Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence

India’s defence sector has experienced a significant transformation over the past decade. Since 2014, the country has shifted from being heavily reliant on imports to focusing on self-reliance and indigenous production. This change is crucial for India, which stands as one of the strongest military powers in the world. The nation plays a vital role in maintaining regional security and achieving strategic objectives. The defence budget has seen a remarkable increase, rising from โน2,53,346 crore in 2013-14 to โน6,21,940.85 crore in 2024-25. This growth reflects a strong commitment to enhancing the nation’s defence capabilities. Central to this evolution is the burgeoning defence manufacturing industry, which has become a key component of India’s economy. The government’s “Make in India” initiative and various policy reforms have actively promoted domestic production, reducing the need for foreign procurement. This strategic shift aligns with India’s broader vision of achieving Atmanirbharta, or self-reliance, in defence. As a result, India is positioning itself as an emerging hub for advanced military technologies and equipment.
Defence Production: Record Growth and Future Goals
India’s defence production has reached unprecedented heights. In the fiscal year 2023-24, domestic defence production hit โน1.27 lakh crore, marking a record high. This figure represents an impressive increase of approximately 174% from โน46,429 crore in 2014-15. The government has set ambitious targets for the current fiscal year, aiming for โน1.75 lakh crore in defence production. Looking ahead, India aims to achieve โน3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029. This goal underscores the nation’s commitment to establishing itself as a global defence manufacturing hub.
The growth in defence production is not just about numbers; it reflects a strategic shift towards self-sufficiency. The government has implemented various initiatives to support domestic manufacturers, including financial incentives and streamlined processes. These efforts have encouraged private sector participation and innovation in defence manufacturing. As a result, India is not only meeting its own defence needs but is also poised to become a significant player in the global defence market. The focus on indigenous production is expected to enhance the country’s technological capabilities and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers. This transformation is crucial for India’s long-term security and economic stability.
Defence Exports: Expanding Global Reach
India’s defence exports have seen remarkable growth in recent years. From a modest โน1,941 crore in FY 2014-15, defence exports surged to โน21,083 crore in FY 2023-24. This increase reflects a robust 32.5% growth over the previous fiscal year, where exports stood at โน15,920 crore. The decade from 2014 to 2024 has been particularly significant, with defence exports growing 21 times, from โน4,312 crore to โน88,319 crore. This growth highlights India’s expanding role in the global defence sector.
The government’s policy reforms and initiatives to ease the business environment have played a crucial role in this surge. India now exports defence equipment to over 100 countries, showcasing its growing global presence. Key export destinations include the USA, France, and Armenia, indicating a diverse international market for Indian defence products. The government has set an ambitious target of reaching โน50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. This goal emphasizes India’s ambition to become a reliable global defence partner.
India’s export portfolio is diverse, including advanced equipment such as bulletproof jackets, Dornier aircraft, Chetak helicopters, and lightweight torpedoes. A notable achievement was the inclusion of ‘Made in Bihar’ boots in the Russian Armyโs equipment, showcasing India’s high manufacturing standards. This milestone not only highlights India’s capabilities but also strengthens its reputation in the global defence market.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
India’s defence sector has made remarkable strides over the past decade, driven by a strong policy push towards self-reliance and domestic manufacturing. The significant rise in defence production and exports underscores the countryโs growing capability as a global defence manufacturing hub. With a record โน1.27 lakh crore in defence production and exports reaching โน21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, India has demonstrated its commitment to reducing dependency on imports while strengthening its presence in the global market.
As the nation aims for โน3 lakh crore in defence production and โน50,000 crore in exports by 2029, these achievements highlight India’s emergence as a reliable defence partner worldwide. By leveraging innovation, strategic partnerships, and indigenous capabilities, India is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the future of global defence manufacturing and security. The journey towards self-reliance in defence is not just a goal; it is a commitment to ensuring national security and contributing to global peace.
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