Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged India’s private sector to significantly increase its role in defence manufacturing, aiming to contribute 50% of the nation’s total defence production. Speaking at a Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) event, Singh emphasized the importance of developing a robust domestic defence industrial base, particularly in light of global conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war.
Singh highlighted that India has traditionally been reliant on defence imports but is now making considerable strides towards becoming an exporter. He stressed the need for a balanced approach to imports and exports, with the ultimate goal being self-reliance in defence capabilities.
Key government initiatives, such as the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board and the establishment of defence corridors, were spotlighted as essential measures to facilitate private sector growth and innovation. Singh pointed out that defence production in India has already seen record growth, yet there remains significant untapped potential for collaboration between the public and private sectors.
The minister’s call aligns with India’s broader push towards self-sufficiency in defence under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, encouraging innovation, collaboration, and investment from private players to strengthen India’s defence ecosystem. This vision, according to Singh, will not only make India less dependent on foreign imports but will also position it as a global hub for defence manufacturing.
