New Delhi : Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, addressing the Naval Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on October 23, 2025, praised the Indian Navy’s strategic prowess and technological advancement, calling Operation Sindoor a powerful symbol of India’s resolve and readiness.
Operation Sindoor: A Strategic Signal to the World
Describing the operation as a demonstration of India’s willpower and capability, the Raksha Mantri stated that the Indian Navy’s deterrent posture during the operation forced Pakistan’s naval assets to remain confined to their harbours. “The world witnessed the Navy’s operational readiness and professional strength,” he said, adding that India’s presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) offers reassurance to allies and discomfort to destabilizing forces.
India’s Expanding Maritime Influence
Highlighting the IOR’s growing geopolitical significance, Shri Rajnath Singh noted that the Indian Navy has taken a leadership role through its multi-dimensional deployments. Over the past six months, Indian naval assets have safeguarded 335 merchant vessels, securing 1.2 million metric tons of cargo worth $5.6 billion, reinforcing India’s position as a trusted maritime partner.
Aatmanirbhar Navy: Driving Innovation and Industry
The Defence Minister emphasized the Navy’s commitment to self-reliance, with 67% of capital acquisitions over the past decade sourced from Indian industries. Currently, the Navy is spearheading 194 innovation and indigenisation projects under initiatives like iDEX, TDF, SPRINT, and Make-in-India. These efforts are not only enhancing defence capabilities but also integrating MSMEs, startups, and young innovators into the national security ecosystem.
Maritime Preparedness in the Tech Era
Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the shift toward technology-driven, network-centric, and autonomous systems in modern warfare. He stressed the need for India to stay ahead of adversaries by investing in indigenous innovation and advanced defence technologies.
Navy’s Role in Nation-Building
The Raksha Mantri highlighted the Navy’s contribution to economic growth and employment. Projects like Project 17A, with over 75% indigenous content, have generated approximately 1.27 lakh jobs in shipyards such as MDL and GRSE. He also cited recent contracts worth ₹315 crore awarded to small shipyards for yard craft construction, aligning with the Vocal for Local vision.
Aviation and Strategic Modernisation
The Navy’s strides in aviation were also lauded, with projects like Multi-role Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft, Utility Helicopters, Twin-engine Deck Fighters, and Naval Shipborne Unmanned Aerial Systems strengthening India’s defence aviation sector.
Strategic Vision: Capability, People, and Partnerships
Concluding his address, Shri Rajnath Singh called for a holistic approach to naval strategy, emphasizing the synergy between capability, personnel, and partnerships—including collaboration with industries, academia, and international allies.
The event was attended by top defence leadership, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and DRDO.
