SHILLONG — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said India’s armed forces must focus on technological agility, strategic foresight and institutional innovation to remain prepared for an evolving security environment marked by cyber threats, information warfare, drones and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Addressing personnel at the Eastern Air Command headquarters in Shillong, Singh said traditional military preparedness alone is no longer sufficient given the changing nature of warfare.
He identified hybrid threats, cyber challenges, information warfare, logistics resilience, supply chain security and unmanned systems as increasingly important components of modern conflict, calling for continued adaptation by the defence forces.
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The Defence Minister also reiterated the government’s emphasis on self-reliance in defence production, stating that indigenous capabilities are critical to ensuring national security. Referring to Operation Sindoor, Singh said the operation demonstrated the value of domestic defence preparedness and highlighted India’s resolve to protect its security and sovereignty.
He said formations such as the Eastern Air Command play an important role in supporting the country’s broader security objectives.
Describing the Eastern Air Command as a key component of India’s security architecture, Singh said it has contributed to national defence through operational deployments, disaster response, high-altitude missions and border management activities.
The Defence Minister praised military personnel serving in challenging conditions and said their service enables citizens to live securely. He also highlighted the role of the armed forces in responding to natural disasters and emergencies across the country.
Singh underlined the strategic significance of the North East, describing the region as an important contributor to India’s security, economic development and Act East policy objectives. He said the region’s importance has grown as India expands its engagement on the global stage.
The Defence Minister also spoke about the role of the armed forces in promoting national unity and noted the increasing participation of women in the military, describing it as a reflection of both institutional progress and India’s social values.