Rajnath Singh hails forces for Operation Sindoor, highlights firm stand on terror

India’s swift and successful action in Operation Sindoor is proof that the nation “gives a befitting reply to those who do not understand the language of peace and goodwill,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday while addressing the Sardar Sabha in Vadodara during the ‘Unity March’ organised to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

The Defence Minister lauded the Armed Forces for the precision and bravery displayed during Operation Sindoor, launched in response to heightened terror threats in the Kashmir region. The operation, which reinforced India’s offensive counter-terror posture, followed the decisive Pahalgam attack, where Indian forces neutralised a high-value terror module attempting to infiltrate the region. Singh said these actions demonstrated India’s capability and willingness to respond firmly whenever its sovereignty is challenged.

“We are a peace-loving nation and never provoke anyone. But if provoked, we do not spare those who cast an evil eye,” he asserted, adding that Operation Sindoor has further strengthened global recognition of India’s military resolve and professionalism.

Drawing parallels between India’s current approach to national security and Sardar Patel’s decisive leadership during the integration of princely states, Singh said the government continues to follow Patel’s principles of unity, strength, and strategic clarity. He highlighted that India, once “surrounded by doubts,” now engages the world “on its own terms” and is steadily emerging as a major economic and strategic power.

Referring to landmark decisions under the current government including the abrogation of Article 370 he said Sardar Patel’s dream of ‘One India, Best India’ has been given renewed strength under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

Singh also outlined the government’s goal to achieve ₹3 lakh crore in defence production and ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, crediting the Make-in-India initiative for transforming India from an importer to a rising exporter of military equipment. Defence exports, he said, have grown nearly 34-fold in 11 years.

He further reiterated the government’s push for clean governance, pointing to the proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, which would mandate that any top public officeholder arrested on serious charges and denied bail for 30 days be automatically removed from their post.

Calling upon the youth to uphold national unity and integrity, Singh said future generations must carry forward Sardar Patel’s values of discipline, service, and patriotism. “It is our responsibility to keep the country united and prepare our youth for a developed India,” he added.

The event was attended by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje, among others.