India is increasingly being recognized as a "voice of balance and responsibility" in the rapidly evolving global environment, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He emphasized that India's economic growth, technological advancements, and commitment to a principled foreign policy have solidified its position as a reliable partner, particularly among countries in the Indo-Pacific region and the Global South.
Singh made these remarks while addressing the Chanakya Defence Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday, November 28, 2025, highlighting the theme 'Reform to Transform – Sashakt, Surakshit aur Viksit Bharat' (Empowered, Secure and Developed India). He asserted that India is shaping global discussions with responsibility, strategic autonomy, and confidence rooted in its civilizational values. This has allowed it to earn global trust through significant reforms and a consistent stance on respecting national sovereignty and a rules-based order.
The Defence Minister underscored that the current geopolitical landscape, marked by terrorism, cross-border extremism, attempts to alter the status quo, maritime pressures, and information warfare, necessitates constant vigilance and clarity of purpose. He argued that reforms are no longer a choice but a strategic imperative to enhance the adaptability of institutions and the agility of the Armed Forces, giving the nation confidence in shaping its destiny.
Singh outlined the government's efforts to build a self-reliant, secure, and developed India. These include strengthening border and maritime infrastructure to support both security and connectivity, and modernizing the armed forces through new platforms, technologies, and structures. He also mentioned reforms in defense procurement, a push for self-reliance ('Aatmanirbharta'), and investments in military start-ups and research and development.
The Defence Minister described the Indian Armed Forces as the strongest pillar of the nation's resilience, enabling India to manage regional challenges while contributing to stability. He stated that India believes in peace and dialogue but will not compromise on its sovereignty and the security of its citizens.
Singh also launched several digital and green initiatives at the event, including 'EKAM,' a project to develop indigenous Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions for the military, EKAM AI is a unified AI platform. He also unveiled Prakshepan, India's first Military climatology application, AI handbook for Military leaders and the Digitalisation 3.0 book. He emphasized that India's advancement benefits global peace and well-being by contributing to a stable global economy, offering a model of digital public infrastructure, setting ethical standards for emerging technologies, and adding moral weight to international cooperation.
Rajnath Singh highlighted that resilience is as important as capability, emphasizing that a resilient India can absorb shocks, adapt quickly, and continue moving forward irrespective of circumstances. He reiterated that the reforms and modernization in the Armed Forces are investments in India's long-term future.
