By A Correspondent
Shillong (Meghalaya): India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has underscored the need for technological agility, strategic foresight, and institutional innovation to maintain a robust preparedness amidst the uncertainties of the present-day world order. Interacting with soldiers at the Eastern Air Command headquarters in Shillong, Meghalaya, on June 20, 2026, Rajnath Singh asserted that hybrid threats, cyber challenges, information warfare, logistics resilience, supply chain security, and drones are emerging as critical elements in the constantly evolving nature of warfare. In such a situation, traditional preparedness alone is insufficient for the defence forces, he said.
Reiterating the need for India to achieve Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) to ensure national security on its own terms, Rajnath Singh stated that Operation Sindoor proved to be a historic success due to the nation’s self-reliance efforts, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Through Operation Sindoor, we demonstrated to terrorists and their handlers that India will not compromise on its security and sovereignty. The capability, vigilance, and firm resolve of our defence forces have once again showcased India’s growing strength to the world. Formations like the Eastern Air Command have emerged as active partners in this broader national vision,” he added.
The defence minister termed the Eastern Air Command an essential pillar of security for India’s eastern frontier, commending it for playing a pivotal role in strengthening national security. “Whether on the battlefield, during peacetime deployment, disaster response, high-altitude operations, or border management, the Eastern Air Command has consistently demonstrated professionalism, courage, and commitment in every situation,” he said.
The Eastern Air Command is an operational combat formation of the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the defence of India’s eastern sector, specifically facing China, but also handling aerial threats from other eastern borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh. Eastern Air Command is a critical sword arm of the IAF for India’s east, just like the Western Air Command for the western borders with Pakistan.
Rajnath Singh praised the brave soldiers for efficiently discharging their duties amidst harsh and challenging conditions. “It is due to your sacrifices, dedication, and devotion to duty that the citizens can lead secure lives. Furthermore, whenever the nation faces a natural disaster or a crisis, you are always the first to step forward to assist. This dedication to serving humanity and the nation defines your true identity. The nation will forever remain indebted to your service,” he said.
Underlining the importance of the Eastern Air Command’s area of operations, the defence minister stated that the north-east is not just a part of geographical boundaries, but is a crucial pillar of India’s security, prosperity, and strategic power. He added that the region is a key component of India’s Act East Policy. “Today, as India strengthens its role on the global stage, the importance of the north-east has grown even further,” he said.
Rajnath Singh concluded his address by describing the defence forces as a symbol of national unity. He stated that the soldiers embody a culture in which diverse ideas flourish, cherished values endure, and mutual respect takes root naturally. “The growing role of women in the defence forces represents more than just institutional advancement. It is a testament to the cultural values for which India is known around the world. It demonstrates that even as we embrace modernity, our culture remains firmly grounded in its core principles,” he added.
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Eastern Air Command chief Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, and other senior IAF officers were present on the occasion.
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