The “unprovoked aggression” on the Himalayan frontiers is a reminder of how the world is changing, how existing agreements are being challenged, how power is being asserted not just in the Himalayas but across the Indo-Pacific, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday referring to the ongoing standoff with China in Eastern Ladakh.
“Whenever there is a situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the most obvious outcome is a comparison between India and China’s military strength. There can be a serious debate on who owns more military might but when it comes to soft power there is no scope of ambiguity. India is far ahead of China when it comes to leading the world with ideas,” Mr. Singh said at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) annual general meeting.
He said India, due to its location, size, population and economy, had always been at the strategic forefront of global security.
Referring to “big build-up of armed forces” at the LAC in Ladakh, Mr. Singh the forces had shown exemplary courage and remarkable fortitude and “fought the PLA with utmost bravery and forced them to go back.”
Stating that India had been a victim of cross-border terrorism, Mr. Singh said India fought the scourge alone even when there was no one to support but later, the world understood that India was right about “Pakistan being the fountainhead of terrorism.”
“And now again our brave forces are there in the forefront fighting icy winds to guard our borders and to fulfil their responsibility. The question is can our industry also stand shoulder to shoulder with our forces?” he questioned the industry while observing that being one of the largest armed forces of the world India was so import-dependent in critical areas.
On farmers’ agitation
Mr. Singh said: “Agriculture has been one sector which has been able to avoid the adverse effects of the pandemic and, in fact, come out the best. Our produce and procurement have been plentiful and our warehouses are full.”
“There is no question of taking retrograde steps against our agricultural sector ever. The recent reforms have been undertaken with the best interests of India’s farmers in mind,” Mr. Singh said, speaking on the ongoing farmers’ protests.
“We are, however, always willing to listen to our farmer brothers, alley their misgivings and provide them with assurances we can provide. Our government is always open to discussion and dialogue,” he added.