Key Points

His remarks came in response to criticism from Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, who hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and posed a series of questions, including Pakistan's statement, and US President Donald Trump's claims of mediation between India and Pakistan.

"Nobody should criticise Operation Sindoor... There was no provocation. They killed 27 innocent people on our land. Naturally, we have to retaliate to instil confidence in our citizens... If they kill our people, we have the right to retaliate. This is very clear. All political parties, individuals, society, intellectuals should support this. Nation first, individuals later, agenda later," said Naidu during a press conference on Friday.

CM Naidu also praised the armed forces and the central leadership for the success of the operation.

"Our defence forces played a major role under the leadership of the Prime Minister. They have done it with precision and perfection... Terrorist activities must be condemned in all forms and cannot be tolerated in the civilised world," he added.

Further when asked about his meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu said, "We asked him for Sainik schools. 4 have already been sanctioned for Andhra Pradesh. We will get some more."

Earlier in the day, Naidu met Rajnath Singh at South Block and presented a strategic vision to position the State as a national hub for defence manufacturing and aerospace innovation.

According to a release, Chief Minister Naidu, during the meeting, outlined a comprehensive plan encompassing industrial infrastructure, research collaborations, and strategic installations across key locations in Andhra Pradesh.

The proposals include developing integrated defence facilities, revitalising critical manufacturing units, supporting indigenous aviation programs, establishing testing and training centres, and creating thematic defence hubs to promote regional specialisation.

CM Chandrababu Naidu underlined Andhra Pradesh's readiness, with its strong infrastructure base, skilled workforce, and proactive policy environment, to advance 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' through self-reliant defence production and innovation.

- ANI