Rajnath reviews Army readiness, meets Laungewala battle veterans

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday reviewed the Army’s operational readiness in the Rajasthan sector along the India-Pakistan border. In a nostalgic moment, he met two veterans of the Battle of Laungewala, fought during the 1971 war with Pakistan.

The minister laid a wreath at the Laungewala Yudh Sthal and inaugurated the ‘Chandpuri Hall’, named after Major (later Brigadier) Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, who, with just 120 men, held back a Pakistani brigade, including tanks, during the battle. Brig Chandpuri, who passed away in 2018 in Chandigarh, was awarded the Mahavir Chakra, and his valour was immortalised in the Hindi film Border.

Singh, along with Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, met veterans Havildar Mukhtiyar Singh (Retd) and Naik Jagdev Singh (Retd), both of whom were part of the Alpha Company of the 23rd Battalion of the Punjab Regiment. Brig Chandpuri, then a Major, commanded the Alpha Company in December 1971.

Meanwhile, the Defence Ministry said the minister also reviewed the security situation and the Army’s operational preparedness during the Army Commanders’ Conference in Jaisalmer. Earlier, he had visited forward areas in Tanot and Laungewala.

During the conference, the roadmap for jointness among the services was discussed. Singh said Operation Sindoor was “not over”, adding, “Our mission for peace will continue as long as even a single terrorist mindset remains alive.” He noted that Operation Sindoor has shaped a new strategic approach, allowing India to respond to terrorist activity on its own terms, while advising the Army not to underestimate adversaries and to remain alert and prepared.

As part of the conference, Singh also virtually inaugurated the ‘data centres’ of the 12 Corps (headquartered at Jodhpur) and the 14 Corps (headquartered at Leh). He witnessed a capability demonstration exercise showcasing the integrated use of new formations such as the Bhairav Battalion and the Ashni drone platoon, alongside the latest technological assets inducted into the Army for operational readiness.

Commenting on the situation along the northern border with China, the minister said ongoing talks and steps towards de-escalation reflect India’s balanced and firm foreign policy. “Our policy is clear: there will be dialogue, but our readiness on the border will remain intact,” he said.