Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assures strong response to threats, both at home and abroad

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a powerful message on India's enhanced stature in the global arena during a rally in Bhind, Madhya Pradesh. Addressing the crowd while campaigning for BJP candidate Lal Singh Arya at Khaneta village under the Gohad assembly seat, Singh emphasised India's growing influence on the international stage. 

"India's pride is soaring all over the world. During the Congress rule, people abroad would say India is a weak country. The world did not take our words very seriously, but the situation has changed now," Minister Singh stated. He underscored that India's voice is now heard and respected on international forums. 

Minister Singh also highlighted India's military capabilities, stating, "Now, India is not a weak country. No power in the world can dare threaten India." He emphasised India's readiness to act decisively to safeguard its interests. "If someone tries to carry out any nefarious act, India can eliminate them on this side of the border, and if necessary, it can strike them on the other side of the border as well," he added. 

Notable cross-border operations by India

Operation Hot Pursuit (2015): On June 9, 2015, India conducted a cross-border strike, codenamed Operation Hot Pursuit, against insurgents belonging to NSCN-K. The operation, carried out in Myanmar, was a response to the ambush of an Indian Army convoy in Manipur. Indian officials reported significant casualties among the NSCN-K insurgents during the operation, with around 38 insurgents killed. The operation was a joint effort of the Indian Air Force and 21 PARA (SF) and took place along the India-Myanmar border. 

2016 Surgical Strike: On September 29, 2016, Indian Army commandos conducted a surgical strike, crossing the Line of Control into Pakistani-administered Kashmir. This operation was in response to a terror attack on an Indian army outpost in Uri. Estimates of casualties from the strike varied, with India claiming to have inflicted “significant casualties”. Pakistan initially denied that Indian troops had crossed the Line of Control, but later acknowledged the capture of an Indian soldier. 

2019 Balakot Airstrike: The 2019 Balakot airstrike took place on February 26, 2019, when Indian warplanes conducted a bombing raid in Balakot, Pakistan, targeting an alleged terrorist training camp. Open-source satellite imagery later revealed that no significant targets were hit. The airstrike led to increased tensions between India and Pakistan, with both sides making claims about casualties and damages. 

These military operations, including the recent remarks by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, reflect India's assertive stance in safeguarding its interests and national security.