Amid ongoing regional tensions and fresh calls for vigilance following Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday visited the Bhuj Air Base, where he praised the Indian Air Force for its swift and decisive action against terror camps in Pakistan, and accused Islamabad of misusing international aid to fund terrorism.
"Bhuj was witness to our victory against Pakistan in 1965, and today again it has been witness to our victory against Pakistan... I feel proud to be present here," Singh said, addressing personnel stationed at the base.
Commending the Indian Air Force for its role in Operation Sindoor, he added, "Whatever you did during Operation Sindoor has made all Indians proud — whether they are in India or abroad. Just 23 minutes were enough for the Indian Air Force to crush terrorism being nurtured in Pakistan."
Taking a direct swipe at Pakistan’s economic practices, Singh accused the country of diverting International Monetary Fund (IMF) financial assistance toward building terror infrastructure.
"I believe Pakistan will spend a large portion of the funds received from the IMF on terror infrastructure in its country. India wants the IMF to re-think funding to Pakistan," the Defence Minister said.
Backlash Against Turkey And Azerbaijan
Tensions are also spilling over into diplomatic and economic realms, with Indian institutions and industry bodies reacting strongly to perceived pro-Pakistan stances from Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Punjab has become the latest educational institution to terminate all Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with universities in Turkiye and Azerbaijan, citing "recent geopolitical developments contrary to India's national interest."
In a parallel move, the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) urged industry stakeholders to suspend all business ties with both nations in solidarity with Operation Sindoor.
The latest moves reflect a hardening of India's stance not only against Pakistan but also against nations seen as aligning with its regional adversaries.
