Ahmedabad, Dec 2 (NationPress) In a powerful statement directed at its neighboring country, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized on Tuesday that India is fundamentally a peace-loving nation that does not instigate conflict. However, he asserted that the country is fully prepared to take decisive action against anyone who threatens peace and harmony.

"India is a peace-loving nation. We provoke no one. But if provoked, we do not spare anyone who casts an evil eye on our motherland," Rajnath Singh warned, sending a clear message to Pakistan while addressing attendees at a Sardar Sabha event in Vadodara during the ‘Unity March’ organized by MY Bharat in honor of the 150th birth anniversary of Vallabhbhai Patel.

The Defence Minister pointed to Operation Sindoor as conclusive evidence that India responds effectively to those who disregard the principles of peace and goodwill.

He commended the armed forces for their successful operation, highlighting that their bravery and skill are now recognized worldwide.

Drawing parallels between India’s resolute actions against terrorism and Patel's unyielding leadership during the integration of Hyderabad, Singh reinforced the significance of strong leadership in safeguarding the nation.

He also noted that the vision of 'One India, Best India' articulated by Patel has been furthered under Prime Minister Modi, pointing to the abrogation of Article 370 as a pivotal step in integrating Jammu & Kashmir into the national framework.

According to Singh, India’s transformation from the 11th to the 4th position in the global economic hierarchy since 2014 is a testament to the Union government's approach of 'Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.'

He expressed that the government is uniting India through cultural, social, and economic cohesion, striving towards the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.

On defence, Singh indicated a commitment to modernize in line with Patel's vision, mentioning a substantial increase in defence exports—34 times higher over the last 11 years—and reiterated ambitions of achieving Rs 3 lakh crore in defence production and Rs 50,000 crore in exports by 2029 under the Make-in-India initiative.

He also emphasized the government's intent to enhance accountability through the proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, which stipulates that officials arrested on serious charges and denied bail within 30 days will automatically lose their positions.

Encouraging the youth to uphold the values of unity and integrity, Singh asserted that the duty to protect the nation's sovereignty lies with the upcoming generation. "We must not only adopt Patel's values but also prepare future generations to embody them," he stated.