In the midst of a tariff battle, Modi advocates for the adoption of self-reliance
In a momentous occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the inauguration of the BrahMos unit in Lucknow on May 11 [1]. This significant development comes as India continues to strengthen its military capabilities, with the UP Defence Corridor set to produce weapons that will bolster the backbone of India's military strength [6].
The Prime Minister's visit to Lucknow was not just about defence manufacturing. It was also a celebration of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives on April 22 [7]. Modi emphasized that the operation sent a clear message that terrorists and their sponsors would no longer be secure or unpunished [2].
Invoking Lord Shiva's Rudra roop, a symbol of India's resolute and powerful response to terrorism, Modi underscored the aggressive and transformative nature of India's stance against terrorism [1]. This operation, he said, eliminated terror "nurseries" rather than being a territorial conquest [3].
The power of locally developed missiles, drones, and air defence systems was on display during Operation Sindoor [4]. Modi highlighted that the operation demonstrated India's indigenous defence capabilities to the world [8]. He also criticized the Opposition, particularly the Congress and its allies, for being unable to accept India's success in demolishing terrorist hideouts inside Pakistan [9].
During his visit, Modi also laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development works worth around ₹2,200 crore in Varanasi [10]. He distributed the 20th installment of the PM KISAN Samman Nidhi worth ₹20,500 crore to over 9.70 crore eligible farmers nationwide [11].
Modi also made a special appeal to traders and shopkeepers to sell only swadeshi goods from their shops and markets, urging people to adopt the mantra of 'Vocal for Local' [5]. If Pakistan dares to repeat its mistakes, Modi warned that missiles made in UP will wipe out terrorists [2].
In a show of national resolve and unity, Modi compared India to Mahadev, stating that when faced with terrorism and injustice, India takes a fierce form [12]. He also mentioned that several air bases in Pakistan are still in ICU due to the operation [13]. The prime minister emphasized that farmers, small industries, and employment for youth are the top-most priorities for the government [14].
Modi's visit to Lucknow was a testament to India's commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities and its resolve to eliminate terrorism. As the BrahMos missiles are set to be manufactured in Lucknow, India is poised to become even more formidable in the global arena.
References: 1. NDTV 2. Hindustan Times 3. The Indian Express 4. Business Standard 5. The Hindu 6. Times Now 7. ANI 8. The Quint 9. India Today 10. PTI 11. Business Standard 12. NDTV 13. The Indian Express 14. Hindustan Times
- The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, used Lord Shiva's Rudra roop as a symbol of India's resolute and powerful response to terrorism, indicating the government's aggressive stance against terrorism.
- Modi criticized the opposition, particularly the Congress and its allies, for their inability to recognize India's success in eliminating terrorist hideouts within Pakistan, reflecting a political division in the country regarding defense and foreign policy.
- As the BrahMos missiles are set to be manufactured in Lucknow, India may bolster its position in the global economy, potentiality showcasing its strength in sports and general-news sectors as well, given the significance of military capabilities in geopolitical scenarios.
