Rajnath Singh Performs Shastra Puja In Bhuj, Warns Pakistan Against Misadventures In Sir Creek
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday performed the traditional Shastra Puja at Bhuj Military Station in Gujarat on the occasion of Vijayadashami, underscoring India’s unwavering resolve to protect its sovereignty. Addressing the armed forces, he lauded the success of Operation Sindoor, which exposed vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s air defence system and demonstrated India’s decisive military capabilities.
Singh issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that any misadventure in the Sir Creek sector would invite a response so strong that it would “change both history and geography.” He recalled the Indian Army’s courage in reaching Lahore during the 1965 war, adding, “In 2025, Pakistan must remember that the road to Karachi also passes through the Creek.”
Defence Minister praised the seamless coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, which thwarted Pakistan’s attempts to breach India’s defence network from Leh to Sir Creek. “The swift counter-action not only exposed Pakistan’s weaknesses but also sent a clear message that India can inflict heavy damage at a time, place, and manner of its choosing,” he said.
Singh emphasized that Operation Sindoor was aimed at countering terrorism, not escalating conflict, reflecting India’s restraint despite its formidable capabilities. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating terrorism and assured that the Indian Armed Forces and Border Security Force remain vigilant in guarding the nation’s borders.
Reflecting on the significance of Shastra Puja, the Defence Minister described it as a reflection of India’s civilizational philosophy, where weapons are revered as instruments of dharma. “Knowledge without the power to defend it is vulnerable, and power without knowledge leads to chaos. The balance of Shaastra and Shastra keeps our civilization vibrant and invincible,” he said.
Singh also highlighted India’s strides toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, positioning the country as a growing manufacturer and exporter of defence equipment. He praised the jointness of the armed forces, referring to them as the “three strong pillars” of national security, and cited the success of Exercise Varunastra in demonstrating their combined operational readiness.
The Defence Minister noted the evolving nature of security challenges, including external aggression, terrorism, cyber warfare, and information warfare. He urged the armed forces to remain prepared for all threats, emphasizing that their courage and determination safeguard India’s sovereignty.
On the occasion, Singh virtually inaugurated the Tidal Independent Berthing Facility and the Joint Control Centre in the strategic Creek sector. These facilities are expected to enhance coastal security coordination and enable rapid response to threats, bolstering integrated operations in the region.
Paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary, Singh described him as an epitome of moral courage whose spirit compelled the mightiest empire to yield. “Our soldiers possess both morale and weapons, making them unstoppable,” he added.
Extending Vijayadashami greetings, Singh said the festival symbolizes the triumph of righteousness over evil, with Shastra Puja representing respect for India’s collective strength and security. The event was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Southern Army Commander Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, Corps Commander of 12 Corps, Jodhpur, Lieutenant General Aditya Vikram Singh Rathee, and Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Bhuj, Air Commodore KPS Dham.
Singh also interacted with troops at the Bhuj Military Station, commending their dedication and readiness to defend the nation.
