‘From deep sea to infinite universe’: India will defy ANY pressure in security matters, PM Modi vows

India will never cave in to external pressure or influence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated, emphasizing that a strong modern army is a crucial safeguard of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“The Armed Forces must be modernized and it is also our priority,” Modi said in a speech marking the 20th anniversary of the Kargil victory over Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that terrorism and proxy wars still pose a threat not only to India, but the entire world.

Recalling the widespread criticism India faced when it completed its nuclear triad by launching the INS Arihant nuclear-powered submarine in 2016, and concerns voiced more recently over the success of its anti-satellite interceptor missile test, Modi vowed to continue reforming the armed forces to keep up with modern threats.

India’s defense budget this year is US$49.7 billion, with a substantial portion distributed under the ‘Make In India’ national program. Other funds were channeled towards the purchase of French Rafale fighters, and Russian S-400 missile defense systems. India is also seeking to purchase additional warships and helicopters.

The S-400 deal has faced stiff opposition from Washington, which is seeking to capture India’s arms market, traditionally reliant on Soviet and Russian-made hardware. However, similar to Ankara, New Delhi has defied Washington’s pressure, stressing that national security is a priority, especially amid growing tensions with its nuclear-armed neighbor, Pakistan.