MANUFACTURING A SUPERPOWER

ITH the success of Operation Sindoor, India has established itself as a military power capable of defending its people without external support.

- CHANDRAJIT BANERJEE

This is the result of not just the government's strategic interventions and the valour of our armed forces, but also our economic ascendency and domestic industrial excellence.

With a "focused, measured and non-escalatory" approach, the operation neutralised imminent threats while avoiding civilian casualties. India's defence systems intercepted most aerial threats and showcased our technological edge and operational preparedness to the world.

India's ascent as a global power is closely intertwined with its pursuit of defence self-reliance. The ongoing transformation in the sector is a quiet revolution that positions the country as a formidable global player in military manufacturing. Defence exports in 2024-25 reached ₹23,622 crore, a remarkable 34-fold increase over ₹686 crore in 2013-14. This exponential growth is the outcome of sustained policy initiatives under the twin pillars of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, including production-linked incentives and targeted investment support.

Domestic defence manufacturers are increasingly meeting the evolving requirements of our armed forces. The inauguration of the BrahMos Aerospace Integration and Testing Facility in Lucknow, with an annual production capacity of up to 100 missiles, highlights our growing competitiveness. This manufacturing surge has enhanced national security and transformed defence public sector units into lucrative investment opportunities, delivering robust outcomes.