India’s Defence Self-Reliance to Shape Future Goals by 2047, Says MoS Defence Sanjay Seth

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth has said that India’s ambition to become a fully developed nation by 2047 will be strengthened by a robust and self-reliant defence sector, with indigenous manufacturing and technological innovation forming the backbone of future military capability.

Addressing an industry gathering, Seth stated that the country’s journey towards becoming a self-reliant and technologically advanced nation requires sustained investment in homegrown defence technologies and a manufacturing ecosystem capable of meeting the operational needs of the armed forces. He noted that India’s strategic priorities now extend beyond acquiring military hardware to designing, developing and producing advanced defence systems within the country.

The minister observed that the government’s push for defence indigenisation has transformed the sector over the past few years, enabling Indian companies to play a greater role in developing sophisticated military platforms, aerospace technologies and critical defence equipment. These efforts, he said, are reducing import dependence while strengthening the nation’s defence preparedness.

Seth highlighted that the Indian Air Force will remain central to India’s future security architecture, adding that modern air power supported by indigenous technology is essential for safeguarding national interests in an evolving geopolitical environment. He stressed that expanding domestic research and industrial capabilities will ensure faster development of next-generation defence solutions.

He further said that collaboration between public-sector organisations, private industry, start-ups and research institutions is creating a stronger defence innovation ecosystem. Such partnerships are expected to accelerate the development of advanced technologies while enhancing India’s competitiveness in the global defence market.

According to the minister, investments in defence manufacturing are contributing not only to national security but also to industrial growth, employment generation and technological advancement. He reiterated that self-reliance in strategic sectors remains a cornerstone of the government’s long-term development agenda.

Concluding his address, Seth said India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047 will depend on sustained innovation, a resilient industrial base and a defence ecosystem capable of supporting both national security requirements and future economic growth.