India Acted Firmly Yet Responsibly In Operation Sindoor: President Droupadi Murmu

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the inaugural session of the third edition of the Indian Army's seminar, Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025, held in New Delhi on Thursday. She praised the Indian Armed Forces for their enduring professionalism, courage and commitment to safeguarding the nation.

Armed Forces Praised For Adaptability And Moral Strength

The President said the forces have consistently stood firm during all kinds of security challenges and have earned admiration for their conduct.

"During every security challenge, whether conventional, counter insurgency or humanitarian, our forces have displayed remarkable adaptability and resolve. The recent success of Operation Sindoor stands as a defining moment in our counter terror and deterrence strategy. The world took note not only of India's military capability but of India's moral clarity to act firmly, yet responsibly, in the pursuit of peace," the President said.

She also noted that the armed forces are a driving force behind national development, contributing to border area upliftment through better connectivity, infrastructure, tourism and educational initiatives.

Geopolitical Shifts And Emerging Strategic Domains

Referring to rapid geopolitical changes, the President said the global system is evolving due to competing power centres, disruptive technologies and new alliances. She highlighted that conflicts today extend into cyber, space, information and cognitive spaces, which blur the line between peace and confrontation.

Guided by the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, India continues to balance strategic autonomy with global responsibility. "Our diplomacy, economy and armed forces together project an India that seeks peace, but is prepared to protect its borders and its citizens with strength and conviction," President Murmu said.

Army's Transformation And Focus On Self Reliance

The President appreciated the Army's ongoing reforms under the Decade of Transformation, stating that restructuring, doctrinal shifts and capability upgrades will prepare the force for future challenges. She added that these reforms will strengthen India's quest for self reliance in the defence sector.

She also highlighted the Army's investment in the youth through education, NCC expansion and sports, reinforcing the values of discipline and nationalism.

Inclusion And Women's Participation In The Forces

Emphasising inclusion, the President said that the growing presence of women officers and soldiers in the Army will encourage more young women to join the forces and explore other leadership roles. She underlined that this expansion contributes to a more diverse and empowered military.

Dialogue Outcomes To Shape Future National Policy

President Murmu expressed confidence that the discussions at Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025 will guide policymakers in shaping India's future security and strategic vision. She added that the armed forces will continue to move forward with determination to help achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.