Atmanirbharta in Defence Marks India’s Historic Rise
Structural reforms, record defence production and exports mark India’s transformation from importer to global defence manufacturer
Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, while addressing a press conference in New Delhi today, said that India’s journey towards Atmanirbharta in defence has been decisively shaped by the visionary and resolute leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Over the past decade, defence experts have widely noted that India’s security thinking has shifted from short-term purchases to long-term capacity building. The idea that national security, economic strength and technological control are closely linked is now reflected in policies, budgets and on-ground outcomes. This change has also helped India reduce delays caused by imports and improve the readiness of its Armed Forces.
The Minister said that the country has moved with confidence from being a major importer of defence equipment to a nation that designs, develops, manufactures and increasingly exports advanced defence systems. Analysts point out that this shift improves strategic independence and ensures better control over maintenance, upgrades and supply chains. Countries that rely heavily on imports often face supply risks during conflicts, while domestic production allows quicker response and adaptation.
He added that the defence sector has undergone a structural transformation from import dependence to indigenous capability, anchored in the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India – Make for the World. In recognition of this momentum, 2025 has been declared the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence. Policy observers say that such focused reform years help ministries speed up decisions, remove outdated rules and improve coordination between the armed forces, industry and research bodies.
Shri Naik noted that defence production reached an all-time high of ₹1.54 lakh crore in FY 2024–25, rising from ₹46,429 crore in 2014–15. This sharp rise shows how India’s manufacturing base has grown in both scale and quality. Defence exports surged to ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024–25, compared to less than ₹1,000 crore in 2014. Experts see this as a sign of global trust in Indian systems, as defence buyers usually conduct strict testing before placing orders. India now supplies ammunition, arms, sub-systems and complete platforms to nearly 80 countries, helping strengthen diplomatic ties along with trade.
He further said that the private sector’s share has risen to nearly 23% of total defence production. Industry specialists believe this encourages innovation, faster delivery and cost control. At the same time, Defence Public Sector Undertakings still account for about 77%, ensuring stability and long-term capability. Five Positive Indigenisation Lists covering over 5,500 items have been notified, with more than 3,000 items already indigenised. Such lists are designed to push Indian companies to develop items locally instead of relying on imports.
The Minister observed that indigenous platforms such as LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, ATAGS, Akash missile systems, radars, corvettes, armoured vehicles and drones are strengthening operational readiness. Military experts often highlight that locally made systems are easier to customise for Indian terrain and climate. Operation Sindoor, executed using indigenous equipment, demonstrated India’s growing strength in drone operations, air defence and electronic warfare. This operation is seen as proof that home-grown technology can perform well in real situations, not just trials.
Shri Naik said that Mission Sudarshan Chakra, announced by Prime Minister Modi on Independence Day 2025, aims to counter enemy intrusions and boost both attack and defence capability. Inspired by the Sudarshan Chakra of Shri Krishna, the mission symbolises speed and accuracy. Defence planners say such missions focus on integrated systems rather than single weapons, ensuring faster detection and response. The plan to enhance the protection of public and critical spaces by 2035 shows a long-term approach to security.
He informed that defence industrial corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have attracted investments of over ₹9,145 crore, with 289 MoUs signed. These corridors help cluster suppliers, testing facilities and training centres in one region, reducing costs and delays. The Defence Procurement Manual 2025 simplifies revenue purchases worth nearly ₹1 lakh crore, making processes clearer for domestic firms. A review of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 has also begun to better align purchases with national goals and local design.
Talking about the Union Budget 2025–26, he said ₹6.81 lakh crore has been allotted to the Ministry of Defence. With ₹1.80 lakh crore for capital outlay and 75% of modernisation funds reserved for domestic procurement, Indian manufacturers get a stable demand. Innovations for Defence Excellence has linked start-ups, MSMEs and universities with defence needs, while DRDO continues research with support from a ₹500 crore Technology Development Fund. The restructuring of the Ordnance Factory Board into seven DPSUs has improved efficiency and export focus.
With over 16,000 MSMEs now part of the defence ecosystem, Atmanirbharta has become a nationwide effort. The target of ₹3 lakh crore defence production and ₹50,000 crore exports by 2029 reflects confidence built on current results.
Concluding, the Minister said Atmanirbharta in defence is no longer a dream but a measurable and credible reality. Rising production, growing exports and proven performance together show that India is steadily moving towards becoming a trusted global defence manufacturing hub, strengthening both national security and economic growth.
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