Bagdogra (West Bengal), Nov 2026 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called upon the armed forces to maintain the highest standards of operational preparedness and strengthen their capabilities in areas such as domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to effectively tackle emerging security challenges.
Interacting with personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on the eve of Diwali, Singh said India's security environment was becoming increasingly complex, requiring the armed forces to remain alert, adaptable and technologically equipped.
He observed that modern warfare was no longer restricted to conventional military confrontations along the borders. It had expanded to include asymmetric warfare, proxy conflicts, cyber-attacks, drone swarms and information operations, with attempts to influence public opinion and shape narratives becoming important elements of contemporary security challenges.
"Often, the adversary avoids direct confrontation and instead seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities. Through social media, the adversary may attempt to sow doubt in the minds of the local population and our soldiers by spreading misleading information. In such a scenario, your role extends beyond that of an ordinary soldier," the Defence Minister said.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Bagdogra, Singh described the air force station as a significant component of India's security architecture, particularly in relation to the North-Eastern region. He praised the courage, commitment and dedication of military personnel deployed in the area, saying their presence and preparedness were important for safeguarding national interests.
He said the Air Warriors stationed in the region served as a strong protective shield for the eastern sector. Their operational readiness, he added, played an important role in maintaining security and stability in the region.
The Defence Minister also emphasised that technological advancement could not replace the fundamental qualities of discipline, courage and professionalism in the armed forces. He said the conduct, behaviour, language and restraint demonstrated by military personnel had a significant influence on how local communities viewed the armed forces.
Appreciating the personnel for carrying out their responsibilities with dedication and discipline, Singh encouraged them to strengthen their engagement with people living in and around Bagdogra. He stressed the importance of maintaining a relationship based on mutual trust, respect and affection between the local population and the Defence Forces.
"The more you engage with the local community, the weaker the adversary's conspiracies will become," he said, underlining the role of public cooperation in countering attempts to create mistrust and instability.
Singh also highlighted the Government's commitment to building an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and said domestic industries and Indian start-ups were increasingly contributing to the development of advanced defence technologies. Their work in areas such as drones, anti-drone systems and other modern military equipment was strengthening India's defence capabilities.
He commended the armed forces for adopting indigenous technologies and developing expertise in emerging areas, including drone operations and cyber security. Emphasising the need to prepare for future threats, he said the military must continue to become more technology-driven while maintaining its traditional strengths.
Referring to the Cabinet's approval of the 'Second Tour of Duty' for Agniveers, Singh said the decision would provide them with another opportunity to serve the nation. He stated that after completing the two-year engagement period, Agniveers would be eligible for an opportunity to join the regular forces as soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of the prescribed selection criteria.
Describing the decision as a significant Diwali gift for Agniveers, the Defence Minister reiterated the Government's commitment to the welfare of defence personnel and their families.
Extending Diwali greetings to the Air Warriors and their families, Singh wished them good health, happiness and prosperity. He acknowledged that military personnel deployed away from their homes often miss celebrating festivals with their loved ones, but continue to discharge their duties to protect the country and its citizens.
He also expressed gratitude to the families of service personnel for their sacrifices, patience and continued support. While soldiers remain committed to guarding the nation's borders and protecting national interests, he said the country would always stand firmly with their families and work towards their well-being.
The interaction was attended by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Bagdogra Air Commodore Manish Sharma and other senior Indian Air Force officials.
