Jaipur, Jan 15 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized on Thursday that Operation Sindoor remains ongoing, asserting that India's commitment to peace will persist until the ideology of terrorism is fully extinguished.

Speaking at the Shaurya Sandhya (Evening of Valour) event at the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Stadium for Army Day, Rajnath Singh remarked: “Operation Sindoor is not yet completely over because our quest for peace will continue until the terrorist mindset is eradicated. I proclaim this from the valiant soil of Rajasthan.”

As Army paratroopers landed within the stadium, the air was filled with enthusiastic chants of ‘Jai Ho’, enhancing the patriotic spirit in the presence of the Defence Minister. Singh noted that Operation Sindoor not only showcased India's military prowess but also its national integrity.

“The operations against terrorists were executed with strategic foresight and humanitarian principles. Hence, Operation Sindoor will be remembered not merely as a military initiative but as a testament to bravery coupled with restraint,” he stated.

Earlier that day, Jaipur experienced a magnificent display of military might with BrahMos missiles, Bhishma and Arjun tanks, Pinaka rocket launchers, robotic dogs, and other advanced technology parading through the streets.

Apache attack helicopters performed aerial maneuvers, while Jaguar fighter jets arrived from the Nal (Bikaner) airbase, captivating large crowds.

This year marked the first time the Army Day Parade took place outside a military cantonment, with thousands of citizens lining Mahal Road in Jagatpura to witness this historic occasion. The parade commenced with the presentation of Army Medals (Gallantry) to soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Operation Sindoor. Recipients of prestigious awards like the Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Maha Vir Chakra led the formation.

During the ceremony, Rajnath Singh awarded a gallantry medal to the widow of martyred Subedar Major Pawan Kumar. In a poignant moment, the mother of Lance Naik Pradeep Kumar from 1 Para Special Forces, who fell in Operation Sindoor, fainted on stage while receiving the Army Medal and was promptly taken to the hospital.

Highlighting the contribution of women in the armed forces, the Defence Minister noted that traditional and cultural barriers historically limited opportunities for women in the Army, but significant progress is underway. “The process has started, and women have been admitted to the National Defence Academy since 2021,” he stated.

Rajnath Singh also addressed the current global security climate.

“The world is in a state of uncertainty where established norms are being questioned. In such times, reinforcing and modernizing our armed forces is critical,” he asserted, adding that India is striving to make its Army one of the most formidable globally by 2047.

He stated that the Indian Army has emerged as a beacon of peace for the world, reinforcing India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

At the event, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Command, remarked that Rajasthan has produced legendary warriors like Maharana Pratap and Rana Sanga, contributing illustrious regiments such as the Rajputana Rifles, Rajput Regiment, and Jat Regiment.

The Shaurya Sandhya concluded with cultural performances that celebrated the bravery, sacrifice, and professionalism of the Indian Army.