Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday, 20 June 2026 credited India's self-reliance push — Aatmanirbharta — as a decisive factor behind the success of Operation Sindoor, speaking at the headquarters of the Eastern Air Command (EAC) in Shillong, Meghalaya. Addressing air warriors of the EAC, Singh called the operation a historic demonstration of India's growing strategic strength.

What Rajnath Singh Said

'Through Operation Sindoor, we demonstrated to terrorists and their handlers that India will not compromise on its security and sovereignty,' Singh said. 'The capability, vigilance and firm resolve of our defence forces have once again showcased India's growing strength to the world. Formations such as the Eastern Air Command have emerged as active partners in this broader national vision.'

Singh also underscored the need for technological agility, strategic foresight and institutional innovation to maintain robust preparedness amid the uncertainties of the present-day world order.

Emerging Threats and Modern Warfare

Addressing the assembled air warriors, the Defence Minister identified hybrid threats, cyber challenges, information warfare, logistics resilience, supply chain security and drones as critical elements in the constantly evolving nature of warfare. He asserted that traditional preparedness alone is no longer sufficient for the defence forces to meet these challenges.

Singh reiterated the imperative for India to achieve full Aatmanirbharta — self-reliance in defence — to secure the nation entirely on its own terms.

Eastern Air Command's Role Highlighted

Calling the EAC an essential pillar of security for India's eastern frontier, Singh commended the command for its pivotal role in strengthening national security. '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 in every situation,' he said.

The Defence Minister also underlined the strategic importance of the northeastern region, stating that the northeastern states are not merely part of India's geographical boundaries but a crucial pillar of the country's security, prosperity and strategic power. He linked the region directly to India's Act East Policy, noting that its importance has grown further as India strengthens its global role.

Women in Defence Forces

Singh highlighted the growing participation of women in the armed forces, framing it as both an institutional advance and a reflection of India's cultural values. 'The growing role of women in the defence forces represents more than just institutional advancement. It is a testament to the cultural values for which India is known around the world,' he said.

Senior Officers Present

The event was attended by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, and Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the EAC, along with other senior officers of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Singh is scheduled to celebrate International Day of Yoga 2026 with EAC air warriors on Sunday, 21 June. His visit signals continued high-level attention to India's eastern defence architecture in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor.