New Delhi, Nov. 25 -- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday emphasised the need to reduce India's dependence on foreign countries for defence equipment and called for building a strong supply chain to make India "self-reliant".

Speaking at the Indian Navy's Seminar- Swavlamban 2025 event, the Defence Minister said that once defence equipment is procured from foreign countries, not only does the purchasing cost increase, but the country also has to bear the long-term financial burden of maintenance, repair, and spare parts supply.

"We will have to reduce our dependence on foreign countries for our defence equipment. When we procure any major equipment from outside, it's not just the cost of purchasing it. Along with that, the country...