New Delhi [India], July 29 (ANI): India is capable of going to the root of terrorism and uprooting it, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday declared in the Rajya Sabha that India is fully capable of identifying and uprooting terrorism at its roots. Reiterating the Modi government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism in all its forms, Singh emphasized that the nation’s strategy has evolved to decisively safeguard national security.

Speaking on the recently conducted Operation Sindoor, Singh described it as a testament to India’s military strength, national resolve, and strategic clarity. “The operation has transformed the perception of India from a soft state to a strong and proud nation,” he said.
He further asserted that the Indian government is bolstering the country not only by protecting its borders but also by strengthening it strategically, economically, and technologically. “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India no longer tolerates threats. We give a befitting reply. We will not succumb to nuclear blackmail or any other pressure,” Singh stated.
Singh clarified that Operation Sindoor has been paused, not concluded. He issued a stern warning that if Pakistan attempts any further provocations, India is prepared to respond with even greater force. “The Indian Armed Forces have the strength and capability to deal with every situation. Pakistan must remember this,” he said.
Responding to demands that India should have reclaimed Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during the operation, Singh remarked, “The day is not far when the people of PoK will once again become a part of India.”
The Defence Minister described terrorism as an “epidemic” that cannot be left unchecked. “No religious, ideological, or political justification can legitimize terrorism. Bloodshed and violence achieve nothing,” he emphasized.
Contrasting India’s global image with Pakistan’s, Singh stated, “While India is recognized as the ‘Mother of Democracy,’ Pakistan has become the ‘Father of Global Terrorism’.” He cited the Pahalgam massacre as one of many crimes committed by Pakistan-backed terrorists.
Singh criticized Pakistan’s appointment as Vice-Chair of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee, likening it to “making the cat guard the milk.” He reminded the international community that Pakistan had sheltered the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks and continues to harbor terrorists such as Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar.
He urged global powers to end foreign funding to Pakistan, stating that “funding Pakistan is equal to funding terror infrastructure.” He emphasized that pressure—strategic, diplomatic, and economic—must be applied globally to ensure Pakistan is held accountable.
Singh congratulated Indian forces for eliminating three TRF terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir who were responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, where 26 civilians were killed. He noted that forensic analysis confirmed the weapons used in the attack matched those recovered from the slain terrorists.
He lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their internal and external security efforts, emphasizing that Operation Sindoor, launched on May 6–7, was not just a military action but a demonstration of India’s resolve to safeguard sovereignty. “Our military leadership has shown maturity and strategic wisdom befitting a responsible power like India,” he said.
Highlighting defence sector reforms, Singh hailed it as a pillar of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). India, once heavily dependent on foreign equipment, is now manufacturing aircraft carriers, missiles, and fighter jets domestically. “Our missiles—Agni, Prithvi, BrahMos—are ready to meet any threat. And they are all made in India,” he said.
Singh pointed out the rise in defence exports from ₹686 crore in FY 2013–14 to ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024–25, with products reaching around 100 countries. He set an ambitious target of ₹30,000 crore by 2025–26 and ₹50,000 crore by 2029.
To ensure preparedness, the government has also authorized emergency defence procurement to tackle unforeseen threats, he concluded. (ANI)
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