Rajnath Singh warns of evolving threats and calls for highest military preparedness

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh with senior officers and personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on the eve of Deepavali at Bagdogra Air Station in Darjeeling on November 7, 2026. | Photo credit: ANI

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday (November 7, 2026) visited armed forces personnel at several locations in West Bengal and highlighted the changing nature of warfare, describing the Northeast as India’s “first frontier” rather than the “last frontier”.

The security environment across the country is increasingly complex and the armed forces must maintain the highest level of operational readiness to effectively counter any threats to national security, he told personnel at Bagdogra Air Force Station. Delivering his message on the eve of Deepavali from a key air base near the border with China in the eastern sector, without naming any country, Mr Singh said the adversary was now avoiding a direct confrontation but was trying to exploit certain “vulnerabilities”.

He urged the armed forces to focus in particular on strengthening domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to effectively counter emerging security threats, according to the Ministry of Defence. Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Bagdogra Air Commodore Manish Sharma and other senior IAF officials were present on the occasion.

Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important region and a vital link in India’s security framework, Mr. Singh appreciated the courage and determination of the defense personnel to protect national interests. He said Air Force personnel deployed in the region serve as a robust shield for the security of the eastern sector and their readiness is essential to maintain stability in the region.

The Defense Minister later reviewed the operational readiness of the Trishakti Army Corps in Sukno with a focus on infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), deployment of advanced military equipment and adoption of new technologies to enhance combat effectiveness.

Mr. Singh expressed satisfaction with the corps’ operational readiness and appreciated its contribution to infrastructure development and welfare initiatives in border areas aimed at strengthening ties with local communities.

Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth, Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen VMB Krishnan and Trishakti Corps Commander Lt Gen Man Raj Singh Mann were present during the inspection.

During the ‘barakhana’ on the eve of Deepawali, Mr. Singh appreciated their courage, professionalism and dedication in protecting the country’s borders under tough operational conditions.

Emphasizing the changing nature of warfare, he said security challenges are no longer limited to conventional exchanges of gunfire and artillery, but increasingly include hybrid warfare, proxy wars, cyber attacks, drone incursions and information warfare.

He warned that adversaries are using social media to spread rumours, deploy drones to monitor sensitive sites and attempt to compromise military systems through cyber attacks. He urged employees to remain vigilant and ready to face emerging threats in all areas.

Describing Sukna as a critical logistics hub for eastern India, Mr. Singh said its geographical sensitivity required round-the-clock operational readiness. He emphasized its importance in moving supplies, weapons, food, medical equipment and personnel to forward locations.

The defense minister said budget allocations for roads, tunnels, border infrastructure and modern equipment were increased as the country moved towards self-sufficiency in defense production.

He noted that Indian start-ups and industries are producing drones and anti-drone systems, while the armed forces are increasingly using new technologies and training in drone operations and cyber security.

Mr. Singh also emphasized the importance of the mental health and emotional well-being of soldiers and urged them to communicate openly with their colleagues and seek support to deal with the stress of demanding duties and separation from families.

Expressing gratitude to the families of the personnel for their sacrifices and contributions, Mr. Singh stressed that while the soldiers remain committed to protecting the border, the nation will always stand by their families and ensure their welfare.

Published – 07 Nov 2026 20:38 IST