New Delhi, Jan 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said Operation Sindoor reaffirmed India’s strength, the valour of its armed forces, and showcased the growing capability of indigenous defence systems.
Addressing the annual National Cadet Corps (NCC) PM Rally at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment, Modi said modern warfare is no longer confined to borders or conventional weapons like tanks and guns, but is also being fought in “codes and clouds”, underlining the importance of cyber and information warfare.
Appreciating a special Operation Sindoor-themed tableau presented by NCC cadets, the prime minister lauded their contribution to national security. He noted that more than 75,000 NCC cadets had volunteered across the country during the operation, assisting in civil defence, hospital management, disaster relief and community services.
“Operation Sindoor reaffirmed India’s strength and the valour of its armed forces. It also demonstrated the advancement of indigenous weapons,” Modi said, highlighting the cadets’ role in supporting the armed forces, organising blood donation camps and providing first-aid services.
India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, carrying out air strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories. The strikes led to four days of intense military clashes, which ended with an understanding to halt hostilities on May 10.
Modi said NCC training goes beyond parade grounds, instilling the spirit of “Nation First” and preparing youth to serve the country in challenging times. Recalling his own experience as an NCC cadet, he said it strengthened his sense of national duty and expressed satisfaction at seeing the same values among today’s cadets.
Warning that nations lagging in technology weaken both economically and strategically, Modi stressed that innovation by youth strengthens patriotism and national security. He pointed to new opportunities for tech-savvy youth in the armed forces, citing defence start-ups, ‘Made in India’ drones, artificial intelligence and defence innovation modernising the forces.
Referring to National Voters’ Day on January 25, Modi said it celebrates the rights and responsibilities enshrined in the Constitution, noting that India has the world’s largest population of young voters. He proposed a new tradition of a grand annual event on January 25 by the NCC, NSS and My Young India organisation to honour first-time voters and strengthen democratic values.
“A developed India is not just about economic prosperity, but also about the conduct of its citizens, who must prioritise their duties,” Modi said, citing the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan as an example of citizen-led participation.
He said the NCC instils self-confidence, discipline and sensitivity among youth, making them dedicated citizens. Urging cadets to contribute at least one hour every week to cleanliness drives, Modi also praised the NCC for planting nearly eight lakh trees under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and called for ensuring their proper growth.
Highlighting health concerns, the prime minister warned about rising obesity among youth, citing studies that suggest one in three Indians could face obesity-related issues in the future. He reiterated his appeal to reduce oil consumption in food by 10 per cent.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya, the Chief of Defence Staff and the three service chiefs were present at the event.
