24-02-2026: Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the Occasion of the 18th National Convention of the Rashtriya Sainik Sanstha.

Jai Hind!

Today, on this historic soil of Delhi—where not merely power, but resolve takes shape, and where the energy of nationalism rises to its highest expression—it is not just a formal engagement for me to be present among you, but a deeply spiritual and patriotic moment of pride.

At the outset, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the revered dignitaries on the मंच, former military officers, brave war widows, and the vigilant sentinels of our nation present here today.

I congratulate the Rashtriya Sainik Sanstha on its 18th National Convention. This institution is not merely an organization of ex-servicemen; it is a national bridge between our glorious past and our dynamic future. Your contributions in disaster relief, youth mentorship, and social awareness are truly commendable. By weaving together experience and youthful energy, you have kept the flame of national consciousness alive. Indeed, even after the uniform is removed, a soldier’s duty never truly ends.

Our retired soldiers are living academies of society. The experience you gained in mountains, deserts, and forests can today become an invaluable force in nation-building—whether in education, healthcare, or rural development. You may have retired, but the warrior within you has not. That is the greatest identity and strength of an Indian soldier. A soldier’s life is not only about war—it is a living lesson in discipline, patience, and duty. If these virtues permeate civil life, no power can prevent India from becoming a global leader.

Friends,

The sacred land of Uttarakhand, known as Veerbhoomi, is the mother of countless brave hearts whose tales of valor are inscribed upon the peaks of the Himalayas. Every home there is like a small cantonment of national defense, where a mother’s lullaby carries not only values but a pledge of sacrifice for the nation. Serving this state is, for me, akin to serving the Divine.

At present, internal security is a matter of grave concern for our country. Our former Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, often spoke of the challenge of a “two-and-a-half front war.” The “half front” lies within—hidden elements that seek to destabilize society. In this context, the role of the Rashtriya Sainik Sanstha becomes extremely significant.

Friends,

Today, wars are not fought only on borders; they have entered our homes through information and ideology. In this era of hybrid warfare—where misinformation and radicalization are weaponized—the Rashtriya Sainik Sanstha must act as a vigilant sentinel. When military discipline merges with civil society, it forms an impenetrable shield against internal threats.

History bears witness that Indian soldiers have made the supreme sacrifice for the unity and integrity of our nation—whether during Partition or in the long battle against terrorism in Kashmir. The Government’s policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism has strengthened national security, yet to counter proxy warfare, we require a disciplined societal network.

For the security of the future, we must integrate technology with the spirit of “Nation First.” The invaluable experience of our veterans must be linked with cyber awareness, digital security, and youth training, enabling them to become the nation’s shield in cyberspace as well.

Initiatives like Agnipath are not merely career options—they are grand national endeavors for character-building. Four years in the armed forces can instill a level of confidence that no degree can provide. I urge our youth: step forward and make national defense your sacred duty. The energy of youth combined with the wisdom of veterans can create a strong first line of societal security in every village and city.

Friends,

Today, when I see our daughters reaching the pinnacle in every field, my head rises in pride. Women are no longer confined to the threshold of the home; they are flying fighter aircraft and standing fearlessly at the borders. The milestones achieved by our daughters in the armed forces proclaim the strength of India’s womanhood. The inclusive character of our military is the true strength of a New India—where courage has no gender.

Borders are secured not only by weapons but also by the unwavering trust of the citizens who reside there. The vision of “Vibrant Villages” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has transformed the very definition of border villages. They are no longer the “last villages” of India, but the “first villages.” Empowering frontier regions and preventing migration have become strategic necessities for national security.

Respect and welfare of soldiers and their families remain the nation’s highest priority. The implementation of One Rank One Pension fulfilled a decades-old demand, reaffirming that India is a grateful nation. From empowering war widows to building war memorials, and from healthcare and education to self-employment for soldiers’ families—sensitive and concrete efforts are being undertaken at every level.

We have now entered an era where battlefields extend beyond geography. Artificial Intelligence, drones, and cyber security are integral dimensions of modern warfare. With the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat, indigenous defense systems showcase the capability of our scientists and engineers. India has moved decisively from being a defense importer to an emerging exporter, fully prepared for global leadership in this technological age.

Across the nation, expressways, airports, and rail networks are expanding at unprecedented speed. Millions are connected through digital services. Under “Make in India,” indigenous technologies are gaining global recognition, and youth entrepreneurship is driving India toward becoming a hub of innovation.

Today’s New India is a nation filled with confidence—it does not merely dream; it fulfills its dreams. From becoming one of the world’s largest economies to achieving historic milestones in defense exports, leading in digital transactions, and reaching new heights in space, infrastructure, and start-up innovation—India has become synonymous with strength and resolve on the global stage.

This is the New India—one that neither stops nor bends, but leads. One that finds opportunity in crisis and transforms every challenge into achievement. I say especially to our youth: you are not merely a generation seeking jobs; you are a generation building the nation. Your ideas, innovation, and discipline are the true capital of a developed India.

Today, I bow in reverence to our brave war widows—you are not merely custodians of memory, but living inspirations of the nation. In your patience lies India’s strength; in your courage, its future. I also bow to the mothers who gave birth to heroes who smilingly laid down their lives for the honor of the tricolor.

Friends,

In the armed forces, there is no caste, no region—only the tricolor defines a soldier’s honor and identity. This social harmony is the highest ideal for our society. When we rise above differences and live the spirit of “Nation First,” only then can we build a united, strong, and self-reliant India. Soldiers teach us that “Nation First” is not merely spoken—it is lived.

In conclusion, I call upon each of you to play your role like a soldier in the great national endeavor of building a developed India by 2047. Wherever we are, whatever we do, let our actions bring pride to the nation, let our character define India’s identity, and let our resolve raise the tricolor to new heights.

Let us all pledge together: a developed India is not merely the government’s goal—it is our collective life mission. “Nation First” will not remain a slogan; it will become our daily discipline. And when history looks back in 2047, it should say—this generation made India secure, strong, and a guiding force for the world.

With these words, I conclude.

Vande Mataram! Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Jai Hind!