In a stirring address at the convocation ceremony of Symbiosis Skills and Professional University in Pune, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh proclaimed Operation Sindoor as a shining testament to India's growing self-reliance in defense, praising the armed forces for their unmatched bravery on the global stage.

Singh emphasized how the operation showcased indigenous prowess, stating, "The valour of our forces was seen worldwide, and crucially, they relied heavily on Made-in-India equipment." Launched on May 7 in response to a devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 innocent lives, Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The Indian Armed Forces not only dismantled enemy infrastructure but also thwarted Pakistani counter-aggression, striking key airbases with precision.

The operation's success forced Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) to seek a ceasefire from his Indian counterpart, underscoring India's strategic dominance. Singh credited the BJP-led government's transformative policies for reversing decades of dependency in the defense sector. "Post-independence challenges were immense, but we've prioritized domestic weapon production for our soldiers," he said, noting the positive outcomes from relentless efforts to bolster manufacturing.

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Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary initiatives like Skill India and Start-up India, Singh explained their role in building a self-reliant nation. "To realize a self-reliant India, empowering youth through skills is paramount," he asserted, pointing to the creation of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in 2014 as a game-changer.

Under the Prime Minister’s Skill Development Scheme, a staggering 1.63 crore candidates have undergone training, while Jan Shikshan Sansthans have skilled over 30 lakh individuals from rural and marginalized groups in areas like tailoring, embroidery, handicrafts, and healthcare. Singh's remarks underscore how these programs are fueling India's ascent as a skilled, innovative powerhouse, ready to defend and develop on its own terms.

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