Watch | India Can't Afford To Rely On Foreign Supplies In Defence Sector, Stated by Rajnath Singh

India's defence system must be established on the strength of its own and not based on speculative "foreign intervention," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday.

He presented plans for the Sudarshan Chakra air defence system with a plan to secure full air cover for all key installations in the country within ten years.

Addressing a Defence Summit, Mr. Singh averred that the air defence shield will have both defensive as well as offensive elements to preclude any possible threats.

"During Operation Sindoor, the role of air defence capability in modern wars has grown by leaps and bounds. In this context, the Sudarshan Chakra operation will definitely be a game changer," he added.

The ambitious venture was initially revealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address, after news that Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir had signaled Indian assets along the border as a potential target in the event of an impending military conflict.

Mr. Singh added that shifting geopolitical realities make it no longer feasible to be dependent on the outside in defence. "In the given scenario, our self-reliance is necessary for both our economy and national security," he said.

He also underscored the changing character of the defence sector, adding, "Today, the defence sector is not only the cornerstone of national security but also a pillar in reinforcing our economy and assuring 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.

Meanwhile, Mr. Singh made it clear that going after self-reliance and indigenisation in defence would not be interpreted as "protectionism."

"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.