Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence

India's defence sector has undergone a remarkable transformation since 2014, evolving from a largely import- dependent military force to one increasingly focused on self-reliance and indigenous production. Through the 'Make in India' initiative and policy reforms, the government has actively promoted domestic production and reduced reliance on foreign procurement. This shift has been a key component of India's broader vision of achieving Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence, positioning the nation as an emerging hub for the production of advanced military technologies and equipment.

DEFENCE PRODUCTION

In FY 2023-24, India's domestic defence production reached ₹1.27 lakh crore, marking a record high, with an impressive increase of approximately 174 per cent from ₹46,429 crore in 2014-15. With this performance, India is on track to achieve a target of ₹1.75 lakh crore in defence production in the current fiscal year. Also, India aims to reach ₹ three lakh crore in defence production by 2029, further establishing itself as a global defence manufacturing hub.

DEFENCE EXPORTS

There has been a surge in India's defence exports from ₹1,941 crore in FY 2014-15 to ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, reflecting a remarkable increase in export value. Defence exports saw a strong year-on-year growth as a 32.5 per cent growth in defence exports was recorded over the previous fiscal year 2022-23, rising from ₹15,920 crore.

Defence exports have grown 21 times, from ₹4,312 crore in the 2004-14 decade to ₹88,319 crore in the 2014-24 decade, highlighting India's expanding role in the global defence sector. The target for 2029 is to increase defence exports to ₹50,000 crore, underscoring India's ambition to become a reliable global defence partner.

Driven by government policy reforms, ease of doing business initiatives, and a push for self-reliance, India now exports to over 100 nations. The top three destinations for India's defence exports in 2023-24 were the USA, France, and Armenia. India's export portfolio includes advanced equipment such as bulletproof jackets, Dornier (Do-228) aircraft, Chetak helicopters, fast interceptor boats, and lightweight torpedoes. A significant milestone was the inclusion of 'Made in Bihar' boots in the Russian Army's equipment, highlighting India's high manufacturing standards in the global defence market.

CONCLUSION

India's defence sector has made unprecedented 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 country's growing capability as a global defence manufacturing hub. With a record ₹1.27 lakh crore in defence production and exports reaching ₹21,083 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 ₹ three lakh crore in defence production and ₹50,000 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.