Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has made a rather unexpected and highly surprising remark on India's nuclear doctrine Friday afternoon.

"Pokhran is the area which witnessed (former Prime Minister) Atal Ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. What happens in future depends on the circumstances," Singh said.

'No First Use' means that India will never use nukes unless some other country uses it against India. By suggesting that India is ready to revise the doctrine if provoked (indirectly he said it), Singh has sought to warn Pakistan.

There is this speculation that the Modi government will soon junk this policy.