The defence architecture of India should be based on its own capabilities, rather than being dependent on any uncertain "foreign interference", said Rajnath Singh on Saturday, and highlighted the significance of air defence capability in today’s wars. He then announced that India has taken up the challenge of developing a powerful indigenous aero-engine, adding that preparations for this critical project are now almost complete and the work will soon be visible.
The Defence Minister of India was speaking at a defence summit, where he reaffirmed the Centre’s plans to provide complete aerial security to all important installations across the nation under the proposed Sudarshan Chakra air defence system project within the timeframe of a decade.
"As we saw during Operation Sindoor, the importance of air defence capability in today's wars has increased to a great extent. In such a scenario, the Sudarshan Chakra mission will certainly prove to be a game changer," he said.
Singh said the shifting geopolitics has also made it clear that external dependency in the field of defence is no longer an option.
"In the current situation, self-reliance is essential for both our economy and our security. Today, the defence sector is not only the foundation of national security but has also become a pillar in strengthening our economy and securing its future. It is not just about the safety of people, the protection of land, or the defence of borders, but it is also becoming a responsible sector for the protection and security of our entire economy," he said.
"In the defence sector, self-reliance is not an issue of protectionism at all; rather, it is an issue of sovereignty. It is an issue of national autonomy. It is an issue of self-confidence," he said. The announcement of India’s Sudarshan Chakra — an ambitious air defence project — was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day speech on August 15, days after Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly hinted at targeting Indian assets along the border in case of any future military confrontation between the two neighbours.
"India seeks no enemies but will not compromise its interests. The welfare of our people, farmers and small businesses is our top priority. The more pressure the world applies, the stronger India emerges. This is not protectionism. It is about sovereignty. When a nation of youth, energy, technology and possibilities moves towards self-reliance, the world pauses and takes note. India's victory and Pakistan's defeat in Operation Sindoor may appear to be a story of a war of a few days, but behind it lies years of strategic preparation and defence preparedness," he stated.
"Today, the defence sector is not only the foundation of national security but has also become a pillar in strengthening our economy and securing its future," Singh said.
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