Bagdogra, November 7, 2026: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called upon the Indian Armed Forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with particular emphasis on strengthening domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to counter emerging security threats. He made the remarks while interacting with Indian Air Force personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on November 7, 2026, during Diwali celebrations.
Addressing the air warriors, the Defence Minister highlighted the rapidly evolving nature of modern warfare, noting that national security challenges now extend far beyond conventional military engagements along international borders. He stressed that asymmetric warfare, proxy conflicts, cyberattacks, drone swarms, information operations and narrative manipulation have become important dimensions of contemporary military operations.
Rajnath Singh cautioned that adversaries increasingly attempt to exploit vulnerabilities without engaging in direct military confrontation. He explained that misleading information circulated through social media and other communication platforms could be used to create confusion, weaken public confidence and influence the morale of military personnel.
He emphasised that soldiers and air warriors must remain vigilant against such attempts while ensuring the integrity of information and maintaining strong relationships with civilian communities.
Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important location within India’s national security framework, particularly for the North-Eastern region, the Defence Minister appreciated the dedication and professionalism of personnel deployed in the eastern sector.
He stated that the air warriors stationed at Bagdogra serve as a robust shield for the security of India’s eastern region. Their operational preparedness, he noted, plays a crucial role in maintaining regional stability and ensuring the country’s defence readiness.
Bagdogra Air Force Station occupies an important position in India’s eastern military infrastructure due to its proximity to the strategically sensitive Siliguri Corridor, which connects mainland India with the northeastern states. The airbase supports military aviation and operational requirements in a region of considerable strategic significance.
The Defence Minister also emphasised that technological advancements must be accompanied by the traditional military values of discipline, courage, professionalism and restraint. He observed that the behaviour and conduct of Armed Forces personnel directly influence how local communities perceive the military.
He encouraged personnel to strengthen their engagement with the civilian population, particularly in areas surrounding Bagdogra, and maintain the trust and goodwill developed between the Armed Forces and local communities.
Rajnath Singh stressed that stronger civil-military relationships could help counter hostile misinformation campaigns and attempts to create divisions between military personnel and the public.
Highlighting the Government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Defence Minister acknowledged the growing contribution of Indian defence industries and start-ups in developing advanced military technologies.
He specifically referred to progress in the indigenous development of drones, counter-drone systems and other modern defence equipment, noting that such capabilities are becoming increasingly important in contemporary warfare.
The Defence Minister appreciated the Indian Armed Forces for adopting indigenous technologies and developing specialised skills in emerging operational areas, including drone warfare and cybersecurity.
He called for continued efforts to make India’s military increasingly technology-driven, adaptable and capable of responding effectively to evolving threats.
A significant part of his interaction focused on the Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the Second Tour of Duty initiative for Agniveers.
Rajnath Singh described the decision as a major Diwali gift for Agniveers, stating that the initiative would provide them with another opportunity to serve the nation beyond their initial engagement period under the Agnipath scheme.
Under the announced arrangement, Agniveers will receive an additional two-year engagement opportunity. The Defence Minister stated that upon completing the extended period, all Agniveers would have an opportunity to seek enrolment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of the prescribed selection criteria.
He emphasised that the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting the professional development and future opportunities of young military personnel.
The Defence Minister also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the welfare of Armed Forces personnel and their families, recognising the sacrifices made by those serving in demanding operational environments.
During the Diwali interaction, Rajnath Singh extended his warm greetings to the air warriors and their families, wishing them good health, happiness and prosperity.
He acknowledged that many service personnel remain deployed away from their homes during important festivals, ensuring that citizens across the country can celebrate safely and peacefully.
Expressing gratitude to military families for their sacrifices and support, the Defence Minister assured personnel that the nation would continue to stand by their loved ones while they fulfil their responsibilities towards safeguarding the country.
He highlighted the importance of family welfare and recognised the contribution of military families in maintaining the morale and effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding Air Force Station Bagdogra Air Commodore Manish Sharma, and other senior Indian Air Force officials were present during the interaction.
The visit reflected the Government’s emphasis on maintaining strong operational preparedness while addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies, unconventional warfare and information-based threats.
Rajnath Singh’s interaction with personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra reinforced the importance of technological modernisation, indigenous defence capabilities, strong civil-military relationships and comprehensive support for military personnel.
The Defence Minister reiterated that India’s Armed Forces must remain vigilant, technologically capable and operationally prepared to respond to an increasingly complex security environment, while continuing to uphold the highest traditions of discipline, courage and service to the nation.
