Ahmedabad, Dec 2 – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh sent a clear message to its western neighbour, stating that India is a peace‑loving nation that does not provoke anyone, but will act decisively against those who threaten peace and harmony.
“We are a peace‑loving people and we do not give offence. Once provoked, however, we will not spare anyone who casts an evil eye on our motherland,” the minister warned sternly at a Sardar Sabha gathering in Vadodara during the ‘Unity March’ organised by MY Bharat to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Vallabhbhai Patel.
Singh cited Operation Sindoor as evidence that India responds appropriately to those who misunderstand peace and goodwill. He lauded the armed forces for the successful mission and noted that the world now recognises their courage and capability.
The minister also drew a parallel between India’s firm stance on terrorism and Patel’s unwavering leadership during the integration of Hyderabad. He highlighted that the vision of “One India, Best India” has strengthened under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pointing to the abrogation of Article 370 as a critical step toward fully integrating Jammu & Kashmir into the national mainstream.
Singh added that India, once hesitant, now speaks with confidence on global platforms, reflecting its rise as a major economic and strategic power. Tracing the country’s economic ascent from 11th place in 2014 to 4th today, he credited the Union government’s model of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.” He said the Union is weaving India together through cultural, social, spiritual, and economic unity, moving toward the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Regarding defence, Singh said the government is advancing Patel’s focus on modernisation and highlighted the dramatic increase in defence exports – 34 times higher over the past 11 years – and reiterated the target of achieving ₹3 lakh crore in domestic production and ₹5 000 crore in exports by 2029 under the Make‑in‑India push. He also underscored the government’s push for accountability through the proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, which would automatically dismiss officials who are arrested on serious charges without bail within 30 days.
Urging young Indians to uphold unity and integrity, Singh stressed that protecting the nation’s sovereignty is the responsibility of the next generation. “We must not only embrace the values of Patel but also prepare future generations to live by them,” he said.
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