Need to operate with long-term strategic vision for emerging challenges

Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has exhorted the Army Commanders to closely monitor geopolitical as well as regional developments and remain prepared for future challenges. Addressing the Army Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on October 23, 2026, he emphasised the need for a long-term strategic vision spanning the next 20-30 years, and called upon the senior leadership of the Indian Army to remain equally prepared to respond to immediate and emerging challenges. He stressed that strategies must remain dynamic and flexible, enabling timely adjustments to changing circumstances.

Commending the Defence Forces for adapting to evolving operational circumstances, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted that innovative thinking, enhanced synergy and superior coordination, complemented by advanced weaponry, contributed to the success of Operation Sindoor. The operation sent a clear message that India would not hesitate to take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests, he said.

Shri Singh emphasised that despite growing significance of challenges across the air, maritime, space and cyber domains, land warfare and ground forces would remain indispensable. He called for an integrated approach to modern warfare, stressing that success would depend on multi-domain capabilities and seamless coordination in joint operations.

Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials were present on the occasion. (UPDATED ON 23RD OCTOBER 2026)