Lucknow: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday highlighted the remarkable transformation of Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, noting that the state has evolved from a region once plagued by poor law and order into a thriving economic and defence hub.
Historic Shift in Uttar Pradesh's Image
Addressing a gathering at the inauguration of Naval Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow, Singh remarked that the state has shed its earlier image of “goonda raj” and “one district, one mafia,” and is now widely recognized for the “One District, One Product” initiative. He credited improved law and order for boosting investor confidence and accelerating economic growth.
Lucknow Emerging as a Symbol of Patriotism
Singh noted that Lucknow, traditionally known for its culture and heritage, is now emerging as a symbol of patriotism and military pride. “The defence corridor and production of BrahMos missiles in the city are positioning Uttar Pradesh as a key centre in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem,” he said.
India's Defence Self-Reliance Milestone
Emphasising the Centre’s push for self-reliance, Singh stated that India has made significant strides in defence self-reliance. “Domestic defence production has increased from about Rs 46,000 crore in 2014 to over Rs 1.5 lakh crore, with further expansion expected. Defence exports have also seen a marked rise compared to previous years,” he added.
Global Conflicts and Maritime Security
Referring to global conflicts, Singh asserted that world peace and prosperity depend heavily on the security of sea routes. He praised the Indian Navy’s preparedness during Operation Sindoor, saying its strong presence in the Arabian Sea kept Pakistan under pressure. “While the Army and Air Force carried out precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure, the Navy’s posture ensured that Pakistan remained under constant threat. The sustained pressure generated by the Indian Navy forced Pakistan’s naval forces to stay confined to their ports, preventing any escalation at sea,” Singh explained.
Naval Shaurya Vatika to Inspire Future Generations
Singh added that the Shaurya Vatika would inspire future generations to respect the armed forces and understand the value of national security. The operation demonstrated the importance of maritime power in modern warfare and highlighted the Navy’s contribution to national security.
