Rajnath Singh warns of complex security challenges, says warfare no longer limited to border firing

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday warned that India’s security environment was becoming increasingly complex, with modern warfare extending beyond conventional cross-border firing to include cyberattacks, drone swarms, proxy wars and information operations.

Addressing Indian Air Force personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on the eve of Diwali, Singh called for the armed forces to maintain the highest level of operational preparedness to tackle emerging security threats.

"Warfare is no longer limited merely to cross-border firing. It has expanded greatly to encompass asymmetric warfare, proxy wars, cyberattacks, drone swarms, information operations, and narrative management,” he said.

The Defence Minister cautioned that adversaries were increasingly avoiding direct confrontation and instead attempting to exploit India's vulnerabilities through misinformation and social media campaigns.

He said misleading information was being circulated to create doubts among local populations and soldiers, stressing the need for greater vigilance against such attempts.

“In such a scenario, your role is no longer that of an ordinary soldier. You are required to simultaneously maintain domain awareness, cyber resilience, and information integrity,” Singh said.

Emphasising the importance of discipline and conduct, he said the behaviour, language and restraint of armed forces personnel played a significant role in shaping public perceptions of the military.

Singh also highlighted Bagdogra's strategic importance, describing the airbase as a crucial part of India's security framework, particularly for the northeastern region.

He praised the contribution of Indian Air Force personnel stationed there, saying their preparedness was essential for maintaining security and stability in the eastern sector.

The Defence Minister also underlined the growing role of Indian startups and domestic industries in developing drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment as part of the government's push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.