Rajnath Singh’s “Strong Response” Warning On Border Row With China

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday underlined India’s readiness for war in the face of multiple challenges along the country’s border. Speaking at NDTV’s first Defence Summit, Mr Singh said, “We have to be ready for war at all times… even in peacetime. We have to be ready.”

“Whether from land, air, or sea… if anyone attacks India, our forces will respond strongly. We have never attacked any country nor have we occupied even an inch of anyone’s land. But, if anyone attacks us, we are in position to give a befitting reply,” he said at the event.

Mr Singh’s comments have been seen as a not-so-veiled reference to continuing tension with China in Kashmir and Ladakh, as well as the northeast. Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in military stand-off for nearly four years – following confrontations at friction points in eastern Ladakh.

The 20th round of Corps Commander-level talks between Delhi and Beijing was held in October, at Chushul as part of ongoing efforts for disengagement and de-escalation to resolve the stand-off.

Tensions, however, continue to remain.