India must be ready for war to maintain peace, says Rajnath Singh

"India is the only country in the world that has given the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. We have always advocated for peace," Singh said. However, acknowledging the evolving global situation, he emphasized the need for India to remain prepared for war to maintain peace.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh has stressed on the importance of military readiness to ensure peace amid growing geopolitical challenges facing India.

Addressing the first Joint Commanders’ Conference in Lucknow, Singh said India is committed to peace but should be also be prepared for war to preserve it.

"India is the only country in the world that has given the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. We have always advocated for peace," Singh said. "Given the geopolitical situation, I told the army that to maintain peace in India and the world, we should always be ready for war."

Despite global volatility, India has been enjoying a rare peace dividend, allowing it to develop peacefully. Urging caution, the minister said it was important to remain alert to rising challenges.

"It is important that we keep our peace intact during Amrit Kaal. We need to focus on our present, keep an eye on the activities happening around us at present, and focus on being future-oriented," he said.

The minister also called for a strong national security framework. "We should have a strong and robust national security component. We should have fail-proof deterrence," he said.