Speaking at the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Strategic Infrastructure Conclave on 16 July 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored that roads, tunnels, airfields and ports will remain indispensable to military operations despite the increasing adoption of advanced technologies and precision weaponry. He argued that strategic infrastructure remains the foundation of national security, describing those who build critical border infrastructure as vital to India's defence preparedness. Highlighting projects such as the Atal Tunnel, Umling La Pass and Sela Tunnel, he praised the BRO's adoption of tunnelling technology, digital planning and modern construction methods. Singh also reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening connectivity through the Vibrant Villages Programme and called for closer collaboration between government, industry, academia and engineers to build resilient, technology-driven infrastructure that advances India's long-term security and development objectives.