Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing the Ran Samwad in Dr Ambedkar Nagar, reflected on the significance of the event’s title, noting that while “Ran” denotes battle and conflict, “Samwad” signifies dialogue and reconciliation. At first glance, he said, the two appear contradictory, but together they capture one of the “most relevant truths of our times.”
Singh emphasised that Indian culture has always placed dialogue before conflict, citing the Mahabharat where Lord Krishna attempted peace negotiations with the Kauravas before war became inevitable. “In our culture, dialogue is not separate from battle—it precedes, accompanies, and even continues after it,” he said.
He reiterated that India has never been a nation to seek war or aggression, but warned that the present geopolitical environment demands preparedness and strength. “Even though we harbour no aggressive intent, if someone challenges us, we must respond with strength. For this, training, technological advancement, and sustained dialogue with partners are vital,” Singh stressed.
Looking ahead, he said future wars would not be limited to weapons but would involve technology, intelligence, economy, and diplomacy. He highlighted that nations mastering the triangle of “technology, strategy, and adaptability” will emerge as true global powers.
Citing the rapid evolution of war doctrines, Singh noted that flexibility in strategy is essential. “The age we live in has just one doctrine—that there is none,” he remarked. He also underlined the need for India to define the battlefield and rules of engagement to retain strategic advantage.
Praising Operation Sindoor, Singh described it as a striking example of technology-driven warfare and Indian forces’ bravery, while also highlighting the importance of cyber defence. He said the operation underscored India’s progress towards self-reliance in defence platforms and weapon systems, but stressed there was still a long road ahead.
“Operation Sindoor gave us a wealth of lessons—on offensive and defensive techniques, intelligence, surveillance, and logistics—that will serve as valuable guidance for future conflicts,” the Defence Minister concluded.
