Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says “Under PM Modi’s leadership, what you desire will certainly happen”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. File.
| Photo Credit: ANI

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday (May 4, 2025) that it was his responsibility to give a “befitting reply” to those who dare to attack India. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “perseverance, I assure you all, whatever you wish for will be done”, he added.

Also read: Pahalgam terror attack live updates – May 4, 2025

His remarks came amid expectations of military action by India following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Speaking at the Sanskriti Jagran Mahotsav in the national capital, Mr. Singh said as Defence Minister, it was his responsibility to ensure the security of the country’s borders. “It is my responsibility to give a befitting reply to those who dare to attack our country. You all know the Prime Minister’s work ethic and perseverance… I want to assure you that under his leadership, whatever you wish for, will be done,” he said.

Blackout rehearsal

Meanwhile, in the face of the prevailing situation along the India-Pakistan border, the Ferozepur Cantonment in Punjab, which is close to the border, was preparing residents for a “rehearsal for blackout” on Sunday (May 4, 2025) night from 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

A notification for the rehearsal said, “You are requested to ensure adequate security arrangements during this period, given the total blackout. This rehearsal aims to ensure preparedness and effectiveness in implementing blackout procedures during prevailing war threats.. Your support and cooperation are crucial in making this exercise successful.”

This blackout rehearsal was not the first and had been held earlier too, sources said.

Opinion: Has the Pahalgam attack crossed a red line?

As reported earlier by The Hindu, since the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan has issued several “Nav Area” warnings for naval war games in the Arabian Sea as well as NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) closing air traffic routes close to the border. The latest notices issued a few days ago were set to expire on Sunday.

The Indian Navy too had carried out several missile firings. India and Pakistan had also issued “area warnings” for exercises in the Arabian Sea, with the notified zones being just 85 nautical miles apart.