‘New India Will Not Tolerate Terror’: Rajnath Singh Highlights Operation Sindoor, AI-Driven Warfare at National Security Summit

Describing Operation Sindoor as a turning point, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized that India is no longer constrained by traditional diplomatic responses to terror attacks.

Sending a strong and unequivocal message on India's evolving security doctrine, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh declared that the country has moved beyond "mere intent and rhetoric" to decisive, calibrated action against terrorism, citing Operation Sindoor as a defining example of India's new strategic posture.

Addressing a National Security Summit in New Delhi on April 30, 2026, the Defence Minister outlined a multi-dimensional approach to counter-terrorism, technological transformation in warfare, and India's growing global defence stature, marking a significant articulation of India's security doctrine in a rapidly changing global order.

Operation Sindoor Signals Shift in India's Counter-Terror Strategy

Describing Operation Sindoor as a turning point, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized that India is no longer constrained by traditional diplomatic responses to terror attacks.

"India has demonstrated through decisive action that terrorism will not be tolerated under any circumstances," he said, adding that operations such as surgical strikes, air strikes, and Operation Sindoor reflect the government's firm and consistent stance.

The Minister stressed that the operation was executed on India's own terms—both in timing and conclusion, highlighting the country's growing strategic autonomy and military confidence.

Integrated Military Power and Surge Capacity

Operation Sindoor was also presented as a benchmark for joint military operations, showcasing seamless coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The Defence Minister noted that India's armed forces have evolved into a fully integrated, technology-enabled combat force, capable of rapid mobilization and sustained operations.

He emphasized:

• India's ability to scale up military capabilities during crises

• Strong logistics and supply chain readiness

• A robust military-industrial ecosystem supporting both peacetime and wartime needs

Importantly, he highlighted that India did not succumb to nuclear threats during the operation, underscoring its strategic resilience.

Terrorism: A Global Threat Beyond Borders

Shri Rajnath Singh described terrorism as a multi-dimensional challenge—operational, ideological, and political, warning against attempts to justify it through religious or ideological narratives.

In a sharp remark, he stated:

"India is known globally for IT—Information Technology—while Pakistan has become synonymous with another IT: International Terrorism."

He stressed that combating terrorism requires comprehensive strategies addressing all its dimensions, not just military responses.

Defence Exports Surge as Global Confidence Grows

Highlighting India's rising credibility in the global defence market, the Minister revealed that defence exports reached a record ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025–26, marking a 62.66% increase over the previous year.

This surge, he noted, reflects:

• Growing global trust in indigenously developed defence systems

• Increased interest from international buyers

• Strengthening of India's defence manufacturing ecosystem

He added that European defence firms are increasingly seeking partnerships with Indian companies, signaling India's emergence as a reliable defence production hub.

AI at the Core of Modern Warfare

A major focus of the address was the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern defence strategy. Shri Rajnath Singh described AI as a force multiplier, enhancing precision, surveillance, and operational efficiency.

Key applications highlighted include:

• Battlefield surveillance and threat detection

• Precision targeting in missile systems like BrahMos

• Autonomous systems and decision-support mechanisms

• Preemptive operations to neutralize threats before escalation

He also introduced the concept of "AI as Augmented Infantry", emphasizing its role in enhancing the capabilities of soldiers on the ground.

Building a Technology-Driven Military Force

India is rapidly transitioning towards a technology-intensive, integrated military structure, with the creation of specialized units such as:

• Rudra Brigades

• Bhairav Battalions

• Shaktibaan Artillery Regiments

• Divyastra Batteries

These units are designed to respond swiftly to hybrid and emerging threats, combining conventional strength with advanced technologies.

AI Beyond the Battlefield: Welfare and Governance

Beyond combat, AI is also being leveraged to improve soldier welfare and administrative efficiency. Initiatives include:

• SPARSH portal for defence pensions, using AI chatbots for grievance redressal

• Digital systems for medical monitoring and record management

• AI-based tools to support education and healthcare for soldiers' families

This reflects a holistic approach where technology enhances both operational readiness and human welfare.

IndiaAI Mission: Democratizing Technology

Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the government's broader push under the IndiaAI Mission, aimed at democratizing access to AI infrastructure and skills across the country.

Key highlights include:

• Deployment of 10,000+ GPU computing capacity

• Expansion of FutureSkills programs and AI labs

• Hosting of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, with participation from 89 countries

India, he noted, is now playing a leading role in shaping global AI standards, guided by the principle of "AI for All".

Balancing Opportunity with Risk

While emphasizing AI's potential, the Defence Minister cautioned against emerging risks such as:

• Deepfakes and misinformation

• Cyber warfare

• Autonomous weapons systems

He stressed the need for international cooperation and responsible AI governance to ensure that technology remains a force for good.

A New Doctrine for a New Global Order

Concluding his address, Shri Rajnath Singh described India's evolving security approach as part of a "New World Order", where deterrence is built not just on military strength, but also on technology, innovation, and strategic clarity.

"India makes no distinction between terrorism and those who sponsor it," he asserted, underlining a firm and uncompromising national policy.

With a combination of decisive military action, technological advancement, and global engagement, India is positioning itself as a strong, self-reliant, and forward-looking security power in the 21st century.