India’s fight against terrorism has taken a firm place in the national defence doctrine, with Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh vowing to root out hybrid and proxy warfare threatening the country. Speaking at Bhuj Air Force Station in Gujarat on May 16, 2025, Shri Singh emphasized that the current ceasefire with Pakistan is conditional—India has placed Pakistan on probation based on its conduct. He made it clear that while peaceful behavior will be welcomed, any disturbance will be met with the harshest consequences.
Shri Rajnath Singh also underscored that Operation Sindoor, the recent military campaign targeting terrorist infrastructure, is far from over. “Our actions were just a trailer, we will show the full picture, if need be. Attacking and eliminating terrorism is the new normal of New India,” he said with conviction.
The Defence Minister did not hold back criticism of Pakistan’s continued efforts to rebuild terror networks that India has previously dismantled. He appealed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to reconsider its one-billion-dollar financial assistance to Pakistan, warning that these funds risk indirectly supporting terrorist groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Shri Singh highlighted the irony of Pakistan allocating public funds to terrorists while expecting international aid, calling it “indirect terror funding” and urging the IMF not to facilitate such activities.
Lauding the Indian Air Force’s role in Operation Sindoor, Shri Singh praised the air warriors for their swift and decisive action in destroying terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir within 23 minutes. “When missiles were dropped inside enemy territory, the world heard the echoes of India’s valor and might,” he said. The Defence Minister pointed out how the IAF’s capabilities now allow strikes deep into enemy territory without crossing borders, showcasing India’s advanced military technology and indigenous weapon systems like the ‘BrahMos’ missile and DRDO-developed radar and missile defense systems.
Reflecting on his recent visits to the army and air force personnel in Srinagar and Bhuj, Shri Rajnath Singh expressed deep pride in the enthusiasm, patriotism, and readiness of India’s soldiers. He reassured the nation that India’s borders remain secure thanks to the bravery and dedication of its forces.
Bhuj, a historic symbol of India’s victories over Pakistan in past wars, was praised as a land of patriotism where soldiers stand resolute in protecting the nation’s interests. Shri Singh extended heartfelt gratitude to all armed forces personnel and the Border Security Force for their unwavering service.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to equipping the military with cutting-edge indigenous weapons and infrastructure, he highlighted India’s journey from being heavily dependent on imports to becoming a growing exporter of defense technology. “We are becoming exporters from importers; and this is just the beginning,” he affirmed.
Shri Rajnath Singh also acknowledged the unity of the Indian people, government, armed forces, and security agencies in this fight against terrorism. He expressed confidence that with collective resolve, terrorism will be eradicated from the region, ensuring the sovereignty of the nation remains inviolable.
The Raksha Mantri began his address by paying homage to the innocent civilians and soldiers who lost their lives during Operation Sindoor and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. The event was attended by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and other senior Indian Air Force officials, reflecting the nation’s solidarity and resolve in combating terrorism.
