Innovation, Inclusive Growth, and National Strength Key to Developed India@2047 Goal: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Addressing a program in Kochi, Kerala, on September 18, 2026, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the government is placing special emphasis on fostering resilience, determination, compassion, innovation, and a strong sense of national identity among citizens to realize the vision of 'Developed India@2047'. He emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is progressing on a path of inspirational growth while ensuring its age-old values, such as the spirit of service, compassion, and inclusive prosperity.

The Defence Minister noted that prior to 2014, India faced challenges such as corruption and maladministration, but over the past 12 years, the country has demonstrated the ability to turn adversity into opportunity. He stated that despite the impact of global conflicts and the COVID-19 pandemic, India is moving rapidly toward becoming a self-reliant and developed nation.

Discussing national security and sovereignty, Shri Rajnath Singh said that 'Operation Sindoor' is a testament to India's willpower to eliminate those who pose a threat to the country's integrity by crossing borders. He also informed that Naxalism has been eliminated. Regarding the increase in indigenous defence capabilities, he highlighted that indigenous defence production, which was only 40,000 crore rupees in 2014, has now increased to approximately 1.80 lakh crore rupees. Similarly, defence exports have grown from 600 crore rupees to nearly 40,000 crore rupees, with Indian equipment reaching approximately 100 countries.

Describing the youth as the nation's greatest strength, the Defence Minister said that today's youth are contributing to making India a developed nation by developing start-ups, unicorns, drones, hydrogen trains, rockets, and satellites. Mentioning inclusive growth, he stated that more than 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty in the last 10 to 12 years. He cited UPI as an example, which has been adopted by more than 11 countries, and listed schemes such as PM Shri, Ayushman Bharat, Lakhpati Didi, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Ujjwala as the foundation of inclusive development.

Shri Rajnath Singh stated that India has become a source of hope for the world by achieving climate change goals ahead of schedule and sending over 300 million vaccines to 100 countries during COVID-19. He mentioned India's global leadership through initiatives like International Yoga Day, the International Solar Alliance, and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Emphasizing cultural heritage, the Defence Minister said that respecting cultural traditions alongside modernization is essential. He described 'Sarva Dharma Sambhav' (equal respect for all religions) as the center of the civilization's ethos and called upon the youth to be aware of India's history and culture. Finally, discussing the role of the media, he described journalism as the fourth pillar of democracy and emphasized the need for a free and impartial press to ensure accountability.