“India Seeks Peace but Stays Prepared”: President Murmu

• President Murmu inaugurates Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi
• Says Operation Sindoor showcased India’s strategic clarity and deterrence
• Highlights Army’s transformation and expanding role of young women
• Stresses India seeks peace but is fully prepared to protect its borders

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 27th Nov: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday graced the inaugural session of the third edition of the Indian Army’s flagship seminar, Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2025, held in New Delhi. Addressing military leaders, experts and policymakers, the President commended the professionalism, discipline and patriotism of the Indian Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

Speaking on the recent counter-terror operation, she said the success of Operation Sindoor marked a defining moment in India’s counter-terror and deterrence strategy. The operation, she noted, demonstrated not only India’s military capability but also its moral clarity to act firmly and responsibly for the cause of peace. She added that the world has taken note of India’s resolve.

Highlighting the multifaceted contributions of the defence forces, the President said that beyond protecting the borders, the Army has played a central role in national development, contributing to infrastructure, connectivity, tourism and education in border regions.

The President stressed that the global geopolitical landscape is undergoing rapid changes driven by shifting alliances, technological disruption and new domains of warfare such as cyber, space and information. In this environment, she said India continues to uphold the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, balancing strategic autonomy with global responsibility. “Our diplomacy, economy and armed forces together project an India that seeks peace but stands prepared to protect its borders and citizens with strength and conviction,” she said.

President Murmu expressed satisfaction over the Indian Army’s ongoing reforms under its “Decade of Transformation” initiative. She said the Army is restructuring formations, reorienting doctrines and enhancing capabilities to remain mission-ready across all domains, adding that these reforms will strengthen India’s path to self-reliance.

She noted that the Army is investing heavily in youth and human capital by expanding NCC outreach, promoting sports and encouraging patriotism. Welcoming the growing role of young women officers and soldiers, she said their increased participation will advance inclusion and inspire more women to join the forces.

The President said the deliberations at Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2025 would offer valuable inputs for shaping future national security policy. She expressed confidence that the armed forces will continue to advance with determination and contribute towards achieving the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.