Rajnath Singh Calls for Enhanced Military Responses in India
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Synopsis
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the urgent need to bolster India's offensive and defensive military strategies due to the current geopolitical unrest. He highlighted the crucial role of both the Armed Forces and the civilian workforce in enhancing national security.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening military responses is crucial.
- Consultative approaches are necessary for future planning.
- The civilian workforce plays a vital role in defense.
- Maritime security directly ties to India's economic prosperity.
- Increased naval presence is essential in the IOR.
New Delhi, Jan 17 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of enhancing India’s offensive and defensive strategies in light of the ongoing disruptions in the rules-based international order.
During an event to mark 2024 as the Year of Naval Civilians, the Defence Minister pointed out the growing challenges faced by the Armed Forces amidst a tense geopolitical security landscape, advocating for an immediate boost in the nation's critical capabilities.
“Evaluating the last decade from a defence and security viewpoint, we observe it has been a volatile period. Various global conflicts and wars necessitate thorough planning, resource allocation, and budgeting for our security,” he stated.
“A consultative approach is essential. Inputs from all stakeholders are crucial to tackle future challenges effectively. Our forces must be equipped and prepared to adapt to evolving circumstances,” Rajnath Singh stated.
He underscored the significant role of the civilian workforce, a vital component of the Armed Forces, in the planning stages.
The Defence Minister asserted that the military is advancing with a substantial mandate and intricate structure, with the civilian workforce, termed “soldiers without uniforms,” offering essential support to the troops.
He highlighted that qualities such as patriotism, valour, and discipline empower soldiers to fulfill their duty of safeguarding the nation from threats, urging the civilian workforce to embody these values to enhance security infrastructure.
“In a broader context of national service, every responsible civilian is a soldier without uniform, and every soldier is a civilian in uniform,” he remarked.
Given India’s strategic position and its geopolitical context in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), Rajnath Singh reiterated the commitment of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government to fortify the Navy, describing it as a necessity in contemporary times.
He noted the recent commissioning of three state-of-the-art warships - INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer - constructed in India by Mazagon Dock Limited, emphasizing it was a result of collective efforts from all parties involved.
Rajnath Singh called these vessels a representation of India’s empowerment.
“India’s economic growth is intertwined with maritime security. Thus, safeguarding our territorial waters, ensuring freedom of navigation, and securing our maritime highways is imperative. While major naval powers have diminished their presence in the IOR, the Indian Navy has expanded its operations,” he remarked.
“There is a potential for increased threats in the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, and surrounding areas of East African nations. Hence, the Indian Navy is focused on amplifying its presence,” stated the Defence Minister.
Rajnath Singh identified cyber-security as a crucial element of maritime security today, warning that neglecting cyber threats could have serious repercussions.
He emphasized the necessity for a dedicated awareness campaign on cyber-security within the Armed Forces.
