Dras, July 2026 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday delivered a strong message to Pakistan during the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, asserting that any hostile action by Islamabad would invite a response “beyond its imagination.” Drawing a sharp contrast between India’s technological and economic progress and Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism, Singh reaffirmed that New Delhi’s only dialogue with Pakistan would be on the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Addressing serving soldiers, veterans, families of martyrs, and senior military officials, the Defence Minister paid rich tributes to the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War, describing their courage and sacrifice as a timeless inspiration for every Indian. He said the victory in Kargil was not merely a military triumph but a symbol of India’s unwavering resolve, national unity and the unmatched valour of its armed forces.
Remembering the soldiers who laid down their lives in defence of the nation, Singh said their sacrifices remain a priceless jewel in the crown of Bharat Mata. He noted that the bravery displayed on the icy heights of Kargil continues to inspire future generations of soldiers to protect the country’s sovereignty with determination and honour.
Using the occasion to underscore India’s transformation over the past two decades, Singh contrasted the country’s progress in technology, innovation and economic development with what he described as Pakistan’s continued reliance on terrorism as an instrument of state policy.
He remarked that while India is building world-class ships, Pakistan is “designing terrorism.” India, he said, is nurturing a thriving start-up ecosystem, whereas Pakistan has built what he termed a “terror ecosystem.” India is manufacturing semiconductors and leading global technological innovation, while Pakistan, he alleged, continues to produce suicide bombers and promote extremist ideologies.
Highlighting India’s achievements in science and technology, Singh said the country is launching satellites into space, developing cutting-edge software and expanding digital infrastructure through initiatives such as UPI and advanced data centres. In contrast, he accused Pakistan of exporting terrorism, financing extremist networks through hawala channels and promoting radicalisation instead of development.
The Defence Minister asserted that India’s armed forces are fully equipped and prepared to respond decisively to any attempt by Pakistan to disrupt peace or undermine India’s progress. He warned that every misadventure would invite consequences “far beyond their imagination,” emphasising that the country’s military possesses both the capability and the political backing to safeguard national interests.
Reiterating the government’s long-standing position on bilateral relations, Singh stated that India would hold no discussions with Pakistan except on the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which he described as an integral part of India under illegal occupation.
He further accused Pakistan of institutionalising terrorism, alleging that the distinction between its military establishment and terrorist organisations had effectively disappeared. According to Singh, elements within the Pakistani military continue to provide shelter, support and operational assistance to terrorist groups targeting India.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025 following the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said the operation marked a decisive shift in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine. He stated that India had demonstrated its willingness to strike terrorist infrastructure across the border, targeting major terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir while eliminating more than 100 terrorists.
The Defence Minister also highlighted that the present government has given the armed forces complete operational freedom along with the political resolve necessary to respond effectively to emerging security challenges. He assured the armed forces that national security and the welfare of soldiers would remain among the government’s highest priorities.
Recalling the legendary courage of Kargil hero Captain Vikram Batra, Singh invoked his iconic battle cry, “Yeh Dil Maange More,” saying it continues to embody the spirit, determination and selfless commitment of Indian soldiers serving the nation.
Concluding his address, Singh said the Kargil victory remains a powerful reminder that India’s unity, military strength and national resolve can overcome every challenge. As India continues its journey towards becoming a global economic and technological power, he asserted that the country’s armed forces remain stronger, more modern and fully prepared to defend every inch of its territory against any threat.
(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)
