LEGACY-IN-MAKING: Senior Indian Leaders, PM Modi Extend Warm Birthday Wishes to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh received a flood of birthday greetings from across the political spectrum as he marked another year in public life. Tributes poured in from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers, chief ministers, and leaders from various parties. They lauded his decades-long contribution to Indian politics, national security, and public service.

Image Source: BorgoHainSBG on X

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes and praised Singh for his “hardworking nature and wisdom.” He commended the Defence Minister’s “commendable efforts” in strengthening India’s armed forces and advancing self-reliance in the defence sector, adding, “Praying for his long and healthy life.”

Responding to the Prime Minister’s message, Rajnath Singh expressed gratitude and praised Modi’s leadership, stating, “Under your able leadership, India is growing fast and getting stronger. Your recent 5-nation official visit is a testimony to India’s rising clout and stature.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah called Singh an inspirational figure who has fulfilled every responsibility in both organisational and governmental roles with distinction. “You are doing commendable work in strengthening the country’s military power and promoting self-reliance in the defence sector,” Shah said in a message posted in Hindi.

Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari also wished Singh good health and longevity, as did Union Ministers (former) Smriti Irani, Hardeep Singh Puri, Kiren Rijiju, and Jyotiraditya Scindia. Each acknowledged Singh’s contributions to national governance and his commitment to India's defence and security.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the Defence Minister as “a symbol of ideals, integrity, and restraint,” adding that his more than five decades in public life represented a “shining example of national policy, security, and moral politics.”

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called Singh “a veteran leader who commands deep admiration” and credited his decisive nature for powering up India’s defence capabilities.

BJP President J.P. Nadda and former JD(U) national president and current union minister Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh also wished the Defence Minister good health and praised his enduring commitment to public life.

Rajnath Singh, who previously served as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, BJP President, and Union Home Minister, currently holds the critical Defence portfolio in the Union Cabinet. His tenure has been marked by a focus on modernising India’s military, boosting defence manufacturing, and implementing structural reforms in national security strategy.

He continues to be a senior figure in Indian politics, widely respected across party lines for his balanced leadership and decades of public service.