<h1>Defence self-reliance: India must create, not import, critical technologies and build a global defence innovation hub.</h1> Policy directs prioritising self-reliance in defence by indigenising critical technologies and transitioning India from a technology user to a creator. The strategy addresses foreign protectionism and restricted access to disruptive technologies by promoting clear intent and frameworks to secure strategic autonomy. Implementation depends on a collaborative ecosystem-DRDO, public enterprises, private industry, start-ups and academia-to develop, demonstrate and scale emerging defence capabilities and domestic production lines, establishing India as a global defence innovation hub.