How Can India Strengthen Its Domestic Industrial Base?
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Synopsis
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh emphasizes the necessity of a structured policy framework to enhance India's domestic industrial capabilities. This call for action was made during the Strategic Insight Conference, highlighting the urgent need for innovation, diversification, and technological self-reliance in the aerospace and defence sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Need for structured policy framework
- Importance of public-private synergy
- Focus on innovation and diversification
- Aatmanirbharta as a national priority
- Technological advancements in defence
New Delhi, Oct 17 (NationPress) Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh emphasized the requirement for a well-structured policy framework to bolster India’s domestic industrial sector by fostering a balanced partnership between the public and private sectors. His comments were made during the opening address at the ‘Strategic Insight Conference on Indigenous Development of Critical Technologies for Air Power’, organized by the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS) in New Delhi on October 17, 2025.
The Defence Secretary pointed out that diversifying the industrial base would disrupt monopolies, improve the ease of doing business, and foster innovation within the ecosystem.
He reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to Aatmanirbharta in defence, highlighting the significance of developing advanced aero technologies, conducting field evaluation trials, and innovating long-range air-to-air missile systems to enhance India’s air power.
Notably, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, expressed the pivotal role of air power in achieving strategic outcomes, referencing Operation Sindoor.
He stated that “in addition to our capacity to design and manufacture indigenous aircraft, India must also focus on mastering electronic warfare, advanced sensors, radars, and data links.”
Director General, AERO, DRDO K. Rajalakshmi Menon discussed the transformative potential of UAVs, multi-sensor fusion, and artificial intelligence in air operations.
She also addressed advancements in stealth technology, aerostats, and airships outfitted with advanced sensors, along with the incorporation of quantum, photonic, and blockchain technologies in defence systems.
DG, CAPSS, Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Anil Golani, highlighted the importance of Aatmanirbharta given the shifting security landscape and intensifying technological competition in the region.
During the event, the Defence Secretary launched a publication titled ‘Asian Defence Review 2025: Geo-political Shifts and Strategic Partnership Multilateralism in the Indo-Pacific’. The conference also featured various technical sessions focusing on indigenous jet engine co-development, fighter aircraft programmes, unmanned systems, and enhancing the aerospace production ecosystem.
This gathering saw senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Air Force, DRDO, and industry leaders convening to discuss India’s path toward technological self-sufficiency in the aerospace and defence sectors.
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Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh's advocacy for a structured policy framework. This initiative aligns with India's aspirations for self-reliance, especially in the evolving defence landscape. The emphasis on public-private synergy not only strengthens our industrial base but also positions India as a competitive player in the global technological arena.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the Defence Secretary's address?
The Defence Secretary emphasized the need for a structured policy framework to strengthen India's domestic industrial base through collaboration between public and private sectors.
What technologies are prioritized for development?
Key technologies include advanced aero technologies, long-range air-to-air missile systems, and expertise in electronic warfare, sensors, and radars.
What is Aatmanirbharta?
Aatmanirbharta refers to India's initiative for self-reliance in defence, promoting indigenous development and reducing dependency on foreign technologies.
