as a major demand creator, which has been boosting the economy and ensuring the country's development. In the next 5-10 years, orders worth over $100 billion are expected to be placed through the defence sector and it will become a major partner in the economic development of the country. Today, our defence sector is on the runway, soon when it takes off, it will transform the country's economy," he said.
Rajnath Singh also commended the Navy for being at the forefront of indigenisation and innovation through inductions of ships and submarines and development of niche technologies, in consonance with the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision.
The operational demonstrations witnessed by the Defence Minister included complex aircraft carrier and fleet operations, weapon firing by ships and aircraft, and underway replenishment at sea.
Ahead of the 74th Republic Day, selected NCC cadets from different states, including Odisha, have arrived in Delhi. The selected NCC cadets were honored by Singh with commendation cards for showing bravery, transparency, and social work.
The heart-winning performance of the musical band at the event was applauded. The parade ground echoed with the music of several patriotic songs, especially, ‘Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja’, which won everyone’s heart.
During his address, Singh exhorted the cadets to identify new ways and strive to help the nation move forward on the path of development at a faster pace. Further, he also urged them to stay connected with the country’s age-old values and traditions and work in the field of their choice with humility.
“After seeing each one of you, I can say with confidence that the best quality that is developed in the cadets after joining NCC is team spirit which will certainly help in developing a rounded personality. This has amplified the qualities of a leader, soldier, artist, and above all, a good human, within you,” said Singh.
Captain Pratap Keshari Harichandan of Odisha Directorate was awarded the Raksha Mantri Commendation Card for conducting a cleaning drive at Puri beach.
NCC cadets from Odisha said, “Our sole target is to perform the best so that Odisha will get distinguished from others. Till now, we are performing in the best way and we have two more events. We aim to give our best effort so that Odisha emerges victorious.”
Hinting at retrieving Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the minister said the goal of overall development in the twin Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will be achieved "after reaching Gilgit and Baltistan" -- parts of PoK.
"We have just begun our journey of development in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. We will achieve our goal when we reach Gilgit and Baltistan," Singh said addressing the 'Shaurya Diwas' event -- enactment of landing at Srinagar by Indian Air Force on this day in 1947.
Referring to the "atrocities" committed by Pakistan against the people in PoK, the defence minister said the neighbouring country will have to "bear its consequences".
Accusing Pakistan of shedding crocodiles' tears in the name of human rights, Singh said, "The pain of the people of Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir also troubles us and not just them."
"The 'tandav' of terrorism that Jammu and Kashmir has seen in name of Kashmiriyat cannot be described," he said while asserting that terrorism has no religion and the only aim of terrorists is to target India.
He claimed that in the last few years "some so-called intellectuals have cried human rights violations when actions were taken against terrorists".
Singh said the Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370 on August 5, 2019, ended the discrimination against the people in Jammu and Kashmir.
"The discrimination against the people of Jammu and Kashmir was ended under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5, 2019," he said, adding, "Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 'yajna' of Jammu and Kashmir's full integration was achieved on August 5."
The Army hosted 'Shaurya Diwas' at the old airfield of Srinagar (Budgam airfield) to mark the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the 1 Sikh Regiment at the old airfield of Srinagar in 1947 to protect Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistani forces.
It was the first military operation of Independent India, a move that changed the course of the 1947-48 War.
The first of the Indian Army soldiers dispatched for the mission had landed at the airfield on October 27, 1947, to repulse Pakistani forces.
At the venue, huge cut-outs of Brig Rajinder Singh, Brig Mohd Usman, Maj Somnath Sharma and Maqbool Sherwani were mounted.
Usha Parmar, the octogenarian daughter of Brigadier Rajinder Singh and family members of other martyrs also attended the event.
A jawan on Wednesday displayed his singing talent and touched millions of hearts with a patrotic song that he sang in front of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The Auli Military station resonated with the sound of patriotic song ‘Aye Watan Tere Liye’ and everybody was awestruck by the singing talent of the jawan. It was Rajnath Singh, who made a request to hear a patrotic song on the sidelines of the 'Shastra Pooja' at Auli Military Station in Chamoli, Uttarakhand on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami today.
“Anyone who sings well, I want to listen to any patrotic song,” said Singh.
Later, the jawan came forward and immediately struck a cord with those present on the occasion with his melodious voice. The jawan also got a pat on the back by the Raksha Mantri who was also moved by the song.
#WATCH | Auli Military Station resonates with the sound of the patriotic song 'Aye Watan Tere Liye' as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrates Dussehra with army jawans in Uttarakhand pic.twitter.com/1J6t89f0vV
— ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2022
Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister told ANI, “We're confident that our country is safe in the hands of our armed forces. The jawans of our armed forces & paramilitary forces are the pride of our country. India is the only country where 'puja' of weapons is performed.”
Defence spokesman Lt Col Amit Shukla said that the Defence Minister was briefed by 3 Corps commander Lt Gen R.C. Tiwari and other senior officers on infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control as well as capability development and operational preparedness.
Subsequently, he reviewed the operational readiness of the formation in the easternmost part of the country.
Lt Col Shukla said that during the visit, Rajnath Singh was also briefed on employment of cutting edge military equipment and technology to enhance operational efficiency of the troops deployed on the frontline.
Rajnath Singh commended the stellar work and the yeoman services being rendered by all ranks of Spear Corps under challenging conditions.
The Defence Minister would visit forward posts on Thursday to get a first hand input on operational preparedness and interact with troops. He would also be interacting with members of a second religious expedition to Athu Popu, an annual trek of local Idu Mishmi tribe, being facilitated by Indian Army since 2021 as part of its outreach and continued efforts towards supporting the locals and development of tourism.
Eastern Command chief, Lt General R.P. Kalita, along with other senior officers, also accompanied the Defence Minister.
Speaking after unveiling a statue of Panna Dai, a 16th-century nursemaid, the Defence Minister also said that the Russia-Ukraine war was stopped for a few hours at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hence the government could bring back over 22,000 Indian students from the war-torn region.
"Such an incident will never be repeated in the future," he said after unveiling the 9.6 feet tall statue.
Panna Dai is known sacrificing her son to safeguard the future of Mewar in Rajasthan. When Mewar scion Udai Singh was left in her care after Rani Karnavati committed 'Jauhar' in 1535, he was attacked by his uncle Banvir. It was Panna Dai who sacrificed her own son's life to save Udai Singh.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh said, "I consider myself lucky to have unveiled this statue. The story of Panna Dai's sacrifice is known to all. I was also touched by her bravery and valour."
"India has not invaded any country till date, nor has it occupied any place. However, if someone looks at our country with an evil eye, we give a befitting reply," he added.
Speaking about the country's armed forces, the Defnce Minister said, "We will soon stop buying arms and ammunition from other countries, as everything will be manufactured in India. Presently, we are selling weapons worth Rs 13,000 crore. Eight years ago, this figure was only Rs 900 crore. By 2047, it will go up to Rs 2.75 lakh crore."
"'Amrit Kaal' is ending in 2047, which will take another 25 years. By 2047, India will become a 'Vishwaguru'," he added.
Praising Rajasthan, he said the soil of the state tells the story of women with valour, as he remembered the sacrifices made by Panna Dai and Hadi Rani, among others.
Hadi Rani was a brave queen of Rajasthan, who sacrificed her life to motivate her husband to go to a battle.
Remembering Panna Dai, Singh said, "She did not worry about being called a 'kumata', as she sacrificed her own son. She had only one goal -- to safeguard the kingdom of Mewar."
Union Minister of State Krishan Pal Singh Gurjar was also present for the event, which was attended by all the MPs and MLAs from Udaipur district.
The event was originally scheduled to be held in June, but it had to be postponed due to the protests against the Agnipath scheme for short-term recruitment into the armed forces.
This consignment of weapons includes anti-personnel landmine 'Nipun', landing attack craft for operations in Pangong Tso lake, infantry combat vehicles and many other weapon systems.
Lieutenant General Harpal Singh said, "The Union government has taken several policy decisions to help promote indigenisation of the defence sector. These indigenous weapons include mines, weapons of face-to-face combat, infantry combat vehicles."
Rajnath Singh handed over the weapons to the Army amid increasing challenges at the country's borders. The weapons include AK-203 assault rifles and F-INSAS (Futuristic Infantry Soldier as a System) rifles as well as the new anti-personnel mine 'Nipun'. They have been developed by Nagpur-based private firm Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL) and other Indian defence manufacturing companies.
On this occasion, the Chief Engineer of the Indian Army, Lt Gen. Harpal Singh, on behalf of the Army Chief, assured the country that the Army is ready to deal with any possible security threat "whether it is the western desert (Pakistan) or the high altitude areas (China) in the Ladakh sector.
Addressing an event to commemorate 'Kargil Vijay Diwas', he said: "India has become a strong and confident nation which is well equipped to protect its people from anyone who tries to cast an evil eye.
"It is the spirit of national pride at the core of our values that protects the unity and integrity of India."
He asserted that the sole aim of the Narendra Modi government is to safeguard the interests of the nation and it has taken a series of steps to develop a self-reliant defence ecosystem that provides indigenous state-of-the-art weapons/equipment to the armed forces to fight all kinds of future wars.
"Our priority is to achieve Aatmanirbharta in defence as it is central to developing a robust security apparatus for the safety and security of the nation.
"To realise this vision, 68 per cent of the defence budget has been earmarked for procurement of defence equipment from domestic sources. From a net importer, we have now become a net exporter which is not only catering to our own needs, but is also fulfilling the requirements of our friendly countries, in line with the 'Make in India, Make for the World' vision," he said, adding that due to the recent measures taken by the government, India today finds itself among the top 25 exporters of the world in defence items.
"We have set a target to achieve Rs 35,000 crore worth of exports by 2025 and become the top exporter in the times to come. Our aim is to make India a global superpower.
"This will be a fitting tribute to our fallen heroes who made the supreme sacrifice while dreaming of an India which is strong, prosperous, self-reliant and victorious," Rajnath Singh said.
On the numerous challenges faced by India, post-independence, he said: "The entire area of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh became the 'main war theatre' during 1948, 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1999 wars, when enemies tried to cast an evil eye, but their plans were thwarted by the gallant Indian soldiers."
Highlighting the valorous deeds of Brigadier Mohammad Usman and Major Somnath Sharma in 1948, Major Shaitan Singh in 1962, India's historic victory in 1971 war and the contribution of Kargil bravehearts Captain Vikram Batra and Captain Manoj Pandey who laid down their lives to protect the unity and integrity of India, he said that they continue to be an inspiration to the people, especially the youth.
He also paid respects to the Indian soldiers who displayed unmatched bravery during the Galwan Valley incident and ensured that the Indian tricolour continues to fly high.
"After tasting defeats in direct wars of 1965 and 1971, Pakistan adopted the path of proxy war. For over two decades, it has tried to 'bleed India with thousand cuts'. But, time and again, our brave soldiers have shown that no one can disturb the unity, integrity and sovereignty of India," he added, assuring that the Armed Forces are ready to face all future challenges.
Remembering late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his leadership and words of encouragement to the armed dorces personnel during the Kargil war despite numerous challenges and international pressure, Rajnath Singh termed the victory as a prime example of jointness among the three services and their coordination with the government which safeguarded the sovereignty and integrity of the nation during testing times.
"The Kargil war underlined the dire need to achieve jointness and self-reliance in the defence sector. It has been our endeavour to achieve these qualities to remain prepared for future challenges. Setting up of Joint Theatre Commands and reforms to achieve self-reliance in defence are the steps taken in that direction," he said.
Rajnath Singh also made special mention of the support extended by the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the armed forces, commending their commitment to safeguard the interests of the country like all other states.
He stated that Union Territory will always be an integral part of the country and the government is ensuring that it, like the rest of the nation, touches newer heights of progress.
Terming Article 370 as an artificial legal barrier, he asserted that its abrogation brought a new dawn of hope to the dreams and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the youth. The decision opened new avenues for the welfare of the people and the UT is now progressing at a much faster rate, he added.
On PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan, the minister said that these areas are illegally occupied by Pakistan and a resolution to free it has been unanimously passed in the Parliament.
A number of serving Armed Forces personnel as well as veterans, including Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain (Hon) Bana Singh, were among those present on the occasion.
According to a source, all three service chiefs attended the meeting.
On Saturday, the Defence Minister held a meeting with Army Chief General Manoj Pande, Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar and IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari. After the meeting, Rajnath Singh announced that the government will reserve 10 per cent jobs in the Defence Ministry for Agniveers.
Similarly, the Union home ministry has also announced a ten per cent quota in the Central Paramilitary Forces (CAPF) and the Assam Rifles.
Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force on Sunday morning released the details of the Agnipath recruitment scheme. The process for the recruitment will begin from June 24. The IAF document lists the eligibility, educational qualification, medical standards, assessment, leave, remuneration, life insurance cover, etc., among many other factors.
The Department of Military Affairs Additional Secretary Lt. General Anil Puri will also address a media briefing later in the day on the issue of Agniveer recruitment scheme.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Vietnam's Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang in Hanoi.
Wide-ranging discussions on effective and practical initiatives to further expand bilateral defence engagements and regional and global issues were held between the two sides.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Mutual Logistics Support was also inked. In these times of increasing cooperative engagements between the defence forces of the two countries, this is a major step towards simplifying procedures for mutually beneficial logistic support and is the first such major agreement which Vietnam has signed with any country.
"Had an excellent meeting with General Phan Van Giang, the Defence Minister of Vietnam. We renewed interactions on expanding bilateral cooperation. Our close Defence and Security cooperation is an important factor of stability in the Indo-Pacific region," Singh had tweeted.
During the meeting, both Ministers also agreed for early finalisation of $500 million Defence Line of Credit extended to Vietnam. Implementation of the projects will add substantially to Vietnam's defence capabilities and further Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Make in India and Make for the World.
Singh, during his three-day visit, also announced gifting two simulators and monetary grant towards setting up of Language and IT Lab at Air Force Officers Training School for capacity building of Vietnamese Armed Forces.
India and Vietnam have shared a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) since 2016 and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership.
Singh also handed over 12 high-speed guard boats under India's existing $100 million defence line of credit to Vietnam. The initial five boats were built in the Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipyard in India and the other seven in Hong Ha Shipyard. Senior civil and military officials of India and Vietnam were present during the handing over ceremony.
Singh described the project as a glowing example of 'Make in India, Make for the World' as envisioned by Modi.
He said the successful completion of the project, despite the challenges due to Covid-19 pandemic, is testimonial to the commitment and professional excellence of the Indian defence manufacturing sector as also of Hong Ha Shipyard. He exuded confidence that the project will be a precursor to many more cooperative defence projects between India and Vietnam in future.
India and Vietnam share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2016 and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership. Vietnam is an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision. Both countries share a rich history of civilisational and cultural linkages spanning over 2,000 years. India and Vietnam continue to have most trustworthy relations in contemporary times with broader convergence of interests and common concerns. Bilateral defence engagements have expanded over a period of time to include wide-ranging contacts between the two countries, including Defence Policy Dialogues, military to military exchanges, high level visits, capacity building and training programs, cooperation in UN Peace Keeping, ship visits and bilateral exercises.
Rajnath Singh invited Vietnam to become a part of India's defence industrial transformation through enhanced cooperation. He asserted that the Indian defence industry has substantially increased its capabilities under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision of the Prime Minister. He stressed that the objective is to build a domestic industry in order to make India a defence manufacturing hub which not only caters to the domestic needs, but also fulfills international requirements.
He also visited Tran Quoc Pagoda, a revered Buddhist temple which reaffirmed the age-old civilisational and people-to-people linkages between the two countries.
Vietnam, an important country of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), has territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea region.
Singh also visited the training institutions of Vietnam on the final day of his three-day official visit to the Southeast Asian country. He visited Air Force Officers Training School at Nha Trang. He handed over a gift of one million dollars on behalf of Government of India for the establishment of a language and IT laboratory in the school. Addressing the officers at the school, he hoped that the laboratory would substantially contribute to sharpen the language and IT skills of Air Defence and Air Force personnel of Vietnam.
The boats were given by Singh at a ceremony in Hong Ha shipyard on the second day of his visit to Vietnam
"It gives me great pleasure to join this historic ceremony marking the successful completion of the project to build 12 high speed guard boats under the USD 100 million Defence Line of Credit by India," he said at the event.
The initial five boats were manufactured at the L&T Shipyard in India and remaining seven were built in Hong Ha shipyard.
"I am confident that this will be a precursor to many more cooperative defence projects between India and Vietnam," Singh said.
"This project is a glowing example of our 'Make in India -- Make for the World' mission," he added.
The defence minister said India would be "greatly pleased" if "close friends like Vietnam" become part of the country's transformation in the defence manufacturing sector.
India and Vietnam on Wednesday inked a vision document to further broad-base the "scope and scale" of defence ties by 2030 and sealed a logistics support pact to allow their militaries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies.
The documents were signed after Singh and his Vietnamese counterpart General Phan Van Giang held "fruitful" talks.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on mutual logistics support is the first such major agreement that Vietnam has signed with any country.
The defence ministry said India and Vietnam continue to have the "most trustworthy relations in contemporary times with broader convergence of interests and common concerns."
Vietnam, an important country of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), has territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea region.
India has oil exploration projects in the Vietnamese waters in the South China Sea. India and Vietnam are boosting their maritime security cooperation in the last few years to protect common interests.
Singh, who is in the key Southeast Asian country on a three-day visit from June 8, received a guard of honour at the headquarters of the Ministry of National Defence of Vietnam. Singh was also accorded a grand welcome by General Giang.
Wide-ranging discussions on effective and practical initiatives to further expand bilateral defence engagements and regional and global issues were held between the two sides, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
The two defence ministers also signed the Joint Vision Statement on India-Vietnam Defence Partnership towards 2030', which will significantly enhance the scope and scale of existing defence cooperation, at a time when China is flexing its muscles in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Mutual Logistics Support was inked in the presence of both the ministers, the release said.
"In these times of increasing cooperative engagements between the defence forces of the two countries, this is a major step towards simplifying procedures for mutually beneficial logistic support and is the first such major agreement which Vietnam has signed with any country," it said.
Both ministers also agreed on the early finalisation of the USD 500-million Defence Line of Credit extended to Vietnam.
The implementation of the projects will add substantially to Vietnam's defence capabilities and further Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Make in India, Make for the World', according to the statement.
Singh also announced gifting two simulators and a monetary grant towards the setting up of a Language and IT Lab at Air Force Officers Training School for capacity building of the Vietnamese Armed Forces.
We renewed interactions on expanding bilateral cooperation. Our close Defence and Security cooperation is an important factor of stability in the Indo-Pacific region, Singh said on Twitter.
We had wide-ranging discussions on effective and practical initiatives to further expand bilateral Defence engagements and regional and global issues, he tweeted.
After our fruitful deliberations, we signed the Joint Vision Statement on India-Vietnam Defence Partnership towards 2030, which will significantly enhance the scope and scale of our defence cooperation, Singh said in another tweet.
Earlier, the defence minister began his official visit by paying respects to the late President and Vietnam's Founding Father Ho Chi Minh at his Mausoleum in Hanoi.
He also visited Tran Quoc Pagoda, a revered Buddhist temple which reaffirmed the age-old civilisational and people-to-people linkages between the two countries.
India and Vietnam have shared a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2016 and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership.
Vietnam is an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision.
Both countries share a rich history of civilisational and cultural linkages spanning over 2,000 years.
India and Vietnam continue to have the most trustworthy relations in contemporary times with broader convergence of interests and common concerns.
Bilateral defence engagements have expanded over a period of time to include wide-ranging contacts between the two countries, including Defence Policy Dialogues, military-to-military exchanges, high-level visits, capacity building and training programmes, cooperation in UN peacekeeping, ship visits and bilateral exercises.
In New Delhi, the defence ministry said Singh's visit to Vietnam is aimed at further consolidating the bilateral defence ties as well as the comprehensive strategic partnership.
Vietnam, an important country of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), has territorial disputes with China in the strategic South China Sea region.
India, the US and several other world powers have been talking about the need to ensure a free, open and thriving Indo-Pacific in the backdrop of China's aggressive military manoeuvring in the region.
China also claims nearly all of the disputed South China Sea, though Taiwan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam all claim parts of it. Beijing has built artificial islands and military installations in the South China Sea.
India has oil exploration projects in the Vietnamese waters in the South China Sea. India and Vietnam are boosting their maritime security cooperation in the last few years to protect common interests.
"The defence minister's visit on the historic occasion of 50 years of establishment of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations and 75 years of India's Independence will further consolidate the bilateral defence cooperation and the comprehensive strategic partnership," the ministry said.
The relations between the two countries were elevated to the level of a "strategic partnership" during the visit of Vietnam's then prime minister Nguyen Tan Dung to India in July 2007.
In 2016, during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Vietnam, the bilateral relations were further elevated to a "comprehensive strategic partnership".
Vietnam has become an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision.
Recently, Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, visited Vietnam for the 12th round of political consultations and the ninth round of strategic dialogue in Hanoi.
Singh made the remarks at the biannual Army Commanders' Conference that began on Monday.
The defence minister also complimented the Army for its operational readiness to deal with any possible eventualities.
The commanders carried out an extensive review of India's national security challenges along the borders with China and Pakistan as well as assessed possible geopolitical implications of the Russia-Ukraine war for the region.
"Addressed the Army Commanders Conference today. Complimented the Indian Army for their operational preparedness and capabilities. Exhorted the Military leadership to prepare for every possible challenge in future, including the challenge of unconventional & asymmetric warfare," Singh tweeted.
The Army said the defence minister appreciated the force for "selfless and unflinching" service to the nation and its relentless efforts towards modernisation through indigenisation.
The five-day conference will come to an end on Friday.
The Army Commanders' Conference is an apex level biannual event that is held in April and October every year. The conference is an institutional platform for conceptual level deliberations, culminating in making important policy decisions for the Indian Army.
Officials said the conference held detailed deliberations on possible implications of the war in Ukraine for regional security as well as various military aspects of the conflict.
The commanders also carried out a comprehensive review of India's military preparedness along the 3,400-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) in view of the lingering military standoff with China in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh, they said.
The anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir as well as the overall situation in the Union Territory was also deliberated upon extensively at the conference, the officials said.
The commanders also delved into infrastructure development along the LAC.
India has been ramping up infrastructure development in the border regions in view of China's building new bridges, roads and related structures in key sectors along the frontier.
"I have talked to American companies for Make in India and aerospace and world programme. I have invited them for these programmes," Singh told reporters at a joint news conference with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar along with their American counterparts Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Tony Blinken.
"We are talking to US companies for co-development and co-production. We are proposing it to them. We have asked the US companies to work in the UP and Tamil Nadu corridor and invest in that area," he said at the conclusion of the India-US 2+2 ministerial, the first of the Biden administration.
"I have insisted that India would focus on co-developmental productions and all the investors should come to India. They are welcome. And because in India they can develop the 'Make in India' because we want to build and make everything in India," Singh told reporters in response to a question.
Earlier, in his opening remarks at the 2+2 ministerial, Singh said that India places the highest priority upon the strategic partnership with USA. "Major defence partnership is one of the most important pillars of India-US strategic relations, he said.
"As the largest country and the centre to Indian Ocean, and as a democracy, India has critical roles to play in the Indian Ocean region and in the wider Indo-Pacific following the Act East and the Neighbourhood First policy," he said.
India played preeminent role in the region, from the Tsunami in 2004 and during the COVID pandemic. "We have signed eight different defence-related agreements between our two countries in last few years, including a Space Situational Awareness Agreement for unclassified domain, which is being signed today," he added.
Despite the pandemic, India-USA military engagements increased with higher capability in communication, closer information sharing, and enhanced mutual logistic support, he said adding that this is a reflection of their growing depth and scale of the defense partnership.
"In a decade, our defense suppliers from USA rose from negligible to a cumulative around of over USD 20 billion. We look forward to US companies investing in India and support the Make In India programme," he said.
"We look forward to further enhancing the depth and the scope of our defense cooperation to give effect to our shared vision of a free, open, inclusive, and a rules-bound Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean region," he said.
India, he said, is working with the US to double up capabilities across conventional and emerging defense domains. "We have made good progress in a number of defense cooperation activities since the visit of Secretary Austin to India in March 2021".
India is dependent on Russia and Ukraine for various components used in arms and ammunition.
Speaking during the Air Force Commanders' Conference (AFCC) at Air Headquarters here, Singh discussed the entire canvas of issues and challenges that are being faced by the country.
He said he was happy to observe that the directions given by higher authorities were comprehensively being discussed in the conference and would be the guiding light for all future courses of action.
He covered the challenges being faced on the Northern and Western borders and expressed his satisfaction over the way the Indian armed forces have been able to respond to emerging situations.
The Defence Minister also praised the IAF's evacuation effort in 'Operation Ganga' which has been appreciated by the country.
In 'Operation Ganga', almost 20,000 Indians have been brought back in over 90 special flights from the Ukraine borders.
Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, subsequently addressed the commanders and asked them to be ready to meet all challenges and enhance capabilities for responding in multiple domains at short notice.
He also emphasised the need for conserving assets, optimally utilising resources and the need for jointmanship to enhance the national security.
To provide a boost to the growing indigenous drone industry, Singh launched the "Mehar Baba Competition - II".
The competition is aimed at developing technology for a "Swarm Drone based system to detect Foreign Objects on Aircraft Operating Surfaces".
During the three-day conference, the Air Force commanders will discuss important issues related to future challenges in a hi-tech and evolving operational scenario.
The theme for this conference is 'optimising human resources' and the focus will be on the conduct of operations in a smart and efficient manner.
"Mitigation of threats posed by drones will also be brainstormed during the conference," said the IAF.
He said that while India has shown its strength in design, development and operation of helicopters in the 5 tonne category, there is now a need to make progress in the design of 10 tonne multirole helicopters.
The minister was speaking at the diamond jubilee celebration of Chetak helicopter here.
Indigenously designed and developed, Advanced Light Helicopter -DHRUV and its variants are the proof of India's capability in 5 tonne category, he said.
"To become a global leader, we have to make efforts to progress in the design of 10 tonne Indian multirole helicopter," the minister said.
Singh noted that there is a huge potential in the chopper market in India as the country needs more than 1,000 civilian helicopters and an equal number of helicopters in the defence sector.
He observed that external conditions have impacted on the serviceability of India's critical weapons and equipment and therefore, efforts for self-sufficiency continue to be the need of the hour.
Looking at the events of the last few years, the government has emphasised on self-reliance in defence production, and preparedness. "These days we have seen many challenges in ensuring supply lines. External conditions have affected the serviceability of critical weapons and equipment. Therefore, continuous increase in our efforts for self-reliance is the biggest need of the day," he said.
"The burden of protecting a huge country like India cannot remain on the shoulders of other countries for long. We have to strengthen our own shoulders to protect ourselves," he added.
Singh made it clear that India never had any intentions of aggression against anyone, and it has only picked up weapons to uphold civilisational values, peace and truth.
"If peace is to be maintained in the world, then the security of the nations is of utmost importance, and for their security, they should be strong militarily. In the last few years, we have created such an environment, that our armies, scientists and defence makers, can think proactively," he said.
He claimed to be getting positive response from services, research and development organisations, public and private sector industries. MSMEs, start-ups, innovators and academia together are exploring new avenues of defence production, he said.
Attending the diamond jubilee of a helicopter is a unique opportunity for him. "We celebrate the diamond jubilee of institutions and organisations. I often attend them but our Air Force is celebrating the diamond jubilee of a helicopter. It's a symbol of our respect for this helicopter," he said and compared the chopper with Maharana Pratap's loyal and dependable horse.
Stating that the helicopters have served the nation in war and peace for decades, he noted that Chetak is one of the longest-serving platforms in the defence forces.
He said the helicopters not only targeted the enemies on the battlefield, but also saved precious lives by evacuation in case of emergency.
"Chetak is one of the leading design and development projects in our country. Its success gave us the confidence that in the future we can also be successful in such projects. So far, about 700 Chetak helicopters have been produced in our country," the minister said.
"Our country has faced several natural calamities from time to time. Even among them, our Chetak has always been ahead in humanitarian aid, and disaster relief work. Chetak has touched the hearts of people. Our country will always be grateful to this machine and the professionals who operate it," he added.
Replying to a question asked by Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, he said that the government has been trying to strengthen the DPSU by giving equity and assistance to these DPSUs to make them liability free.
Earlier, responding to the queries from the Members during the Question Hour in the Upper House, the Minister of State for Defence, Ajay Bhatt said that the government is committed to strengthen the Defence Forces and that will happen once the country is self dependent in technology.
He also said that the defence sector was opened for the private sector in 2015 and in the last seven years, the government has given 353 licences for manufacturing the defence equipment.
"During 2001 to 2014, a total of Rs 1,382 crore worth of FDI in the defence sector was there which rose to Rs 3,343 crore in the last seven years, We are making everything under Aatmanirbhar Bharat and we give procurement of those components to companies under FDI whose materials or technology are not available with us," Bhatt said.
He also said that the orders are also given to DPSU along with other Public Sector Undertakings manufacturing the defence equipment. This will lead to a competitive environment among them, he added.
The MoS Defence also said that during the financial year 2022-23, over 68 per cent of defence procurement has been given to the domestic sector.
Responding to a question from Trinamool MP Dola Sen, Bhatt said that there is no reduction in the number of employees of the companies under Ordnance Factory Board but the government has realigned them to make better coordination.
"Now the companies which are making bullet proof jackets will be under one administrative unit, the arms manufacturing units will be at one platform and so on," Bhatt said further.
The MoS Defence also informed the House that at present two defence corridors have been functioning in Lucknow and Chennai, whenever there would be a need, these corridors will be opened in the other parts of the country too.
Pointing out the willingness of people, especially the youth, to connect with the subjects related to defence, Singh urged the officials of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to devise a plan to promote defence tourism.
He suggested exploring the possibility of organising visits to historic battlefields, war memorials, war museums, training academies or other similar defence establishments for people with the help of industry, startups and ex-servicemen, keeping in mind the security and sanctity of the places.
"This will instill a feeling of patriotism among the people and generate revenue at the same time," said Singh during the inauguration of an user-friendly website created by the Border Road Organisation (BRO) aimed to facilitate e-booking of guided tours to the road infrastructure projects constructed by them.
Singh appreciated the efforts of the BRO in developing the portal and exuded confidence that the website will go a long way in boosting tourism in far-flung areas.
The website contains photo and video galleries of tourist destinations and local flora and fauna, besides providing information about the BRO, the nature of works it has executed in border states and the challenges faced.
It also hosts technical information related to the construction for those working in the field of civil engineering, especially students and academia.
Singh said, in the coming times, it will be the most accessible and reliable source of information about the history and importance of the projects executed by the BRO and will provide a peek into the upcoming projects as well.
He commended the BRO for playing an incomparable role in promoting tourism in these areas, saying that after the construction of Atal Tunnel, the number of tourists in that area increased six times.
He made special mention of the setting up of BRO Cafes at 75 places in the far-flung areas, expressing confidence that these cafes will provide basic amenities to the travellers, promote tourism in the remote areas and strengthen the local economy.
He also praised the BRO for constructing more than 60,000 kilometres of roads, 850 major bridges, 19 airstrips and four tunnels over the last six decades, thereby playing a vital role in nation building through infrastructure development in remote and inaccessible areas.
He stressed on the importance of connectivity and infrastructure in the development of the nation, saying that roads, bridges and tunnels in the border areas play a central role in ensuring their socio-economic development of the region, besides catering to the needs of the Armed Forces.
"Earlier, the infrastructure development in the border areas was never a priority, fearing its misuse by our adversaries during trying times," said Singh.
He said that their government totally changed this approach.
Infrastructure development of any region is linked with the development of the Nation as well as the global situation.
"With changing times, all areas move ahead in the path of development. We are committed to ensure the development of the border areas as well. The recent announcement of a record increase in the capital budget of the BRO reaffirms that commitment," Singh added..
He appreciated the fact that the far-flung areas are now witnessing reverse migration, wherein people who had left their villages in search of employment, education and better health facilities are returning, seeing the development in these areas.
He spoke about the Huri village of Arunachal Pradesh, the residents of which returned after the BRO ensured connectivity with the district headquarters.
"Atal tunnel and Umling La pass are the biggest achievements of the BRO which have put India on the world map. The BRO is striving towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'," he added.
The defence minister emphasised that tourism and travel industry are one of the biggest job and wealth creators in the world and the government has taken a number of steps to promote tourism in the country. "Incredible India, Adopt a heritage - 'Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan', 'Swadesh Darshan', 'With love from North East', 'Dekho Apna Desh' and 'Udan', are some of the schemes that aim to ensure all-round development of the country. These efforts will ensure increased connectivity, strengthened security system, developed tourist destinations and creation of employment opportunities," he added.
Making a statement in Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on the inadvertent release of a missile during an inspection on March 9, 2022, Singh said the government has taken serious note of the incident, and a formal high-level inquiry has been ordered which will determine the exact cause of the incident.
"During routine maintenance and inspection, a missile was accidentally released at around 7 pm. It was later learnt that the missile had landed inside the territory of Pakistan. While this incident is regretted, we are relieved that nobody was hurt due to the accident," the minister said.
The minister also said Indian armed forces are well-trained and disciplined and are well experienced in handling such systems.
"I would also like to state that a review of the Standard Operating Procedures for operations, maintenance and inspections is being conducted in the wake of this incident. We attach the highest priority to the safety and security of our weapon systems. If any shortcoming is found, the same would be immediately rectified," Singh said.
The Defence Minister assured the Parliament that India's missile system is "very reliable and safe".
"Moreover, our safety procedures and protocols are of the highest order and are reviewed from time to time. Our Armed Forces are well-trained and disciplined and are well experienced in handling such systems," he added.
Singh made the statement in Rajya Sabh first and later in Lok Sabha.
Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar, the Director-General of the Inter-Service Public Relations (ISPR) of Pakistan, had claimed last Thursday that an unarmed projectile launched from India entered the Pakistani airspace travelling 124 km and fell near Mian Channu in Khanewal district.
Pakistan also summoned the Charge d'Affaires at the Indian embassy in Islamabad and conveyed its strong protest over the "unprovoked" violation of its airspace by what it described as a supersonic "projectile".
Noting that the missile that landed in Pakistan was fired "accidentally" due to a technical malfunction, the defence ministry last Friday had also ordered a 'Court of Enquiry' into the incident.
The Defence Ministry had stated that an unarmed supersonic missile "accidently" took off from Sirsa and landed at a place 124 km within the Pakistani territory on last Wednesday.
Last Friday, the DefenceA Ministry "regretfully" explained it as "a technical malfunction".
The ministry in a statement had said: "On March 9, 2022, in the course of a routine maintenance, a technical malfunction led to the accidental firing of a missile."
The Indian government has taken a serious view of the matter and "ordered a high-level court of enquiry".
"It is learnt that the missile landed in an area in Pakistan. While the incident is deeply regrettable, it is also a matter of relief that there has been no loss of life due to the accident," said the ministry.
On the same day, Pakistan foreign office had summoned India's charge d'affaires and lodged a protest over what it termed as unprovoked violation of its airspace.
In a statement, it warned New Delhi of "unpleasant consequences" over what it claimed was an Indian originated but unidentified high-altitude supersonic object that crashed in its territory.
In its statement, the foreign office urged India to take effective measures to avoid such violations in the future.
The missile was cruising at an altitude of 40,000 feet and endangered passenger flights in both Indian and Pakistani airspace, and also civilians and property on the ground, the Pakistan foreign office said.
Major General Babar Iftikhar, Director General of Pakistani armed forces' Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), had said that at 18:43 hours on March 9, "a high-speed flying object was picked up inside Indian flying territory by Air Defence Operations Centre of the Pakistani Air Force. From its initial course the object suddenly maneuvered towards Pakistani territory and violated Pakistan's airspace, ultimately falling near Mia Channu."
Addressing a press conference on the incident, Iftikhar said that there were no human casualties.
"When it fell, it damaged some civilian property. Thankfully no loss or injury to human life was caused," he said.
On the sidelines of an election meeting at Banshi Bazar here, Singh said "As per information received, the US president has said that they are ready to hold talks with the Russian president."
"The US president has taken some initiative on his behalf. India wants peace to be established in any way. We are sure that when talks take place, some way or the other will come out," Singh said.
When asked about India's stance, he said, "We want peace. We have always been in favour of world peace."
India has called for restraint on all sides as tensions between Russia and NATO escalated further after Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday recognised the independence of two states of Ukraine.
Earlier, Russia had amassed it troops near the Ukraine border and has been demanding that NATO never admit Ukraine and other ex-Soviet nations as members and the military alliance roll back troop deployments in former Soviet bloc nations.
At a UN Security Council meeting following the Russian decision, India voiced concern over the escalating tension along the Russia-Ukraine border and called for de-escalation of the situation and resolution of the crisis through diplomatic dialogue.
Addressing an election meeting at Langthabal Mandal in Imphal West district of Manipur, the Defence Minister said that the government is always prepared to talk with the extremist outfits for a lasting solution of the insurgency problem and to stop violence in Manipur and other Northeastern states permanently.
"The terror outfits must come forward to talk with the government to resolve their problems. Violence has to be stopped permanently to undertake the developmental projects and welfare schemes for the benefit of the people. The terror violence has been largely controlled in Manipur under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh," Singh said.
The senior BJP leader said that during the previous Congress regime, blockade and violence were the regular phenomenon and the records of their (Congress) governance were broken.
"The BJP wants to take Manipur's developmental status to a new height within 15 years. After Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, the face of Manipur has been changed and the state is going forward to achieve a new future. Modi has a new vision for the all round development of the Northeastern region. The projects relating to rail, road and air connectivity are being implemented with the mission mode," said the former National President of BJP.
The Defence Minister said that the Northeastern region will be made a big tourism hub and Manipur's development through tourism would be tremendous.
Saying that the Congress neglected the Northeastern region for decades, he claimed that the development of Manipur is now at par with the other parts of the country.
The veteran saffron party leader during his maiden election campaign in the poll-bound state said that the BJP would get a clear majority in the upcoming Assembly elections. Singh, while highlighting various welfare schemes of the Central government, said that earlier a negligible amount of the central funds reached the people but now 100 per cent of the central financial aids are directly reaching the people.
The elections to the 60-seat Manipur Assembly would be held in two phases on February 28 and March 5. The counting of votes would take place on March 10.
The Defence minister later visited the house of Indian Army soldier, Yumnam Kalleshor Kom, who was martyred during the Kargil War in 1999.
"Met with his family members and enquired about their well-being. I salute the courage and supreme sacrifice of YK Kom," he tweeted.
He exuded confidence that the decision to establish new Sainik schools will encourage girls to realise their dreams of serving the country. "The setting up of 100 new Sainik schools will provide an opportunity to girls to join the Armed Forces and contribute to national security," said Rajnath Singh while chairing a webinar on Saturday.
The minister described the announcement of expansion of Sainik Schools as one of the many important decisions taken by the government in the last six-seven years to improve the quality of basic education of children and ensure holistic development of the country.
He hoped that the amalgamation of 'Raksha' and 'Shiksha' in Sainik schools will play an important role in nation-building in times to come. He stated that while 'Sainik' signifies unity, discipline and devotion, 'School' is the centre of education, therefore, Sainik schools are playing a pivotal role in making children capable citizens.
He added that the government is focussing on providing quality education to the youth of the country as it lays a solid foundation for the all-round development of society. "Quality education is the fourth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations. There are several other goals under quality education. It has been our strong political commitment to achieve these goals. Several schemes like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan are being run. Setting up of 100 new Sainik Schools is another important step in that direction," he said.
The Minister termed education as a key sector that plays a part in the development of all other areas, exhorting the private sector to join hands with the Government to achieve 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in the field and ensure holistic development of children.
"Today, our country is moving fast in the path of self-reliance in every field. It is touching newer heights in fields like defence, health, communication, industry and transport due to the synergy between public and private sectors. There is a need for a revolution in the education sector and holistic development of children. This is only possible if there is a strong collaboration of defence, education and private sector. This webinar is a foundation stone of this partnership," he said, urging the private sector to join the Government's initiative of expansion of Sainik schools.
Speaking on the occasion, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the stand of the country is clear that it does not provoke first but also does not "spare anyone who provokes it".
"The BrahMos missile and other weapons we are manufacturing are not to attack any other country. It has never been the character of India to attack any other country or grab even an inch of land of any country," Rajnath said.
"We want to manufacture BrahMos on Indian soil so that no country has the audacity to cast an evil eye on India," he said referring to the missile that is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.
"India should have nuclear deterrents so that no country in the world attacks us, and we have shown this," Rajnath said after laying foundation stones of the Defence Technologies and Test Centre and the BrahMos Manufacturing Centre here.
He also slammed Pakistan of carrying out terror attacks in the country.
"There is a neighbouring country. It got separated from India sometime back. I don't know why its intentions vis-a-vis India are always bad. It committed acts of terrorism in Uri and Pulwama," the defence minister said.
"And then our prime minister took a decision and we went to the soil of that country and destroyed terrorist hideouts and when there was a need for airstrikes, we did that successfully," he said.
"We gave the message that if somebody dares to cast an evil eye on us, then not just on this side of the border, but we can go to the other side and hit them. This is India's strength," Rajnath added.
India carried out cross-border strikes in September 2016 and February 2019 in response to terror attacks in Uri and Pulwama.
The defence minister praised Adityanath for expediting land acquisition for the projects.
"When I spoke to Yogiji and expressed the desire to establish this project, he did not take a second and said land will be made available at the earliest. I thank the chief minister for making 200 acres available in just one and a half months," he said.
Rajnath said the projects are important from the security point of view and hoped that Uttar Pradesh will be able to get a special place in terms of defence manufacturing units.
"This will provide jobs to people living in Lucknow and in UP. I can see that a new chapter has been added to the economy of Uttar Pradesh," he added.
Rajnath also praise Adityanath for action against criminals.
"Yogijee shows large-heartedness in everything but he shows miserliness ('kanjoosee') in one thing, he does not give any concessions to the mafia. Everywhere, bulldozers are being run. This is a 'balle-balle' (good) time not for the criminals, but for bulldozer owners," Rajnath said.
He said due it, investors from across the globe are coming to UP to invest.
Rajnath also praised PM Narendra Modi for revamping Hindu temples.
"The Kashi Vishwanath Dham was damaged by invaders. Ahilyabai Holkar revamped it, Maharaja Ranjeet Singh put a cover of gold over it and Modiji gave a grand look to it. Yogiji also played an important role in it," he said.
Adityanath on this occasion said the manufacturing of the Brahmos missiles in Lucknow will help India become self-reliant in the area of defence.
"India is the biggest democracy in the world and we have always given the message of friendship and peace to the world," he said.
"This does not mean that we will allow the lives of our 135 crore people come under danger," he said.
"This new India does not provoke (others) but does not spares if it is provoked," he said.
Adityanath added that the project is not only an effort to make India self-reliant but also caters to the defence and security needs of other countries.
Immediately after that Modi on social media recalled the sacrifices made by the bravehearts of the Indian Armed Forces.
"On the 50th Vijay Diwas, I recall the great valour and sacrifice by the Mukti Joddhas, Biranganas and bravehearts of the Indian Armed Forces. Together, we fought and defeated oppressive forces. Rashtrapati Ji's presence in Dhaka is of special significance to every Indian," he tweeted.
President Ram Nath Kovind, who is on his maiden state visit to neighbouring Bangladesh, participated in 50th Victory Day celebrations in Dhaka. The President has been invited to the celebration as "guest of honour" by Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the National War Memorial.
Singh joined the nation in remembering the courage, valour and sacrifice of the Armed Forces during the 1971 war on the occasion of 'Swarnim Vijay Diwas' on December 16, 2021.
In a series of tweets, Singh termed the 1971 war as the golden chapter in India's military history.
Swarnim Vijay Varsh is being celebrated to mark 50 years of India's victory in 1971 war. The aim is to spread the message of unity, nationalism and pride among people in general and Armed Forces in particular, in addition to showing respect to the veterans who participated in the war.
The programme held at Guniyalgaon also marked the conclusion of the Uttarakhand government's 'Shaheed Samman Yatra', which was conducted throughout the state to collect soil from the homes of 1,734 martyrs.
The soil will be used in the construction of the 'Sainya Dham' (martyrs' memorial), which was conceived by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the fifth dham after the char dhams of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri and Gangotri.
Describing Uttarakhand as the "land of bravehearts", Singh said the country's first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat was one such braveheart from the state who remained true to his duties till the very end.
"Gen Rawat will remain alive in people's hearts forever," he said. The general, his wife and other defence personnel died in a helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu on December 8.
Praising the idea behind collecting soil from martyrs' homes for building the memorial, Singh said he had applied some of it to his forehead out of a feeling of respect for martyrs.
"This is the same soil that our martyrs must have walked on as toddlers in their courtyards from where it has been brought. I have applied some to my forehead as respect to them," he said.
Congratulating the state government for the 'Shaheed Samman Yatra', he said work on the memorial project should be started without delay.
"I would suggest that the memorial should be built without delay with the names of martyrs and their villages clearly inscribed on its walls. I am confident that whoever comes to visit 'Sainya Dham' will return with the inspiration of doing something for their country," the defence minister said.
Defining a martyr, Singh said a martyr has a big heart filled with pride in one's nation, and cited the names of freedom fighters like Chadrashekhar Azad and Ashwaq Ullah Khan.
He also said Prime Minister Modi's inspiration was behind the Sainya Dham project.
The minister also praised Modi for restoring ancient temples like Somnath, Kedarnath, Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and Kashi-Vsihwanath Dham to their lost glory, saying he was doing all this because he does not want India to lose its cultural roots.
He made the comments during an interaction with a group of Indian veterans and 'Mukti Jodhas' of Bangladesh who fought the war.
"This war was a 'justice war' due to which a new nation 'Bangladesh' was born. This war was a war to show India's commitment to humanity," Singh said at the event organised as part of celebrations of the 50th anniversary of India's victory in the war.
The defence minister also touched the feet of the wife of 1971 war hero Col Hoshiar Singh, who was awarded India's highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra.
"The surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers in the Indo-Pakistani war in 1971 was a historic surrender in the history of the world. India's victory in the war proved to be one of the most important victory in world history," he said.
The group veterans comprised of 30 'Mukti Jodhas', families of all four Param Vir Chakra award winners and other awardees.
In his address, Singh paid rich tributes to the brave soldiers, sailors and air warriors who ensured the victory in 1971 war by making supreme sacrifice while displaying devotion to duty.
Terming the victory as a triumph of justice over injustice, Singh said, the war fought against the atrocities on common people showed India's commitment towards humanity.
He remembered the war heroes namely Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Aurora (then General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command), Lt Gen JFR Jacob and Air Marshal Idris Hassan Latif and others.
"These heroes included Hindus, Muslims, Parsis, Sikhs and one Jew. This is a proof of India's firm belief towards giving equal respect to all religions," he said.
The defence minister also paid glowing tributes to the first President of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur-Rahman, terming him as the guiding light for the people of his country.
Singh said Bangladesh has been making giant strides in the path of development since its liberation.
Commending the Armed Forces personnel, including the veterans, for their selfless service, Singh described them as the protectors of India's unity and integrity.
"Today our country is moving forward on the path of progress uninterruptedly. This is because of our brave soldiers who are standing firm at the borders. This country sleeps peacefully because our soldiers are awake," he said.
Noting that no price can be paid for the sacrifices made by the veterans, he extended his gratitude and assured the government's all possible support to ensure their welfare.
"Our every warrior of today is a respected veteran of tomorrow. It is our duty to ensure their well-being. This government understands this very well, which is why, as soon as we came into power in 2014, we fulfilled the long-pending demand of One Rank One Pension," Singh added.
The countries that have done defence innovation are the ones who have bested their enemies and made their mark on history, he said.
"We should, therefore, strengthen ourselves and be ready to deal with any kind of situation," he said in his speech at an event of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) here.
Singh said it should be ensured that India is a leader when it comes to defence technologies.
"We have to obtain those technologies too that are with just a few countries right now," the minister noted.
Ballistic missile defence systems are getting more and more robust with the passage of time, Singh said.
"In order to maintain a minimum credible deterrence, we have to immediately think about hypersonic cruise missile development. It will be a revolutionary step in our defence sector and we all have to put our efforts into it," he said.
Multiple platforms designed and developed by the DRDO, and which have been handed over to the armed forces of the country, have strengthened the security architecture of India, he said.
"As the time is changing, our defence requirements are changing accordingly," Singh noted.
Today, in battlefield, there is a new warrior called 'technology', he mentioned.
The way technology's role has increased in the battlefield, it is amazing and unprecedented, he noted.
In such a time, defence technologies with India will have to catch up with the future, he said.
The minister said he wanted to assure the people of the country that the modernisation and the integration of the armed forces would continue as usual.
"The integration and modernisation is not just happening by the efforts of the government. This is also happening because of the meeting of minds of our armed forces," he said.
"When we talk of making the country a net defence exporter, the path goes through the collaboration between entities such as the DRDO, armed forces, private industries and academia," he noted.
In the last few years, there has been a major shift in the way DRDO has been functioning, the minister said.
The government has already taken various measures to boost self-reliance in defence sector, he said.
Singh talked about how corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board and the allocation of a part of defence budget to buy just indigenous items would boost self-reliance in the defence sector.
Around 10 a.m., the mortal remains of Rawat and his wife Madhulika Rawat arrived at his official residence at Kamraj Road from the Base Hospital here.
A large number of people also gathered at the residence to pay their last respects. Last rites of General Rawat and his wife will take place later in the day at Brar Square at Delhi Cantt.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah paid tribute to Brig L.S. Lidder at Brar Square at Delhi Cantt, before cremation. Haryana Chief Minister M.L. Khattar also paid tribute to Brig Lidder at Brar Square.
On Thursday evening, the mortal remains of General Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 other armed forces personnel were brought to the Palam airport. Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari brought the mortal remains of all the deceased. Earlier in the day, the mortal remains were moved in a convoy from Wellington to Sulur. From Sulur, the mortal remains were flown to Delhi in an Indian Air Force aircraft.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his homage to General Rawat, his wife and 11 other armed forces personnel at the Palam airport. He also met the bereaved families.
Before the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Singh also reached the airport and met the family members of all the deceased and expressed his condolences to them.
The Defence Minister said that the probe will be headed by Air Marshal Manavendra Singh.
He added that the IAF inquiry team had reached Wellington on Wednesday and already started investigations.
General Rawat's last rites will be performed with full military honours, Rajnath told Parliament, adding that the last rites of other military personnel will be performed with appropriate honour.
The Lok Sabha also observed a two-minute silence on the demise of the 13 people in Wednesday's crash of the M 17 helicopter.
The decision was taken during the meeting of the inter-governmental commission on military and military-technical cooperation in the national capital, which was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart General Sergey Shoigu.
In his opening remarks, Singh termed Russia as India's long-standing, special and privileged strategic partner, adding that the relations between the two countries are time-tested and based on common interests in multilateralism, global peace and prosperity, mutual understanding and trust, etc.
Singh appreciated Russia's strong support for India and stressed that the close cooperation is not targeted against another country.
He expressed hope that this cooperation will bring peace, prosperity and stability in the region, adding that defence cooperation is one of the most important pillars of bilateral partnership.
"The India-Russia inter-governmental commission on military and military-technical cooperation has been a well-established mechanism for the last two decades. It provides a platform to discuss and implement mutually agreed agenda for defence cooperation. You have been actively involved in these discussions for several years. I wish to acknowledge with respect your valuable personal contribution to strengthen our bilateral defence cooperation," Singh told Shoigu.
Singh further said that the summit meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again reconfirms the depth and critical importance of special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia in the emerging geo-political circumstances.
He described the first-ever India-Russia 2+2 ministerial dialogue as a special initiative taken by the leaders of the two countries, which signals the higher relevance and necessity for cooperation between the two nations.
At the end of the meeting, both countries signed four agreements, contracts and protocols.
While the first three documents were signed by the officials of two sides, the protocol was signed by the Defence Ministers of India and Russia.
The protocol on amending an agreement between India and Russia on cooperation in the field of Kalashnikov Series small arms manufacturing dated February 18, 2019 took place.
Contract for procurement of 6,01,427 AK-203 Assault rifles through the Indo-Russia Rifles Private Limited was inked on the occasion.
Both the countries signed an agreement for military technical cooperation from 2021-2031. A protocol of the 20th India-Russia inter-governmental commission on military and military-technical cooperation was also signed by the two Defence Ministers.
The meeting was followed by the maiden 2+2 dialogue between India and Russia.
"We have an estimated Rs 85,000 crore industry of aerospace and defence. The contribution of the private sector in this has increased to Rs 18,000 crore," he said in his speech at the MSME conclave of the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM).
Singh urged the MSMEs to invest more in research and development as it would help strengthen the nation's security.
"You should bring new technologies, new products. You should not think that just because of your small, you cannot do great innovation," he added.
Around 12,000 MSMEs have joined the defence industry due to the government's initiatives, he added.
"Defence exports from India during the last seven years have been of more than Rs 38,000 crore due to the government's initiatives," he noted.
Innovation, research and development and the number of startups have increased in the defence industry due to these initiatives, Singh said.
Reiterating the government's focus on encouraging exports, the minister expressed hopes that India will soon become a net exporter from a net importer.
"The government aims to achieve the export target of Rs 35,000 crore by 2024-25. Presently, India is exporting defence equipment to around 70 countries. According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute 2020 report, India is in the list of top 25 countries in defence exports," he said.
The Indian armed forces have completely supported the self-reliance initiative of the government, he stated.
"Therefore, the number of contracts given to indigenous defence industry has increased," he said.
Singh accepted that the big companies have a major role to play in defence manufacturing but the reality is that the work of numerous small companies is hidden behind that of big companies.
"Big defence platforms are assembled from numerous small parts and most of them are provided by the MSMEs," he noted.
"Therefore, I believe that the term industry' really means MSMEs as they are not only responsible for economic activities but also for societal progress," he added.
Speaking during formal induction of Indigenously developed Ship Visakhapatnam into Indian Navy in Mumbai, Singh said, "Some irresponsible nations, for the sake of their narrow partisan interests, keep on giving new and inappropriate interpretations to these international laws from hegemonic tendencies."
"The arbitrary interpretations create obstacles in the path of a rule-based maritime order. We envision a rule-based Indo-Pacific, with freedom of navigation, free trade and universal values, in which the interests of all the participating countries are protected," he said.
Singh reiterated that India, as a responsible maritime stakeholder, is a supporter of consensus-based principles and a peaceful, open, rule-based and stable maritime order.
"In the 'United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea' (UNCLOS) of 1982, territorial waters of nations, exclusive economic zones and the principle of 'Good order at sea' have been propounded.
The defence minister emphasised on the need to keep the Indo-Pacific region open, safe and secure, terming it as the primary objective of the Indian Navy.
He asserted that India's interests are directly linked with the Indian Ocean and the region is crucial for the world economy.
"Challenges such as piracy, terrorism, illegal smuggling of arms and narcotics, human trafficking, illegal fishing and damage to the environment are equally responsible for affecting the maritime domain. Therefore, the role of the Indian Navy becomes very important in the entire Indo-Pacific region," he added.
Singh presided over formal induction of the naval ship, first of the four Visakhapatnam class destroyers, indigenously designed by the Indian Navy's in-house organisation Directorate of Naval Design and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai.
Named after the historic city of Andhra Pradesh on the east coast, Visakhapatnam, the 'City of Destiny', the ship has a total complement of about 315 personnel.
During his address, Singh termed INS Visakhapatnam as a symbol of the growing maritime prowess of the country and a major milestone in achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Make in India, Make for the World'.
He added that the ship is a reminder of ancient and medieval India's maritime power, shipbuilding skills and glorious history.
Singh exuded confidence that the state-of-the-art ship, equipped with latest systems and weapons, will strengthen the maritime security and protect the interests of the nation.
He defined the ship as one of the most technologically advanced guided missile destroyers in the world which will cater to the present and future requirements of the Armed Forces and the nation as a whole.
He appreciated the self-reliance efforts of the Indian Navy, terming navy's order of 39 of the 41 ships and submarines from Indian shipyards as a testament to their commitment towards achieving 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.
He described the development of Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 'INS Vikrant' as an important milestone in their path to achieve 'Atmanirbharta'.
"The carrier will increase our reach from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean. Its commissioning will be a golden moment in the history of the Indian Defence. It will be the best occasion to celebrate the 75th anniversary of India's independence and the 50th anniversary of India's victory in 1971 war," he said.
Singh praised the Indian Navy's consistent efforts to participate in various outreach programmes of the industries and increase indigenised items under 'Float', 'Move' and 'Fight' categories. Stressing on the need to maintain the momentum, he expressed confidence that "the steps taken by the government will continue to provide boost to the self-reliance efforts and we will soon build ships not just for India, but for the entire world".
He assured of government's continuous support to achieve this vision.
Saying that global security reasons, border disputes and maritime dominance have forced countries to move towards strengthening their military power, Rajnath Singh exhorted the public and private sector to take advantage of government's policies, work together and make India an indigenous shipbuilding hub.
It is a matter of concern that UNCLOS is being repeatedly weakened by arbitrary interpretation of its definition by some nations, Singh said, after commissioning of Indian Navy's destroyer Visakhapatnam here.
"Some irresponsible nations, with their narrow partisan interests, hegemonic tendencies are coming with wrong definitions of international laws," Singh said.
Indigenously-built stealth guided missile destroyer Visakhapatnam, packed with an array of missiles and anti-submarine rockets, was commissioned in presence of top naval commanders.
Visakhapatnam' is equipped with lethal weapons and sensors, including supersonic surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, medium and short-range guns, anti-submarine rockets and advanced electronic warfare and communication suits, officials said.
Singh described the monument as an example of the determination and indomitable courage displayed by the Indian Army that he said is not "only immortal in the pages of history, but also beats in our hearts".
"The historic battle of Rezang La, fought at an altitude of 18,000 feet, is difficult to imagine even today. Major Shaitan Singh and his fellow soldiers fought till 'last bullet and last breath' and wrote a new chapter of bravery and sacrifice," he said.
The defence minister tweeted that he paid tributes to the Indian soldiers who made their supreme sacrifice while reaching Rezang La, located amid the inaccessible hills of Ladakh, in the 1962 war.
"The Battle of Rezang La is considered one of the ten greatest and most challenging military conflicts in the world," he said.
The revamped war memorial has been thrown open at a time India and China have been locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh for nearly one and half years.
आज लद्दाख़ की दुर्गम पहाड़ियों के बीच स्थित रेजांग ला पहुँच कर 1962 की लड़ाई में जिन 114 भारतीय सैनिकों ने अपना सर्वोच्च बलिदान दिया था, उन बहादुर सैनिकों की स्मृतियों को नमन किया। रेज़ांग ला का युद्ध, विश्व की दस सबसे महान और चुनौतीपूर्ण सैन्य संघर्षों में से एक माना जाता है। pic.twitter.com/9QushWdU4K
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 18, 2021
Paid tributes to India’s bravehearts at Rezang La today. The nation will never forget their courage, valour and supreme sacrifice. pic.twitter.com/0k0M2glQhJ
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 18, 2021
The Indian Army had occupied a number of mountain peaks in Rezang La region in August last year following China's aggressive posturing and failed attempt to intimidate Indian troops.
The eastern Ladakh border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 last year following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry.
The tension escalated following a deadly clash in Galwan Valley on June 15 last year.
As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in February and in the Gogra area in August.
The last round of military talks on October 10 ended in a stalemate following which both sides blamed each other for the impasse.
In a strong statement after the 13th round of talks, the Indian Army said the "constructive suggestions" made by it at the negotiations were neither agreeable to the Chinese side nor could Beijing provide any "forward-looking" proposals.
Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the sensitive sector.
Tripathi's convoy was targeted at Sehkan village in Churachandpur district by suspected militants of the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), a militant group in Manipur demanding a separate homeland.
Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) burst, shattering tenuous peace in Manipur hills, before the Assam Rifles personnel engaged the militants in a firefight.
"In the firefight which followed with the Militants (Suspected PREPAK/ PLA cadres) the Commanding officer and three QRT (quick response team) personnel lost their lives on the spot. The family of the Commanding officer (wife and 6 yr old son) also lost their lives. The other injured personnel were admitted at Behianga health care center," Assam Rifles said in a press statement.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also condemned the incident.
"The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful & condemnable. The nation has lost 5 brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members. My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon," he Tweeted.
The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful & condemnable. The nation has lost 5 brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 13, 2021
My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.
Though the defence minister's tweet indicated one more personnel was killed, there was no immediate confirmation from Assam Rifles, the oldest paramilitary force in the country raised in 1835 under the British rule.
It is under the administrative jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) but operational control of the Indian Army.
Assam Rifles euologised the slain officer who had previously served in Mizoram until his transfer to Manipur in July 2021.
"During his tenure at Mizoram, under his able and energetic leadership, the Battalion has been at the forefront in Border management thwarting illegal smuggling in the IMB and hinterland. Battalion has also recovered several weapons & War like stores which could have landed in the hands of Anti National elements thus avoiding major casualties.
"Col Viplav though his remarkable endeavors has bonded closely with the locals of Mizoram. The Anti Drug campaign conducted by his battalion in January 2021 received several laurels and praise & the awareness was rightfully created by him in the entire state including the remote villages to ensure the youth are guided in the right direction," the statement said, adding his "goodwill for the society will last an eternity".
The Assam Rifles statement said it suspected that the insurgent group responsible for this massacre "must be from PREPAK cadre as the PREPAK remembrance day is celebrated on 12/13 November 2021".
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the bereaved families
PM Modi's Twitter post read: "Strongly condemn the attack on the Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur. I pay homage to those soldiers and family members who have been martyred today. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of sadness."
Strongly condemn the attack on the Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur. I pay homage to those soldiers and family members who have been martyred today. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of sadness.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 13, 2021
BJP's National Vice President Baijayant Jay Panda condemned the terrorist attack. He Tweeted: "I strongly condemn the devious terrorist attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur. The perpetrators of such violence & their sponsors will be punished. My prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured & deepest condolences to the bereaved families.."
I strongly condemn the devious terrorist attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur. The perpetrators of such violence & their sponsors will be punished. My prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured & deepest condolences to the bereaved families.
— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) November 13, 2021
Om Shanti 🙏🙏
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condemned the attack and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured while expressing condolences for the bereaved families of the soldiers martyred in the attack.
"Strongly condemn the dastardly attack on #AssamRifles convoy in #Manipur. My condolences for the bereaved families of the bravehearts and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured," he Tweeted.
Strongly condemn the dastardly attack on #AssamRifles convoy in #Manipur. My condolences for the bereaved families of the bravehearts and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) November 13, 2021
Later in the day, President Ram Nath Kovind condemning the terrorist attack, he Tweeted: "The attack on the Assam Rifles convoy that led to martyrdom of our soldiers and family members in Manipur deserves unreserved condemnation. This cowardly act reaffirms our resolve to root out terror in all its forms and manifestations. We stand united with the bereaved families."
The attack on the Assam Rifles convoy that led to martyrdom of our soldiers and family members in Manipur deserves unreserved condemnation. This cowardly act reaffirms our resolve to root out terror in all its forms and manifestations. We stand united with the bereaved families.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 13, 2021
Union Home Minister Amit Shah deeply anguished over the incident, Tweeted: "Anguished over a cowardly attack on Assam Riffles convoy in Manipur. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. The entire nation stands firmly with our valiant security forces. The sacrifices of our brave soldiers will not go in vain."
Anguished over a cowardly attack on Assam Riffles convoy in Manipur. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. The entire nation stands firmly with our valiant security forces. The sacrifices of our brave soldiers will not go in vain.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 13, 2021
Two proscribed militant organisations claimed responsibility for the ambush on an Assam Rifles team, in which seven people including a commander and his family members were killed, in Manipur on Saturday.
In a joint statement, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the Manipur Naga People's Front (MNPF) claimed that they have carried out the attack on the paramilitary force at Sehkan village in Churachandpur district.
Colonel Viplav Tripathi, the Commanding Officer of Khuga Battalion of Assam Rifles, his wife and six-year-old son, besides four personnel of the force were killed in the attack.
(With Inputs From Nitesh Kumar)
Addressing the second bi-annual Indian Air Force Commanders' Conference at the air headquarters, he stressed that the role of IAF in future conflicts is crucial and it needs to harness the capabilities and opportunities offered by Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Handling, and Machine Learning.
Rajnath Singh also mentioned that the efforts in the field of indigenisation through 'Make in India' initiative of the government are showing results and the orders of LCA Mk 1A and C-295 will open new opportunities in the indigenous aerospace sector.
Expounding on theaterisation, he noted that enhancing jointness is essential and the structure should be evolved after closely examining various options, and inputs from all stake holders would be taken into consideration.
He exhorted the commanders to brainstorm to evolve viable solutions towards the conference theme of "Ensuring Certainty amidst Uncertainities".
The minister also appreciated the IAF for maintaining a high level of preparedness, ability to respond on a short notice and displaying high standards of professionalism in carrying out operational and peace time tasks.
Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari briefed him on the current status of the force.
Addressing all commanders, the IAF chief emphasised the need to develop multi-domain capability in order to give a swift and befitting response to any misadventures by our adversaries.
Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari also emphasised on the need for joint training with the Indian Army and Indian Navy to enable synergised application of combat power in future conflicts.
The Commanders' Conference is being conducted from November 10 to November 12.
As uncertainty in the geo-political landscape makes it an imperative for the armed forces to train, equip and adapt to rapid changes, top commanders will, during the Conference, discuss and brainstorm situations which may affect national security and focus on measures to enhance operational capability.
Issues pertaining to strengthening training and optimising human resource policies for effective utilisation of manpower will also be discussed.
Birthday greetings to respected Advani Ji. Praying for his long and healthy life. The nation remains indebted to him for his numerous efforts towards empowering people and enhancing our cultural pride. He is also widely respected for his scholarly pursuits and rich intellect.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 8, 2021
Praising Advani, Rajnath Singh also said in a tweet: "Birthday wishes to our guide and inspiration. Advani is counted among those most respected leaders whose scholarship, foresight and intellect are acknowledged by everyone."
हम सबके प्रेरणास्रोत एवं मार्गदर्शक, श्रद्धेय लालकृष्ण आडवाणी जी को उनके जन्मदिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। वे भारत के उन सबसे सम्मानित नेताओं में गिने जाते हैं, जिनकी विद्वता, दूरदर्शिता, बौद्धिक क्षमता और राजनय का लोहा सभी मानते हैं। ईश्वर उन्हें स्वस्थ रखे एवं दीर्घायु करे।
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 8, 2021
Nadda said: "Best wishes to the leader who took the party to the masses and played a key role in the country's development. Advani is an inspiration for crores of party workers. I wish party's former national president a long and healthy life."
भाजपा को जन-जन तक पहुंचाने और देश के विकास में अहम भूमिका निभाने वाले आदरणीय श्री लालकृष्ण आडवाणी जी को जन्मदिन की बहुत-बहुत बधाई।आडवाणी जी पार्टी के करोड़ों कार्यकर्ताओं के प्रेरणास्रोत हैं। मैं ईश्वर से आपकी दीर्घ आयु और स्वस्थ जीवन की प्रार्थना करता हूं। pic.twitter.com/9Di7saimVl
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) November 8, 2021
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also wished the nonagenarian leader and prayed for his long and healthy life.
Birthday greetings to Shri LK Advani Ji. Praying for his long and healthy life.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 8, 2021
Advani, who began his political career as a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh volunteer, had served as the Minister of Home Affairs from 1998 to 2004.
He had also served as Deputy Prime Minister; Minister of Coal and Mines; Minister of Information and Broadcasting; and Minister of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
The nonagenarian was one of the key figures of the "Ram Janmabhoomi movement".
Advani was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian honour in 2015.
Perched at an altitude of 13,800 ft, Sela pass on the 317 km long Balipara-Charduar-Tawang (BCT) road connects West Kameng, East Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh to the rest of the country. It reduces travel time and provides all weather connectivity to Tawang.
Singh commended Border Road Organisation for making significant contribution to the progress of the Nation by constructing of roads, bridges, tunnels and airfields at record altitudes under extreme weather conditions and making remote areas visible on connectivity maps.
He said the efforts of BRO to strengthen border infrastructure have enhanced the operational readiness of the Armed Forces, encouraged tourism in far-flung areas and generated employment for local population. This state-of-the-art tunnel will prove to be a lifeline for not just Tawang but the entire state, he added.
Singh made special mention of the construction of Atal Tunnel, Rohtang, which is world's longest highway tunnel at 10,000 feet and Umlingla Pass, the highest motorable pass in the world at 19,300 feet in Eastern Ladakh. He said, these recent achievements of BRO have become a subject of study for the whole world.
Apart from presiding over breakthrough blast of main tube of Sela Tunnel via video conferencing, Singh flagged-off a motorcycle expedition at an event organised by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in New Delhi.
Referring to motorcycle expedition', Singh described the expedition as a fitting tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the service of the nation. The expedition is part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' which is being celebrated across the country to commemorate 75 years of Independence.
Seventy five riders from BRO, including Indian Army and General Reserve Engineer Force personnel, will cover approximately 20,000 km over the next 75 days.
The personnel will interact with local people, school children, gallantry award winners, ex-Servicemen and Veer Naris; conduct medical camps and raise awareness on Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and road safety.
Singh hoped that the expedition will instill the message of national integration and nation building among people especially the youth. He stressed that besides adventure, such activities have an important aspect of defence and security.
"We can gather additional information about border security and its challenges through such campaigns. Our Army has given a lot of encouragement to such activities and it has helped them to gather information related to security," he said.
He called for reaching out to general public for promotion of such activities, emphasising that these can play a big role in encouraging tourism, generating employment and strengthening local economy.