How Has India Advanced in Food, Energy, and Defence Sectors Over the Last Decade?
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Synopsis
India's dynamic transformation in food, energy, and defence sectors over the past decade is a testament to its strategic vision and innovation. Discover how the nation has embraced change and emerged as a leader in these critical areas, ensuring not only national security but also contributing significantly to global markets.
Key Takeaways
- India is the second-largest producer of rice and wheat and the largest of pulses and sugar.
- Food grain output increased significantly over the last decade.
- 100% village electrification was achieved by 2018.
- Renewable energy now contributes nearly half of India's power capacity.
- Indigenous defence capabilities have been significantly advanced.
New Delhi, Aug 14 (NationPress) India has experienced a remarkable evolution in the three fundamental aspects of national security - food security, energy security, and defence security over the past decade, fueled by a clear vision in policymaking, strategic investments, and swift technological advancements, as detailed in an analysis by India Narrative.
The nation has risen to become the second-largest producer of rice and wheat, and the largest producer of pulses and sugar. The output of food grains increased from 256.4 million tonnes in 2015–16 to 315.72 million tonnes in 2021–22, marking an impressive gain of nearly 60 million tonnes over ten years.
This success is rooted in a multifaceted approach: enhanced irrigation, mechanization, high-yield seed varieties, and farmer-focused welfare initiatives.
Key initiatives supporting this progress include the PM-KISAN scheme, which provides direct income support to over 110 million farmers, the MGNREGA rural employment scheme that indirectly boosts purchasing power for food, along with the Soil Health Card Scheme and PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, which focus on sustainable soil and water management.
India's agricultural exports, ranging from shrimp to spices, have not only bolstered national income but also contributed to regional food supply stability, establishing the country as a reliable player in global markets.
The article emphasizes the rapid advancements in the nation's energy security since 2014, a time when millions of Indians still lacked basic electricity. By April 2018, India achieved 100 percent village electrification, connecting over 28 million households. Rural and urban electrification initiatives such as DDUGJY and SAUBHAGYA have addressed longstanding accessibility issues, while the Ujjwala Yojana has replaced traditional smoky stoves with LPG connections for low-income families.
As of June 2025, India's installed power capacity has reached 476 GW, with renewable sources contributing 47.7 percent of the total, a dramatic shift from around 16 percent in 2015.
Solar energy has experienced a phenomenal surge, expanding from 9 GW in 2016 to 110.9 GW in 2025, securing India’s position as the third-largest nation globally in solar capacity. Wind energy has similarly grown to 51.3 GW, placing India fourth worldwide.
Power outages, once a significant hurdle for industries, have plummeted from 4.2 percent in 2013–14 to 0.1 percent in 2024–25. Energy diversification, coupled with strategic oil reserves and international asset acquisitions, has shielded India from supply shocks.
India's defence evolution has also been characterized by a decisive shift towards self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Indigenous missile development programs - Agni, Prithvi, and BrahMos (the world’s fastest cruise missile) - have reinforced national defence capabilities. The INS Arihant, the first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, has bolstered India’s nuclear triad.
Recent advancements include the Pralay tactical missile, which boasts high precision and rapid deployment capabilities, along with the upgraded Agni Prime missile, now a long-range strike weapon.
Defence Industrial Corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh have attracted Rs 20,000 crore in investments, with Tamil Nadu alone securing Rs 11,794 crore by 2024. This ecosystem has propelled record defence exports to over 100 countries, a significant increase from serving approximately 20 nations a decade ago.
Moreover, Indian armed forces are integrating AI-powered battlefield systems, smart armor, exoskeletons, and AR-enabled tactical gear.
The success of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan demonstrated the efficacy of indigenous platforms such as Akash missile systems, BrahMos, Tejas fighter jets, and LCH Prachand helicopters. Cross-border security has improved, evidenced by a notable reduction in insurgency incidents, the article concludes.
Point of View
Our commitment remains steadfast in illuminating India's journey of progress. The achievements in food, energy, and defence sectors reflect not just policy success but a collective national effort towards sustainability and self-reliance. It’s imperative that we continue to support and amplify these advancements for a stronger, more resilient nation.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What has India achieved in food security over the last decade?
India has become the second-largest producer of rice and wheat, and the largest producer of pulses and sugar, with food grain output surging to 315.72 million tonnes in 2021-22.
How has India's energy security improved?
Since 2014, India achieved 100% village electrification by 2018, with renewable energy contributing 47.7% of the total installed power capacity by June 2025.
What initiatives support farmers in India?
Key initiatives include the PM-KISAN scheme for direct income support, MGNREGA for rural employment, and various soil and water management programs.
What advancements have been made in India's defence sector?
India's self-reliance in defence has been bolstered by indigenous missile programs, advanced naval capabilities, and significant investments in defence industrial corridors.
How has India improved its cross-border security?
Recent operations and indigenous military platforms have led to a notable decline in insurgency incidents and strengthened cross-border security.
