Union Minister for Railways and Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw today asserted that Pakistan no longer poses a threat, terrorism is unacceptable in any form, and Indian citizens across the world feel secure—a transformation achieved under the 11-year tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Government.
Vaishnaw made these remarks during a press conference in New Delhi alongside Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National President and Union Health Minister JP Nadda, and Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, held to mark the 11th anniversary of the Modi-led government at the Centre.
“No One Believed Article 370 Could Be Removed”
Vaishnaw emphasized the historic and bold decisions taken by the Government, including the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.
“No one believed it could be done, but Prime Minister Modi showed the resolve. The abrogation has changed the ground situation dramatically,” he said.
Referring to his recent visit to Jammu during the launch of the train service to Katra and the inauguration of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River, Vaishnaw recalled speaking with a J&K Police constable.
“The constable confirmed that the situation has significantly improved since the abrogation,” the Minister said.
From Terror Strikes to Defence Exports: India’s Strategic Shift
Vaishnaw underlined India’s strong and effective response to terrorism and internal security threats:
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Surgical strikes (2016)
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Air strikes in Balakot (2019)
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Operation Sindoor (2025) – a recent military operation that targeted terrorist infrastructure deep inside Pakistan and PoJK, launched in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 civilian lives, including 25 tourists.
“These actions showcase India’s increasing capability, most of which has been made possible using indigenous defence technology. We are now a major defence exporter,” he added.
The Minister also noted the shrinking of the Red Corridor, indicating success in curbing Left-wing extremism.
“In the North-East too, violence has dropped sharply due to effective measures,” he said.
Operation Sindoor & India’s Military Resolve
Operation Sindoor, conducted from May 6 to May 10, targeted terror camps, launch pads, and command centres in PoJK.
According to officials, Pakistan retaliated by targeting civilian areas in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu, Uri, and Tangdhar. However, India remained steadfast and focused on dismantling terror infrastructure.
Security Achievements Highlighted in Government Report
A booklet released during the press conference highlighted several key milestones:
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No major terror attacks in Indian cities in non-conflict zones since 2014
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Global isolation of terror sponsors
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India leading global discourse on terrorism
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Strengthened legal framework, including amendments to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
Defence Indigenisation Push
The booklet also detailed major strides in defence indigenisation:
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Over 5000 items placed under positive indigenisation lists
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Five separate lists for Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) covering 4600+ items
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FDI limit in defence raised to 74% via automatic route
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75% of the 2025-26 defence capital procurement budget allocated for domestic industries
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Strategic push for defence corridors in UP, aimed at job creation and regional transformation
Conclusion
Ashwini Vaishnaw concluded by saying that under PM Modi’s leadership, India has undergone a transformative journey—from battling entrenched terrorism and separatism to emerging as a global leader in security, development, and indigenous innovation.
