NSA Ajit Doval’s remarks on “avenging” India’s painful history of subjugation carry a deeper message than a mere call for military vigilance. His words underline a fundamental truth often overlooked in security discourse: nations do not fall only because of hostile borders but because of weaknesses within. True national security is as much about economic resilience, social cohesion and self-awareness as it is about armed strength. History offers sobering lessons. India’s long experience of foreign invasions was not solely the result of superior enemy forces but also of internal disunity, economic fragility and strategic complacency. No society can be ruled by invaders unless there are wide cracks in its social and economic structure. When institutions are weak, when inequality festers, when innovation stagnates and when citizens are disengaged from the idea of nationhood, even the strongest borders become vulnerable.
Doval’s emphasis on strengthening India “in every other way, including economically,” is therefore crucial. Economic power is the backbone of modern sovereignty. A strong economy sustains defence preparedness, funds technological advancement, reduces social unrest and enhances global influence. Equally important is social development-education, health, inclusion and dignity. A society that feels invested in the nation’s progress becomes its strongest line of defence. The greater enemy today is not merely external hostility but internal weaknesses: poverty, unemployment, corruption, social fragmentation and intellectual inertia. These erode confidence and unity, making a nation susceptible to pressure and manipulation. Building a strong India requires relentless self-introspection-an honest assessment of past blunders, historical ignorance and present shortcomings. Learning from history is not about dwelling on grievances, but about ensuring they are never repeated.
NSA’s invocation of freedom fighters serves as a reminder that independence was not an end in itself, but a responsibility. With each passing year, India’s determination to rise economically and socially must sharpen. Borders can be guarded by soldiers, but the nation is secured by aware, empowered and united citizens. Unless each individual understands the link between personal responsibility and national strength, no amount of military preparedness will suffice. At this critical juncture, NSA’s words stand as golden words of wisdom. They remind us that nation-building is a continuous process rooted in self-awareness, reform and collective effort. Only by confronting and correcting our internal weaknesses can India truly secure its future and fulfil its destiny as a strong, confident and invincible nation.
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