National Security and Indigenous Strength:
In a significant demonstration of national resolve, India conducted Operation Sindoor — a precision military response to Pakistan-sponsored terrorist activities that claimed the lives of Indian security personnel. The operation, carried out with efficiency and restraint, showcased not only our nation’s strategic clarity but also the growing capabilities of our indigenous defence manufacturing.

The successful use of domestically developed arms, ammunition, and surveillance technologies reflects the resilience and technological self-reliance of India’s defence ecosystem. It is a strong reminder that national security is underpinned by local engineering excellence, innovation, and integration across sectors. This also serves as an inspiration to the broader engineering community to continue contributing towards ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India).

Infrastructure and Development Milestones:
On the infrastructure front, the nation achieved several milestones:

• The Jammu–Baramulla railway line was finally completed, integrating the Kashmir Valley more closely with the rest of the country. The commencement of Vande Bharat Express operations between Katra and Srinagar marks a new era of all-weather connectivity and regional development.
• In Mumbai, the city’s first underground Metro Line 3 became operational, offering a significant boost to urban mobility. Simultaneously, Navi Mumbai International Airport has opened, poised to handle 20 million passengers annually in Phase I.
• The Amritsar–Jamnagar Expressway, nearing completion, will drastically reduce travel time across four states and strengthen inter-regional trade corridors.

Technology and Sustainability Push:
India’s progress in sustainable development and technology was visible at the India Energy Storage Week 2025, with ₹8,000 crore in investments committed towards clean energy, EVs, and green hydrogen. The unveiling of National Broadband Mission 2.0 also signals a strong digital future, aiming for 95% uptime across 2.7 lakh villages by 2030.

The government’s allocation of ₹500 crore towards AI Centres of Excellence and upgraded IIT infrastructure emphasizes India’s strategic focus on innovation in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and smart cities.

Environmental Oversight:
As we race toward development, we must remain conscious of our environmental responsibilities. Civil society continues to raise important questions—as seen in Bhopal—about the effectiveness of compensatory afforestation. Our projects must be both people-centric and planet-sensitive.

Role of Consulting Engineers:
All these achievements reinforce the irreplaceable role of consulting engineers in translating vision into execution. From defence to infrastructure, from digital inclusion to environmental management, our engineering fraternity is at the heart of India’s transformation.

Let us reaffirm our commitment to excellence, innovation, and ethical practice—helping build a strong, sustainable, and secure India.

Warm Regards,
Prashant Kapila
President, Consulting Engineers Association of India (CEAI)