NEW DELHI: Self-reliance in the defence sector will have medium and long-term benefits, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said. He said it will help India lay the groundwork for a strong industrial base.

On Thursday, Singh spoke at the 37th Air Chief Marshal P.C. Lal Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, describing self-reliance as critical for not just strengthening domestic capability but also defending the country's sovereignty.

"Our past experiences have shown us that India's security and safety cannot be guaranteed by imports. Recent conflicts, particularly the one in Ukraine, have demonstrated that national interests can affect not only defence supply, but also economic transactions "He said.

He outlined some of the government's recent measures, describing them as "building blocks" for a self-sufficient system that will empower indigenous manufacturers and enable India to become a net exporter of defence equipment. The government is "leaving no stone unturned to protect the safety and security of the citizens of the country," said the Defense Minister.

He went on to say that India has emerged as the region's top responder to out-of-area situations. Singh also praised the Armed Forces and other state organisations for their united efforts in accomplishing the goal.

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