Lucknow, July 13 -- Commending the Indian Armed Forces' recent successful operation against Pakistan-sponsored terrorists, defence minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh on Saturday called it a testament to India's growing strength. He praised "Operation Sindoor," describing it as a precise and most fitting reply to Pakistan, after the 1971 war. This operation demonstrated India's military capabilities and strategic clarity, showcasing the bravery of the armed forces, he said. Singh, who reached Lucknow on Saturday on a two-day visit, was addressing BJP workers at Manas Bhavan at the Aishbagh Ramleela ground. Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for changing the world's perception of India, he highlighted India's rapid economic growth, stating that the country has jumped from 11th to 4th place in terms of the size of its economy since Modi took office in 2014. Singh predicted that India would become the third-largest economy within the next two to three years. Singh engaged in a discussion with the workers, enquiring about their interactions with the public. The workers reported significant improvements in infrastructure, including paved roads and the construction of overbridges, which have eased traffic congestion and saved time and fuel.Singh stressed that the focus should be on serving the people rather than enjoying power.He praised the workers for their hard work and dedication, which has contributed to the party's success.Singh highlighted that the party has become the largest in India and the world due to the efforts of its workers.He emphasised the importance of respecting workers and ensuring they are valued and heard.Prominent among those present on the occasion included deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak, Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma, BJP MLAs Neeraj Bora, OP Srivastava, MLCs Mukesh Sharma, Ramchandra Pradhan, Mahendra Singh, district president of the party Anand Dwivedi and media incharge Praveen Agarwal. Defence minister Rajnath Singh visited the Badi Kaliji Temple in Lucknow's Chowk area, where he offered prayers and paid obeisance to the goddess. He inaugurated a newly constructed building within the temple complex, which was marked by the ringing of bells, conch shells, and Vedic chants.Addressing the gathering, Singh expressed his deep reverence for the goddess Kali, stating that her blessings have contributed to the development not only of Lucknow but of the entire nation. He highlighted the historical significance of the temple, believed to be associated with Adi Shankaracharya. The defence minister praised tourism minister Jaiveer Singh for his efforts in the temple's development and emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between society and the government.The defence minister described the temple as a centre of Lucknow's culture and spiritual consciousness, noting that it has been a source of inspiration for the city's residents. He recalled the contributions of renowned Hindi writer Amrit Lal Nagar, who dedicated his life to the service of the goddess. Prominent among those present on the occasion included deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, tourism minister Jaiveer Singh, Mahant Swami Vivekanand Giri, mayor Sushma Kharkwal, Amit Tandon, Anjani Srivastava, Diwakar Tripathi, Raghvendra Shukla, and others.Earlier, Singh visited KGMU to inquire about the health of former party MLC Vindhyavasini Kumar, who is undergoing treatment.Singh also went to the residence of corporator Nagendra Singh to pay condolences following the death of his mother recently....