New Delhi : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday asserted that while India is rapidly inducting advanced weapons and cutting-edge military platforms to meet the evolving challenges of modern warfare, strategic infrastructure such as roads, tunnels, airfields and ports will remain fundamental to the nation’s defence preparedness.
Addressing the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Strategic Infrastructure Conclave in New Delhi on July 16, 2026, the Raksha Mantri said military strength, precision capabilities and modern technologies may determine the outcome of conflicts, but robust infrastructure is what enables armed forces to operate effectively in every situation.
Highlighting the importance of connectivity in national security, Rajnath Singh remarked that the first battlefield is often not at the border but on the roads that carry soldiers to the frontlines. He said those who build these strategic roads are as vital to the country’s security as the soldiers guarding its borders. He praised the BRO for embracing advanced engineering technologies and contributing significantly to the Narendra Modi government’s vision of world-class infrastructure, stronger national security and the goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The Defence Minister noted that over the last six-and-a-half decades, the BRO has evolved from a road construction agency into one of the world’s most respected strategic infrastructure organisations. He cited landmark achievements such as the Atal Tunnel, Umling La Pass, and Sela Tunnel as examples of the organisation’s engineering excellence and dedication, adding that BRO personnel have consistently demonstrated extraordinary commitment even in the most difficult terrains and weather conditions.
Rajnath Singh described the BRO as a pioneer in adopting modern construction technologies, particularly tunnelling techniques, which have transformed infrastructure development from urban metro projects to highways in mountainous regions. He said the speed and efficiency with which the organisation executes projects in some of the world’s toughest environments reflect the powerful combination of technological innovation and human determination.
Calling connectivity the foundation of national development, the Raksha Mantri reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding road, rail, air and digital infrastructure across the country. He said that unlike the past, the current government is ensuring that even the most remote regions remain connected to the national mainstream. Referring to the Vibrant Village Programme, he said border villages once considered the country’s last villages are now being developed as India’s first villages. According to him, the infrastructure being created today will shape the country’s progress for generations to come.
He also stressed that nation-building through infrastructure cannot be achieved by the government alone. Rajnath Singh urged industries to innovate, academic institutions to intensify research, engineers to develop practical solutions and administrators to ensure effective implementation, emphasising that excellence can only be achieved through collective effort.
Speaking at the conclave, Director General Border Roads Lt Gen Harpal Singh said strategic capability today is measured not merely by what is built but by how efficiently projects are planned, executed, monitored and maintained. He said the BRO is undergoing a major organisational transformation driven by technology, innovation and institutional reforms. The organisation is increasingly relying on digital planning, artificial intelligence-based solutions, modern construction methods, mechanisation and stronger collaboration with industry and academic institutions to build resilient and future-ready infrastructure.
During the event, Rajnath Singh presented awards to several BRO projects in recognition of excellence in strategic infrastructure development. He also launched two new digital platforms dedicated to project management and recruitment, marking another milestone in the organisation’s digital modernisation.
The Defence Minister further released three flagship BRO publications—‘Path Pradarshak’, ‘Oonchi Sadken’, and ‘Path Vikas’—highlighting the organisation’s engineering achievements, innovations, best practices and long-term vision. The occasion also witnessed the unveiling of the BRO Anthem, dedicated to the commitment and service of the organisation’s personnel.
The two-day conclave, which began on July 15, brought together senior military officials, policymakers, infrastructure experts, BRO officers, industry leaders and technology partners to deliberate on the future of strategic infrastructure development in India’s border regions. Discussions focused on emerging technologies, digital transformation, sustainable construction practices, project execution, monitoring systems and innovative engineering solutions under the theme “Enhancing Capability through Technology, Innovation and Execution Excellence.”
An industry interaction session was also held, where leading infrastructure companies, equipment manufacturers, academic institutions and technology partners showcased advanced machinery, specialised expertise and emerging technologies designed to meet the unique operational challenges faced by the BRO in strategic border areas.
