New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) India's defence production has achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching Rs 1.54 lakh crore in FY 2024–25, a significant increase from Rs 46,429 crore in 2014–15. This impressive growth highlights the scale, depth, and maturity of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, according to Shripad Yesso Naik, the Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy.

During a press briefing, Naik revealed that defence exports soared to a record Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024–25, a stark contrast to the less than Rs 1,000 crore figure reported in 2014. This surge emphasizes India’s rise as a credible and competitive player in the global defence market.

India has provided a diverse array of defence products—including ammunition, arms, sub-systems, complete systems, and critical components—to approximately 80 countries, reinforcing its status as a dependable partner in the global defence supply chain.

Naik highlighted that the contribution of the private sector has climbed to nearly 23 percent of the overall defence production, showcasing the increasing competitiveness, innovation, and confidence in Indian industry. Meanwhile, Defence Public Sector Undertakings continue to play a pivotal role, representing about 77 percent of total defence production within a more accountable and performance-driven framework.

Five positive indigenisation lists, encompassing over 5,500 items, have been published, with more than 3,000 items already indigenised, significantly reducing import dependence and enhancing domestic capabilities.

The Minister noted that indigenous platforms like LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, ATAGS, Akash missile systems, radars, corvettes, armoured vehicles, and drones are greatly improving the operational readiness and combat capabilities of the Armed Forces.

Operation Sindoor, executed using indigenous equipment and systems, marked a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of technological self-reliance in drone warfare, layered air defence, and electronic warfare, demonstrating the operational significance of Atmanirbharta.

Naik further stated that India’s path towards Atmanirbharta in defence has been significantly influenced by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose clear understanding of the interconnection between national security, economic strength, and technological sovereignty has transformed defence manufacturing into a national mission.

The minister emphasized that the nation has confidently transitioned from being a major importer of defence equipment to a country that designs, develops, manufactures, and increasingly exports advanced defence systems, firmly establishing defence self-reliance as a cornerstone of India’s ascent as a robust, secure, and self-assured global power.