National security remains the topmost priority for the Indian government, with a commitment to protecting the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of the country. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted this during his address at the National Security Conclave held in Jammu on June 26, 2023. He emphasized that India has undergone a significant shift in its security scenario over the past nine years, transforming from a perceived weak nation to one with the ability to overcome any threat.
Paradigm Shift in India’s Security Scenario:
Raksha Mantri elaborated on the blueprint for national security, highlighting the government’s four directive principles. These principles aim to equip the country to handle security and sovereignty threats, safeguard national interests, create safe conditions for progress and the well-being of citizens, and foster an environment of collaboration with friendly nations to tackle global challenges like terrorism.
Strengthening Armed Forces and Countering Terrorism:
Rajnath Singh reassured the nation that every effort is being made to provide the military with state-of-the-art weapons and cutting-edge technology. He emphasized that the Indian Armed Forces are fully capable of protecting the borders and seas, aiming to position them at the forefront of modern militaries. He highlighted India’s unwavering commitment to “zero tolerance against terrorism” and the bold actions taken to eliminate terrorists following incidents like Uri and Pulwama. The Raksha Mantri emphasized that India’s resolute stance against terrorism has garnered international support and changed global perceptions.
Addressing Security Challenges in Jammu & Kashmir and China Border:
Regarding the security situation in Jammu & Kashmir, Rajnath Singh highlighted the substantial weakening of the terrorism network in recent years due to consistent and strict actions taken by the government. Terror funding has been curbed, the supply of arms and drugs to terrorists has been halted, and efforts to dismantle the network of underground workers are underway. He also addressed the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), reiterating that it is an integral part of India and Pakistan has no locus standi in the region.
On the matter of the China border, the Raksha Mantri characterized it as a matter of perceptional difference. He stressed the importance of adhering to agreed protocols for patrolling. While referring to the standoff in East Ladakh in 2020, he commended the valor and dedication of the Indian Army in preventing attempts by the PLA to change the status quo. Rajnath Singh emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving the border issue through peaceful dialogue and assured the nation that India’s borders, honor, and self-respect will never be compromised.
Measures to Bolster National Security:
The Defense Minister highlighted a range of initiatives undertaken by the government to strengthen national security. These include strengthening border infrastructure, achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing (Aatmanirbharta), and enhancing defense exports. He highlighted the positive indigenization lists and the allocation of 75% of the defense capital procurement budget for the domestic industry in the financial year 2023-24. Rajnath Singh emphasized the government’s vision of making India a global hub for defense manufacturing and highlighted the significant progress made in manufacturing tanks, aircraft carriers, submarines, and various weapons.
Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s global image has witnessed a significant transformation. Rajnath Singh emphasized that the world now keenly listens to India on international forums due to the Prime Minister’s credibility and India’s growing stature.
Strategic Partnerships and Defence Cooperation:
The Raksha Mantri emphasized the importance of coordination with major world powers such as the United States and Russia to protect India’s security interests in a globalized world. He highlighted the strengthening India-US strategic partnership, which has witnessed rapid growth in defense cooperation, military-to-military engagements, information sharing, and collaboration in areas like artificial intelligence, cyber, space, and logistics support. “He stressed the need for India to align its security concerns with other countries in its extended neighborhood, recognizing India as a major regional power”.
Indigenous Defence Manufacturing and Technology Collaborations:
Rajnath Singh mentioned the GE Aerospace-Hindustan Aeronautics Limited deal to co-produce F-414 fighter jet engines in India. He highlighted that with this deal, India will become the fourth country to manufacture jet engines, which will be fitted in Tejas aircraft. He also addressed speculative reports on the purchase of MQ-9B drones from the US, stating that the Ministry of Defence will follow established procurement procedures and compare acquisition costs with the best price offered by General Atomics to different countries.
