"India is No Longer Weak": Rajnath Singh Asserts Global Power in Philippines
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserts India's growing global stature and defence strength during a meeting with the Indian community in Cebu.
In a powerful address to the Indian community in Cebu, Philippines, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared that India has shed its image of weakness and has emerged as a formidable global force. Speaking on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), the Minister emphasized that while India maintains a policy of peace, it possesses the resolve and capability to respond decisively to any provocation.
A Global Voice That Commands Attention
Minister Singh highlighted the dramatic rise in India's international prestige, noting that the world now listens with "rapt attention" when India speaks. He pointed to the numerous highest civilian honors bestowed upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi by the leadership of 35 different countries as a testament to this growing respect.
Rooting this influence in Indian philosophy, he spoke of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that the entire world is one family. He illustrated India's compassionate nature with a cultural reference, stating that the nation is so large-hearted that it even offers milk to snakes during Nag Panchami.
Defence Strength and Strategic Partnerships
Addressing national security, the Defence Minister invoked Operation Sindoor to underscore the country's enhanced military readiness. He sent a clear message regarding India's security posture: the nation does not provoke others, but it will not spare those who provoke it.
This strengthened defence capability is not just internal but is also being exported. Singh specifically mentioned the strategic cooperation between India and the Philippines, noting that Manila has acquired the BrahMos missile system from India, marking a significant milestone in bilateral defence ties.
Economic Surge and Digital Transformation
On the economic front, Singh revealed that India currently ranks as the fifth-largest economy globally. He expressed confidence that India would soon break into the top three, suggesting that only the crisis in West Asia has slightly delayed this milestone.
The Minister also detailed the internal transformations driving this growth:
- Financial Inclusion: The widespread adoption of Jan Dhan bank accounts has allowed the government to transfer benefits directly to farmers, women, and youth, significantly curbing corruption.
- Education and Innovation: The number of universities has grown to 490, and the startup ecosystem has exploded, with the number of unicorns jumping from just four to 125.
- Infrastructure: The number of operational airports in the country has now reached 160.
Security Breakthroughs in Jammu and Kashmir
Turning to domestic security, Rajnath Singh provided a stark comparison regarding the situation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He claimed that stern government action has led to a significant decline in terrorism.
According to the Minister, the number of active terrorists in Kashmir has plummeted from 228 before the current government took office to between 40 and 45 today.
"India is no longer weak. We do not provoke anyone, but if someone provokes us, we do not spare them. This message is now loud and clear."