Jodhpur, Aug 25 – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday contrasted the brutality of terrorists with the principles of India’s armed forces, saying the former killed innocents in Pahalgam after asking their religion, while Indian soldiers respond to enemies based on their deeds, not their faith.
Addressing a gathering at the inauguration of the Adarsh Defence and Sports Academy in Jodhpur, Singh recalled the swift military response after the Pahalgam terror attack. “The very next day, the three service chiefs expressed readiness for any operation, following which the Prime Minister gave directions and the armed forces executed a precise strike,” he said.
Praising the support of border residents during Operation Sindoor, Singh said national security is not only the responsibility of the government or the armed forces but of every citizen. He hailed the youth’s zeal and determination during the operation, describing it as the “identity of New India.”
Highlighting Rajasthan’s contribution to the armed forces, Singh noted that while the state sends many soldiers, few rise to officer rank. He expressed hope that the new academy, developed under the Lalsagar Project at Adarsh Vidya Mandir by Vidya Bharati, would help bridge this gap by producing capable leaders in defence and sports.
Recalling Rajasthan’s glorious traditions, Singh said, “This land never bows down. The power of Maharana, the devotion of Meera, the sacrifice of Panna Dhai, and the wealth of Bhamashah are its identity.”
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said Vidya Bharati has been providing value-based education for six decades, with 17 schools now operating in Jodhpur. The ₹110 crore Lalsagar Project, he added, includes a ₹30 crore hostel for 400 students—200 for defence training and 200 for sports—admissions to be through a selection test.
The event was attended by MPs, MLAs, senior RSS functionaries, military officials, and a large number of citizens.
