Chandigarh, Oct 28 (FN Agency) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said India is a peace-loving country, but is ready to face any challenge, as he spoke about the discussions held at the Army Commanders’ Conference. Speaking at Terminal Ballistic Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Panchkula after inaugurating a testing facility associated with warheads, the Defence Minister said it was discussed how countries around the world, their relations, trade, political and security affairs are changing across the world. “India has always been a peace-loving country. It is against our values to start a conflict. But if need be, our country is ready to face any challenge,” Singh said.
“Our former President APJ Abdul Kalam said there is no place for fear in this world. Only a strong power is respected by another strong power. We want to make India a power which can look eye to eye with any nation,” he said. He also lauded TBRL and said, “Other countries spend Rs 7,500 for one hand grenade, but the Indian army gets it for Rs 3,500. This is their commitment towards India”. “Our PM says private industry should be supported,” he said. Speaking at the conference on Wednesday, Singh had commented on the situation on the northern border and expressed “full confidence” that “while troops are standing firm, the ongoing talks for peaceful resolution of crisis will continue”. Referring to the situation along the western borders, he complimented the Indian Army’s response to cross-border terrorism.