Independence Day 2025: PM announces Sudarshan Chakra mission from Red Fort

Addressing the nation on the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the "Sudarshan Chakra Mission" aimed at enhancing India's security in the coming decade. 

He stated that the mission will create a shield that will protect India's strategic, civilian, and religious sites from enemy attacks across land, air, and sea. It integrates advanced surveillance, interception, and counter-attack capabilities that will swiftly neutralise any threat. 

During his speech at the Red Fort, the PM emphasised the importance of developing a domestic jet engine for India's fighter aircraft programme, saying that "it is necessary to march ahead in the defence manufacturing sector." 

He also praised the Indian Armed Forces for the success of Operation Sindoor. With the new Sudarshan Chakra Mission, the Government plans to bring a rival to the renowned Iron Dome of Israel. The multi-layered defence system network is said to have intercepted thousands of rockets from Hamas and Hezbollah since the 2010s. Israel claims to have a success rate of 90 per cent. 

The PM said, "In the next 10 years, by 2035, I want to expand, strengthen, and modernise this national security shield. Drawing inspiration from Lord Shri Krishna, we have chosen the path of the Sudarshan Chakra...the nation will be launching the Sudarshan Chakra Mission. The entire modern system should be researched, developed, and manufactured in India, harnessing the talent of our youth. This powerful system will not only counter terrorist attacks, but also strike back at the terrorists." 

He highlighted India's goal of self-reliance, emphasising that within 10 years, the country will enhance and modernise its security infrastructure. He added, "India aims to develop its own Iron Dome-like defence system, named Mission Sudarshan Chakra, designed to safeguard critical sites including civilian areas." 

Issuing a stern warning to Pakistan, the PM declared that "terrorists and those providing them safe haven will be treated alike", further adding that the Indian Armed Forces have complete authority to decide the punishment for any future misadventure. 

He also reiterated that "India will not tolerate any nuclear blackmail", and it has established a new "normal" in tackling cross-border terrorism.