ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash EP-310 | Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Op Sindoor, Drones, Pakistan, China, & Fighter Jets
Jun 20, 2025
Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Defence Secretary of India and a seasoned IAS officer, discusses the significant impacts of Operation Sindoor and how Pakistan was the one pleading for a ceasefire. He reveals insights on India's drone strategy, highlighting the need for advancements in domestic capabilities. Singh also touches upon the game-changing role of Made-in-India weapons and the urgency to reduce defense procurement timelines. Notably, he provides updates on India's fifth-generation stealth fighter, emphasizing the strategic contexts involving China and Pakistan.
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Pakistan Begged For Ceasefire
- Pakistan responded to India's strikes by attacking Indian military assets, leading to reciprocal Indian strikes.
- Pakistan was first to seek talks and ceasefire, showing it capitulated post-Operation Sindoor.
Military Drone Capability Needs Growth
- Warfare is shifting to standoff weapons like drones and loitering munitions.
- India has civilian drone capability but needs to rapidly build the military-grade drone manufacturing ecosystem.
Indigenous Weapons Proved Game Changers
- India used a mix of indigenous, licensed, and foreign weapons in Operation Sindoor.
- Indigenous weapons like BrahMos and Akash performed very well and were game changers.