'Women Pilots Played a Crucial Role in Operation Sindoor': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Praises Nari Shakti in Lucknow
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Union Defence Minister and local Member of Parliament Rajnath Singh once again commanded national attention by highlighting the phenomenal bravery of India's armed forces, specifically emphasizing the vital, game-changing role played by women pilots during the tactical counter-terrorism missions of 'Operation Sindoor'. Speaking at a high-profile public ceremony in Lucknow during the unveiling of the statue of freedom fighter Rani Avantibai Lodhi, Singh underscored that these fearless aviators spearheaded operations extending deep into Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, proving that the daughters of a resurgent "New India" stand second to none.
Empowering Women Through Structural Reform and Military Access
Underlining the government's unwavering commitment to gender parity and national security, Rajnath Singh noted that structural barriers have been systematically dismantled. From opening the doors of prestigious military schools to young girls to championing historic legislative reforms like the "Nari Shakti Vandan Act"—which paves the way for one-third reservation for women in legislative assemblies—the nation is witnessing an unprecedented rise in female leadership.
Furthermore, praising the law-and-order administration under Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Singh remarked that women in the state experience absolute safety and dignity, echoing a legacy of governance where criminal elements dare not threaten public security.
Unveiling ₹100.92 Crore Development Projects for Lucknow Cantonment
Earlier, in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Dilkusha Lawn, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spearheaded the groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremonies for a series of infrastructure projects worth ₹100.92 crore aimed at transforming the Lucknow Cantonment into a premier model city.
Addressing the gathering, Singh emphasized that when federal and provincial governments operate on a shared, unified vision, regional development accelerates manifold. He tied Lucknow's rapid economic and infrastructural trajectory directly to the broader vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Highlights Lucknow's Modern Transformation
Addressing the audience, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared a compelling contrast between Lucknow's past and its vibrant present. Recalling how city signboards two decades ago urged visitors to smile while narrow streets, chronic traffic congestion, and sanitation issues often brought frustration, Yogi stated that the capital city has successfully reinvented itself into a modern, smart metropolis without losing its deep historical heritage.
The Chief Minister highlighted that while Lucknow cherishes historic legacies like the memorials of freedom fighters Udadevi Pasi and Maharaja Bijli Pasi, it has simultaneously evolved into a strategic defense manufacturing hub producing advanced weaponry like BrahMos missiles. Promising that the Cantonment Board will never face financial constraints, Yogi also announced that the Gomti River will be completely cleaned and rejuvenated by the end of this year with active cooperation from the Central Command.
Fulfilling Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Vision for Lucknow
Reiterating the collaborative political momentum, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak noted that Rajnath Singh is systematically fulfilling the visionary dreams of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to turn Lucknow into a world-class urban center. Additionally, Social Welfare Minister Asim Arun announced that successful pilot programs aimed at preparing youth for armed forces selections in districts like Baghpat—which yielded a remarkable 65 percent selection rate—will soon be expanded directly to Lucknow, ensuring that local youth lead the charge in national defense and public service.
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