India is increasingly focused on achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing, with the goal of becoming a major global exporter of defense equipment. This ambition was highlighted by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the ET World Leaders Forum (WLF) 2025, where he emphasized the country's commitment to "Atmanirbharta" (self-reliance) in the defense sector.

Singh noted the significant growth in India's defense exports, which have increased nearly 35 times in the last decade, reaching ₹23,622 crore in FY25. The government has set an ambitious target of ₹50,000 crore in defense exports by 2029. This leap is supported by increasing domestic production, and various structural reforms, including GST.

Several initiatives are underway to boost domestic defense manufacturing. The "Make in India" initiative has injected new energy into the manufacturing sector, attracting substantial investment and creating numerous job opportunities. The government is also heavily invested in domestic companies. In 2014, domestic defense production was approximately ₹80,000 crore, and has now crossed ₹150,000 crore. The target for the current year is ₹1.6 lakh crore, but given current trends, it is expected to reach ₹2 lakh crore.

To further encourage private sector participation, the government has opened opportunities for private companies to build mega defense programs like fighter planes, helicopters, tanks, and submarines through the strategic partnership model. To promote defense research and development in the private sector, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is providing free of cost transfer of technology.

India is also aware of the challenges it faces, particularly concerning China's rapid mobilization capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). While some of China's combined arms brigades have pulled back, many remain forward-deployed with tanks, armored vehicles, artillery, and missile systems. To address this, India is expanding its diplomatic and military border management mechanisms and is combatizing the Uttar Bharat Area based in Bareilly.

India's focus on self-reliance extends beyond import substitution; it is driven by a vision of contributing to the global good by strengthening global supply chains. As many countries face disruptions in global supply chains, India aims to become a reliable partner.