Rajnath Singh Urges SCO Efficiency During Tajikistan Visit
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh advocated for operational efficiency at the SCO meeting in Dushanbe and detailed India's economic and strategic growth to the Indian diaspora.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Dushanbe, Tajikistan, to represent India at the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government. During the assembly, Singh urged the SCO to prioritize operational efficiency and practical value over the creation of new institutions, arguing that a higher number of institutions does not necessarily lead to greater achievements. He advocated for a roadmap based on consensus and sovereign equality, with the meeting concluding in the endorsement of a joint communique, the 2027 SCO budget, and a trade and economic action plan for 2026-2030.
Parallel to the diplomatic proceedings, Singh addressed the Indian diaspora, outlining a vision for India as a nation combining prosperity, knowledge, and strength. He highlighted a 7.8 percent economic growth rate, foreign exchange reserves exceeding US$700 billion, and the expansion of renewable energy capacity to nearly 300 GW. Singh specifically noted strategic advancements in semiconductor production via the Semicon India programme and defence exports totaling Rs 38,424 crore.
Singh also engaged with Tajik cultural figures to celebrate historical bonds. He felicitated Professor Habibullo Rajabov, the first Padma Shri awardee from Tajikistan, for his contributions to Hindi literature. Singer Noziya Karomatullo also met with the minister to highlight the cross-cultural musical ties between the two nations.
