Issuing a stern warning to Pakistan against any potential “misadventure,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday asserted that India’s response would be “unprecedented” and “decisive,” underlining the country’s hardened stance on national security.
Addressing the Sainik Samman Sammelan in poll-bound Kerala, Singh reiterated that India has adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized that India’s military capabilities and resolve have significantly strengthened in recent years.
Recalling the success of Operation Sindoor, Singh claimed that Pakistan was brought “to its knees in just 22 minutes,” describing it as one of India’s biggest operations against terrorism. He cited a series of decisive actions taken by India, including the surgical strikes following the Uri attack and the air strikes after the Pulwama attack, as examples of the government’s firm approach.
“Ever since the NDA government came to power at the Centre, we have taken decisive action against terrorism,” Singh said. “Whether it was the surgical strike after Uri, the air strike after Pulwama, or Operation Sindoor following the recent Pahalgam incident, we have delivered powerful blows.”
Taking a swipe at the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government that ruled from 2004 to 2014, Singh alleged that terror incidents were frequent during that period and accused the previous administration of failing to respond decisively to threats from across the border. In contrast, he said, national security has remained a top priority over the past decade.
In his address, Singh also touched upon the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and their potential impact on global energy supplies. He reassured that India is well-prepared to handle any energy crisis, stating that the country currently faces “no dearth of fuel or gas.”
Highlighting proactive measures, he noted that the Indian Navy is escorting merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global oil transit route that has become increasingly volatile amid regional conflict.
Singh further revealed that the government has been closely monitoring developments and has already held high-level inter-ministerial meetings to assess preparedness. He credited Prime Minister Modi’s diplomatic outreach for safeguarding India’s strategic and economic interests in the Gulf region.
“The conflict in West Asia is serious, and we are preparing ourselves for every possible scenario,” he said. “Our government is capable and ready to deal with any situation.”
Concluding his address, Singh urged citizens and political parties to remain united during challenging times. Taking a veiled dig at the opposition, he cautioned against creating unnecessary panic and stressed the importance of national solidarity.
“This is the time for the entire country to stand together,” he said. “In times of crisis, the government has always stood firmly with the nation.”
The Defence Minister’s remarks come at a time of heightened regional tensions and underscore India’s assertive posture on security, counter-terrorism, and strategic preparedness.
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