Dras (Ladakh), July 26: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday asserted that the success of Operation Sindoor has demonstrated India’s capability to respond to every Pakistani misadventure with a force “far beyond its imagination.” Addressing the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, he reiterated that there would be no talks with Pakistan, and if any dialogue takes place, it would be only on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), which he described as an integral part of India under illegal occupation.

‘No Distinction Between Terrorists and Their Patrons’

Referring to Operation Sindoor, Rajnath Singh said India no longer views terrorists and the governments that shelter them as separate entities.

He alleged that Pakistan has made terrorism a part of its state policy and claimed that its military works in tandem with terrorist organisations.

“Every act against India’s sovereignty will receive a firm and decisive response, just as our Armed Forces demonstrated during Operation Sindoor,” he said.

‘India Builds Innovation, Pakistan Promotes Terror’

Drawing a sharp comparison between the two neighbours, the Defence Minister said that while India is pursuing innovation and economic progress, Pakistan is focused on terrorism and infiltration.

He remarked that:

  • India designs semiconductors; Pakistan designs terror.
  • India builds a start-up ecosystem; Pakistan builds a terror ecosystem.
  • India launches satellites; Pakistan sends terrorists across the border.
  • India connects the world through UPI; Pakistan links terrorism through hawala networks.

He warned that any attempt by Pakistan to obstruct India’s development would invite a befitting response from the Indian Armed Forces.

Political Will to Give Armed Forces a Free Hand

Rajnath Singh said the government has provided the Armed Forces with complete operational freedom to respond decisively to threats.

He expressed confidence that no adversary would dare challenge India while its soldiers guard the nation’s borders.

Tribute to Kargil Heroes

Paying homage to the martyrs of the 1999 Kargil War, the Defence Minister remembered the supreme sacrifices of India’s brave soldiers, including Param Vir Chakra awardees Captain Vikram Batra and Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey.

He described Kargil Vijay Diwas as a symbol of sacrifice, patriotism and national duty, inspiring every young Indian to place the nation above self.

Viksit Bharat Beyond Economic Growth

Highlighting the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, Rajnath Singh said the goal extends beyond economic prosperity and encompasses:

  • Strategic strength.
  • National security.
  • Cultural pride.
  • Social harmony.

He urged every citizen to embrace the spirit of “Nation First” and remain mentally, morally and physically prepared to contribute to national defence whenever required.

Push for Defence Self-Reliance

Invoking Captain Vikram Batra’s famous slogan “Yeh Dil Maange More,” the Defence Minister said India is rapidly progressing towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.

He noted that when the present government assumed office, India imported nearly 65–70% of its defence equipment, whereas today about 65% is being manufactured domestically.

He highlighted several indigenous defence platforms, including:

  • INS Vikrant
  • LCA Tejas
  • LCH Prachand
  • ALH Dhruv
  • Arjun Main Battle Tank
  • Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher
  • Astra Air-to-Air Missile
  • Akash-Teer Air Defence Control System
  • Advanced drones and counter-drone systems

He said India would continue developing next-generation fighter aircraft, submarines, missiles and other advanced defence technologies within the country.

Homage at Kargil War Memorial

Earlier in the day, Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial and observed a moment of silence in memory of the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during Operation Vijay in 1999.

He was joined by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, senior military commanders, Kargil War veterans, gallantry awardees, Veer Naris and families of the fallen.

The Defence Minister also inaugurated the Virtual Walkthrough Portal of the Kargil War Memorial, visited the Hut of Remembrance and Veer Bhoomi, interacted with soldiers and veterans, and flagged in the Shaurya Vijay Yatra motorcycle rally organised as part of the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations.