Defense Minister Rajnath Singh asserts that PoK is an integral part of India, and its people are considered Indians. He stated that any future dialogue with Pakistan will exclusively focus on terrorism and PoK.
Pok: Addressing the Annual Business Summit-2025 in New Delhi, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh made a significant statement. He unequivocally declared that the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are considered Indians, part of the Indian family. Singh expressed confidence that those brothers and sisters currently separated politically and geographically will one day return to the Indian mainstream. He emphasized that any future dialogue with Pakistan will solely center on terrorism and PoK.
Rajnath Singh's Clear Message on PoK
In his address, Rajnath Singh stated, “I believe that the people of PoK are our own, part of our family. We are confident that our brothers and sisters, currently separated from us, will, driven by their self-respect, inner voice, and free will, eventually return to the Indian mainstream.”
Singh issued a stern warning to Pakistan regarding PoK, clarifying that India's strategy and approach to dialogue have changed. He said, “We have redefined the scope of our engagement and dialogue with Pakistan. Any future talks with Pakistan will be solely focused on terrorism and PoK.”
PoK's People Feel a Connection to India
Rajnath Singh described the people of PoK as an integral part of India. He stated, “We consider PoK a part of India, and its people also feel a deep connection with India. India always advocates for uniting hearts. We are confident that by following the path of love, unity, and truth, the day is not far when PoK itself will declare, 'I am India, I have returned.’”
Singh asserted that PoK's return to India is not merely a political issue but is intrinsically linked to India's social, cultural, and economic prosperity. He stated that the Indian government is working towards the goal of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Best India), and PoK's return is a crucial step in this direction.
India's Defense Policy and the Importance of 'Make in India'
Discussing India's national security, the Defense Minister highlighted 'Make in India' as a vital component of India's defense policy. He stated, “Without India's own defense production capabilities, we wouldn't be able to take such b action against terrorism, from lower parts of Pakistan to PoK.”
Singh also delivered a b message to Pakistan, stating, “Running the business of terrorism is not a cheap bargain; it comes at a heavy price, and Pakistan is paying that price today.”
India's Growing Strength and Self-Reliance
Singh emphasized that India is not only producing fighter jets and missile systems but is also rapidly advancing in New Age Warfare Technology. Referencing Operation Sindur, he stated, “We surprised the world by demonstrating India's ability to pierce the armor of any enemy.”
The Defense Minister stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India has become the world's fourth-largest economy. This is not just economic progress but also reflects the world's trust in India and its self-confidence.
Warning to Pakistan
Rajnath Singh stated that India has completely revamped its counter-terrorism policy. He said, “We have redesigned and redefined India's strategy and response. Whenever there will be talks with Pakistan, it will be only on terrorism and PoK.”
He made it clear that India will harbor no illusions regarding its relationship with Pakistan. He stated that India's priorities are its security, b action against terrorism, and the return of PoK.
