Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Kochi, speaking with India’s top military commanders. During his interaction, he made some strong statements on India’s future with its neighbours and the government’s plans for the armed forces. He was on board the country’s largest aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya.
Modi also talked about resumption of talks with Pakistan, calling it an attempt to “try and turn the course of history” and to bring an end to terrorism. The announcement about NSA-level dialogue came after Modi had met his Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of the climate change summit in Paris on 30 November.
Modi also asserted that India will never drop its guard on security, as he admitted that there are many challenges and barriers on the path.
Engaging With Neighbours: Talks with Pakistan, China
- There are many challenges and barriers on the path. But the effort is worth it because the peace dividends are huge and the future of our children is at stake.
- We will never drop our guard on security and we will continue to judge progress on their commitments on terrorism.
- Our region is marked by uncertain political transitions, weak institutions and internal conflicts.
- We see terrorism and ceasefire violations, reckless nuclear build-up and threats, border transgressions and continuing military modernisation and expansion.
- We will aim to address outstanding issues (with China), maintain stability on the border and develop greater mutual understanding and trust in our overlapping neighbourhood.
- We will engage our neighbours more closely and strengthen our regional and global partnerships, including in maritime security.
Digital Networks, Make in India, and More for the Armed Forces
- Armed forces must fully incorporate the power of digital networks and space assets into our capabilities. We must be prepared to defend them.
- Networks must be seamless and integrated across agencies and forces, and are precise, clear and quick in response.
- New technologies offer us new ways to be more effective against both traditional and new challenges. We in India must be ready for the present and prepare for the future.
- Defence technology will now be a national endeavour that taps the potential of all institutions in our country. Armed Forces will be crucial to the success of Make in India Mission.
- Foreign defence companies are coming here with ambitious new proposals for Make in India, from fighter jets and helicopters to transport aircraft and UAVs, from avionics to advanced material.
- We are advancing the pace of expansion of border infrastructure and improve the mobility of our forces and equipment. This includes the strategic railways to the border region.
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