Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has strongly emphasised the imperative for India to achieve self-reliance in its defence sector, underscoring that reliance on foreign supplies is no longer an option but a necessity for the country's survival, sovereignty, and progress.

He framed self-reliance as a matter of national autonomy and confidence rather than protectionism, viewing it as essential for both national security and economic strength.

Singh highlighted the strategic importance of indigenisation in the backdrop of evolving geopolitical challenges and recent military operations such as Operation Sindoor, where indigenous equipment played a decisive role.

Central to this vision is the ambitious Sudarshan Chakra air defence system, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and championed by Rajnath Singh, which aims to provide comprehensive aerial security to all vital installations across India within the next ten years.

This system is designed as a multi-layered defence shield akin to Israel’s Iron Dome, integrating advanced technologies like Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM), Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS), directed energy weapons such as lasers, and sophisticated AI-driven data fusion from multiple domains including ground, air, maritime, undersea, and space sensors.

The system combines both offensive and defensive elements to neutralise a broad range of threats including missiles, drones, and aircraft, thereby ensuring robust national security against emerging aerial challenges.

Singh highlighted that the defence sector today is not only central to protection from physical threats to land and people but is increasingly pivotal for safeguarding the economy and strengthening overall national resilience.

He drew attention to the transformative role of indigenous defence manufacturing as a foundation for economic development, noting India’s rising role as a defence exporter. The minister cited the example of Operation Sindoor to illustrate that successful military missions depend heavily on advanced, home-grown technology supported by long-term strategic preparation.

In asserting the need for self-reliance, Rajnath Singh has made it clear that it means a sovereign capability free from uncertain foreign interference, while still being open to collaboration and joint development that enhances India's technological edge.

He affirmed ongoing government efforts to develop critical technologies domestically, such as powerful indigenous aero-engines and state-of-the-art warships, emphasising that such independence in defence equates to national autonomy and confidence in the face of centurial security challenges spanning pandemics, terrorism, and regional conflicts.

The Indian government’s push to indigenise defence through projects like Sudarshan Chakra represents a strategic leap towards operational and technological sovereignty. This mission is expected to be a game-changer that ensures uninterrupted protection of critical infrastructure across the country, dovetailing military preparedness with economic empowerment, securing India’s future on both fronts.

Based On A PTI Report