India Defence self-reliance: India has made big progress in making its own weapons and military gear. The Defence Ministry said on Tuesday that 65% of the country’s defence equipment is now made in India. This is a huge change because, ten years ago, India used to import 65-70% of its defence needs.
Last year, Indian companies produced defence items worth Rs 1.27 lakh crore, almost three times more than what they made in 2014-15. Private companies played a big role in this growth, contributing 21% of the total production. The government now wants to increase defence production to Rs 3 lakh crore by 2029.
GRSE, Adani Energy, BDL, HAL, BEL Lead Nifty Defence Index Rally
India is not just making more weapons for itself but also selling them to other nations. According to Tribune India, defence exports reached a record Rs 21,083 crore last year, 30 times higher than ten years ago. Indian-made weapons and equipment are now being sent to over 100 countries. The government’s goal is to increase exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.
The government recently approved a Rs 7,000 crore deal to buy 307 advanced artillery guns called ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System). These guns, made in India by DRDO along with Bharat Forge and Tata, can hit targets over 40 km away. They have modern features like automatic loading, better accuracy, and strong recoil control. The Army will use these guns in 15 regiments to boost its firepower.
India Becoming a Major Defence Manufacturer
The Defence Ministry said India is now a key player in global defence manufacturing. The country is building its own warships, fighter jets, missiles, and other advanced weapons. Government policies have helped private companies, small industries, and startups work on defence projects.
India to Conduct Mega Naval Exercise with African Nations Under Modi’s MAHASAGAR Vision
The government is also supporting new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), cyber warfare, and drones. Programs like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) give money and support to startups and small businesses working on defence innovations. So far, iDEX has helped over 600 startups and signed 430 contracts. The government has set aside Rs 449 crore for iDEX next year to develop even more advanced defence technology.
Under schemes like SRIJAN, more than 14,000 defence items are now being made in India instead of being imported. The government has also listed 3,000 items that must be bought only from Indian suppliers. These steps are helping India rely less on foreign weapons and build its own strong defence industry.
