Defence Minister Rajnath Singh calls for preparedness against unconventional warfare

New Delhi, Oct 11: Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister addressed the second Army Commanders’ Conference in a forward location, highlighting the complex and evolving global security environment.

Speaking virtually from the Army location at Sukhna due to inclement weather in Gangtok, Singh emphasised the changing nature of warfare, which is increasingly asymmetric and hybrid in nature. “Unconventional and asymmetric warfare, including hybrid war, will be part of future conventional wars, as evidenced by recent conflicts in various parts of the world,” the defence minister stated. He urged the Armed Forces to consider these evolving dynamics while planning and formulating strategies.

Rajnath Singh also stressed the need for constant vigilance and modernisation, remarking, “We must keep learning from global incidents, past and present, to avert damage and enhance preparedness. Be alert, regularly modernise, and continuously prepare for various contingencies.”

Army’s Readiness Along Northern and Western Borders

Addressing the situation along the Northern borders, the defence minister expressed confidence in the Army’s readiness for any contingency, while affirming that ongoing talks for peaceful resolution would continue at all levels.

He also lauded the efforts of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), which has significantly improved road communication in both the Western and Northern borders under challenging conditions.

On the Western front, the Defence Minister praised the Indian Army’s effective response to cross-border terrorism but acknowledged that the proxy war by adversaries continues. “I compliment the excellent synergy between the CAPF, police forces, and the Army in tackling the menace of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. The Defence Minister highlighted that the coordinated operations have contributed to increased stability and peace in the region, as evident from the smooth conduct of recent elections in the Union Territory.

Operational Preparedness and Military Diplomacy

Rajnath Singh commended the Army for its high standards of operational preparedness, which he has personally witnessed during his visits to forward areas. He paid tribute to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. “The Nation is proud of its Army,” Singh said, adding that the government remains committed to facilitating the Army’s progress on the road to reforms and modernisation.

He also praised the Army’s contributions to military diplomacy, fostering cooperative relationships with foreign armies, and congratulated Army sportspersons for their outstanding performance in the 2024 Olympic Games. Additionally, Singh recognized the Army’s involvement in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, calling it an inspiration for others.

Singh concluded by urging the Army leadership to continuously focus on defence diplomacy, indigenisation, information warfare, infrastructure, and force modernisation. “War preparedness should be a continuous phenomenon, and we must always be ready for the uncertainties that may arise. The Nation is proud of its Army, and the Government is committed to supporting the Armed Forces in their forward movement towards capability modernization.”

The Army Commanders’ Conference, which commenced in a hybrid format on October 10, 2024, focuses on various security challenges, including organisational restructuring, logistics, and human resource management, with a specific emphasis on the situation along India’s borders.