India's defence exports have recorded a phenomenal rise in the last ten years, going up almost 35 times, with the government now aiming to achieve Rs 30,000 crore worth of defence exports this year and Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pointed out that exports of only Rs 686 crore in 2013-14 went up to Rs 23,622 crore in 2024-25, with defence products exporting nearly to 100 nations across the globe.
He also pointed out that defence production in the country has increased by over three times, from Rs 40,000 crore in 2014 to over Rs 1.5 lakh crore in 2024-25, and is expected to reach almost Rs 2 lakh crore in the current fiscal year.
Speaking to the 'World Leaders Forum,' the minister highlighted India's increasing role in the promotion of a fair world order and stressed the unprecedented achievements made in consolidating the country's defence industry.
Rajnath Singh mentioned that India has issued five positive indigenisation lists for 509 platforms, systems, and weapons which are now to be mandatorily manufactured locally. In parallel, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) too have issued their respective indigenisation lists that include more than 5,000 strategically vital sub-systems, components, and spares.
He also said that 75% of defence capital procurement expenditure has been allocated for Indian industry.
Our vision of Aatmanirbharta in defense is not merely about import reduction. It is about building a ecosystem wherein Indian public and private industry builds world-class capability, wherein we not only fulfill our domestic needs but also become a global supplier of high-quality defense products," said Rajnath Singh.
The minister also pointed out new achievements in indigenous defence capabilities, stating that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has bagged orders of Rs 66,000 crore for 97 Tejas fighter aircraft, along with an earlier order of 83 planes worth Rs 48,000 crore.
Next-generation Tejas fighter will be a big example of India's indigenous defence capabilities. We have also worked towards developing fifth-generation fighter aircraft and aircraft engines in India," he said.
Rajnath Singh emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the defence budget has seen significant growth, rising from Rs 2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to nearly Rs 6.22 lakh crore in 2024-25, with further increases anticipated following the successful execution of Operation Sindoor.
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