On October 24, 2023, the Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, undertook a significant visit to the forward posts in Arunachal Pradesh. During this trip, he conducted a firsthand assessment of the operational readiness of the Armed Forces stationed in this region. He engaged with the troops deployed in the frontline positions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and partook in Dussehra celebrations with them. Rajnath Singh expressed deep appreciation for the indomitable spirit, unwavering dedication, and unmatched bravery exhibited by these troops, who work tirelessly in challenging conditions to ensure the safety of our nation and its citizens. He reiterated the nation`s profound pride in its Armed Forces and reaffirmed unwavering support for them.

At Tawang, Rajnath Singh participated in a Shastra Puja ceremony alongside the troops. During this event, he emphasized the symbolic significance of Dussehra as the triumph of good over evil. In his address, he hailed the righteousness and moral integrity exhibited by the courageous Armed Forces personnel as a living embodiment of the values celebrated during the festival of Vijayadashmi.

The Defence Minister underscored that the valor and commitment of the Armed Forces have played a pivotal role in elevating India`s standing on the global stage, making it one of the world`s most powerful nations. He cited his recent visit to the Montone Memorial in Italy, dedicated to honoring the contributions of Naik Yaswant Ghadge and other Indian soldiers who fought in World War II to liberate Montone. Rajnath Singh noted that not only Indians but also the people of Italy pay their respects at this memorial, highlighting the international recognition of the bravery of Indian soldiers.

Considering the current global scenario, Rajnath Singh stressed the imperative of bolstering India`s security apparatus, with the government`s firm commitment to strengthening the country`s military capabilities through domestic production of defense equipment. He highlighted the significant progress made towards achieving self-reliance in defense under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Previously reliant on imports to modernize its military, India now manufactures numerous major weapons and platforms domestically. Foreign companies are encouraged to share their technology and engage in domestic production. Rajnath Singh pointed out that defense exports, which were worth about Rs 1,000 crore in 2014, have now surged to thousands of crores.

The Defence Minister also paid a visit to the Tawang War Memorial, where he laid a wreath and paid tribute to the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1962 war. He was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Eastern Command Lt Gen RP Kalita, GOC 4 Corps Lt Gen Manish Erry, and other senior officers of the Indian Army.

Rajnath Singh`s itinerary also included a visit to the 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam. During this visit, he assessed the operational readiness of this formation, which is deployed in one of India`s easternmost regions. He was briefed on the infrastructure development along the LAC and the utilization of cutting-edge military equipment and technology to enhance the operational efficiency of the troops stationed in the frontline. He lauded the exceptional efforts and dedicated service of all ranks of the Corps, particularly in challenging conditions.

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