Self-reliance a must, not an option: Defence Minister

NEW DELHI. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has asserted that in today's era, self-reliance in defence is no longer an option but a condition for survival and progress.

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“In today’s era of terrorism, pandemics and regional conflicts, self-reliance in defence is not merely an option, but a condition for survival and progress. It is not about protectionism, it is about sovereignty and national autonomy,” Rajnath Singh while addressing a defence conclave with the theme ‘Warfare in the 21st Century’ here on August 30. He highlighted that the conclave comes at a significant moment with India’s armed forces displaying valour through Operation Sindoor just months ago, while conflicts, trade wars and instability continue to shape the global landscape. He underlined that the geopolitical shifts have shown the nation that dependence on others for defence is no longer an option. He added that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has always believed that a self-reliant India alone can safeguard its strategic autonomy.

The Defence Minister stated that many developed nations are resorting to protectionist measures, with situations of trade war and tariff war becoming increasingly serious. He stressed that self-reliance in defence should not be confused with isolation.

“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. This is the strength that enables India to withstand global pressures and emerge stronger,” he added.

Rajnath Singh hailed Operation Sindoor as a shining example of India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities. He said that the precise strikes carried out by the armed forces on their targets using indigenous equipment demonstrated that no mission can be successful without vision, long preparation and coordination.

“Operation Sindoor may appear to be a story of a war of a few days, India’s victory and Pakistan’s defeat, but years of strategic preparation and defense preparedness have played a long role behind it,” he stated.