Defence Minister Rajnath Singh: Protecting Culture as Vital as Securing Borders
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has emphasised the crucial role of unity in safeguarding India’s sovereignty, stating that protecting the nation’s cultural heritage is as essential as securing its borders. Speaking at the ‘Koti Deepotsavam’ event, a grand mass lighting ceremony held during the Hindu month of Kartik, Singh highlighted the historical significance of unity and the perils of division.
“Whenever our unity has weakened, invaders have sought to destroy our civilisation and culture,” Singh remarked, urging citizens to learn from history and pledge unity. He underscored that divisions, whether along lines of religion, caste, or sect, have consistently led to the nation’s downfall in the past.
“Those who seek to divide do so in many ways. But we must resist division. Neither should we allow ourselves to be divided, nor should we divide others. The entire country must remain united. Unity is the foundation of progress. If we avoid divisions, we will advance towards development and create a strong and prosperous India,” he asserted.
Unity as Strength
Drawing on ancient scriptures, the Defence Minister noted that unity is the cornerstone of a robust society. He called for the spirit of togetherness to extend beyond India’s borders, advocating for a global sense of solidarity. “India has always viewed the world as one family. By ensuring unity, we can spread light not just in our country but across the world,” Singh said.
Highlighting the government’s focus on cultural revival under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Singh pointed out that cultural development is as vital as political, economic, and social growth. “If a nation loses its culture, it suffers immensely,” he said.
Culture and National Identity
As Defence Minister, Singh acknowledged his responsibility to ensure the safety of India’s borders. However, he argued that preserving the country’s cultural heritage is equally imperative. “India is not just a political entity but a civilisation with a cultural identity spanning thousands of years. This rich heritage defines us and earns us global respect,” he explained.
Singh warned against fostering hatred towards one’s own culture, stating that such attitudes could lead to societal fragmentation. “If hatred towards a nation’s culture takes root among its people, that nation will eventually be divided. Those who attempted to divide India in the past often portrayed our culture as inferior. But that phase has now ended, thanks to the growing awareness among our people,” he added.
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A Revival of Culture
Singh expressed pride in the ongoing cultural revival in India, crediting it to heightened awareness and renewed respect for the country’s heritage. He noted that this resurgence is crucial for the nation’s unity and integrity.
In his address, Singh also highlighted the government’s initiatives aimed at reviving and preserving India’s cultural heritage. “Our efforts are not just about physical security but also about fostering a sense of pride in our cultural legacy, which is integral to our identity as a nation,” he said.
A Call for Unity
Singh concluded his speech with a heartfelt appeal for unity, urging citizens to prioritise harmony and togetherness. “The whole country must move forward as one. By doing so, we can build a developed, strong, and united India that spreads light and positivity across the globe,” he said.
The Defence Minister’s remarks resonate in a time when cultural preservation is increasingly viewed as an integral part of national security. By equating the importance of cultural and territorial protection, Singh has underscored the need for a holistic approach to safeguarding India’s legacy, both for its citizens and its standing on the global stage.
