Defence Minister’s Address to Soldiers on the Eve of Independence Day 2025

• Operation Sindoor emerged as a balanced military response amidst the asymmetric warfare being witnessed globally, says Defence Minister in his ‘Sandesh to Soldiers’ on the eve of 79^th Independence Day

• “The operation was a sign of new art of warfare, a glimpse of a new vision, technological advancements & self-reliance”

• “India is no longer bound by traditional boundaries, it uses modern tech, accurate intelligence & smart strategies”

• “We’re tolerant, but when it comes to our safety & dignity, we unite and face every challenge boldly”

• “No matter how deep are the roots of terrorism, its destruction will be ensured”

New Delhi. “Operation Sindoor carried out by the Armed Forces under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi emerged as a balanced military response amidst the asymmetric warfare being witnessed across the globe,” said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the ‘Sandesh to Soldiers’ aired from Akashvani on the eve of 79^th Independence Day on August 14, 2025. He termed India’s actions during the operation as a shining example of a precise & successful military strategy, and a glimpse of a new vision, technological advancements and self-reliance.

Mr. Rajnath Singh asserted that India successfully utilised cutting-edge apparatus such as drone war, layered air defence, electronic warfare & network-centric operation, and proved that India is no longer dependent on foreign technology. Quoting PM Modi, he said Operation Sindoor is not only a proof of India’s military prowess, but a symbol of the country’s rapidly increasing self-reliance in defence sector and the Government’s commitment towards indigenous technology. The operation has taken India’s military self-reliance to a greater height, he underlined.

Defence Minister emphasised that the balanced strategy of Operation Sindoor can be gauged from the fact that, within a few minutes, nine terror training camps, including the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, were destroyed by precise missile attacks, and no civilian areas and Pakistani military establishments were targeted. He added that the Indian Armed Forces neither crossed the Line of Control nor violated the international border, yet managed to give a crushing blow to the terror infrastructure hidden within the enemy’s territory.

Mr. Rajnath Singh described the response as a sign of the new art of warfare, wherein India is no longer bound by traditional boundaries, but is using modern technology, accurate intelligence and smart military strategies. “It was a clear message from India that we are tolerant, but when it comes to the safety of our people and the dignity of our country, we unite and face every challenge boldly. Operation Sindoor is a part of India’s new policy, a clear message that no matter how deep the roots of terrorism are, its complete destruction will be ensured. This operation will continue until the goal of complete destruction of terrorism is achieved,” he said.

Defence Minister recalled the heinous and cowardly attack on innocent civilians in Pahalgam, J&K on April 22, 2025, which filled the eyes of every Indian with tears and heart with anger. “It was not just an attack, but a direct blow to our courage, unity and integrity. We gave a befitting reply to that cowardly attack through Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev,” he said.

Mr. Rajnath Singh added that, with Operation Sindoor, the Armed Forces not only avenged the barbaric terrorist attack in Pahalgam, but also the attacks on Parliament House, Taj in Mumbai, and on Amarnath pilgrims in the past. He also commended the Indian Army, CRPF and Jammu & Kashmir Police for neutralising three terrorists – all ‘A’ category commanders of Lashkar-e-Taiba involved in the Pahalgam attack – during Operation Mahadev in Dachigam, J&K last month. He also recalled the surgical strikes and air strikes, through which the Indian forces avenged the Pathankot and Pulwama attacks in the past.

Terming Aatmanirbharta as the first condition of a strong economy, Defence Minister highlighted the transformative changes brought about in the defence sector in the last decade. He pointed out that, today, India is carrying out 65 percent of the manufacturing on its own soil, and only 35 percent is being imported, compared to the time when 65-70 percent of defence equipment was imported to meet the security needs. He also mentioned about the continuous increase in the defence budget, which has reached to Rs 6.81 lakh crore in Financial Year (FY) 2025-26 from Rs 2.53 lakh crore in FY 2013-14.

Mr. Rajnath Singh added that annual defence production, which was Rs approx. 46,000 crore in the FY 2014-15, has touched a record figure of Rs 1.51 lakh crore, while defence exports, which were around Rs 1,900 crore, has surged to an all-time high of Rs 23,622 crore. “We have set a defence production target of Rs 3 lakh crore and defence export target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029,” he said.

Defence Minister highlighted the Government’s focus on the modernisation of the Armed Forces, stating that platforms like INS Arihant, INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, INS Vagsheer, Rafale-Marine, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, C-295 Transport Aircraft, Prachand helicopters and upgraded Su-30 will enhance the defence preparedness of the country. He stated that the security of the nation is not just the Government’s responsibility, but an unshakable resolve, exuding confidence of achieving complete self-reliance in defence in the coming times. He expressed gratitude to the Indian defence industry for its contribution in nation-building and building a self-reliant India.

While Mr. Rajnath Singh commended the Armed Forces for protecting the country during war, he also acknowledged them for remaining at the forefront of relief and rescue operations during natural disasters with its bravery, discipline and readiness. “Be it the floods in Assam, cyclones in coastal areas or the recent unfortunate disaster in Uttarkashi, our forces have proved time-and-again that the safety our people is of paramount importance. Their courage & quick decision making were demonstrated during the Iran-Israel conflict when, as part of Operation Sindhu, they evacuated hundreds of Indian citizens in extremely risky conditions and brought them home. Operation Sindhu was not only a symbol of our military capability & readiness, but also proof of India’s global responsibility and unwavering commitment towards its citizens,” he said.

Extending his greetings on the 79^th Independence Day, Defence Minister expressed gratitude to the brave & committed soldiers who dedicate their lives to safeguard the sovereignty and integrity of the nation by protecting the borders 24X7 in extremely tough conditions, as well as their families for playing their part in the service of the motherland. “India gained independence from the British rule on August 15, 1947. The foundation of this independence rests on the indomitable courage and sacrifice of countless patriots including freedom fighters and revolutionaries like Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. To keep this independence intact, you serve the country with the same passion and inspiration. For this, the nation will always remain indebted to you,” he told the soldiers.

Mr. Rajnath Singh also extended greetings to the veterans of the Armed Forces, who spend their lives ensuring the security of the country. Enumerating the steps taken for their welfare, including the One Rank One Pension scheme, he stated that it is the duty of the Government to ensure the well-being of the veterans. “Whether it is their pension, health or resettlement, it is our constant endeavor that our veterans do not face any problems,” he said.

On border infrastructure development, Defence Minister stated that 125 projects of the Border Roads Organisation inaugurated in the past one year, that have enhanced operational preparedness, connectivity in remote areas and overall development. “Security of borders is now not only ensured by guns and tanks, but also by roads and tunnels. One of the important projects of BRO includes the Shinkun La tunnel, which is being built in Ladakh at an altitude of 15,800 feet. Once completed, it will be the world’s highest tunnel. It will not only facilitate the movement of soldiers, but will also open the way for the social and economic development of Ladakh,” he said.

On the growing role of women in the Armed Forces, Mr. Rajnath Singh said Nari Shakti is no longer just a symbol of social change, but is leading in every field – land, water or sky – and giving a new direction to India’s future. “For the first time, 17 women cadets successfully passed out from NDA, Khadakwasla. It was a historic moment for the country. Two brave women officers of the Indian Navy, Lt Cdr Dilna K & Lt Cdr Roopa, made the country proud by completing a difficult sea journey of 25,600 nautical miles under Navika Sagar Parikrama-II. It was a testament to the strength of our naval forces. An all-women Tri-Service sailing team created history by returning home from Seychelles after completing an international sea voyage of 1,800 nautical miles. It was the first international open sea sailing voyage undertaken by the women of Indian Armed Forces. For our women, no challenge is impossible. They will always be at the forefront in protecting and honoring the country,” he said.

Defence Minister also mentioned about the crucial role youth are playing in taking the country forward – from start-ups to strategic sectors. Digital India, Make-in-India, and Skill India are no longer just schemes – they are a reflection of the aspirations of young India, he said. He appreciated the fact that India is providing solutions not just for itself, but for the whole world with the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He appealed to the people to participate in the creation of New India, not just as spectators, but as dutiful citizens.