Daijiworld Media Network - Jaipur
Jaipur, Jan 15: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday made it clear that India’s campaign against terrorism remains active, asserting that Operation Sindoor will continue until the very ideology that fuels terrorism is completely dismantled.
Speaking at the Shaurya Sandhya (Evening of Valour) programme at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh Stadium on the occasion of Army Day, Singh said India’s commitment to peace cannot be separated from its resolve to counter terror. “Operation Sindoor is not over. Our efforts will continue until the mindset of terrorism is uprooted. I say this from the brave land of Rajasthan,” he declared.
The atmosphere turned electric as Army paratroopers descended into the stadium, triggering loud chants of patriotism from the audience. The Defence Minister said Operation Sindoor reflected not just India’s military capability, but also its national ethos. He emphasised that the operation was executed with strategic precision while upholding humanitarian values.
“Our response to terrorism was firm, planned and restrained. That is why Operation Sindoor will be remembered not only as a military success, but as an example of courage guided by responsibility,” Singh said.
Earlier in the day, Jaipur witnessed an unprecedented public display of military strength. Advanced defence equipment including BrahMos missiles, Arjun and Bhishma tanks, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, and robotic dogs were showcased on city roads. Apache attack helicopters performed aerial drills, while Jaguar fighter jets flew in from the Nal airbase in Bikaner, drawing massive crowds.
In a historic first, the Army Day Parade was held outside a military cantonment. Thousands of citizens gathered along Mahal Road in Jagatpura to witness the event. The parade opened with the presentation of gallantry awards to soldiers who laid down their lives during Operation Sindoor. Decorated soldiers, including recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra, led the march.
The ceremony was marked by emotional moments. Rajnath Singh presented a gallantry medal to the wife of martyred Subedar Major Pawan Kumar. The mother of Lance Naik Pradeep Kumar of 1 Para Special Forces, who also died during Operation Sindoor, collapsed on stage while receiving the Army Medal and was immediately rushed to hospital.
Highlighting reforms within the armed forces, Singh spoke about the expanding role of women in the Army. He said long-standing social and cultural barriers were being dismantled and pointed out that women have been admitted to the National Defence Academy since 2021, marking a significant shift toward inclusivity.
The Defence Minister also referred to the volatile global security environment. “The world today is witnessing uncertainty, where long-held assumptions are being challenged. In such times, strengthening and modernising our armed forces becomes essential,” he said, adding that India aims to build one of the world’s strongest armies by 2047.
He described the Indian Army as a global symbol of peace, reflecting India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world as one family.
Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Command, paid tribute to Rajasthan’s martial legacy. He recalled legendary warriors like Maharana Pratap and Rana Sanga, and noted the state’s contribution to renowned regiments such as the Rajputana Rifles, Rajput Regiment and Jat Regiment.
The Shaurya Sandhya concluded with cultural performances and visual displays celebrating the bravery, sacrifice and professionalism of the Indian Army, leaving the audience with a strong sense of national pride.