Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended a special screening of the upcoming war drama "Ikkis" in New Delhi on December 22, 2025. The film is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a Param Vir Chakra awardee, who demonstrated exceptional bravery and sacrifice during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
During the event, Singh interacted with the cast of "Ikkis," including Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat. He also felicitated the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal and the next of kin of his tank crew, honoring their sacrifice for the nation. Singh shared pictures from the event on his X handle, expressing his respect for Khetarpal's bravery.
"Ikkis" portrays the story of Arun Khetarpal, who was only 21 years old when he was killed in action in the 1971 war. He displayed extraordinary courage against overwhelming odds, earning him the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration, posthumously. The film aims to showcase his heroism and celebrate the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces.
Singh praised "Ikkis" for its portrayal of Khetarpal's valor and its tribute to the armed forces. He also conveyed his best wishes to the film's actors for their future endeavors.
The Defence Minister described the Defence Estates Organisation as a model of transparency, efficiency and accountability, essential for realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. He addressed the Defence Estates Day 2025 celebrations at Raksha Sampada Bhawan in Delhi Cantonment, noting the Directorate General Defence Estates' evolution into a ground-oriented organization.
Earlier in December, Singh stated that Operation Sindoor demonstrated India's decisive air power. Addressing the Air Force Commanders' Conclave in New Delhi, he highlighted the Indian Air Force's role in safeguarding national interests.
Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov are scheduled to co-chair the 22nd meeting of the India–Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation in New Delhi. The meeting will assess defense ties and discuss regional and global issues.
