Source Hindustan Times
DRAS, LADAKH — Delivering a sharp and decisive message to Pakistan on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh warned that any cross-border misadventure against India would invite a military response “beyond their imagination.”
Addressing armed forces personnel, veterans, and military leadership gathered at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Singh reiterated India’s uncompromising stance on cross-border terrorism and ruled out bilateral talks unless they specifically focus on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).
“Our intention is clear. There will be no talks with Pakistan. If there are any talks, they will be only on PoK, which is an integral part of India currently under illegal occupation,” the Defence Minister declared.
Zero Tolerance for Terror Ecosystems
Emphasizing a major shift in India’s defense posture, Singh stated that New Delhi no longer distinguishes between terrorist groups operating against India and the state apparatus supporting them. He cited military actions such as Operation Sindoor to demonstrate the severe consequences awaiting state and non-state actors involved in cross-border aggression.
“Pakistan has made terrorism a part of its government policy, and the distinction between its military and militants has completely disappeared,” Singh said. “The army there not only protects terrorist organizations but works hand-in-hand with them. Therefore, India will no longer view terrorists and the governments that nurture them separately.”
Contrast in National Trajectories
Drawing a stark distinction between the development paths of the two neighboring nations, the Defence Minister highlighted India’s rapid modern technology growth against Pakistan’s persistent support for proxy warfare:
Technology vs. Terror: “India is providing software to the world, while Pakistan is spreading sleeper cells. India is building data centers, while Pakistan builds radical centers.”
Innovation vs. Infiltration: “India is creating a global startup ecosystem, while Pakistan nurtures a terror ecosystem. India manufactures semiconductors, while Pakistan prepares suicide bombers.”
Future Horizons: “India is sending satellites into space and building indigenous warships; Pakistan remains engaged in sending infiltrators across the border.”
Honoring the Legacy of 1999
The Minister paid homage to the 527 fallen bravehearts of Operation Vijay, whose sacrifices on the treacherous Himalayan peaks secured India’s triumph during the 1999 Kargil Conflict. Reaffirming that the nation’s armed forces have always possessed exceptional capability, Singh noted that the crucial addition today is unwavering political resolve.
Recalling Captain Vikram Batra’s iconic war cry, “Yeh Dil Maange More,” Singh emphasized that the spirit and resolve of Indian soldiers remain unyielding. He assured the troops that the government stands firmly behind them, equipping the forces with complete operational freedom and state-of-the-art indigenous weaponry to counter any threat.
