Indigenous Defence Manufacturing: The Atmanirbhar Bharat Push
Hook:
India’s quest for self-reliance in defence is rewriting the rules of military innovation. Can India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision transform the nation from the world’s leading arms importer into a global defence exporter?
Introduction
India’s journey from dependence on foreign arms suppliers to building its own cutting-edge military technology reflects a strategic shift with far-reaching implications. The “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative is now at the heart of India’s defence modernisation, spurring massive investments and policy reforms.
The Policy Push
- In recent years, India has passed landmark defence procurement policies prioritizing domestic manufacturers.
- Government initiatives like Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) aim for a $25 billion defence industry by 2025, including $5 billion in exports.
Success Stories in Indigenisation
- Missiles: India has developed iconic systems such as Agni and Akash that set global benchmarks.
- Aircraft: HAL’s
Tejas,
the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft, is now in Air Force squadrons and gaining export interest.
The upcoming
AMCA
and
Ghatak UCAV
highlight India’s next-generation ambitions. - Tanks & Vehicles: The Arjun MBT and K-9 Vajra showcase India’s ability to design and produce advanced land systems.
- Naval Power: The Navy now operates INS Arihant (nuclear submarine), Scorpene-class submarines, and warships built in Indian yards.
The Role of Startups and Private Sector
India has fostered a defence ecosystem where over 100 private firms and startups collaborate on AI, drones, surveillance, and next-gen platforms. Initiatives like iDEX have fast-tracked innovation partnerships, leading to rapid prototyping and limited-series production runs.
Exports on the Rise
Defence exports surged to an all-time high of $2.63 billion in 2023-24, with orders from Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Offers of Tejas jets abroad and rising interest in Indian systems demonstrate growing global confidence.
Challenges and Way Forward
- Procurement delays, technology transfer bottlenecks, and limited R&D funding still need resolution.
- Focus areas moving forward: advanced electronics, aerospace, AI, next-generation stealth, and cyber capabilities.
Conclusion
India’s indigenisation drive is catalysing a transformation not only in equipment but in mindset. As
Modernisation of India’s Defence Forces
picks up speed, India is emerging as an innovation leader—ready to equip its military and partners worldwide with homegrown excellence.
