NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 23: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday called upon Indian Army commanders to adopt a long-term strategic vision for the next 20–30 years while maintaining readiness to meet immediate and emerging security challenges.
Addressing the Army Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi, Singh stressed the need to closely monitor geopolitical and regional developments and keep military strategies flexible to respond to changing security scenarios.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said innovative thinking, improved coordination and advanced weaponry had contributed to its success, sending a clear message that India would take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.
Singh emphasised the need to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence, drones, autonomous systems, data analytics, cybersecurity and secure communication networks to strengthen the Army’s operational capabilities.
He said that despite the growing importance of air, maritime, space and cyber domains, land warfare would remain crucial, requiring an integrated approach and seamless coordination among the armed forces.
Highlighting the government’s focus on Aatmanirbharta in Defence, Singh said defence production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in 2025–26, while defence exports touched an all-time high of approximately ₹38,000 crore.
He called for effective implementation of military reforms, improved manpower management, greater participation of women and continued investment in indigenous defence capabilities.
Referring to the Year of Reforms–2025, the Defence Minister said reforms must translate into tangible improvements in operational preparedness and military effectiveness.
Singh also credited the armed forces’ courage, discipline and preparedness, along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and diplomatic efforts, for strengthening India’s global standing.
On the occasion, he released the Land Warfare Doctrine, aimed at preparing the Army for the evolving nature of warfare and future conflicts. He also unveiled the annual United Nations Journal and felicitated Army personnel for their contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials attended the conference.
