Self-reliance in defense has been the cornerstone of India’s defense production policy. The recent call for Atmanirbhar Bharat, or Self-Reliant India, by our government has provided further impetus to realize this goal. The Indian defense industry, primarily catering to the needs of the armed forces, has evolved with a diversified product mix and market. Propelled by the recent successes in exports, India is set to realize its potential as an emerging defense manufacturing hub. We aim to make India one of the top countries in the world for the defense sector, from design to production with enhanced reach to market, including exports through the active participation of the public and private sectors.
Since 2014, the government of India has brought many reforms to the defense sector to create a conducive ecosystem for exports, for foreign direct investments and to provide stimulus for the demand of indigenous products. The historic decision to convert the Ordnance Factory Board, or OFB — a subordinate office of the Ministry of Defence — into seven new, 100 percent government-owned corporate entities to enhance functional autonomy and efficiency, as well as unleash new growth potential and innovation, is arguably touted as one of the biggest in this series.
India’s defense minister: Sowing the seeds for a new era in defense manufacturing (defensenews.com)
