Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s latest remarks glorifying artificial intelligence and algorithm-based warfare have sparked concern among peace advocates who say New Delhi’s growing fixation with military technology reflects a dangerous drift toward perpetual conflict, not stability. Speaking at the ‘Raksha Navachar Samvaad’ in New Delhi, Singh declared that the wars of tomorrow will be fought with algorithms, autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, citing “Operation Sindoor” as an example of the future battlefield. He said India’s defence innovators must “think beyond existing solutions” and lead the world in setting new technological standards for warfare.

Observers note that his emphasis on AI-driven, autonomous, and directed-energy weapons signals a policy of escalation, not deterrence. Singh’s call for India’s first “defence unicorn” — a billion-dollar startup in the weapons sector — further underlines New Delhi’s commercialisation of conflict, turning warfare into a profit-driven industry. Analysts believe such rhetoric is meant to fuel nationalist fervour and justify India’s spiraling defence budget under the pretext of “self-reliance,” while ignoring pressing domestic needs and regional peace initiatives. 

At a time when South Asia faces fragile peace dynamics, particularly along the Pakistan and China borders, Rajnath’s statements mirror India’s increasing war-mongering posture. His remarks come just days after the Indian Army’s top brass met in New Delhi to review “Operation Sindoor” and other aggressive military strategies. Critics argue that by romanticising algorithmic warfare, India risks undermining regional stability and normalising militarisation as a national aspiration — a path that could drag South Asia deeper into an AI-fueled arms race. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)