Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 8: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday called upon students to cultivate a strong sense of national pride and embrace discipline, service, and patriotism as guiding values in their lives. Speaking to students and the principal of Navy Children School (NCS), Delhi, during its Diamond Jubilee celebrations at his South Block office, Singh encouraged the young minds to dream with purpose and pursue their ambitions sincerely and humbly.

In his address, the Defence Minister emphasized that character formation during formative years is crucial, and praised institutions like NCS for nurturing leadership, integrity, and responsibility. He described schools under the Ministry of Defence as more than just centres of academic learning, calling them platforms that actively contribute to nation-building by instilling core values in the next generation.

Students shared their experiences about how the school supports their holistic development, and presented the minister with handcrafted tokens of respect, a Coffee Table Book, and the school’s Crest. Singh expressed appreciation for their creativity and dedication.

Reinforcing the importance of self-reliance in national defence, Singh reiterated that 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance) is essential for India's survival and progress in the 21st century. He stated that in today’s volatile global environment, marked by pandemics, terrorism, and regional conflicts, relying on foreign powers for defence needs is no longer an option.

"Self-reliance has now become a strategic necessity," Singh said, highlighting how the changing geopolitical landscape demands a robust and independent defence ecosystem for India.