Srinagar- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India must stay prepared for a“war-like situation” at all times, citing lessons from Operation Sindoor, the four-day military conflict with Pakistan in May that underscored the volatility along the country's borders.

Addressing an event in New Delhi, Singh said that although India gave a“firm response” during the May 7–10 conflict, the episode should serve as a learning experience for shaping future national security strategies.

“Operation Sindoor should serve as a case study from which we can learn and chart our future course. This incident has once again shown that anything can happen at our borders, anywhere, at any time,” Singh said.

The defence minister noted that India's effective use of indigenous military systems - including the Akash missile, BrahMos, and the Akashteer air defence control system - during the operation had strengthened the country's reputation both regionally and globally.

“Although we responded with firm resolve and our forces are fully prepared to defend the country's borders, we must continue to introspect. Our preparedness must be based on our own foundation,” he emphasised.

Highlighting the evolving global security environment, Singh said that the weakening world order and increasing conflict zones demand a reassessment of India's strategic and defence posture.“Indigenisation is the only way forward. It's time for India to redefine its security and strategy,” he said.

He credited not just the armed forces but also India's“industry warriors” for their role in the success of Operation Sindoor.“The Indian industry today stands as the fourth pillar of defence, alongside the Army, Navy and Air Force,” he said.

Singh said the government is committed to creating a level-playing field for the domestic defence industry and urged private players to capitalise on the momentum.“We're striving to ensure that defence equipment is not merely assembled in India but truly manufactured here - Made in India, Made for the World,” he said.

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