Rajnath Singh Reaffirms Focus on Indigenous Defence Capabilities, Honors Arjan Singh's Legacy

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday emphasized that aero-engine development is a key priority for the Indian government, especially considering the strategic and operational needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF). He highlighted that efforts are underway to build these engines indigenously through a co-development and co-production model, ensuring full intellectual property rights remain with India. (This part is taken from The Economic Times)

In the address, he also spoke of "atmanirbharta" (self-sufficiency) in the defence sector and in the IAF. (Photo: PTI)

Speaking at a commemorative event hosted by the Air Force Association at the Air Force Auditorium in Subroto Park, Singh noted that the changing geo-strategic landscape has brought national security challenges into sharper focus than ever before. “What kind of challenges these uncertainties pose and how we are prepared to tackle them is of paramount importance for India,” he stated. (This part is taken from Business standard)

The occasion marked a lecture in memory of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh, whose birth anniversary falls on April 15. Paying tribute, Singh called him a visionary leader whose values continue to inspire the youth and contribute to the IAF's current status as one of the world’s most formidable air forces.

“There are very few individuals who are part of history and also create it. Arjan Singh was one such leader,” he said. Highlighting Singh’s role in the 1965 war against Pakistan, the Defence Minister pointed out how the IAF launched a swift counter-attack within just an hour—an example of exceptional military leadership. (This part is taken from Hindustan Times)

Strengthening National Security through Atmanirbharta

Reiterating the government's commitment to 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance), Singh stressed the importance of reducing dependency on imports to ensure true national security. He emphasized that India must continue to innovate and manufacture defence equipment domestically, a goal toward which the Ministry of Defence is actively working and already seeing positive outcomes.

“The 21st century is seen as the century of Asia,” Singh said, explaining how power dynamics have shifted from the trans-Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific region, now the world's most strategic zone. This shift, he added, directly influences India’s security environment. (This part is taken from Business standard)

He further explained that modern warfare is rapidly evolving, with technology playing a central role. “Today’s warfare is marked by greater unpredictability and lethality,” he noted, adding that the future will increasingly see a shift from hardware-based systems to software-based systems.

IAF as a Pillar of National Defence

Describing the IAF’s journey as aspirational, inspirational, and transformational, Singh said the force is not just about dominating the skies but also about realizing the nation’s security goals. He acknowledged the IAF’s growth since independence and its critical role as a strong pillar of India’s defence strategy.

He reiterated the aim to position the IAF as a dominant power in the region, stressing that achieving ‘Atmanirbharta’ in defence is a shared responsibility. “Commitment, collaboration, and a unified vision are the need of the hour,” he asserted. (This part is taken from Business standard)

To illustrate India's growing technological prowess, Singh listed key examples of indigenous defence achievements, such as the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, Light Utility Helicopter Prachand, and air defence systems like Akash and BrahMos. He called these platforms shining examples of the capability and innovation of Indian designers, engineers, and scientists.

Conclusion

Rajnath Singh's address not only commemorated the legacy of Marshal Arjan Singh but also laid out a clear roadmap for strengthening India’s defence through self-reliance, innovation, and strategic foresight. By advancing indigenous capabilities—especially in critical areas like aero-engine development—and by acknowledging the evolving nature of global conflict, the government aims to build a future-ready IAF that remains technologically superior, regionally dominant, and fully prepared to secure the nation’s interests in an increasingly complex world.