Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday visited the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial and Museum in Bhuj, Gujarat, paying tribute to the victims of the devastating 2001 earthquake. He described the site as a powerful symbol of the resilience and indomitable spirit of the people of Gujarat.
During his visit, Singh lauded the memorial’s significance and highlighted the inspiration behind its creation, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the vision and leadership that brought the project to life.
“I had the opportunity to visit the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial and Museum for the first time, and what I witnessed here was truly awe-inspiring. This museum is not just a matter of national pride but a symbol of global significance,” Singh said. “Built in memory of those who lost their lives in the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, it reflects the enduring strength and courage of the people.”
The Defence Minister further noted that the museum has secured a place on the UNESCO list, calling it a reflection of Prime Minister Modi’s vision. “We all know that Prime Minister Modi’s inspiration is evident in every part of this museum. I thank him for his foresight in conceptualizing such a powerful tribute,” he added. Appealing to the public, Singh urged all citizens visiting Gujarat to include Smritivan in their travel plans. “I request all my fellow countrymen to visit this memorial and pay their respects to the approximately 13,000 people who lost their lives,” he said.
The 2001 Gujarat earthquake struck the Kutch district with a magnitude of 7.6 on the moment magnitude scale, at a depth of 17.4 km. The disaster claimed over 20,000 lives, injured more than 1.5 lakh people, and left thousands homeless.
Earlier in the day, Rajnath Singh arrived in Bhuj and visited the Bhuj Air Force Station, where he interacted with Air Warriors. He was accompanied by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh. This visit followed his trip to the Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, where he met with Indian Army personnel.
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While addressing the Air Warriors in Bhuj, Singh praised the Indian Air Force’s performance in the recently conducted Operation Sindoor and issued a stern warning to Pakistan. “Operation Sindoor is not yet over. What has happened so far is just a trailer. When the time comes, the world will see the full picture,” he said. He declared that Pakistan has been placed on “probation,” and any hostile actions would invite the strictest response. “If their behaviour improves, that is acceptable. If not, the harshest punishment will follow,” Singh warned.
He also paid homage to those who lost their lives during Operation Sindoor and extended his best wishes for the recovery of those injured.
“Bhuj was a witness to India’s victories in 1965 and 1971. And today, it has once again witnessed a moment of triumph,” Singh stated. He commended the IAF for its precise execution during the operation, noting, “The Indian Air Force needed just 23 minutes to deliver a decisive blow to the terror infrastructure being sheltered in Pakistan. This has made every Indian proud—whether at home or abroad.”
Singh also made a pointed appeal to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging it to reconsider any financial support to Pakistan. He expressed concern that such funds could be diverted to bolster terror infrastructure rather than for civilian or economic purposes.
“The fight against terrorism has now become an integral part of India’s National Defence Doctrine,” he said. “We are committed to eliminating hybrid and proxy warfare in all forms.” The Defence Minister concluded by reaffirming India’s tough stance on terrorism and praised the armed forces for their readiness and professionalism. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and other senior officials of the Indian Air Force were also present during the event.
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