- ‘National Security Is a Collective Duty, Not Just Armed Forces’ Responsibility
- Citizens Urged to Reject Misinformation, Uphold Law & Put Nation Above Self
- ‘India Surrounded by Hostile Actors’: Calls for Optimum Resource Utilisation
- Media Must Act Responsibly; Sensationalism Can Endanger National Stability
- Aatmanirbhar Defence Push Hits Record ₹1.51 Lakh Cr Production, Exports Surge 62.66%
- War Heroes, Veer Naris Honoured; Sacrifice & Unity Key to Viksit Bharat Vision
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, APR 12
In a powerful message blending national resolve with civic responsibility, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored that national security is a shared responsibility of every citizen, asserting that its strength lies as much in public discipline and awareness as in military might.
Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he said, “National security, an indispensable pillar of India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat, is a collective duty of every citizen, and not the sole responsibility of the defence forces.” He added that while soldiers remain the first line of defence, unity, discipline, and awareness among citizens determine the nation’s resilience.
Citizens Must Rise Above Self in Uncertain Times
Highlighting the evolving global security landscape, the Defence Minister called for proactive civic participation.
“No individual can remain passive in the prevailing global uncertainties. Safeguarding national interests requires coordinated efforts across all sections of society. The citizens must contribute meaningfully to national security by abiding by the law, rejecting misinformation, and placing the nation’s interests above personal gains.”
Warning of external challenges, he said, “As a nation, we find ourselves surrounded by various hostile actors. We need to ensure optimum utilisation of every resource at our disposal.”
Misinformation: A Silent Threat to Stability
Terming information as a powerful tool, he cautioned against the dangers of misinformation and rumours.
“Misinformation and rumors have the potential to create instability within the society.”
Emphasising the media’s responsibility, he added:
“The media is not merely a medium to disseminate news, it is a powerful institution that shapes public opinion. It must recognise that if sensitive issues pertaining to national security are misrepresented, driven by a pursuit of sensationalism, the repercussions could be severe. The media, a key partner in nation-building, bears the responsibility of ensuring that the content it presents serves national interest and does not fuel unnecessary fear or confusion.”
No Compromise on Security, Strong Push for Self-Reliance
Reiterating the government’s unwavering stance, he said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there is no compromise on national security, with equal emphasis on welfare and defence preparedness.
He highlighted India’s growing defence capabilities: “The annual defence production touched a record high figure of Rs 1.51 lakh crore in the Financial Year 2024-25, with defence exports soaring to an all-time high of Rs 38,424 crore in 2025-26, a staggering increase of 62.66% over the previous financial year.”
He expressed confidence in future targets: “Our efforts are laying the bedrock for an Aatmanirbhar & Sashakt Bharat. Given the pace at which we are advancing, India will soon become self-reliant in the defence sector, and find itself among the leading nations of the world.”
Viksit Bharat: Beyond Infrastructure, Towards Shared Responsibility
Defence Minister stressed that the vision of Viksit Bharat goes beyond infrastructure.
“Viksit Bharat is not merely about physical infrastructure, it is also about fostering a society rooted in mutual responsibility, where no one is left behind.”
Drawing inspiration from the armed forces, he said the spirit of ‘unit cohesion’ must guide national progress, even in challenging times.
Saluting Heroes & Their Silent Pillars of Strength
The event witnessed the felicitation of war heroes and families of fallen soldiers, including Param Vir Chakra awardee Yogendra Singh Yadav and next-of-kin of several gallantry award winners.
Paying tributes, he said, “Their tales of valour continue to inspire the people, especially the youth, and instill in them the values of courage, patriotism, and a strong sense of duty.”
He also acknowledged the families of martyrs: “Whenever I interact with the families of the fallen heroes, I do sense their grief, but deep within lies a profound sense of pride, free from any complaint. Such resilience originates from a culture where sacrifice is revered as the supreme value.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and GOC-in-C Central Command Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta were among the dignitaries present.
