New Delhi: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the inaugural Joint Commanders’ Conference in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on the final day of the apex-level military leadership meeting on September 5, 2024.
He praised the Armed Forces for their invaluable role in safeguarding national interests and advancing the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ while commending ongoing efforts to enhance integration among the three Services.
Aligned with the conference theme, ‘Sashakt aur Surakshit Bharat: Transforming the Armed Forces’, Rajnath Singh emphasized that while India is a peace-loving nation, its Armed Forces must be prepared for war to preserve peace. He highlighted the importance of developing a unified military vision and preparing for future challenges, advocating for a coordinated, rapid, and proportional response to provocations.
Citing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, as well as the current situation in Bangladesh, the Defence Minister urged the Commanders to analyze these events, anticipate future challenges, and remain prepared for the “unexpected.” He underscored the need for a comprehensive analysis by top military leaders, particularly in light of tensions along the Northern border and developments in neighboring countries that pose challenges to regional peace and stability.
“Despite global volatility, India is enjoying a rare peace dividend and continues to develop peacefully. However, with the rising number of challenges, we must remain vigilant. It is crucial to maintain our peace during Amrit Kaal. We must focus on the present, keep a close watch on current developments, and stay future-oriented. To achieve this, we need a strong and resilient national security framework, including an infallible deterrence strategy,” Rajnath Singh stated.
He urged the Commanders to ensure the Armed Forces’ arsenal includes a balanced mix of traditional and modern warfare equipment. He also highlighted the importance of capability development in space and electronic warfare, describing these areas as essential for addressing contemporary challenges.
