Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Thursday that despite the adoption of modern weaponry and platforms to address issues related to the changing nature of warfare, ports, airfields, roads, and tunnels will retain their indispensable role in the future. He noted that while the outcome of military operations is largely determined by military skill, precise capabilities, and modern technology, basic infrastructure is a key element in ensuring military operations.
Recognition of BRO's Achievements
During the strategic summit on infrastructure in New Delhi, Rajnath highly praised the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), noting that over the last six and a half decades, it has transformed from a simple road construction organization into one of the most respected strategic infrastructure organizations in the world. He cited the Atal Tunnel, Umling La Pass, and Sela Tunnel as living proof of BRO's capabilities and diligence.
Singh added that the organization's employees have repeatedly proven that serving the nation allows them to overcome any difficulties even in the harshest conditions. He stressed that sometimes the first line of war is not at the border itself, but on the road leading soldiers to the front, so the person building that road is as important for national security as the soldier on the border.
Innovation and Connectivity Development
Rajnath named BRO a pioneering organization in adopting the latest technologies, particularly highlighting 'tunneling technology,' which has revolutionized everything from metro construction in cities to highway development in mountainous regions. He noted the unprecedented speed with which BRO constructs roads and highways in the world's most challenging landscapes.
The Minister defined 'connectivity' as a vital component of civilizational development, affirming the Modi government's determination to ensure all types of connectivity through road, rail, air, and digital infrastructure. He stated that the initial focus on infrastructure after gaining independence did not match the country's capabilities and needs. Now, it is ensured that no citizen living in a remote area feels cut off from the main body. Under the 'Vibrant Villages Programme,' remote settlements, previously called the last, are turning into the first villages of the country.
Vision for the Future and Contribution of All Parties
He commended BRO for applying specialized technologies to create resilient infrastructure and advancing the Modi government's resolve to build world-class infrastructure, continuously strengthen national security, and transform India into Viksit Bharat by 2047. Rajnath emphasized that infrastructure development is not only the government's duty but also a collective effort. He called on industries to innovate, academic circles to achieve scientific breakthroughs, engineers to develop solutions, and administrators to implement them practically.
At the event, BRO's CEO, Lieutenant General Harpal Singh, stated that 'the measure of strategic capability is no longer determined solely by what we build; it is increasingly determined by how wisely we plan, how quickly we execute, how effectively we control, and how sustainably we maintain our infrastructure assets.' He also emphasized that BRO is undergoing organizational transformation driven by technology, innovation, and institutional reforms, with a special focus on digital planning, AI-based solutions, modern construction methods, mechanization, and strengthening collaboration with industry and academia to create sustainable and future-ready strategic infrastructure.



