Rajnath Singh Highlights India’s Defence Manufacturing Progress
Address at Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM)
On October 4, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke at the annual session of the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) in New Delhi. He discussed the challenges and advancements in India’s defence manufacturing sector.
Indigenisation Lists
Singh announced the release of five indigenisation lists, identifying 509 items to be manufactured in India. Additionally, a separate list for Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) includes over 1,000 items for domestic production. These lists aim to boost self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Historical Context and Challenges
Singh reflected on India’s post-independence mixed economy model, which limited private sector growth due to factors like “licence raj” and “red-tapism.” He emphasized the need for more private sector involvement.
Achievements and Future Goals
He praised DPSUs for contributing significantly to domestic production, with a record Rs1,27,000 crores in 2023-24. Singh also noted the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on defence strategies, stressing the importance of a strong industrial base.
Key Attendees
Secretary of Defence Manufacturing Sanjeev Kumar and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan were present at the event.
Doubts Revealed
Rajnath Singh -: Rajnath Singh is an Indian politician who is currently serving as the Defence Minister of India. He is responsible for overseeing the country’s defence and military matters.
Defence Manufacturing -: Defence manufacturing refers to the production of military equipment and technology, such as weapons, vehicles, and other tools used by the armed forces to protect the country.
SIDM -: SIDM stands for the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers. It is an organization that represents companies involved in the production of defence equipment in India.
Indigenisation lists -: Indigenisation lists are lists of defence equipment and technologies that India aims to produce domestically, rather than importing them from other countries. This is part of a strategy to become more self-reliant in defence.
Licence Raj -: Licence Raj was a system in India where businesses needed government permission to start and operate. It was known for being very restrictive and bureaucratic, making it hard for businesses to grow.
Defence Public Sector Undertakings -: Defence Public Sector Undertakings are government-owned companies in India that produce defence equipment and technology. They play a key role in supporting the country’s military needs.
Russia-Ukraine war -: The Russia-Ukraine war refers to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which started in 2014. It has highlighted the importance of having a strong defence system for any country.
