SHILLONG: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stressed that technological agility, strategic foresight and institutional innovation are now indispensable for India’s security preparedness in an increasingly uncertain global environment. Addressing soldiers at the Eastern Air Command headquarters in Shillong, Meghalaya, he said that the changing nature of warfare demands a comprehensive transformation in defence capabilities.
India Must Prepare For New-Age Warfare
Speaking to armed forces personnel, Rajnath Singh highlighted that modern warfare is no longer limited to conventional military confrontations. He pointed out that hybrid threats, cyber warfare, information manipulation, drone technology, logistics resilience and supply chain security have emerged as decisive factors in global conflicts. He asserted that traditional defence preparedness alone would not be sufficient to counter these evolving challenges.
He urged defence institutions to remain adaptive and forward-looking in their approach.“Technological agility, strategic foresight and institutional innovation are essential for robust preparedness in today’s uncertain world order,” Rajnath Singh said.
‘Aatmanirbharta’ At The Centre Of National Security Vision
The Defence Minister strongly advocated for self-reliance in defence production, describing Aatmanirbharta as a strategic necessity rather than merely an economic objective.
He said India must possess the capability to secure itself on its own terms without depending excessively on foreign systems or technologies. According to him, indigenous defence capabilities have already started delivering significant results. “Aatmanirbharta is key to ensure national security on our own terms,” he said.
He added that the country’s efforts toward domestic manufacturing, innovation and indigenous military systems have strengthened operational readiness across all branches of the armed forces.
Operation Sindoor Highlighted As A Symbol Of India’s Resolve
Rajnath Singh also referred to Operation Sindoor, calling it a historic demonstration of India’s growing capabilities and determination. He said the operation sent a strong message that India would not tolerate threats to its sovereignty and security.
“Through Operation Sindoor, we demonstrated to terrorists and their handlers that India will not compromise on its security and sovereignty,” he said. The Defence Minister further stated that the vigilance, courage and operational capabilities displayed by the armed forces have elevated India’s standing globally.
He noted that formations such as the Eastern Air Command have become active contributors to India’s broader national security vision.
Eastern Air Command Praised For Strategic Role
Rajnath Singh described the Eastern Air Command as one of the country’s most critical security pillars, especially considering India’s eastern frontier and its strategic sensitivities.
He lauded the force for maintaining professionalism across a wide spectrum of responsibilities ranging from border management and disaster response to peacetime deployment and high-altitude operations. “Whether on the battlefield, during peacetime deployment, disaster response, high-altitude operations or border management, the Eastern Air Command has consistently demonstrated professionalism, courage and commitment,” he said.
The Defence Minister acknowledged the difficult conditions under which soldiers operate and credited their dedication for ensuring national security and stability.
Tribute To Soldiers’ Sacrifices
Addressing the troops directly, Rajnath Singh praised their unwavering service to the nation. He said citizens across the country are able to live securely because of the sacrifices made by military personnel deployed in challenging environments.
He also highlighted the armed forces’ role during humanitarian crises and natural disasters.“Whenever the nation faces a natural disaster or a crisis, you are always the first to step forward to provide assistance,” he said. “The nation will forever remain indebted to your service.”
His remarks underscored the dual responsibility of the armed forces as both protectors of national borders and responders during emergencies.
North-East Increasingly Important In India’s Global Strategy
The Defence Minister emphasised that the North-East is no longer viewed solely through a geographical lens but as a region central to India’s economic and strategic ambitions. He said the region plays a pivotal role in strengthening India’s Act East Policy and expanding its international engagement.
“Today, as India strengthens its role on the global stage, the importance of the North East has grown even further,” Rajnath Singh said. The statement reflects the government’s broader efforts to transform the North-East into a gateway connecting India with Southeast Asian economies and strategic partners.
Defence Forces Symbolise National Unity
Concluding his address, Rajnath Singh described the armed forces as a reflection of India’s diversity and unity. He said the military fosters an environment where mutual respect, shared values and collective purpose thrive naturally.
The Defence Minister also highlighted the increasing participation of women in the armed forces, calling it a testament to India’s ability to balance modernisation with cultural values.
Senior Indian Air Force officials, including AP Singh and Inderpal Singh Walia, were present during the interaction. Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to celebrate International Yoga Day 2026 with troops stationed at the Eastern Air Command headquarters.
