Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for the highest level of operational preparedness across the armed forces, warning that adversaries are increasingly exploiting vulnerabilities through cyber-attacks, drone swarms, proxy warfare and information operations rather than direct military confrontation.
Delivering the message from Air Force Station Bagdogra, a strategically important airbase in West Bengal close to the China-facing eastern sector, Singh said the evolving security environment demanded heightened domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity. Interacting with Indian Air Force personnel on the eve of Diwali on Saturday, November 7, he underlined that modern warfare increasingly extended beyond conventional border engagements to include manipulation of public perceptions and military narratives.
“Often, the adversary avoids direct confrontation and instead seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities,” Singh said, cautioning that misleading information circulated through social media could be used to create doubts among local communities and military personnel. He said the responsibilities of soldiers in such an environment went beyond conventional military duties.
Describing Bagdogra as a critical component of India’s eastern security architecture, Singh commended IAF personnel deployed there, calling them a robust shield protecting the eastern sector and contributing to regional stability.
He also stressed that technological advancement could not substitute for discipline, courage and restraint. Military personnel, he said, must maintain exemplary conduct and strengthen their engagement with local communities, as public trust remained an important counter to adversarial propaganda.
Singh highlighted the growing role of Indian start-ups and domestic industry in developing drones, counter-drone systems and advanced military equipment, reiterating the Government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He called for greater technological absorption by the armed forces, particularly in drone operations and cybersecurity, to prepare for future conflicts.
Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers
In a significant announcement on military personnel welfare, Singh described the Cabinet-approved Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers as a major Diwali gift. Under the provision, Agniveers will receive another opportunity to serve the armed forces, with the two-year engagement period offering a pathway to regular enrolment subject to their willingness and fulfilment of prescribed selection criteria.
The Minister said the initiative reflected the Government’s commitment to the welfare of military personnel and their families.
Extending Diwali greetings to the Air Warriors and their families, Singh acknowledged the sacrifices made by service personnel who remain away from their homes during festivals while safeguarding the country’s security.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding Bagdogra Air Force Station Air Commodore Manish Sharma and other senior IAF officials were present during the interaction.
Team BharatShakti
