Speaking at an event in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he highlighted that while soldiers serve as the first line of defence, the strength of national security also depends on unity, discipline, and public awareness.

He warned that no individual can afford to remain passive amid evolving challenges and global uncertainties. Urging responsible action and commitment, he said, "Safeguarding national interests requires coordinated efforts across all sections of society. The citizens must contribute meaningfully to national security by abiding by the law, rejecting misinformation, and placing the nation's interests above personal gains. As a nation, we find ourselves surrounded by various hostile actors. We need to ensure optimum utilisation of every resource at our disposal."

Rajnath Singh described information as a powerful tool in today's fast-changing environment and noted that misinformation and rumours can destabilise society. He stressed the critical role of the media in delivering accurate and responsible information to the public. "The media is not merely a medium to disseminate news, it is a powerful institution that shapes public opinion. It must recognise that if sensitive issues pertaining to national security are misrepresented, driven by a pursuit of sensationalism, the repercussions could be severe. The media, a key partner in nation-building, bears the responsibility of ensuring that the content it presents serves national interest and does not fuel unnecessary fear or confusion," he added.

Reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Government's uncompromising stance on national security, the Defence Minister said equal focus is given to welfare measures and strengthening defence capabilities aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat. He outlined efforts to achieve Aatmanirbharata in defence to equip forces with advanced weapons and platforms made in India.

He reported that the government's self-reliance initiatives have led to a record defence production of Rs 1.51 lakh crore in 2024-25, with defence exports reaching Rs 38,424 crore in 2025-26, marking a 62.66% increase from the previous year. The target for 2029-30 is Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports. "Our efforts are laying the bedrock for an Aatmanirbhar & Sashakt Bharat. Given the pace at which we are advancing, India will soon become self-reliant in the defence sector, and find itself among the leading nations of the world," he noted.

Rajnath Singh emphasised that Viksit Bharat involves more than physical infrastructure; it entails building a society based on mutual responsibility where no one is left behind. He urged the nation to draw inspiration from soldiers' unit cohesion in difficult battlefield conditions to guide the country's progress towards this goal.

During the event, the Defence Minister honoured war heroes, stating their tales of valour continue to inspire the public, particularly youths, instilling values of courage, patriotism, duty, and sacrifice. He expressed confidence that their stories will guide youth development.

He described the families of soldiers as an invisible pillar sustaining the morale of those serving the country, reaffirming the Government's commitment to safeguarding India's sovereignty and dignity of its personnel. He called on people to recognise these families' vital contributions to national security. "Whenever I interact with the families of the fallen heroes, I do sense their grief, but deep within lies a profound sense of pride, free from any complaint. Such resilience originates from a culture where sacrifice is revered as the supreme value," he said.

Following the ceremony, Rajnath Singh posted on X, "It was heartwarming to interact with the families of our War Heroes at a felicitation ceremony organised in Lucknow. Their tales of valour, courage and sacrifice continue to inspire the people, especially the youth, and instil in them the values of patriotism and a strong sense of duty."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Brajesh Pathak, and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Command, Lieutenant General Anindya Sengputa were also present at the event.