PUNE: At the convocation of Symbiosis Skills & Professional University, Defence Minister Mr. Rajnath Singh described Operation Sindoor as “a glowing testimony to India’s growing indigenous prowess,” underscoring that it stems from the government’s push for a self-reliant defence manufacturing ecosystem.
He recalled that early efforts to build domestic capacity seemed challenging, but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, every step was backed by resolve, policy reforms, and support for industry and innovation.
“We pledged to move towards transforming the defence sector… the entire world witnessed the bravery of our soldiers during Operation Sindoor.”
Operation Sindoor: Surge in Defence Production & Private Sector Role
Over the past decade, India’s annual defence production surged from ₹46,000 crore to ₹1.5 lakh crore, with the private sector contributing ~₹33,000 crore of that growth.
Looking ahead, Raksha Mantri expressed confidence in achieving ₹3 lakh crore in defence manufacturing and ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029 — bold goals that reflect India’s ambition to become a global defence hub.
Message to Students: Be Creators, Not Just Degree Holders
Addressing the graduates, Shri Rajnath Singh urged them to transcend academic milestones. He emphasized: “True success lies not merely in acquiring degrees but in applying knowledge meaningfully for society.”
He stressed that in today’s world, skills create the critical link between knowledge and execution:
“We are no longer in the era of ‘What do you know?’ The world now asks, ‘What can you do?’”
On Artificial Intelligence (AI), he reassured that AI won’t replace human capabilities; instead, those who leverage AI wisely will lead — reinforcing that technology is a tool, not a substitute for human values and ethics.
New School of Defence & Aerospace Technology Inaugurated
As part of the ceremony, Raksha Mantri, along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, inaugurated a state-of-the-art School of Defence and Aerospace Technology at the university.
This institution aims to bridge academia and industry, preparing youth to contribute directly to India’s defence innovation efforts.
Strategic Vision in the Amrit Kaal
Positioning the coming 20–25 years as pivotal, Shri Rajnath Singh urged graduates to channel their ambition toward national development, not just personal growth. He called this period the defining era — not only for careers but for the destiny of the nation.
Why This Matters
1. Operation Sindoor is being held up as a symbol of successful indigenous operations using domestically produced equipment.
2. The government’s 2029 targets signal strong policy backing and push for global competitiveness in defence exports.
3. Connecting students and youth to the defence value chain signals a shift: innovation, skill, and entrepreneurship now central to national security.
4. The development of defence education infrastructure (like the new school) aims to institutionalize talent cultivation in India’s strategic sectors.
