The Agnipath scheme, which was a major issue in the just-concluded elections, will need major changes to address operational contingencies of the armed forces as well as concerns from various allies and political parties
As Rajnath Singh takes charge as Defence Minister for a second consecutive term, top issues on the agenda are the Agnipath scheme, pending military modernisation, with focus on indigenisation in addition to situation on the borders, especially with China, where the stand-off in eastern Ladakh still continues. The Agnipath scheme, which was a major issue in the just-concluded elections, will need major changes to address operational contingencies of the armed forces as well as concerns from various allies and political parties.
“Safeguarding India’s border will remain our topmost priority and we shall continue protecting India’s integrity and sovereignty. Under the visionary leadership of PM Modi we shall rededicate ourselves to strengthen ‘Make in India’ and take defence manufacturing and exports to greater heights,” Mr. Singh said on social media ‘X’ on Monday evening after the portfolios were officially announced. A Member of Parliament from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he took over as the Defence Minister for the first time on June 1, 2019.
On Tuesday, Sanjay Seth, a second-time MP from Ranchi, Jharkhand, took charge as Minister of State in the Defence Ministry. He was received and briefed about the Ministry by Defence Ministry Secretary Giridhar Aramane.
