“Wars are not meant to kill people or to take pleasure in the enemy’s deaths. We are not psychopaths who feel happiness on seeing dead bodies or severed limbs,” Doval said, underscoring that conflict is ultimately about national survival and safeguarding long-term interests.
Reflecting on India’s historical experience, the NSA said the country paid a heavy price for failing to recognise threats to its security in the past. “We were a very advanced civilisation. We never broke anyone’s temples or attacked other lands, even when much of the world was weak. But we did not understand the threats to our security, and history taught us a lesson,” he said.
Doval’s remarks came at a time of heightened global tensions, which he cited as evidence that power is often used by stronger nations to dominate weaker ones. He argued that military strength alone does not guarantee independence unless it is backed by courage, morale and national resolve. “Weapons and power are meaningless without the will to use them to defend the nation,” he said.
The NSA emphasised the role of leadership in sustaining national morale, noting that strong leadership helps a country remain resilient during crises. He said India has benefited from decisive leadership over the past decade, which has helped strengthen the nation and move it forward.
Addressing the youth, Doval described India’s freedom struggle as a reminder of the sacrifices made by earlier generations. He recalled how villages were destroyed, people were executed and the civilisation suffered deep wounds during the fight for independence. This legacy, he said, places a responsibility on today’s youth to build inner strength and determination.
While cautioning against the language of revenge, Doval acknowledged that the emotion reflects a resolve to rise from past setbacks. He urged young Indians to rebuild the country on its own ideas, values and beliefs, drawing strength from history without being constrained by it.
The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, being held from January 9 to 12, brings together young participants from across India and abroad to discuss national priorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to interact with over 3,000 youths at the concluding session on January 12 at Bharat Mandapam, coinciding with National Youth Day.
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