New Delhi [India]: Stressing the importance of self-reliance for national security, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday said that “war is best avoided from a position of strength”, underscoring that strength is derived not only from technology and military might, but also from national unity and citizen responsibility.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Rajya Sabha Internship Program (Phase 7), the Vice President described Operation Sindoor as a turning point that has significantly reshaped public perception of national security, economic priorities, and collective resolve.
“The recent episode, Operation Sindoor, has changed our mindset massively. We are now nationalistic as never before. And this is reflected in participation of all political landscape in delegations that have gone abroad to project our message of peace and our complete intolerance to terrorism,” Dhankhar said.
He emphasized that consensus on national issues—especially security and development—must transcend political rivalries.
“Like institutions, even political tribes have a moral duty to the national cause… On issues of national security, economic progress, all factions need to put national interest over partisan priorities,” he stated.
“Sometimes politics get too hot for nationalism and security, something we need to overcome.”
‘Indigenous Strength is National Strength’
Dhankhar said true national strength comes from within, citing the role of technological advancement and indigenous arms development. He advocated for readiness as a deterrent to conflict.
“For national security, we need indigenous strength. War is best avoided from a position of strength. Peace is secured when you are ever ready for war.”
He urged citizens not to focus solely on fundamental rights, but to honor their fundamental duties, which were incorporated into the Constitution through the 42nd and 86th Amendments.
“Let us not cherry-pick… We’ll go for fundamental rights, claiming them 24×7, and be totally oblivious of fundamental duties!… There are 11 fundamental duties. These were added later because our founding fathers expected we would align with them without being told.”
‘Economic Nationalism Is the Duty of Every Indian’
The Vice President also emphasized the idea of economic nationalism by encouraging citizens to “consume Swadeshi” and “be vocal for local.”
“When we import goods that can be made in India, we’re hurting our economy in three ways: draining foreign reserves, denying jobs to our people, and weakening domestic entrepreneurship,” he said.
“Economic nationalism is the business of the people.”
Parliament as the People’s Voice
Calling the Parliament the ultimate platform for debate and accountability, Dhankhar underlined its constitutional primacy in law-making and holding the Executive accountable.
“Parliament is much beyond a legislative body… It is a reflection of 1.4 billion people’s will. Governance is defined by transparency, accountability, and optimal institutional performance.”
He urged interns to understand the consensual spirit of the Constitution, noting how India’s founding fathers navigated contentious issues with cooperation and mutual respect.
“Our Constitution is sacred. Our founding fathers dealt with divisive and inflammatory issues with coordination and consensus… Always respect the other point of view. More often than not, the other point of view is the correct view.”