While Prithviraj Chavan’s statement has stirred up a controversy, what did Rajnath Singh say after meeting with the Air Force commanders?

Following a controversial statement by Prithviraj Chavan, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Minister of State in the PMO during the Manmohan Singh government (2004-10), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged top Air Force commanders to learn lessons from Operation Sindoor (May 6-10) and remain vigilant and prepared to tackle every future challenge. Emphasizing the importance of a thorough understanding of the enemy’s offensive and defensive capabilities to maintain a decisive edge, the Defence Minister told the commanders that during ‘Operation Sindoor’, the armed forces demonstrated India’s capability for high-impact and decisive action in a short timeframe.

Rajnath Singh was addressing the Indian Air Force’s bi-annual commanders’ conference in New Delhi on Thursday. The Defence Minister described the Indian Air Force (IAF) as a technologically advanced, operationally agile, strategically confident, and future-oriented military force. He lauded the courage, speed, and precision displayed by the Indian Air Force in destroying terrorist camps during the operation and also praised the Air Force for effectively countering Pakistan’s ‘irresponsible response’ after the attacks. He underscored the deep trust the public places in the armed forces, particularly in their air defence capabilities.

Controversy over Prithviraj Chavan’s statement on Operation Sindoor

Notably, senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan had made a statement regarding the losses suffered by the Indian Air Force on the night of Operation Sindoor (May 6-7), which has sparked a major controversy. On Thursday, Union Minister of State (Power) Shripad Naik also objected to Chavan’s statement. Naik said that no senior leader of the opposition should make such a statement publicly that is detrimental to the soldiers and the countrymen.

‘Operation Sindoor proved the Air Force is a decisive force’

Reflecting on the changing nature of warfare, Rajnath Singh said that the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Hamas war, the Balakot airstrikes, and Operation Sindoor are strong evidence that the Air Force has emerged as a decisive force in the contemporary scenario. The Defence Minister said, “The Air Force provides any leadership with the capability to send a clear strategic message to the enemy that every necessary step will be taken to protect national interests.” He added that, powered by speed, reach, and precision, air power has become an extremely effective means of achieving national objectives through military means.