‘You strengthen democracy, others doubt your talent’: Rajnath Singh lauds EVM scientists, slams Oppn

BENGALURU: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed scientists of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) who developed the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). At the same time, he targeted the Opposition also for questioning the EVMs.

Addressing the scientists of Bharat Electronics Limited in Bengaluru, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “BEL has contributed to strengthening both democracy and security. A major example of this is the Electronic Voting Machine. Through it, you have strengthened Indian democracy. Yet there are some people in politics who accuse it of being manipulable”.

“Whether it can be manipulated or not, only you can say. Attempts are being made to question your capability and your talent. But I can say that through EVMs, you have strengthened India’s democracy”, he added. Rajnath Singh further said, “A strong democracy and a strong security system are what make a nation strong. Our army protects the borders, while democracy protects the soul of the nation. What is important is that you are connected to both.”

He also said, “BEL has played a major role in adopting technology in many fields beyond defence. The nation always expects excellence from you, and you are living up to those expectations. Your work in the direction of futuristic technology is very good and commendable. The work you are doing is also significant in the direction of the semiconductor mission that India is pursuing”.

#WATCH | Bengaluru, Karnataka | Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, “… Congratulations on your contribution to the nation. I am satisfied that BEL is working in the right direction. I just got the opportunity to see the missile system and to launch the Mountain Fire… https://t.co/r23umqIGoz pic.twitter.com/gC2MIsqgvX

— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026

On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru and inaugurated the Missile Integration Facility on the company’s premises, besides flagging off the Akash 3rd and 4th Regiment Combat Systems and unveiled the Mountain Fire Control Radar, marking a significant boost to India’s indigenous air defence capabilities.

The Defence Minister remotely inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (CoE-AI) located in Pune and formally launched BEL’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy, aimed at strengthening the integration of AI-driven technologies into defence manufacturing and strategic systems.

He also lauded the nation’s scientists for their role in safeguarding national security, describing them as the “second line of defence” for the country.

#WATCH | Karnataka: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Gas Turbine Research Establishment in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/0XNnYXIpgn

— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026

Addressing the scientific community during his visit to the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), he stated that GTRE was the driving force behind “Operation Sindoor” and asserted that its expertise would be the foundation for future success.

“In Operation Sindoor, the world saw how indigenous air defence and anti-drone systems neutralised the threat. Soldiers’ bravery should be respected, but you are being praised across the country as the second line of defence. The country’s people did not know which equipment was manufactured and where, but they were proud that it must have been made by our scientists and engineers”, Singh said.

“Now, we need a victory that is on our terms, achieved with our own weapons and technology, made in our country. Only such a self-reliant victory can give the country new confidence. People like you were the driving force behind Operation Sindoor. People like you will be behind every future success”, added Singh.

The Defence Minister also praised the scientific community for adapting to evolving technologies and challenges, noting that their work has significantly strengthened the nation’s network-centric approach. He highlighted that advancements in airspace defence and counter-drone operations prove that India’s indigenous production meets global standards.

“You face complex situations in every field. Congratulations on your contribution to the nation. I am satisfied that BEL is working in the right direction. I recently saw missile systems and had the opportunity to launch a mountain fire control radar. What I saw here was not a reflection of any one institution, but a living testimony to collective efforts. We can’t ignore the potential challenges ahead. Cyber threats, drones, and space-based services are a reality today. I am pleased to see that you have done excellent work in these changing times. Your work has strengthened our network-centric approach. The developments in airspace defence and counter-drone operations demonstrate that our indigenous production is of a global standard,” said Singh.

Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in Bengaluru and reviewed the progress of ongoing projects related to indigenous military gas turbine engine development.

During his visit, the Defence Minister met with scientists and senior officials at the facility and assessed advances in critical aero-engine technologies. Addressing the scientists, Singh expressed confidence in DRDO’s scientific capabilities and commitment towards enhancing the country’s strategic strength. (ANI)(ANI)