Need to better capabilities in AI, autonomous systems: Rajnath Singh

Marking the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, the skirmish with Pakistan last May, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today said there was a need to strengthen capabilities in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data analytics and secure communication networks.

The Defence Minister highlighted the transformative impact of emerging technologies and stressed on the importance of ensuring integrated national preparedness across all spectrums of conflict.

He was addressing the Tri-Services Joint Commanders Conference at Jaipur and emphasised that future conflicts would increasingly be shaped by hybrid threats, information dominance and operations conducted simultaneously across cyber, space, electromagnetic and cognitive domains.

On Operation Sindoor, he said it is a testament to the swift, precise and joint response of the Indian defence forces to safeguard national interests. He called upon the Commanders of the three Services to remain future-ready by learning from the operation as well as the current global security landscape.

He described Operation Sindoor as a short-duration, deep-penetration, high-intensity and high-impact operation which showcased India’s ability to compel its adversary to surrender. The operation was a demonstration of India’s growing capabilities and a symbol of the nation’s collective resolve and new military ethos, he added.