Kolkata: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has called on the Armed Forces to move beyond traditional concepts of warfare and remain prepared to face unconventional threats. Addressing the Combined Commanders’ Conference 2025 in Kolkata on September 16, he stressed the need for readiness against information, ideological, ecological, and biological warfare.
Evolving Nature of Warfare
Rajnath Singh highlighted that global conflicts are increasingly unpredictable and technology-driven. He noted that wars today can be short or prolonged, and the Armed Forces must maintain adequate surge capacity. He underscored the need for a “technology-friendly” military to meet emerging challenges.
The minister described India’s defence as a balance of offensive and defensive capabilities. He urged the Commanders to pursue the vision of a Sudarshan Chakra as envisaged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A committee has been tasked with preparing a realistic action plan, including medium-term and long-term roadmaps.
Modernisation and Aatmanirbharta
Rajnath Singh reaffirmed that modernisation, operational readiness, technological superiority, and credible deterrence remain the pillars of India’s defence sector. Emphasising the mantra of JAI: Jointness, Aatmanirbharta, and Innovation, he called for stronger collaboration with industry and academia to develop future-ready technologies.
The minister underlined the importance of jointness and synergy among the three services, logistics nodes, and civil agencies. Initiatives such as Tri-Service Logistics Nodes and integrated logistics applications are being implemented to enhance operational efficiency and integration.
Operation Sindoor and Self-Reliance
Citing Operation Sindoor, Rajnath Singh said strength, strategy, and self-reliance form the foundation of India’s military power in the 21st century. He praised the Armed Forces for their courage, professionalism, and reliance on indigenous platforms in executing the operation.
The minister approved the Defence Procurement Manual 2025 to streamline acquisition processes. He also announced the revision of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 to simplify systems, reduce delays, and enhance operational strength. Rajnath Singh reiterated that self-reliance in defence is not a slogan but a necessity that ensures strategic autonomy while boosting employment, shipbuilding, and aerospace clusters.
High-Level Participation
The conference was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, and Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh. Senior officials, including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat, and other top defence administrators, were also present.
