The purpose of travelling to India against Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-sufficient India) in the Armed Forces is to reduce the dependence on imports, promote domestic innovation and emerge as a global exporter. Over the past decade, the government’s policy, coordination between DRDO/R&D institutions and the private/minority industry has promoted unique growth.
Key Achievements under Atmanirbhar Bharat
1. Indigenous Warships & Submarines
- INS Vikrant, INS Arnala, INS Vindhyagiri, INS Imphal – constructed fully in Indian shipyards
- 122 indigenous surface and submarine combat platforms built to date
- Collaborative projects like Project 17A involve tribal & SME sectors, supporting over 30,000 jobs
2. Missile, Air Defence & Combat Systems
- Indigenous missile systems: BrahMos, Akash, hypersonic, and upcoming Project Kusha
- DRDO advancing next-gen air defence, naval armaments, UAVs, and fighter aircraft
3. Drones & Electronic Warfare
- Tamil Nadu firms lead UAV and EW manufacturing post-Operation Sindoor
- Private defence-sector efforts like Adani’s ISR drone mark private-industry breakthroughs
4. Defence Production & Exports Rise
- Domestic production has shown a significant increase in FY 2023-24.
- Exports have grown thirty-four times since 2013.
- Goal: Fifty thousand crore in exports annually by 2029
5. Materials & Defence Manufacturing Ecosystem
- SAIL-Bokaro’s special-grade steel is used in INS Arnala and Vikrant
- DMRL-indigenous warship-grade steel now eliminates reliance on imports
Success Stories in Action
- Operation Sindoor showcased BrahMos, Akash, and D4 anti-drone systems – indigenous capability in full display.
- Commissioning of INS Arnala, a domestically grown ASW vessel, highlights coastal security and maritime power.
- Hypersonic missile tested efficiently, cementing India’s fame amongst elite technologically advanced countries.
Top 5 Fastest Missiles in the World
Drones Used by Indian Armed Forces | Complete List & Details
Download the Mobile App of Target Defence Academy
Strengthening Gaps & Future Roadmap
Public-Private Partnerships
Encouraging non-public industry (Tata, Adani, Bharat Forge) in missile, avionics, naval, and drone segments
MSME & Startup Participation
Over 500 firms engage in aircraft carrier/warship projects; defence corridors, PLI schemes bolster participation.
Vision 2047: From Make to Export Powerhouse
- Targeting ₹3 lakh crore defence production by 2029
- academia to become a global leader by 2047
Conclusion
India’s self-sufficient India initiative in defence makes the nation a sovereign rescue industrial power. With strong platforms in ships, missiles, UAVs and effective domestic production, the country ensures not only its boundaries, but also steps to the global platform.
As exports increase and have a deeper private-public cooperation, India’s ambitious track gave us a position to reach the production of 3 Lakh Crores by 2029 and exports of 3 Lakh Crores and 50,000 Crores by 2047, really making the way for Atmanirbhar Bharat.
FAQs about Atmanirbhar Bharat in the Defence Sector
Ans. It refers to India’s mission to become confident in defence building, reduce the dependence on the import of foreign weapons.
Ans. It will increase national protection, reduce foreign dependence, promote financial boom and ensure strategic autonomy.
Ans. Key steps include:
Projection of Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020
Establishment of positive indigenisation lists
Boost to Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)
Encouragement of the private sector and startups
Ans. There is a list of weapons and platforms that the Indian armed forces will only buy from domestic sources in a phased way.
Ans. DRDO develops indigenous technologies, transmits them to the industry and plays a critical role in R&D and innovation.
Ans. Defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu act as hubs for production and innovation, attract investments and create jobs.
Ans. Yes. India’s defence exports have increased significantly, with radar, helicopters, marine ships and ammunition to countries.
Ans. India aims to become a global defence centre for the defence industry by 2047, focusing on technology infusion, export and strategic participation.