Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted remarkable strides in defense self-reliance during a press conference. He stated that India is now self-sufficient in defense production – a robust strategic reality, beyond mere policy. The government's target is to reach ₹3 lakh crore in defense production and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029.
Record-Breaking Production: In 2024-25, defense production hit ₹1.54 lakh crore, the highest ever.
Reduced Import Dependency: Now, 65% of equipment is domestically produced, compared to past reliance on imports of 65-70%.
Growth in Indigenous Production: From ₹46,429 crore in 2014-15 to ₹1,27,434 crore in 2023-24, marking a 174% increase.
Significant MSME Contribution: 16,000 small to medium enterprises play a crucial role in the defense ecosystem.
Export Booms: From ₹686 crore in 2013-14 to ₹23,622 crore in 2024-25, a 34-fold increase, with the private sector's share being ₹15,233 crore. Now exporting to over 100 countries – from bulletproof jackets to BrahMos missiles.
Indigenous Defense Assets: The BrahMos missile system, Akash systems, and more showcase India's strides in self-reliance.
Challenges of a Decade Ago and Today's Reforms...
A decade ago, the defense sector was bogged down by slow procurement, high imports, scant private sector participation, and negligible exports. Now, significant improvements are taking place...
Source: aajtak
Improved Procurement: The review of the new Defense Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025 and DAP 2020 ensures faster, transparent, and innovative processes.
DAC Approval in July 2025: Proposals worth ₹1.05 lakh crore – including armored vehicles, surface-to-air missiles, advanced warfare systems. Emphasis on 'Buy Indian-IDDM' – designed, developed, and manufactured in India.
Budget Doubling: More than doubled since 2013-14.
Defense Industrial Corridor: ₹9,145 crore investment in UP and Tamil Nadu.
Licensing and Contracts: 462 companies with 788 licenses. 92% of contracts in 2024-25 awarded to Indian industries.
Simplified Exports: Online systems reduce paperwork and time.
Future Vision: The minister outlined a clear goal – achieve ₹3 lakh crore in production and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029. Partnering with private sector, MSMEs, and startups, India aims to become a global leader in defense. Rapid strides towards self-reliance in defense production, reduced imports, and burgeoning exports are a testament to this ambition.
