If need be, India will use its weaponry with full force: Rajnath Singh

Shastra pooja is a clear indication that if need be, India will use its weaponry with full force, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday during Dussehra celebrations in West Bengal.

The defence minister took part in Vijayadashami celebrations along with Army personnel at 33 Corps headquarters in Sukna, Darjeeling. Singh performed Shastra puja for the Army’s weapons and applied tilak on the forehead of Army personnel. 

Addressing Army personnel, the defence minister said, “India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt. We fight only when someone insults or tries to harm our integrity and sovereignty; when war is waged against religion, truth and human values. This is what we have inherited.” 

However, adding India will preserve its heritage, Singh said, “If our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step. Shastra Pooja is a clear indication that if need be, the weapons will be used with full force.”

Later, Singh tweeted, “On the occasion of Vijayadashami in India, there has been a long-standing tradition of weapon worship. Today, I performed 'Shastra Puja' at the 33 Corps headquarters in Sukna, Darjeeling.” Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary-designate R.K. Singh, and other senior officials took part in the event.