Speaking at an event in Lucknow on April 11, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that national security is a collective duty of every citizen, not just the armed forces. He highlighted that unity, discipline, and public awareness are key pillars in strengthening the nation’s security framework amid growing global uncertainties.
Urging citizens to remain vigilant, he called for strict adherence to law, rejection of misinformation, and prioritizing national interest over personal gains. He warned that misinformation and rumors can destabilize society, stressing the crucial role of media in delivering accurate and responsible information.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he noted significant progress in defence self-reliance. India’s defence production reached ₹1.51 lakh crore in FY 2024–25, while exports rose to ₹38,424 crore in 2025–26, with a target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029–30.
He also paid tribute to India’s war heroes, whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire the nation. Singh concluded that achieving Viksit Bharat@2047 requires collective responsibility, strong societal cohesion, and unwavering commitment to national security.
