Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Kanpur was a powerful mix of national security assertion, pride in indigenous defence technology, and a regional appeal that reinforced both patriotism and policy continuity.
In his remarks, PM Modi highlighted Operation Sindoor as a milestone moment that showcased India's ability to strike deep inside Pakistani territory, destroying terror camps “hundreds of miles in.” He credited the Indian Army for executing the mission with precision, and emphasized that this assertiveness was not just military strategy but a message — that India will no longer remain passive in the face of terrorism.
What stood out strongly in the speech were three clear policy declarations regarding India's stance on terrorism:
-
Retaliation is guaranteed: India will respond strongly to any terror attack, at a time and place of its choosing.
-
Nuclear threats won’t deter India: The traditional deterrence used by Pakistan will not inhibit Indian response.
-
No distinction between state and non-state actors: Any government sheltering terrorism will face equal consequences.
By saying, “The one who was begging during Operation Sindoor must not forget — it is not over yet,” Modi indirectly but forcefully signaled that India’s pressure on terror sponsors will continue, and the operation was part of a larger strategic campaign, not an isolated event.
The BrahMos missile featured prominently in his speech — not just as a tool of war, but as a symbol of India’s indigenous military strength. Modi framed it as a success story of the Make in India initiative, with Uttar Pradesh becoming a hub for cutting-edge weapons manufacturing:
-
Amethi is now producing AK-203 rifles, and
-
BrahMos missiles will soon be manufactured in Uttar Pradesh, placing the state at the heart of India's defence-industrial revolution.
His quip in local dialect, “Haunk diya jayega”, meaning the enemy will be smacked wherever they are, was an effective way of connecting the larger national security narrative with regional pride and cultural identity.
Overall, Modi’s speech served three key purposes:
-
Reinforcing national unity and strength by celebrating military achievements.
-
Projecting India as a sovereign power with clear red lines on terrorism.
-
Boosting UP’s image as a rising defence manufacturing hub, appealing to regional aspirations ahead of elections or industrial investment plans.
The timing and tone of the speech suggest that Operation Sindoor is being used not only as a military success but also as a strategic and political milestone in India’s evolving doctrine on national security and indigenous defence production.
