Make in India Powers Defence | Gist of Rajya Sabha TV / RSTV (now Sansad TV) - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

The Perspective show on Senset TV, hosted by Tina Ja, explores India's remarkable transformation in its defense sector over the past decade. Previously import-dependent, India has developed a self-sufficient and innovative defense ecosystem, driven by a significant budget increase from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to an estimated ₹6.81 lakh crore in 2025-26. Defense production has surged by 174%, reaching ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, while exports have grown from ₹686 crore to over ₹23,000 crore. With a target of ₹3 lakh crore in production by 2029, India is poised to become a global defense powerhouse. 

• Strategic reforms like the Defense Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 and initiatives such as Innovations for Defense Excellence (iDEX) have fostered a robust industrial base. 
• Experts Retired Lt. Gen. Sanjay Kulkarni and Group Capt. Dr. Rajiv Kumar Narang highlight the importance of technological self-reliance, futuristic technologies, and enhanced infrastructure. India’s shift to a major arms exporter to over 85 countries strengthens its geopolitical influence, with ongoing reforms and collaboration ensuring future readiness.

Highlights

• Budget Growth: Defense budget nearly tripled, fueling indigenous production.
• Export Surge: Defense exports rose from ₹686 crore (2014) to over ₹23,000 crore (2024).
• Technological Innovation: Focus on AI, swarm drones, counter-drone systems, and network-centric warfare.
• Operation Synindur: Showcased India’s ability to neutralize drone threats and counter enemy advances.
• Policy Reforms: DAP 2020 and iDEX have accelerated public-private partnerships and R&D.
• Enhanced Gear: Improved soldier survivability and effectiveness in extreme conditions like Siachen.
• Collaboration: Military, veterans, industry, and academia synergy drives future readiness

Key Insights

• Strategic Self-Reliance as a Catalyst: Lt. Gen. Kulkarni emphasizes that defense self-sufficiency bolsters national pride, economic strength, and sovereignty. Indigenization aligns with India’s ambition to be a global economic and military power.
• Paradigm Shift in Production and Exports: The transition from an importer to an exporter reflects a robust defense industrial base, enhancing geopolitical influence and fostering domestic innovation through startups and private sector involvement.
• Futuristic Warfare and Emerging Technologies: Dr. Narang underscores the role of AI, swarm drones, and encrypted networks in modern warfare. Initiatives like iDEX drive integration, but sustained investment and talent development are critical.
• Indigenous Equipment for Harsh Environments: Upgraded gear and infrastructure in regions like Siachen enhance soldier survivability, operational confidence, and reduce reliance on foreign supplies during conflicts.
• Policy Reforms and Procurement Modernization: DAP 2020 and streamlined procurement processes have improved coordination among stakeholders, ensuring timely delivery of defense projects.
• Leveraging Veteran Experience: Veterans’ battlefield insights are vital for aligning indigenous systems with operational needs, bridging the gap between frontline requirements and technical solutions.
• Global Collaborations and Export Growth: Engagements with countries like the U.S. through iDEX and exports to over 85 nations enhance India’s strategic footprint, overcoming certification challenges and meeting global standards.

Conclusion

India’s defense sector has transformed into a self-reliant, innovation-driven powerhouse, supported by policy reforms, technological advancements, and military expertise. As threats evolve, sustained focus on next-generation technologies and institutional collaboration is essential. This journey reflects India’s ambition for national security, technological leadership, and economic progress by 2047.