National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Saturday urged Indian youth to “avenge” history by working to strengthen the nation in every possible way, recalling the sacrifices made for India’s freedom. Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Doval highlighted the historical contributions of the country’s people and the enduring legacy of Indian civilization.
“You are fortunate to have been born in an independent India. This free India was not always as we see it today. Our ancestors fought for generations to achieve independence, enduring countless trials and tribulations. People like Bhagat Singh were executed, Subhash Chandra Bose dedicated his life to the struggle, and Mahatma Gandhi undertook satyagraha to secure freedom. Many countless others gave their lives,” said the 81-year-old former Intelligence Bureau director.
He recalled the destruction faced by villages, the erasure of civilizations, and the looting of temples during colonial and foreign invasions, which left the population helpless. Reflecting on these dark chapters, Doval stressed that history poses a challenge to every generation. “Every youth should carry a fire within them,” he said.
Doval added that while the word “vengeance” carries a negative connotation, it can also serve as a powerful motivating force. He urged citizens to avenge history not through hatred but by building India into a strong nation defined by its rights, vision, and beliefs. He emphasized that India’s civilization was historically advanced, maintaining harmony without destroying temples, looting foreign lands, or attacking other nations.
He explained that India’s past indifference to threats taught important lessons. “India did not understand dangers and remained indifferent to them, and history gave us a lesson. The question is, did we truly learn that lesson?” he asked.
Addressing the rationale behind wars, Doval explained that conflicts are fought not for pleasure in destruction but to impose the will of a nation and achieve objectives through strategic force. “Wars are fought to break an adversary’s morale so that they comply with our terms. The will of the nation drives wars. Even today, many conflicts involve countries using force to assert their will over others,” he said.
Doval highlighted that for a nation to remain independent, it must also be powerful. Power alone is insufficient without morale and leadership. “If a nation is strong enough that no one can challenge it, independence is preserved. But weapons and resources alone cannot sustain power without morale. Strong leadership is essential,” he said.
The NSA also commended the current government’s leadership, implicitly referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that the administration’s commitment, hard work, and dedication over the past decade have transformed the country and positioned India on a path of self-sufficiency. “Today, India benefits from leadership that has guided the nation from where it was to where it stands now. Their dedication and effort are an inspiration for all,” he added.
Through his address, Doval called for the youth to draw lessons from history, build national resilience, and actively contribute to India’s growth and security. He underlined that remembrance of past sacrifices, combined with strategic vision, strong leadership, and national will, is crucial to achieving enduring progress and safeguarding sovereignty.
