Defense Minister Rajnath Singh is visiting Bhuj Air Force Station in Gujarat today, May 16, 2025, following his visit to Jammu and Kashmir. Singh's visit aims to boost the morale of the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, especially after the recent Operation Sindoor. He is expected to arrive at the Bhuj airbase around 11 AM.
During his visit to Srinagar, J&K, Singh asserted India's strong stance against terrorism, which was evident in its refusal to be intimidated by Pakistan's repeated nuclear threats. Singh highlighted that India will not be intimidated by Pakistan's nuclear threats. He questioned the safety of nuclear weapons in the hands of an "irresponsible and rogue nation" like Pakistan and suggested that Pakistan's nuclear arsenal should be supervised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Singh also addressed the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan, emphasizing that no unwarranted action should be initiated from across the border. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stance that talks and terrorism cannot coexist, and any future discussions with Pakistan would solely focus on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).
Furthermore, the Defence Minister paid tribute to the civilians who lost their lives in the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and the soldiers who made sacrifices during Operation Sindoor. He commended the injured soldiers' bravery and wished them a speedy recovery.
India and Pakistan reached an understanding to cease hostilities six days ago, which ended the heightened military tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack and India's retaliatory Operation Sindoor. Following a meeting between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries, the armies have solidified the agreement to halt military actions. The Indian Army has stated its intention to pursue confidence-building measures to reduce the "alertness level" in accordance with the understanding.
In addition to interacting with the Air Warriors at the Bhuj Air Force Station, Rajnath Singh will also be visiting Smritivan, a memorial and museum dedicated to the victims of the 2001 earthquake, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Meanwhile, tensions between India and Pakistan remain a focal point, with claims emerging regarding the use of BrahMos missiles during Operation Sindoor. There are also reports of trade boycotts against Turkey and Azerbaijan for allegedly aiding Pakistan during the operation, with India revoking clearances to Turkey's Celebi Aviation for security reasons.