- Joins Armed Forces personnel for ‘Barakhana’ in Bhuj on Vijayadashami eve
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
BHUJ, OCT 1
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday celebrated Vijayadashami with soldiers of the Armed Forces in Bhuj, Gujarat, where he joined them for the traditional ‘Barakhana’. Addressing the troops, he called on them to embrace modern technologies, prioritize rigorous training, and remain prepared for every challenge in the evolving security environment.
“In this era of rapid change, the very nature of technology is constantly evolving. What was considered modern yesterday becomes outdated today. Wars are no longer fought with weapons alone, but with discipline, morale, and adaptability. The force that remains invincible is the one that continuously learns and adapts to new challenges,” he said.
Rajnath Singh underlined that traditional threats continue to persist, but newer challenges such as terrorism, cyber intrusions, drone warfare, and information manipulation demand multi-dimensional responses. “Mental strength, updated knowledge and quick adaptability are as critical as weapons,” he emphasised.
Extending greetings on Vijayadashami, he said the festival symbolises the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood and righteousness over injustice. He expressed pride in celebrating the occasion with soldiers in Bhuj — a land that has exemplified courage and resilience in the 1971 war, the Kargil conflict of 1999, and in rebuilding after the 2001 earthquake.
Assuring the soldiers of the Government’s unwavering commitment, the Defence Minister stressed: “The well-being of our soldiers is non-negotiable. The dream of a strong, self-reliant and developed India rests on your shoulders. It is through your dedication and sacrifice that this dream is being realised.”
Calling the 21st century the “era of India”, Rajnath Singh said the country, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is advancing rapidly towards defence self-reliance. “With the commitment of our Armed Forces, India will soon be home to one of the finest militaries in the world,” he asserted.
The event was also attended by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Army Command, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, and Corps Commander, 12 Corps, Lieutenant General Aditya Vikram Singh Rathee.
