Self-reliance is not an option, but a necessity: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday (June 17) stressed the indispensability of self-reliance for the nation, highlighting that it is not merely an option but an essential requirement in the rapidly evolving global landscape.

“During the 1971 war, when we needed equipment the most we were refused. We had to look for alternatives. I don’t want to take the names of the countries that refused our request,” he said addressing an event on “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.

Addressed the inaugural session of a Seminar on ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ organised in Lucknow today.

Self-reliance a necessity as India faces double border threat & new dimensions of warfare. https://t.co/SlRHbFJGti pic.twitter.com/6GuxvTl0t1

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 17, 2023

The defence minister said the Kargil War of 1999 saw a similar story.

“During the Kargil war, when our armed forces felt a strong need for equipment, those countries were imparting us lessons of peace. Those who traditionally used to supply us weapons, they too refused,” Singh said.

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“Hence, we do not have any option than strengthening ourselves,” he said.

Singh said the country is moving ahead with the pledge of self-reliance. “From the ground to the sky and from the agriculture machines to the cryogenic engine, India is moving fast to become self-reliant in every sector,” he said.

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“In the fast-changing world, self-reliance is not an option for us, but it is a necessity,” he said, adding the government is ensuring the country’s self-reliance in every sector, especially defence as it is directly related to the country’s security.

(With agency inputs)