New Delhi: India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that India’s true national strength depends on both advanced missile technology and strong moral values. Speaking at an event in New Delhi during Pitru Paksha, he stressed that military power alone cannot make a nation truly strong. He said India must also protect its cultural heritage, remember its ancestors and honour the sacrifices of soldiers who defend the country.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Highlights The Importance Of Military Power And Moral Values
Rajnath Singh shared these views while attending a programme at the Rashtriya Mandir Vishva Ramayana Ashram in New Delhi on October 9, 2026. The event focused on remembering ancestors and honouring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
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According to his official speech, the Defence Minister said that possessing missiles and advanced technology is important, but these achievements must be supported by a strong sense of responsibility and national consciousness.
He explained that a country cannot achieve complete progress through technology alone. It must also develop good values, respect for others and a strong commitment to the nation.
India Must Advance In Missile Technology And Artificial Intelligence
The Defence Minister highlighted the rapid progress being made in science and technology around the world. He referred to developments in advanced missiles, artificial intelligence (AI), hypersonic weapons and quantum technology.
He said India must continue to improve its technological capabilities while maintaining its cultural and moral foundations. According to Singh, technological development and national character should grow together. He stressed that India must become not only technologically advanced but also morally strong.
India has also been working to strengthen its indigenous defence capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed important missile systems, including Akash and BrahMos, which support the country’s defence preparedness.
The government has repeatedly highlighted the importance of domestic defence manufacturing to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthen India’s self-reliance.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Says Remembering Soldiers And Ancestors Is Important
During the programme, Rajnath Singh spoke about the importance of remembering ancestors, freedom fighters, soldiers and other people who sacrificed their lives for the country. He said that a nation should never forget the people whose sacrifices helped protect its freedom and shape its future.
The event took place during Pitru Paksha, a traditional Hindu period dedicated to remembering and paying respect to ancestors. The programme included Tarpan, a ritual offering of water to honour them.
Singh explained that remembering those who served society and the nation is not just a cultural practice. It also reminds people of their duties and responsibilities. He encouraged citizens to learn from the lives of great personalities who placed the welfare of society above their personal interests.
Rajnath Singh Calls For Unity, Tolerance And National Consciousness
The Defence Minister also spoke about the need for unity and tolerance in society. He said that true greatness is not measured only by power, wealth or capability.
According to him, generosity, patience and the ability to bring people together are also important qualities of a strong nation. Singh said that negative thinking and divisive discussions can weaken society. He emphasised the importance of developing a positive mindset that encourages people to work for the common good.
He also explained that great personalities serve society without discriminating between people who benefit from their support. His message was that India should combine its growing military capabilities with responsible citizenship, social harmony and respect for its cultural traditions.
Government Efforts To Preserve India’s Cultural Heritage
Rajnath Singh highlighted the government’s efforts to preserve and promote India’s cultural and civilisational heritage.
He referred to major cultural projects, including the Mahakaleshwar corridor in Ujjain, the Kashi Vishwanath Dham redevelopment in Varanasi and the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. These projects have been presented as efforts to improve important religious sites and preserve India’s cultural traditions.
The Defence Minister said that cultural activities can help people remain connected to their roots and understand the sacrifices made by earlier generations. He also stressed that national development should include progress in science, technology, infrastructure and security, along with the protection of cultural heritage.
Territorial Army Praised For Its Service To The Nation
On the occasion of the Territorial Army’s Raising Day, Rajnath Singh extended his greetings to serving personnel, veterans and their families.
He praised the Territorial Army for its contributions to border security, disaster relief and nation-building.
The Territorial Army supports the country’s defence and assists civil authorities during emergencies and other important situations. Singh recognised the courage, dedication and selfless service of its personnel. He also thanked them for their contribution to building a secure and self-reliant India.
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FAQs
He explained that missiles and modern technology are important for national security, but technological progress alone is incomplete without moral values, social responsibility and national consciousness.
Rajnath Singh said India’s true strength comes from combining advanced military technology with strong moral values, national consciousness, cultural traditions and a sense of responsibility.
Rajnath Singh praised the Territorial Army for its contributions to border security, disaster relief and nation-building. He also thanked its serving personnel, veterans and their families for their service to India.
