DRASS, July 26: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a strong message to Pakistan on the occasion of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, declaring that India will not engage in any dialogue with its neighbour except on the issue of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Addressing soldiers, veterans and dignitaries at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Singh accused Pakistan of institutionalising terrorism and warned that any attempt to challenge India’s sovereignty would receive a decisive response.
Paying tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, the Defence Minister described India’s victory as one of the proudest chapters in the country’s military history. He said the courage and determination displayed by the armed forces continue to inspire every Indian and remain a symbol of national unity and resilience.
PoK Only Issue for Future Dialogue
Making India’s position unequivocally clear, Rajnath Singh asserted that there would be no comprehensive talks with Pakistan under the current circumstances.
“If any discussion takes place, it will be only on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, which is an integral part of India and remains under illegal occupation,” he said, reiterating New Delhi’s long-standing stand on the Kashmir issue.
The minister accused Pakistan of consistently encouraging cross-border terrorism instead of pursuing peaceful development and constructive engagement with India.
Operation Sindoor Sent a Clear Warning
Recalling Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025 after the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said the military operation demonstrated India’s readiness to punish those responsible for supporting terrorism.
According to him, the operation dealt a significant blow to terrorist infrastructure and exposed the consequences of targeting innocent civilians and threatening India’s security.
He stated that India’s armed forces possess both the capability and determination to respond to any hostile act with overwhelming force.
“Any attempt to undermine India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity will invite a response far beyond the expectations of those responsible,” Singh warned.
Sharp Contrast Between India and Pakistan
Drawing a comparison between the development paths of the two neighbouring countries, Rajnath Singh said India is moving rapidly toward technological advancement, innovation and economic growth, while Pakistan continues to invest in activities that destabilise the region.
He highlighted India’s progress in semiconductor manufacturing, digital innovation, space technology and entrepreneurship, contrasting it with Pakistan’s alleged support for infiltration, radicalisation and terror networks.
According to Singh, India is creating opportunities through startups, expanding its digital economy and strengthening global partnerships, whereas Pakistan remains trapped in policies that encourage extremism and violence.
Military and Terror Groups Working Together
The Defence Minister alleged that Pakistan’s establishment no longer maintains any distinction between its security apparatus and terrorist organisations.
He claimed that elements within Pakistan’s military continue to provide protection and assistance to terror groups, making terrorism an integral component of the country’s strategic approach.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, Singh said India has adopted a policy of holding both terrorists and those who shelter or support them equally accountable.
Tribute to Kargil Heroes
Earlier in the day, Rajnath Singh joined senior military officials in paying homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil conflict. Floral tributes were offered at the Kargil War Memorial, while helicopters flew in an arrowhead formation and showered flower petals over the memorial in honour of the fallen heroes.
The Defence Minister was accompanied by senior Army commanders and other dignitaries during the commemorative ceremony.
Remembering legendary Param Vir Chakra awardees Captain Vikram Batra and Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, Singh said their bravery continues to inspire future generations of Indians to place national service above personal ambition.
Modernising India’s Defence Preparedness
Emphasising the lessons learned from the Kargil War, Rajnath Singh said India must remain alert along its borders under all circumstances.
He noted that the government has significantly strengthened border infrastructure and accelerated the modernisation of the armed forces to meet emerging security challenges.
The minister also highlighted the country’s push towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing, saying domestic production of advanced military equipment is being expanded to reduce dependence on imports and enhance strategic self reliance.
National Security Is a Collective Responsibility
Addressing the changing global security environment, Singh pointed to ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Eastern Europe as reminders that modern warfare demands not only military capability but also national resilience and preparedness.
He stressed that protecting India’s sovereignty is not solely the responsibility of the armed forces but requires the support and commitment of every citizen.
Calling Kargil Vijay Diwas a day of remembrance and inspiration, Rajnath Singh urged the younger generation to learn from the sacrifices made by the nation’s soldiers and uphold the values of courage, discipline and selfless service that define India’s armed forces.