New Delhi, December 12, 2025:
Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar underscored the importance of achieving true self-reliance in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, noting that Aatmanirbharta is not merely about reducing imports but about gaining complete autonomy in design, development, upgradation, and lifecycle control of defence equipment. He was delivering a lecture on ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence Sector and Various Government Initiatives’, organised by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in New Delhi.
Aatmanirbharta: Beyond Import Reduction
In his address, Shri Sanjeev Kumar explained that self-reliance must be understood holistically. According to him, Aatmanirbharta includes:
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Indigenous design & development of defence platforms
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Capability to upgrade systems independently
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Full control over manufacturing, technology, and lifecycle management
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Minimal dependence on foreign suppliers
He stated that such autonomy is essential to address both conventional threats and the rapidly evolving unconventional challenges posed by modern warfare.
Government Initiatives Strengthening Defence Manufacturing
The Secretary highlighted the transformative impact of several government-led initiatives that have strengthened India’s defence production ecosystem:
◼ Srijan Portal
Promotes indigenisation by enabling domestic industry to design and manufacture items previously imported.
◼ Positive Indigenisation Lists
Mandates phased restrictions on imports of key defence equipment, opening opportunities for Indian manufacturers and startups.
◼ Make Procedures
Encourage industry participation through development funding, simplified procurement, and faster acquisition pathways.
◼ iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence)
Supports startups and innovators in developing cutting-edge defence technologies under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Shri Kumar stressed that these initiatives are collectively shifting India from a buyer to a developer and producer of advanced defence technologies.
Audit Agencies Crucial for Transparency & Accountability
Acknowledging the role of oversight bodies, the Secretary emphasised that audit institutions such as the CAG play a vital part in:
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Ensuring procedural transparency
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Identifying gaps and inefficiencies
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Strengthening procurement integrity
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Boosting public trust in defence reforms
He noted that accountability mechanisms are essential as India scales up domestic production and manages complex defence acquisitions.
Conclusion
Reaffirming India’s long-term defence vision, Shri Sanjeev Kumar said that true Aatmanirbharta will emerge from technological independence, industrial capability, and transparent institutional frameworks. With ongoing reforms, innovation-led programmes, and a committed domestic industry, India is rapidly advancing toward becoming a global hub for indigenous defence manufacturing.
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Source: PIB
