Rajnath Singh Responds to Pakistan Army Chief's Economic Analogy
In response to a recent comment by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Friday that Munir's analogy comparing the nations should be regarded as an acknowledgment of Pakistan's economic and strategic setbacks rather than mere social media banter.
General Munir had likened India's economic progress to a "shining Mercedes" moving swiftly along the highway, while describing Pakistan as a "dump truck full of gravel," suggesting that a collision would result in the car being the loser. The analogy has ignited widespread online ridicule and regional debate.
Addressing a public gathering, Singh remarked, “India’s economy is indeed like a Mercedes and a Ferrari running smoothly on the highway. And this comparison was not made by me but by Pakistan’s own Army Chief. He himself admitted that Pakistan’s economy is akin to a dumper filled with debris.”
Singh pointed out that many dismissed the analogy as a mere jest, but he perceived it as a significant admission. “When two nations achieved independence at the same time, one built a high-performing economy through vision and sound policy, while the other remains stuck in disrepair—that is not trolling. That is reality,” he stated.
The Defence Minister further cautioned that the comment might have a deeper implication. “If we fail to recognise the historical signal behind this warning, it could turn into a matter of concern. But India has the strength to respond effectively to any challenge,” he warned.
Singh also accused Pakistan of nurturing a “robber mentality” since its formation. “The Pakistani Army Chief has, knowingly or unknowingly, pointed towards this mentality. Due to Operation Sindoor, such delusions should not even arise in their minds,” he asserted.
The Defence Minister emphasised that India's development should be comprehensive, integrating economic growth, military strength, and cultural values. “Alongside prosperity, we must ensure our fighting spirit and national honour remain alive,” he declared.
Expanding on his comments, Singh invited international investors to engage in India's defence manufacturing sector, highlighting that “Make in India is not limited to India; when you Make in India, you Make for the World.”
He underscored India's increasing role in global supply chains, advancements in AI and semiconductors, and the international community's growing trust in India as an economic leader.
Quoting economist Jagdish Bhagwati, Singh remarked, “Earlier, the World Bank used to tell India what to do; now, India tells the World Bank what to do.”
Addressing global disparities, Singh articulated India's vision for a new world order based on equality, cooperation, and global welfare. “In our tradition, the measure of strength is not in commanding, but in caring. Not in narrow interests, but in commitment to the global good,” he stated.
