India, May 5 -- Given the fast-changing nature of warfare, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday underscored the need for cultivating the element of surprise and sustained focus on research.

He also emphasised the need to adopt a proactive approach and build capabilities that enable the country, should the need arise, to launch an unexpected strike against its adversary.

"History bears witness that in warfare, the decisive edge invariably belongs to the side that possesses the element of surprise. While our defence forces are already working in that direction, we must make further progress with greater proactivity," the defence minister said.

Rajnath Singh made these assertions in his address to defence personnel, industry captains,...