In recent years, the concept of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ has gained immense popularity and has become the driving force behind India’s economic growth. The term, which translates to ‘self-reliant India’, has been coined by our honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, with the aim of making India a self-sufficient and self-reliant nation in all sectors. And now, with the recent announcement by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, it is evident that this vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat is being successfully implemented in the military sector as well.
In a recent statement, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh proudly declared that the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in the military sector has delivered remarkable results, with exports rising to ₹23,622 crores in 2024-25 from a mere ₹1,940 crores in 2014-15. This significant increase in exports is a testament to the government’s efforts towards promoting indigenous defence production and reducing the country’s dependence on foreign imports.
The defence sector has always been a crucial aspect of a country’s security and development. In the past, India heavily relied on imports to meet its defence requirements, which not only drained the country’s resources but also hindered its technological advancement. However, with the launch of the ‘Make in India’ initiative and the emphasis on ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the government has taken a bold step towards achieving self-reliance in the defence sector.
Under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, the government has introduced several policies and reforms to boost indigenous defence production. One such policy is the ‘Strategic Partnership Model’, which aims to promote collaboration between Indian and foreign defence companies to manufacture high-end defence equipment in India. This has not only encouraged foreign investment in the defence sector but has also provided a platform for Indian companies to showcase their capabilities and expertise.
Moreover, the government has also increased the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the defence sector from 49% to 74%, which has further opened up opportunities for foreign companies to invest in India’s defence production. This move has not only boosted the country’s economy but has also helped in the transfer of technology and expertise, leading to the development of advanced defence equipment within the country.
Apart from these policy reforms, the government has also taken several steps to promote the growth of the defence industry in India. The establishment of the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and the Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO) are some of the initiatives that have been taken to support and promote indigenous defence production. These organisations have been instrumental in identifying and nurturing innovative ideas and technologies in the defence sector and promoting them for export.
The success of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in the military sector can also be attributed to the efforts of our armed forces. The Indian Armed Forces have always been at the forefront of promoting indigenous defence production and have been actively involved in the development and testing of various defence equipment. The ‘Make in India’ initiative has provided them with a platform to collaborate with Indian companies and contribute to the country’s self-reliance in the defence sector.
The increase in defence exports is not only a result of the government’s policies and reforms but also a reflection of the quality and competitiveness of Indian defence products. Indian defence companies have proven their capabilities by delivering high-quality, cost-effective, and technologically advanced defence equipment, which has been well-received by other countries. This has not only boosted India’s image as a reliable defence partner but has also generated employment opportunities and contributed to the country’s economic growth.
In conclusion, the rise in defence exports from ₹1,940 crores in 2014-15 to ₹23,622 crores in 2024-25 is a significant achievement and a clear indication of the success of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in the military sector. The government’s efforts towards promoting indigenous defence production and reducing dependence on foreign imports have yielded positive results, and the future looks promising. With the continued support of the government, armed forces, and the Indian defence industry, India is well on its way to becoming a self-reliant and self-sufficient nation in the defence sector. Let us all join hands and work towards making this vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat a reality.
