New Delhi, January 02. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the 68th Foundation Day of the Defence Research and Development Organisation in the national capital, where he began by referring to Operation Sindoor, which was India's befitting reply to Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack last year. The Defense Minister stated that weapons developed by the organization played a decisive role during this military campaign, serving as proof of the professionalism and commitment of the DRDO toward national security interests.

He expressed confidence regarding the Sudarshan Chakra initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the ramparts of the Red Fort on Independence Day 2025, stating that the organization would develop it soon. The Ministry of Defence shared this information through a statement, as per agency report. Under the Sudarshan Chakra initiative, the organization is responsible for equipping critical installations with air defense systems to ensure complete air security over the next ten years. The Minister noted that the importance of air defense in the modern era was witnessed during Operation Sindoor.

The Defense Minister urged the DRDO to focus on continuous innovation and identify more areas to increase private sector participation. He requested the organization to keep moving forward by coordinating with the rapidly evolving technological ecosystem and to introduce products according to changing times. He appreciated the ongoing efforts in the direction of deep technology and next-generation technologies, noting that progress in this direction would not only enhance the nation's capabilities but also strengthen the defense ecosystem.

Meanwhile, DRDO Secretary and Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat briefed the Defense Minister on ongoing research and development activities, achievements of 2025, various initiatives promoting industry, startups, and academia, as well as the roadmap for 2026. He apprised the Minister of the key targets set and various reforms being undertaken for the betterment of the organization. Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Directors General, Corporate Directors, and other senior DRDO scientists and officials were present during this interaction.

On this occasion, the Defense Minister emphasized that the current era is not just about science but requires continuous development and learning. He noted that in this changing world, technology scanning, capability assessment, and future readiness are no longer just words. With technology, innovation, and new battlefields advancing rapidly, yesterday's knowledge is becoming obsolete. He stated that one should never assume the learning process has ended, but rather continue to learn and challenge oneself to pave the way for the new generation.

New Delhi: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that politics should not be viewed as a medium to acquire power, but rather as a sacred responsibility toward public service. He emphasized that democracy remains sustainable only when it is guided by character, morality, and integrity.

The Defence Minister was speaking at the unveiling ceremony of the portraits of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bharat Ratna Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya at the Delhi Legislative Assembly.

He remarked that both legendary leaders established the highest standards of moral honesty, democratic responsibility, and commitment to the nation. Their public conduct continues to serve as a guiding light for ethical politics, unity of purpose, and prioritizing long-term national interests. On this occasion, a coffee table book titled 'Bharat Mata' was also released.

Rajnath Singh noted that the unveiling of these portraits holds special significance as the nation celebrates the birth centenary of the revered Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He described the Delhi Legislative Assembly not merely as a building, but as a "living institution" where India’s democratic consciousness has evolved through thought, deliberation, and dialogue.

Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta described the day as a moment of pride and joy for the House. He highlighted that both Bharat Ratna recipients shared a birthday on December 25 and were jointly conferred with the nation’s highest civilian honor by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014. He added that the unveiling by the Defence Minister sends a powerful national message from the Delhi Assembly, noting that the vision and direction of modern India are unimaginable without their contributions.

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the two icons symbols of the "Nation First" resolve, honesty, foresight, and public welfare. She stated that their portraits in the House would continue to inspire future generations toward national service, good governance, and value-based leadership.

Recalling Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya’s contributions to education and the freedom struggle, she mentioned that the establishment of various institutions, including Banaras Hindu University (BHU), is a testament to his visionary approach. Describing Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a "Yugpurush" (man of the era), the Chief Minister said the foundation of development and national unity laid by him is the basis for India’s rapid progress today.

New Delhi, December 3. The agenda for the upcoming talks between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrei Belousov on Thursday will include the procurement of the S-400 missile system, the upgrade of Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, and India's interest in purchasing other critical military hardware from Russia. Top military officials have indicated that the overall focus will be on further expanding the already close defence and security ties between the two nations.

The discussions are expected to pay special attention to ensuring the early supply of military equipment from Russia to India. As per agency report, Belousov will be part of the delegation accompanying Russian President Vladimir Putin on his visit to India. This dialogue between Rajnath Singh and Andrei Belousov is scheduled to take place one day prior to the summit meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin. During the meeting with Belousov, the Indian side is likely to emphasize the supply of military hardware within stipulated timeframes.

There has been a long-standing grievance from the armed forces that the supply of critical spare parts and equipment from Russia takes a considerable amount of time, which subsequently affects the maintenance of military systems purchased from that country. It is believed that India is considering purchasing additional batches of surface-to-air S-400 missile systems from Russia, as these weapons proved to be extremely effective during Operation Sindoor. An official stated that this issue could be discussed during the defence talks.

In October 2018, India signed a five billion US dollar agreement with Russia to purchase five units of the S-400 air defence missile system, despite warnings from the United States that proceeding with the contract could invite American sanctions under the provisions of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. Three squadrons have already been supplied, and the S-400 systems played a significant role during Operation Sindoor. India may also consider purchasing the S-500 missile system from Russia.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Tuesday that the possibility of supplying Su-57 fighter jets by Russia to India could be discussed. India is currently in the process of procuring a batch of fifth-generation fighter aircraft, with Dassault Aviation's Rafale, Lockheed Martin's F-21, Boeing's F/A-18, and the Eurofighter Typhoon being the main contenders. The Modi-Putin summit is also likely to review the overall defence relations between India and Russia.

An annual summit is held between the Prime Minister of India and the Russian President to review the entire spectrum of relations between the two countries. So far, 22 annual summits have taken place alternately in India and Russia. The Russian President last visited New Delhi in 2021, while Prime Minister Modi visited Moscow for the annual summit in July last year.

Bhuj (Gujarat), May 16 – India has urged the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to reconsider its financial assistance of one billion dollars to Pakistan, stating that the funds could potentially be used to finance terrorism. The statement was made by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his address to air warriors at the Indian Air Force station in Bhuj, where he also confirmed the use of the BrahMos supersonic missile in the recently conducted 'Operation Sindoor'.

As per agency report, Singh underlined that the operation was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on May 7. In retaliation, Indian forces targeted and destroyed nine terrorist infrastructures located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Following Pakistan’s attempted strikes on Indian military installations, India launched further counter-attacks, resulting in damage to several Pakistani military assets. The cross-border exchanges continued for four days, concluding with a ceasefire agreement on May 10.

Rajnath Singh made it clear that this ceasefire does not imply closure, but rather serves as a probationary phase for Pakistan. He emphasized that if Pakistan’s behavior improves, India will maintain peace. However, any provocation will invite severe consequences. Describing the operation as merely a “trailer,” he warned that the full picture could be revealed if required. He reiterated that attacking terrorism and eliminating it is now the "new normal" for a new India.

The Defence Minister revealed intelligence indicating that Pakistan is attempting to rebuild the terrorist structures destroyed during the operation. He alleged that Islamabad is planning to channel nearly ₹14 crore, collected from ordinary Pakistani citizens, to Masood Azhar, the UN-designated terrorist and chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed. Singh warned that such misuse of funds further justifies India's call for the IMF to suspend all future aid to Pakistan.

Referring to Pakistan’s plans to finance the reconstruction of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed infrastructures in Muridke and Bahawalpur, Singh stressed that any global financial support to Pakistan, either directly or indirectly, contributes to terrorism.

The air base in Bhuj, from where Singh addressed the troops, was among the strategic locations targeted by Pakistan during the brief military engagement. Praising the Indian Air Force for its swift and decisive action, Singh stated that Indian fighter jets were able to destroy terrorist camps and Pakistani airbases within 23 minutes without crossing the international border. This, he said, showcased India’s evolved war doctrine and advanced technological capabilities.

He affirmed that Indian-made defence equipment, including the BrahMos missile and the Akash air defence system, played a critical role in the success of the operation. He added that Pakistan itself has acknowledged the effectiveness of the BrahMos missile, which, according to Singh, "brought daylight in the darkness of night" for the enemy.

Highlighting India's growing self-reliance in defence, Singh emphasized that the country is no longer dependent solely on imported weapons. Instead, indigenously developed systems are now integral to India’s military strength, offering both capability and credibility.

During his interactions with soldiers in Srinagar on Thursday and with airmen in Bhuj on Friday, the Defence Minister expressed confidence that India’s borders are completely secure. He concluded by commending the valour and patriotism of the armed forces, stating that their actions during 'Operation Sindoor' have made the entire nation proud.

Srinagar, May 15 – Raising concerns over the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Thursday that the country’s nuclear weapons should be brought under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). His comments come just days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that India would no longer tolerate what he described as Pakistan’s “nuclear blackmail” and would respond firmly to cross-border terrorism.

Speaking to soldiers during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir following India's recent 'Operation Sindoor,' Singh emphasized that the operation had delivered a strong and clear message to terrorist groups and their handlers in Pakistan that they could no longer consider themselves safe anywhere.

As per agency report, Singh pointed out that India has faced the threat of cross-border terrorism for nearly four decades. He declared that India's commitment to fighting terrorism is so resolute that the country has repeatedly ignored Pakistan's reckless nuclear threats. He questioned the global community, asking whether it is responsible to allow a "rogue and reckless" nation like Pakistan to possess nuclear weapons.

Referring to the IAEA, Singh said that such weapons should be placed under the monitoring of the international agency to ensure their safety and prevent misuse. He described Operation Sindoor as the largest counter-terrorism offensive in India's history and stated that the assault, in retaliation to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, was a necessary strike on the heart of Pakistan's terror infrastructure.

Singh recalled former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s peace initiatives with Pakistan more than two decades ago, which were followed by promises from Islamabad to end terrorism emanating from its soil. However, he lamented that Pakistan had betrayed that trust and continued to do so. Singh warned that such duplicity would now come at an increasingly high cost.

He reiterated the Modi government’s stance that any future terrorist attack would be treated as an act of war, and emphasized that India would not hesitate to act decisively. He said Pakistan-based terrorists and their handlers were now firmly in the crosshairs of Indian forces.

Referring to the international perception of India and Pakistan, Singh drew a stark contrast. While India has emerged as a contributor to global financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund, Pakistan has become a nation heavily dependent on international aid. He commented that “wherever Pakistan stands, the line of borrowers begins.”

Appreciating the resolve of Indian soldiers, Singh said he understood the anger they felt after the Pahalgam attack. He expressed pride in how the forces channeled their anger into a precise and disciplined response.

India launched 'Operation Sindoor' on the night of May 6–7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). In response, Pakistan attempted strikes on Indian military installations on May 8, 9, and 10. India retaliated by targeting eight Pakistani airbases using missiles and long-range weapons.

Following three days of escalation, both countries agreed to cease military operations after a meeting between their Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) on the afternoon of May 10.

New Delhi, May 8 – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed leaders during an all-party meeting on Thursday that at least 100 terrorists were killed in India’s missile strikes on terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under the ongoing 'Operation Sindoor'. The meeting, convened amid rising tensions following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, sought to brief political leaders on the security situation and garner broader consensus.

As per agency report, Singh stated that the operation remains active and warned that India is fully prepared to retaliate should Pakistan respond militarily to its targeted strikes. He refrained from disclosing technical details, citing the sensitive and ongoing nature of the operation. Singh emphasized that the operation is part of India’s sustained efforts to eliminate cross-border terrorism and protect national interests.

Political leaders from across the spectrum, including those from the opposition, extended their full support to the government's anti-terror action and expressed solidarity with the armed forces. Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi suggested convening a special session of Parliament to send a strong national message. However, no formal response from the government on this proposal was given during the meeting.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who also attended the meeting, told reporters afterward that the gathering was marked by political maturity and unity. He said all participants voiced concern for national security, particularly in border areas, but there was unanimous backing for the government’s actions. Rijiju emphasized that the entire country stands united with the armed forces and hailed their swift and effective response.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge later addressed the media, reiterating support for the strikes but expressing disappointment over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from the meeting. He noted that this was not the first time the Prime Minister had skipped such a high-level briefing. Kharge added that all parties agreed on the need to enhance the safety of people living near the border and ensure adequate support for the families of those killed in the Pahalgam attack.

Kharge confirmed that the military action targeted only terrorist facilities in Pakistan, including the Jaish-e-Mohammed stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke. He said leaders from the opposition, including the INDIA alliance, voiced their support for every step taken to fight terrorism.

The meeting saw participation from top leaders across party lines, including BJP ministers Amit Shah, S. Jaishankar, J.P. Nadda, and Nirmala Sitharaman, as well as opposition figures like Sudip Bandopadhyay (TMC), T.R. Baalu (DMK), Ram Gopal Yadav (SP), Sanjay Singh (AAP), Sanjay Raut (Shiv Sena-UBT), Supriya Sule (NCP-SP), Sasmit Patra (BJD), and John Brittas (CPI-M). Leaders from JD(U), LJP (Ram Vilas), and AIMIM, including Chirag Paswan and Asaduddin Owaisi, also participated.

The missile strikes under Operation Sindoor were launched late Tuesday night and targeted nine terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, in direct retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. This was the second all-party meeting convened in the past fortnight, with the first held on April 24 to brief leaders on the Pahalgam incident.

The meeting underlined a rare moment of national political consensus and highlighted India’s firm resolve to counter terrorism beyond its borders.

Lucknow, April 19 — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the ‘Sansad Khel Mahakumbh’ on Saturday at the historic KD Singh Babu Stadium in Lucknow, highlighting the pivotal role of sports in shaping a developed and united India. Lauding the Centre and state governments for their efforts in promoting athletes and sporting infrastructure, Singh described the initiative as a significant milestone for the country’s future.

He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of involving Members of Parliament in organizing sports competitions within their constituencies, calling it a transformative move that adds value to social development. By including Lucknow in this chain, he said, the city is once again reclaiming its identity as a sports hub.

Recalling the city’s glorious sporting past, Singh reminisced about legends like hockey maestro KD Singh Babu, Dhyan Chand, and Ashok Kumar, who shaped Lucknow’s rich sports culture. He noted that India’s first AstroTurf was installed in Lucknow in the 1980s and that the city had hosted national games post-independence. Even before the Indian Premier League matches came to Lucknow, the city was host to the iconic Sheesh Mahal Trophy, attracting Team India’s top cricketers.

Highlighting a shift in societal perceptions, Singh mentioned how once a common saying suggested that sports could lead to a bleak future, but today, children aspire to be like Leander Paes, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, PV Sindhu, D Gukesh, and Neeraj Chopra. He emphasized that sports instill discipline, teamwork, and a "nation-first" mindset — values that extend beyond the field.

He stressed that under PM Modi’s leadership, a new sporting culture has emerged in India. No longer content with mere participation, Indian athletes now aim for victory and command respect worldwide. Singh credited this transformation to pro-sports policies by the central and Uttar Pradesh governments.

He pointed out that over 3,000 athletes receive monthly financial assistance of Rs 50,000 under the Khelo India scheme for training, nutrition, coaching, and equipment. More than 1,000 Khelo India centres across the country are helping grassroots athletes sharpen their skills.

Referring to the long-term impact of the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh, Singh expressed confidence that in the coming years, youth from Lucknow will secure medals at national and international competitions. He reiterated the government's commitment to bringing the Olympic Games to India by 2036, with Gujarat proposed as a host, and added that efforts are also underway to host other global sporting events.

Singh concluded by stating that India's development journey is incomplete without a sporting revolution, and initiatives like this Mahakumbh serve as a foundation for that vision.

New Delhi, March 17 – Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard held discussions on Monday, focusing on strengthening defense, technology, and intelligence-sharing ties between India and the United States.

According to an official statement, both leaders also reviewed bilateral strategic cooperation in the maritime domain. Gabbard arrived in New Delhi early Sunday for a two-and-a-half-day visit, marking the first high-level visit by a senior official from U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to India.

Expressing his pleasure over the meeting, Rajnath Singh shared on social media that he had a productive discussion with the U.S. National Intelligence Chief, exploring ways to deepen India-U.S. cooperation. The statement highlighted that they discussed significant advancements in joint military exercises, strategic cooperation, integration of defense industrial supply chains, and information-sharing mechanisms, particularly in maritime security.

The two sides are also believed to have deliberated on the evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, particularly concerning China's growing military assertiveness in the region. Additionally, discussions included opportunities for collaboration in cutting-edge defense innovations and specialized technologies that align with the shared strategic interests of both nations.

During the talks, Singh expressed gratitude for Gabbard's deep appreciation of Indian culture and heritage, acknowledging that such sentiments strengthen the friendship between India and the U.S. He also emphasized that the recent joint statement issued following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump reaffirmed the growing strength of the India-U.S. bilateral defense partnership.

A day earlier, Gabbard met with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, where they co-chaired a global intelligence summit attended by top security officials from several countries. Their discussions reportedly centered on enhancing intelligence-sharing mechanisms and exploring ways for closer cooperation in security-related matters in line with the India-U.S. global strategic partnership.

Gabbard was joined at the security conference by Daniel Rogers, Chief of Canada's Intelligence Service, and Jonathan Powell, the UK’s National Security Advisor. The closed-door session focused on counter-terrorism efforts and addressing emerging threats posed by new technologies.

While no official statement was issued regarding the high-level intelligence discussions, sources suggest that the meetings aimed at fostering deeper cooperation in global security and intelligence-sharing to tackle evolving security challenges.

In a press conference at BJP's media center in Ahmedabad, Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh criticized Congress' election manifesto, labeling it as divisive and appeasing. Singh, highlighting BJP's commitment to development and anti-corruption, contrasted it with Congress' claim of a democracy in crisis.

Singh expressed confidence in BJP's electoral prospects, aiming for 400 seats, and emphasized the party's efforts in states traditionally challenging for BJP. He attributed India's economic progress to PM Modi's leadership, asserting India's imminent rise to the world's third-largest economy.

Singh criticized Congress' lack of leadership and concrete policies, contrasting it with PM Modi's poverty alleviation efforts that lifted 25 crore people out of poverty. He urged for Congress' dissolution, echoing Mahatma Gandhi's call at independence.

The press conference was attended by senior BJP members, including Chief Spokesperson Yamal Vyas and others, as Singh outlined BJP's vision for a developed and capable India under PM Modi's leadership.

India's defense exports have reached a historic milestone, surpassing all previous records. According to the Ministry of Defence, the financial year 2023-24 saw exports reach a staggering Rs 21,083 crore, reflecting a remarkable 32.5% increase compared to the previous year. This achievement highlights the success of government policy initiatives and the growing capabilities of the Indian defense industry.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh applauded the accomplishment, crediting both the private sector and public sector undertakings (DPSUs) for their "commendable performance." He further emphasized the role of the Ministry of Defense's ongoing efforts to promote domestic defense manufacturing and exports.

This record-breaking figure comes after a period of consistent growth. Since 2016-17, India's defense exports have witnessed a surge of over 10 times. The financial year 2022-23 had already set a new high at Rs 16,000 crore, marking a significant jump from preceding years.

India's defense industry has emerged as a global player, currently supplying defense equipment to over 85 countries. With 100 companies actively exporting their products, the nation has demonstrably established its design and development prowess on the world stage.

Attributing this achievement to the "visionary leadership" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister Singh highlighted the effectiveness of defense sector reforms implemented over the past five years. He took to social media to express his pride, stating that "for the first time in the history of independent India, the figure of Rs 21000 crore has been crossed."

The news release concludes with a table showcasing India's defense exports over the past eight years, providing a clear picture of the consistent upward trajectory.

New Delhi, March 24 - Defense Minister Rajnath Singh marked the festival of colors, Holi, by celebrating with armed forces personnel stationed in Leh, Ladakh, near the China border. Despite initially planning to visit soldiers at Siachen, the world's highest battlefield, Rajnath Singh's itinerary changed due to adverse weather conditions.

During the celebration, the Defense Minister applied colors to the soldiers and offered them sweets, extending his warm wishes for the festival. He emphasized the soldiers' role as protectors, likening them to guardian deities, saying, "While protecting us from enemies, all the soldiers are also no less than protector gods for us."

Rajnath Singh has a tradition of celebrating festivals with the armed forces, having previously marked Diwali and Holi at various border outposts. Last year, he celebrated Holi with sailors on the INS 'Vikrant,' India's indigenous aircraft carrier. Expressing his regret for not being able to visit Siachen this year, he conveyed his Holi wishes to the soldiers there from Leh.

Addressing the soldiers, the Defense Minister expressed profound admiration for their courage and sacrifice, especially in challenging environments like Siachen and Kargil. He praised their unwavering commitment to duty, highlighting their pivotal role in safeguarding the nation's security.

Rajnath Singh concluded his address by stating, "The country will always be indebted to you for demonstrating this unwavering willpower. In times to come, when the history of national security is written, your acts of bravery that brought boiling water to the icy cold glacier will be remembered with pride."

Mumbai, Dec 26 (IANS) Taking a stern view of the recent drone attacks on two ships in the high seas, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday warned that they will not be spared and shall be given stringent punishment, as India is playing the role of a Net Security Provider for the entire Indian Ocean Region.

“The Indian Navy has increased surveillance of the seas… India has taken the recent drone attacks on ‘MV Chem Pluto’ in Arabian Sea and ‘MV Sai Baba’ in the Red Sea very seriously. Whoever has carried out these attacks, we will find them even if they are hiding on the sea-bed,” thundered Singh.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Radhakrishnan Hari Kumar said that presently, India has deployed four latest warships to counter piracy and drone attacks on merchant shipping, besides the P8I Aircraft, Dorniers, Sea Guardians, Helicopters and Indian Coast Guard Ships, all joining to counter these threats.

The Defence Minister attributed the attacks to the increasing turbulence in the sea “owing to the growing economic clout and strategic power of India which has filled up some forces with jealousy and hatred,” while commissioning the latest and most potent warship, 'Imphal' to the Indian Navy here.

“We are in the role of the NSP for the entire IOR… We will ensure that the maritime trade in this region soars from the sea to the skies. For this, along with other friendly countries, we will keep the sea routes safe and secure for maritime commercial activities,” assured Singh.

The Minister said that earlier, the country faced mostly land-based threats on the country’s western and northern borders, and attention was given to the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.

However, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision underlining the importance of safeguarding the seas and oceans, equal attention is being paid to the Indian Navy.

“If we consider the movement of international goods from the geographical perspectives, due to the Himalayas in the north and a hostile Pakistan in the west, limited trade is possible there, and most of our goods come through the seas,” Singh pointed out.

He said that the newly commissioned warship, INS Imphal reflects India’s growing maritime power, and the vessel would further strengthen the principle of ‘Jalmev Yasya, Balmev Tasya’, or one who rules the water, is the most powerful in the Indo-Pacific region.

Speaking on the occasion, Navy chief Admiral Radhakrishnan Hari Kumar said that the ‘INS Imphal’ will not only tackle physical threats that emanate from the seas, but will also help deter nefarious designs which attempt to sabotage national unity.

“Once commissioned, the ship's crew will comprise personnel from every cross-section of our society, from every region and state of our demographically rich country -- all forged into one strong team that is ready to stake their lives for each other and for our sacred Tiranga, reflecting Bharat's inherent integrity,” said Admiral Kumar.

Towards this aim, the Indian Navy hopes to induct at least one Agniveer from each district, block and village in the country -- both men and women -- from every corner of India.

“We shall upskill them while in service, certify their abilities through educational institutions, inculcate a spirit of nationalism and ensure that they rejoin the civil sector as invaluable assets. The vision is to percolate such a nationalistic workforce across the country,” said Admiral Kumar.

In this context, he said that INS Imphal has a special place in the Indian Navy, the state of Manipur, the entire North-East and India.

He said that the new warship will ‘breathe fire’ upon the enemy as reflected in the ship’s crest, of the Kangla-Sa with a Dragon Head and Lion’s Body, and demonstrate unflinching resolve in the face of adversity.

“It is no surprise that Imphal is the first warship to have successfully undertaken test firing of the BrahMos Surface to Surface Missile, even before her commissioning,” noted the Admiral with a tinge of pride.

In a significant achievement, the Indian Navy has commissioned three warships, the Visakhapatnam in 2021, the Mormogoa in 2022, the Imphal in 2023, and ‘Surat’ is expected to join in 2024, making it four in a row in four years.