Powered by
Sponsored by

India has to boost military capabilities in line with changing mode of war: Modi

Modi was addressing soldiers in the Nowshera sector on Diwali

narendra modi PM Narendra Modi (centre) in Nowshera | Twitter handle of BJP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday reiterated the importance of self-reliance in defence.

Modi was addressing soldiers in the Nowshera sector of Jammu and Kashmir on the occasion of Diwali.

Modi was quoted by ANI as saying "Earlier, it used to take years together to procure defence equipment for the security forces. The commitment to self-reliance in the defence sector is the only way to change old methods."

Modi highlighted his government's emphasis on indigenous defence production. "About 65 per cent of the defence budget is being spent on procurement within the country. Today, Arjun tanks are being built inside the country, aircraft like Tejas are also being made inside the country. Seven defence companies were dedicated to the nation on Vijayadashami," Modi said.

Modi noted that the country has "to enhance, adapt our military capabilities in line with changing world and mode of war".

Modi also referred to the role of women in the armed forces in the backdrop of the recent decision to allow them entry into the National Defence Academy. Modi was quoted by ANI as saying "The role of women in the area of security of the nation is touching newer heights. The women are being given permanent commission in the army now. The doors of premier military institutions have also been opened for women now."

Modi lauded the role of the soldiers in defending the country and described them as the "shield" of mother India. Modi described the soldiers as his family. "I want to spend Diwali with family members; so I join you on festival," he said.

Modi highlighted the legacy of the surgical strikes against Pakistan-backed terrorists in 2016. He noted many attempts were made to spread terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir after the surgical strikes, but these had received a "befitting reply".

📣 The Week is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TheWeekmagazine) and stay updated with the latest headlines