Rajnath Singh Highlights Collective National Security & Defence Self-Reliance

🛡️ Defence Minister Address – National Security & Viksit Bharat

The Defence Minister addressed a public gathering in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on April 11, 2026. He stressed that national security is not limited to armed forces but depends on citizens’ unity and responsibility.

He introduced the concept of “unit cohesion,” meaning strong social unity among people. This is important for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

📊 Key Developments

• Defence production reached ₹1.51 lakh crore in FY 2024-25
• Defence exports increased to ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26
• Policies promoting Aatmanirbhar Bharat helped reduce imports

⚠️ Information Warfare Warning

He warned about information warfare. In the digital era, misinformation can create instability and weaken internal security.

📚 Background

India was one of the largest defence importers. Government initiatives like:

• Positive Indigenisation Lists
• Defence corridors
• Increased FDI limits

have improved domestic manufacturing.

📜 Static Link

• Article 51A of Constitution defines duty to defend nation
• National security includes military, economic, and social dimensions

🔮 Future Impact

• Strong domestic defence industry
• Better global strategic position
• Increased citizen awareness against misinformation

🔑 Key Points

• National security is collective responsibility of citizens
• Defence production reached record ₹1.51 lakh crore
• Defence exports crossed ₹38,424 crore
• Focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence sector
• Information warfare identified as modern threat
• Viksit Bharat goal set for 2047
• Social unity important for internal stability
• Reduced dependence on defence imports

🧠 Concept Link (Very Important)

• Article 51A(d): Duty to defend country
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Self-reliance in strategic sectors
• Information Warfare: Use of digital platforms for influence
• Strategic Autonomy: Independent defence capability
• Defence Industrial Base: Domestic production ecosystem
• Public-Private Partnership: Defence manufacturing collaboration

❓ Practice Questions (MCQ)

Q1. India’s defence production in FY 2024-25 was:
A) ₹1.25 lakh crore
B) ₹1.51 lakh crore
C) ₹2.00 lakh crore
D) ₹3.84 lakh crore

Answer: B

Q2. Defence exports in FY 2025-26 reached:
A) ₹25,000 crore
B) ₹30,000 crore
C) ₹38,424 crore
D) ₹50,000 crore

Answer: C

Q3. “Unit cohesion” refers to:
A) Military training system
B) Social unity among citizens
C) Defence alliance
D) Border security system

Answer: B

Q4. Information warfare mainly involves:
A) Nuclear weapons
B) Cyber attacks and misinformation
C) Naval operations
D) Satellite launches

Answer: B

Q5. Viksit Bharat aims to achieve developed nation status by:
A) 2030
B) 2040
C) 2047
D) 2050

Answer: C

📜 Previous Year Question (Similar Type)

Q. Explain how defence self-reliance contributes to India’s strategic autonomy.

Answer: It reduces import dependency, strengthens domestic industry, and enhances independent decision-making in security matters.

⚠️ Examiner Trap

Students confuse national security only with military strength. It also includes social unity, economy, and information security.

🧭 Exam Tip

Focus on latest defence production and export figures. These are frequently asked in prelims.

🏷️ Topics Covered

• National Security
• Defence Production
• Defence Exports
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat
• Viksit Bharat
• Information Warfare
• Fundamental Duties
• Strategic Autonomy