The inaugural two-day brainstorming session, titled ‘Revolutionising Indigenisation’, organised by the Department of Military Affairs, provided valuable insights for policy reform aimed at accelerating the indigenisation process and bolstering private sector involvement in India’s Defence Manufacturing Sector. In collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, it concluded on March 5, 2024, the event yielded exceptionally fruitful results.

Addressing the gathering, Chief, Defence Staff Gen, Anil Chauhan emphasised the ongoing transformative journey in defense reforms and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts across government agencies, services, R&D, and the defense production ecosystem. He called for a ‘Whole of Nation’ approach to foster innovation and achieve self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with India’s ‘Vision 2047’.

During the inaugural session, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting indigenisation through increased private sector participation in the defense sector.

Chaired by Gen Anil Chauhan, the brainstorming session saw active participation from key stakeholders, including MoD, DMA, Service HQs, Indian Coast Guard, DRDO, Dept of Defence Production, DGQA, academia, industry partners, and tri-services field units.

Consultative discussions centered on various facets of indigenisation, addressing policy challenges, and devising strategies to enhance indigenisation with a focus on sustenance, Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) issues affecting Aviation, Maritime, and Land Assets.

According to the official statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the outcomes emphasised the identification of key areas for the development of indigenous technologies and products, reducing dependence on imports, and ensuring high operational readiness of the Armed Forces.

Key highlights from the sessions included discussions on private sector participation in Defence R&D, optimising Make, iDEX, Positive Indigenisation List (PIL). And also Technology Development Fund (TDF) schemes, incentivising private sector engagement in defense manufacturing, fostering a level playing field, managing Defence Industry Corridors, capacity mapping of defense manufactures, incentivising MSMEs, exploring PPP/GOCO models, and managing IPRs. The second day focused on Services & ICG showcasing their MRO requirements and inviting private industry participation to fulfill future needs.