India signals readiness; Rajnath Singh tells Pakistan to “Think twice”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday sent a stern message to Pakistan, stating that the country will now “think twice before attempting any misadventure against India” following Operation Sindoor. Interacting with soldiers during the Barakhana ceremony in Jaisalmer, he emphasised that the operation is not over but temporarily halted.

“Our pilots demonstrated only a glimpse of India’s strength. If given the opportunity, they will showcase the full might of our Armed Forces,” he said, cautioning that any hostile move from Pakistan will be met with an even stronger response.

Highlighting the need for constant vigilance, Rajnath Singh urged the Armed Forces to stay alert against adversarial activities. He also underlined the pivotal role the military plays in realising the Modi government’s vision of a developed and self-reliant India by 2047. “Our soldiers are not only protectors of the borders but also pioneers of nation-building. This century is ours, and with our strides towards self-reliance, I am confident that our military will become one of the best in the world,” he added.

The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening border infrastructure, noting that development activities are ongoing to enhance defence preparedness.

Speaking about Barakhana, Rajnath Singh called it a reflection of India’s culture, civilisation, and values, highlighting the diversity of the Armed Forces. “Our forces bring together people of different religions, castes, languages, and regions. This diversity is symbolically reflected in a single plate during Barakhana, making it superior to any other gathering,” he said.

Earlier, Rajnath Singh inaugurated ‘Shauryavan’, a unique Cacti-cum-Botanical Garden in Jaisalmer, an Indian Army initiative transforming the Thar Desert into a vibrant oasis, symbolising resilience, ecological preservation, and innovation.

He also paid tribute at the Jaisalmer War Memorial, part of the ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ initiative, and witnessed the inaugural Holographic Light & Sound Show, which showcases the valour and history of the Indian Army.

The event was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, all Army Commanders, and other senior officers.

On October 24, the Defence Minister will visit forward areas, observe a dynamic 'Capability Demonstration Exercise' by Southern Command, and address the Army Commanders’ Conference in Jaisalmer.