Rajnath Singh highlights the growing global reputation of Indian soldiers
In a symbolic gesture of unity and commitment to India's defence, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the forward posts in Arunachal Pradesh to mark Dussehra on Tuesday (October 24, 2023). The visit provided an opportunity for a detailed on-ground assessment of the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces stationed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
 
The ethos of Dussehra, which revolves around the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, was palpably mirrored in the Defence Minister’s words. Drawing parallels between the festivity's significance and the relentless pursuit of justice and protection by the Armed Forces, his heartfelt expressions were a testament to the government's deep-seated recognition of their value.
 
While the nation is invariably proud of its military's achievements, Defence Minister Singh's presence among them on such a significant occasion magnifies this sentiment manifold. It serves as an enduring symbol of the bond that ties the leadership with its defence forces, ensuring that the path ahead, however challenging, will be navigated with shared determination and unity of purpose.
 
The festival of Dussehra, while fundamentally religious, has always been a representation of India's broader cultural and moral fabric. By choosing to celebrate it in Tawang, amidst the brave souls guarding our frontiers, Defence Minister Singh has elevated its significance. It's a strong statement of camaraderie, respect, and the government's undying commitment to the Armed Forces' welfare and the nation's inviolable security.
 
Highlighting the growing global reputation of Indian soldiers, the Defence Minister referenced his recent visit to Italy. There, he honoured the sacrifices of Naik Yaswant Ghadge and other valiant Indian soldiers at the Montone memorial in the Perugia Province. What's truly remarkable about the Montone memorial is the shared sentiment it fosters between two culturally diverse nations: India and Italy. Both countries, despite their geographical distance and differing histories, converge to pay homage to these brave souls.  These gestures signify a deep mutual respect and recognition, showcasing the universal appeal of courage and selflessness.
 
The Italian campaign of World War II was a challenging theatre of conflict. Indian soldiers, navigating through unfamiliar terrains and climates, showcased exemplary determination, collaborating seamlessly with their allies. Their efforts during this crucial period have significantly shaped post-war international relations. They are not merely remembered as soldiers from a foreign land but are celebrated as heroes who played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of nations. Their efforts in the Italian campaign of World War II have left an indelible mark on international relations, with both Indians and Italians paying their respects.
 
In the midst of changing global circumstances, characterized by geopolitical shifts and emerging security challenges, Defence Minister Singh reverberated the urgent imperative to enhance India's defensive capabilities. With the rise of new regional powers and the resurgence of old rivalries, the international landscape has become increasingly unpredictable. To navigate this intricate matrix, India's defence infrastructure needs to be not only robust but also adaptive to the ever-evolving threats. Singh's emphasis sheds light on the nation's proactive stance to ensure that India remains secure amidst the turbulence, fostering an environment where economic and social progress can continue unhindered. 

He advocated for a mix of accelerating traditional military strength, investing in cutting-edge technology, and fostering strategic global alliances to position India as a formidable force on the global stage. The nation is actively working towards strengthening its defence capabilities through indigenous means. Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Aatmanirbharta' in defence, he highlighted the remarkable transition from relying heavily on imports to the robust indigenous production of major weapons and platforms.
 
"The value of our defence exports has seen an exponential growth, from around Rs 1,000 crore in 2014 to thousands of crores today," he remarked, outlining the nation's rapid strides in self-reliance.
 
The Defence Minister also paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1962 war during his visit to the Tawang War Memorial. His entourage included top military dignitaries, such as Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, GOC-in-C Eastern Command Lt Gen RP Kalita, and GOC, 4 Corps Lt Gen Manish Erry, among others.
 
Before his Arunachal visit, on October 23, 2023, Singh had reached Tezpur, Assam. Here, he appreciated the concept of 'Barakhana,' a communal meal tradition signifying unity, and emphasized the importance of the diverse Indian military as a beacon of brotherhood and unity. He praised the forces for their immense sacrifices and the families that support them.
 
Drawing attention to the international acclaim received by the Indian Armed Forces for their professionalism and dedication, he emphasized India's progress in global forums. This progress is not just in defence and strategic realms but also in economic and developmental arenas. He mentioned that consistent efforts in policy reforms, strategic partnerships, and indigenous innovations have propelled India on its journey to be positioned among the world's top three economies by 2027, showcasing the country's comprehensive growth narrative on the global stage.
 
The visit has undoubtedly cemented the bond between the nation's leadership and its Armed Forces, reinforcing the collective commitment to national security and unity.