In his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India’s progress towards achieving 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in the defence sector, highlighting the nation's transformation from a heavy reliance on imported military equipment to emerging as a global hub for defence manufacturing.

"We are becoming self-reliant in the defence sector. Today, we have our own identity in defence manufacturing. India is emerging as a defence manufacturing hub," Modi stated, emphasising the significance of this transformation in creating jobs and driving economic growth.

The Prime Minister also pointed out India’s increasing appeal as a global investment destination, noting that many of the world’s largest companies are now eager to invest in the country, particularly after the recent elections. This trend underscores India’s strengthening role in the global manufacturing landscape, with the defence sector playing a pivotal role.

Modi praised the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Armed Forces for their efforts in promoting indigenisation in defence manufacturing. He noted that India’s defence budget, once heavily focused on importing military equipment, is now increasingly directed towards domestic production, significantly reducing the country’s reliance on imports. A key initiative in this shift has been the introduction of positive indigenisation lists, which include over 5,600 items now produced domestically, boosting India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.

India's growing strength in defence manufacturing is also reflected in its ambitious defence export targets. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has set a goal of increasing defence exports to Rs 500 billion by 2028-29, part of a broader strategy to enhance India's position in the global defence market. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, India’s defence production reached a record Rs 1.27 trillion, with exports of military hardware rising by 32.5% to Rs 210.83 billion. The Union Budget for the ongoing financial year 2024-25 allocated Rs 6.21 trillion to the Ministry of Defence, a 4.79% increase from the previous year and the highest among all ministries.

Modi also highlighted the expanding role of women in India’s defence sector, acknowledging their growing presence in leadership roles across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and space exploration. "Be it the Army, Navy, Air Force, or the space sector, we are witnessing the ever-growing Nari Shakti (women power) of our country," he remarked, reflecting India’s commitment to gender inclusivity in its defence forces.

The Independence Day celebrations were marked by a display of India’s military strength and national pride. Prime Minister Modi received a Guard of Honour at the Red Fort, coordinated by the Indian Navy and involving contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police. Following the inspection, the Prime Minister unfurled the National Flag, accompanied by a 21-gun salute from the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial) using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns. As the Tricolour was unfurled, flower petals were showered from two Advanced Light Helicopters Dhruv of the Indian Air Force, symbolizing a tribute to the nation.

India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing has been marked by significant policy shifts and strategic initiatives. The creation of positive indigenisation lists, the focus on domestic production, and ambitious export targets demonstrate the government’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign imports. This drive for indigenisation has strengthened India’s manufacturing capabilities and positioned the country as a rising power in the global defence market. The increasing involvement of women in defence further highlights the inclusive and progressive approach of India’s defence strategy.

(ET)