Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called upon the armed forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with a focus on strengthening domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to counter emerging security threats.
Interacting with Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on November 7, 2026, on the eve of Diwali, Singh said the security environment had become increasingly complex, with warfare extending beyond conventional border engagements to include asymmetric warfare, proxy conflicts, cyberattacks, drone swarms and information operations.
He cautioned that adversaries were increasingly seeking to exploit vulnerabilities rather than engage in direct confrontation, including through the spread of misleading information on social media to create distrust among local communities and security personnel.
“Often, the adversary avoids direct confrontation and instead seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities. Through social media, the adversary may attempt to sow doubt in the minds of the local population and our soldiers by spreading misleading information. In such a scenario, your role extends beyond that of an ordinary soldier,” the Defence Minister said.
Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important location and a crucial component of India’s security framework, particularly for the Northeast, Singh commended the courage and dedication of defence personnel deployed in the region.
He said Air Warriors stationed there served as a strong shield for the security of the eastern sector and that their operational preparedness was essential to maintaining regional stability.
Emphasising that discipline and courage remained indispensable despite technological advancements, Singh said the conduct, bearing, language and restraint of military personnel shaped the armed forces’ image among local communities.
He urged the personnel to strengthen their engagement with people in and around Bagdogra, stressing the importance of maintaining public trust and goodwill.
“The more you engage with the local community, the weaker the adversary’s conspiracies will become,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to achieving ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Singh highlighted the growing role of Indian start-ups and industries in developing drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment.
He appreciated the armed forces for adopting indigenous technologies and acquiring new skills in drone operations and cybersecurity, underlining the need to make the military increasingly technology-driven to address future security challenges.
Referring to the Cabinet’s approval of the ‘Second Tour of Duty’ for Agniveers, Singh said the decision would provide them with another opportunity to serve the nation.
He said all Agniveers would get an opportunity to be enrolled as regular soldiers after completing the two-year engagement period, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of the prescribed selection criteria. He described the decision as a significant Diwali gift for Agniveers and reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of defence personnel and their families.
Extending Diwali greetings to the Air Warriors and their families, Singh wished them good health, happiness and prosperity. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by personnel who remain away from their families during festivals while safeguarding the country.
He also expressed gratitude to their families for their support and sacrifices, assuring them that the nation would stand by them and ensure their well-being.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Bagdogra Air Commodore Manish Sharma and other senior IAF officials were present at the event.
