Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) [India], October 24 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took stock of the security situation and the operational preparedness of the Indian Army during the Army Commanders' Conference in Jaisalmer, and the visit to the forward areas of Tanot and Laungewala in Rajasthan on Friday, the Ministry of Defence said in an official statement.

During the conference, detailed deliberations were held with the senior leadership of the Indian Army on key aspects, including Grey Zone Warfare and the roadmap for Jointness, Aatmanirbharta and Innovation.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh and all Army Commanders were in attendance.

In his address, Rajnath Singh described Operation Sindoor as an embodiment of India's military prowess & national character, and a demonstration by the soldiers that their strength lies not only in weapons, but also in their ethical discipline & strategic clarity.

'Operation Sindoor will go down in history as not just a military operation, but also a symbol of the nation's courage and restraint. The action taken by our forces against terrorists was in keeping with both policy precision and human dignity. The operation isn't over. Our mission for peace will continue as long as even a single terrorist mindset remains alive,' he said.

Rajnath Singh underlined that Operation Sindoor has given rise to a new strategic thinking that India responds to any terrorist activity on its own terms. 'This is New India's Defence Doctrine, which embodies both resolve and courage,' he said. While Rajnath Singh expressed gratitude to the soldiers for standing guard 24X7 to protect the nation's integrity, he exhorted them to never underestimate the adversaries and remain alert & ready always.

Rajnath Singh urged the Commanders to continue focusing on defence diplomacy, Aatmanirbharta, Information Warfare, Defence Infrastructure, and Force Modernisation to ensure a Future-Ready Army. He hailed the professionalism, courage, and resilience of the Indian Armed Forces and reaffirmed the Government's unwavering commitment to provide state-of-the-art technology, infrastructure, and support to maintain the highest levels of operational preparedness.

Rajnath Singh praised the significant role of the Indian Army in ensuring peace and development in Jammu & Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370.

'The abrogation of Article 370 was historic. Today, the streets there are filled with hope, and not unrest. People are confident about their future. Most importantly, the decision-making system is now in the hands of the local people. The Indian Army has played a crucial role in this endeavour,' he said.

On the situation along the Northern border, the Defence Minister stated that the ongoing talks and de-escalation steps have demonstrated a balanced and firm foreign policy of India. 'Our policy is clear that there will be dialogue and our readiness on the border will remain intact,' he said.

Appreciating the will power and discipline of the soldiers, Rajnath Singh termed it as a testimony to the fact that the Indian military is considered one of the most adaptable forces in the world.

'Whether it's the freezing icy terrain of Siachen, or the scorching heat of the Rajasthan desert, or counter-insurgency operations in the dense forests, our soldiers have always demonstrated their capability and commitment. Despite the tough conditions and diverse challenges, they adapt to the changes and further strengthen national security,' he said.

Rajnath Singh emphasised that while present-day warfare is technology-driven, the soldiers remain the greatest assets of the country. He stated that machines multiply strength, but it's the human spirit that possesses the power to deliver results. He asserted that modern-day warfare is fought in invisible domains such as cyberspace, information, electronic disruption, and space control, and what matters, along with adapting to the latest technological advancements, is quick decision-making and willpower of the soldiers. (ANI)