"Operation Sindoor emerged as a balanced military response amidst the uncertainties prevailing worldwide, and it will be remembered in history as a symbol of India's courage, strength, restraint & national character," said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the 78th Indian Army Day celebrations in Jaipur, Rajasthan on January 15, 2026. Hailing the soldiers' indomitable courage, unwavering dedication, and the way they adapted to the changing circumstances of the battlefield, Defence Minister stated that the action against terrorists was carried out with careful assessment and due regard for humanitarian values.

"Indian Army is a beacon of indomitable courage, unwavering dedication & unparalleled sacrifice"

Rajnath Singh asserted that the terrorists could never have imagined the bravery and swiftness with which the Indian Armed Forces acted against them, emphasising that it was the soldiers' bravery that prevented the enemy from attempting any mischief. "The situation was difficult and there was pressure, but the restraint, unity, and patience with which our soldiers executed the operation were unprecedented & praiseworthy," he said, adding that Operation Sindoor is not yet completely over, and India's efforts for peace will continue until the terrorist ideology is eradicated.

Defence Minister emphasised that the use of indigenous weapons during the operation underscored the fact that self-reliance is not a matter of pride but a necessity. He stated that the nation has come a long way on the path of Aatmanirbharta, with the Armed Forces taking the lead and contributing significantly to this endeavor. He stressed on further accelerating these efforts to achieve the goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the times to come. He also underscored the importance of augmenting inter-service linkages in view of the expansion of the dimensions of warfare.

Rajnath Singh highlighted that the Government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is equipping the Armed Forces with indigenous, state-of-the-art weapons and platforms tailored to India's needs. He stated that the persistent efforts towards self-reliance are bearing fruit as the domestic defence production, which was only ₹46,000 crore in 2014, has increased to a record ₹1.51 lakh crore today. He added that defence exports, which were less than ₹1,000 crore in 2014, have skyrocketed to a record approx. ₹24,000 crore.

Appreciating the reforms being undertaken by the Indian Army, Defence Minister stated that the force is moving forward based on a well-planned comprehensive roadmap which includes a transformation phase, a consolidation phase and an excellence phase, with the goal of transforming itself as the world's most powerful Army by 2047.

"Army is marching ahead to become the world's most powerful force by 2047"

Commending the Indian Army for adopting the mantra of 'a soldier must be physically and mentally fit as well as technologically updated', Defence Minister voiced the Government's resolve of persistent strengthening of the Armed Forces to deal with challenges emerging due to the latest technological advancements. "The world is going through a period where all established notions are being challenged. In such a situation, it is more important than ever to bolster the Armed Forces and ensure their modernisation & self-reliance. We've always focused on strengthening national security and the capabilities of our soldiers," he said.

Rajnath Singh described the Indian Army as a beacon of indomitable courage, unwavering dedication & unparalleled sacrifice, and a shining example of unity in diversity, saying that soldiers from across the country, with different cultures and backgrounds, unite for a common goal at a young age. "The Indian Army has made an invaluable contribution to strengthening the nation's social unity. It is not just a military force but a major pillar of nation-building. Most of the military forces around the world operate as a separate domain. But in India, the Army works together with civilians. The people's unwavering faith is the military's greatest strength. This bond of trust is the foundation of the national security framework," he said.

"PM Modi-led Govt is equipping the Armed Forces with indigenous, state-of-the-art weapons tailored to India's needs"

Defence Minister highlighted the invaluable contribution of Indian soldiers in United Nations Peacekeeping Missions, stating that the troops have not only maintained peace but have provided medical help, infrastructure development, and humanitarian assistance to the citizens of different countries. "Our army has emerged as a messenger of peace for the world. This has also strengthened India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," he added.

Rajnath Singh restated the Government's commitment to the welfare of the veterans who, he said, dedicate invaluable years of their lives to the service of the motherland. On the increasing role of women in the Armed Forces, he said: "Earlier, women were recruited into the armed forces in support roles, but PM Modi envisioned to expand their role. Now, in the Army, Permanent Commission is being granted to women, while the National Defence Academy has also opened the doors for women. Our effort is to continuously provide women with equal opportunities at par with their male counterparts in the Armed Forces".

Defence Minister appealed to the youth to join the Armed Forces and contribute to nation-building. "Physical strength alone is not enough to join the Army. Qualities such as mental capacity, moral courage, decision-making ability, and leadership are also required. The youth must develop these qualities," he added. Rajnath Singh further stated that it is the duty of the people to take care of the families of the soldiers; maintain unity and integrity of the nation so that the sacrifices of the Armed Forces do not go in vain; and contribute to the country's progress as only a prosperous and powerful nation can strengthen its military.

"Expanding dimensions of warfare demand robust inter-service linkages"

Rajnath Singh's visit to Jaipur comprised an interaction with the troops at the Jaipur Military Station, followed by Shaurya Sandhya, an evening showcasing the valour, tradition and operational readiness at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, as part of the Army Day celebrations under the aegis of South Western Command. The programme honoured the bravery, sacrifices and unwavering spirit of the Indian Army, while strengthening the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the citizens.

The event commenced with paramotor show and the release of balloons. Enthralling martial arts and traditional sports displays, including Kalaripayattu and Mallakhamb, showcased the physical prowess, discipline, and rich martial heritage of the Indian Army. A static performance by a 30-member Nepalese Army Band was one of the highlights of the show. The band was also felicitated by Defence Minister on the occasion.

The event was attended by Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Ministers Smt Diya Kumari & Prem Chand Bairwa, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Command Lt General Manjinder Singh, other senior Army officers, veterans, NoK, civil dignitaries and a large number of citizens.