Rajnath Singh asks armed forces to maintain high operational readiness
Bagdogra (West Bengal), Nov 7 (TNT) : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday called upon the armed forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness to effectively counter emerging security threats, including cyberattacks, drone warfare and misinformation campaigns.
Interacting with Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Air Force Station here, on the eve of Diwali, he said the security environment had become increasingly complex, with warfare extending beyond conventional border engagements to include asymmetric warfare, proxy wars, cyberattacks, drone swarms and information operations.
He cautioned that adversaries were increasingly seeking to exploit vulnerabilities through social media and misleading information to create doubts among local communities and security personnel, stressing the need for greater domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity.
Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important location and a crucial link in India’s security framework, particularly for the North-Eastern region, Singh said the preparedness of Air Warriors deployed in the eastern sector was vital to safeguarding national interests and maintaining regional stability.
He emphasised that discipline, courage and restraint remained essential qualities of armed forces personnel and urged them to strengthen their engagement with local communities to counter adversarial attempts to create divisions.
Highlighting the Government’s commitment to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the Defence Minister said Indian start-ups and industries were increasingly contributing to the development of drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment.
He appreciated the armed forces for adopting indigenous technologies and developing skills in drone operations and cyber security.
Referring to the Cabinet’s approval of the ‘Second Tour of Duty’ for Agniveers, Singh said the decision would provide them another opportunity to serve the nation.On completion of the two-year engagement period, they would be eligible for enrolment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria.
Describing the decision as a Diwali gift for Agniveers, he reiterated the Government’s commitment to the welfare of defence personnel and their families.
Extending Diwali greetings, Singh appreciated the sacrifices of Air Force personnel who remain away from their families during festivals while ensuring the country’s security.
He also acknowledged the contribution of their families and assured them of the nation’s continued support.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Bagdogra, Air Commodore Manish Sharma and other senior IAF officials were present.
TNT KM
