Empowering India: How Made-in-India Systems Boost Our Strategic, Economic, and Technical Strength, Says Rajnath Singh

India’s Growing Defence Production: A Shift in Strategy

India is making significant strides in its defence sector. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently highlighted that around 100 countries now use Indian military equipment. This is a big achievement for the nation, especially as the government celebrates 11 years in office.

Since 2014, India’s annual defence production jumped from roughly ₹40,000 crore to an impressive ₹1.30 lakh crore. Exports have seen a remarkable rise, soaring from ₹686 crore to about ₹23,622 crore in the last fiscal year. The government aims for even more growth, targeting ₹1.75 lakh crore in production and ₹30,000 crore in exports this year.

Rajnath Singh emphasized the transformation in India’s security approach. He noted that the government has changed the way it tackles national security issues. This was notably demonstrated during Operation Sindoor.

To fortify the defence sector, the government has increased the defence budget from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹6.22 lakh crore in 2024-25. A significant 75% of this budget will be used for purchases from Indian companies. Moreover, the introduction of ten Positive Indigenisation Lists reflects a commitment to developing domestic capabilities, featuring over 5,500 items.

Today, the Indian armed forces are equipped with modern weapons and systems, like the Agni, Prithvi, and BrahMos missiles. They have the capability to build advanced aircraft carriers, exemplified by the INS Vikrant.

Rajnath Singh positioned the defence sector as a cornerstone of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliant India, stressing that the equipment used in recent operations was manufactured domestically. This marks a significant shift from relying solely on foreign imports, helping India grow strategically and economically.

Expert Opinions on India’s Defence Strategy

Experts in defence and economics agree that this push for indigenous production is crucial. According to Dr. Shashank Joshi, a defence analyst, "A robust defence industry not only ensures security but also boosts the economy." Recent surveys show that many citizens feel more secure, with 65% supporting increased government investment in domestic defence production.

Historical Context

Looking back, India’s defence production relied heavily on imports. The shift towards self-reliance has taken over a decade but is now gaining momentum. This strategic approach is reminiscent of several nations that have successfully bolstered their military capabilities through local production.

User Reactions and Trends

On social media, many users express pride in India’s progress, often highlighting the advanced technology used by the armed forces. Tweets and posts frequently celebrate achievements like the development of indigenous missiles and naval ships, reflecting a growing national pride.

In conclusion, India’s defence sector is evolving rapidly, moving towards greater self-reliance. This transformation not only enhances security but also empowers the economy, marking a significant chapter in India’s journey towards a stronger and more independent future. For further information, you can explore the Ministry of Defence website.

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Rajnath Singh