— Tri-service synergy showcases India’s integrated military strength on global stage
— Govt asserts zero tolerance policy: terror to be countered across all dimensions
— Indigenous defence, exports and AI-led warfare redefine deterrence strategy
— India emerges as technology-driven security power amid evolving global threats
— Clear message to adversaries: operations executed and halted on India’s own terms
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, APR 30
India has decisively moved beyond the era of restrained diplomatic responses to terrorism, with Operation Sindoor marking a bold shift in national security doctrine, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while addressing a National Security Summit in New Delhi.
“Operation Sindoor conveyed an unequivocal global message that India is no longer bound by the old mindset of merely issuing diplomatic statements when terror attacks are perpetrated on its soil, and that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government has moved beyond mere intent and rhetoric by demonstrating its unwavering commitment through decisive action,” said Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh.
He reiterated the government’s firm resolve, asserting that terrorism in any form will not be tolerated, describing surgical strikes, air strikes, and Operation Sindoor as clear manifestations of India’s uncompromising stance.
TERRORISM: A BATTLE FOR HUMANITY
Calling terrorism a grave threat to civilisation, the Defence Minister said: “Terrorism emanates from a distorted and perverse mindset. It casts a dark stain on humanity. The battle against terrorism is not merely a matter of national security; it is, fundamentally, a battle to safeguard the core values of humanity. It is a fight against a barbaric ideology that stands in direct opposition to every human value. We have articulated this Indian perspective, both within the country and abroad.”
He warned against attempts to legitimise terror through ideological or religious narratives:
“Attempts are made to justify terrorism by giving it a religious colour or linking it to a violent ideology such as Naxalism. This is extremely dangerous and, in a way, provides cover fire to terrorists so they can slowly advance toward their goal. Terrorism is not just an anti-national act; it has multiple dimensions – operational, ideological, and political. It can only be dealt with if we tackle all these dimensions.”
STRONG MESSAGE TO PAKISTAN
Highlighting global perceptions, the Defence Minister remarked:
“Both, India and Pakistan attained independence at the same time. However, today India is recognised globally for IT i.e., ‘Information Technology’, while Pakistan is regarded as the epicenter of a different IT i.e., ‘International Terrorism’”.
OPERATION SINDOOR: PRECISION, POWER, CONTROL
Describing Operation Sindoor as a hallmark of military integration, he said India’s armed forces acted in perfect coordination:
“We executed & halted the operation on our own terms”.
He elaborated:
“During the course of the operation, we targeted, with absolute precision, only those who had perpetrated the attack against us. We did not halt the operation because our capabilities had been exhausted or diminished. We halted it entirely on our own terms. We were fully prepared to sustain a prolonged conflict. We possess the requisite surge capacity, and the inherent strength to rapidly scale up our capabilities in moments of sudden crisis.”
He further underscored that India did not succumb to nuclear threats and successfully achieved its objectives, reinforcing the emergence of a “New India” in a “New World Order.”
INDIGENOUS POWER & EXPORT SURGE
The Defence Minister highlighted India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities and global demand:
“Numerous nations have expressed keen interest in procuring weapons and defence equipment from India. The figures say it all. In the Financial Year 2025-26, defence exports reached a record high of Rs 38,424 crore, a staggering surge of 62.66% compared to the previous fiscal year. We remain steadfastly committed to further advancing our efforts to surpass these benchmarks.”
He added that European companies are increasingly collaborating with Indian defence firms, signalling rising global confidence.
AI-LED WARFARE & FUTURE READINESS
Emphasising the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence, he said:
“From state-of-the-art missile systems like BrahMos used during Operation Sindoor to various surveillance platforms, AI has been deployed with great effectiveness across the board. It has elevated our precision and strike capabilities.”
Highlighting its operational utility:
“AI also stands for ‘Augmented Infantry’. It is significantly enhancing the capabilities of our troops.”
On strategic systems, he noted:
“Sudarshan Air Defence system is a massive project that serves as a prime example of the exemplary application of AI… Through such new and emerging technologies, our nation will not only become more secure but also grow stronger and more prosperous.”
At the same time, he cautioned against emerging risks:
“If AI were to spiral out of control, the very tool we created for our protection could ultimately become the instrument of destruction. Therefore, our endeavor must be to ensure that AI becomes a force that guides us, rather than one that leads us astray.”
TECH, TALENT & NATIONAL STRATEGY
The Defence Minister highlighted initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission, expansion of computing infrastructure, and global AI leadership, reaffirming India’s commitment to “AI for All” and inclusive technological growth.
Senior officials including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat, and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit were present at the summit.
