On Independence Day, PM Narendra Modi announced ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, an indigenous air defence shield to be built by 2035, aimed at protecting both strategic and civilian infrastructure from aerial threats.
1. Sudarshan Chakra Mission
- Aims to develop a comprehensive air defence system by 2035.
- Will provide security cover to strategic installations and civilian hubs such as:
- Hospitals
- Railway stations
- Religious centres
- Inspired by Lord Krishna’s mythological shield symbolising protection.
2. Strategic Significance
- Designed not only to neutralise enemy attacks but also to enable strong retaliation.
- Will expand India’s national security shield over the next decade.
- Citizens will feel safe under a modernised, self-reliant security cover.
3. Current Capabilities & Lessons from Operation Sindoor
- India currently deploys Russian S-400 missile systems, which intercepted Pakistani missiles and drones during Operation Sindoor (May 2025).
- Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) ensured superiority against Pakistan.
- Operation Sindoor showcased the power of indigenous weapons, marking a step towards strategic autonomy.
4. Self-Reliance in Defence
- PM stressed that national security cannot rest on foreign dependence.
- Indigenous capability allows India to act independently and decisively.
- Defence self-reliance seen as foundation for Viksit Bharat (Developed India 2047).
5. Other Defence & Strategic Announcements
- Indus Waters Treaty termed “unjust”; India will prioritise farmers’ interests, ending compromises on water rights.
- Call for innovation in jet engine development, comparing it with India’s achievements in COVID-19 vaccine production and UPI digital payments.
- Youth and scientists urged to take defence innovation as a national challenge.
Significance
- Marks a decade-long roadmap for defence indigenisation.
- Strengthens India’s position as a nation aiming to reduce strategic vulnerabilities.
- Bridges civilian safety with military preparedness, ensuring holistic national security.
- Reinforces self-reliance as the core of India’s sovereignty, strength, and dignity.
