India Indigenises 15,700 Defence Items, Cuts Import Dependence by ₹9,000 Crore

India’s push to build a stronger domestic defence industry has reached another significant milestone, with more than 15,700 defence-related items successfully indigenised. The initiative has helped the country achieve an estimated import substitution of around ₹9,000 crore over the last five years, strengthening efforts to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

The achievement reflects the government’s broader focus on building an indigenous defence ecosystem capable of supporting the operational requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. Instead of relying extensively on overseas sources for components, spares and specialised equipment, Indian companies are increasingly being brought into the defence supply chain.

A major platform supporting this effort is the SRIJAN portal, which was introduced to connect the armed forces and defence establishments with Indian industry for the development and manufacture of imported defence items. Thousands of products have been identified through the platform for domestic production, creating opportunities for companies with the required technological and manufacturing capabilities.

The indigenisation drive extends across different categories of military equipment. Components and systems associated with aircraft, helicopters, armoured vehicles, naval platforms, missiles, radars, sonars and communication systems are among the areas receiving greater attention.

The Ministry of Defence is also using Positive Indigenisation Lists to encourage domestic manufacturers to develop specific equipment and components. The latest initiatives are designed to gradually shift procurement towards Indian sources and create sustained demand for locally manufactured defence products.

The move has particular importance for the availability of critical spares. Domestic production can help reduce the time and uncertainty involved in obtaining components from international suppliers, while also supporting the maintenance and operational readiness of military platforms.

India’s indigenisation programme is simultaneously opening new opportunities for the private sector. MSMEs, start-ups and other technology-driven companies can participate in defence manufacturing and contribute specialised capabilities to the wider supply chain.

The government’s approach is therefore not limited to replacing individual imported components. It is aimed at developing a wider industrial base that can support design, engineering, manufacturing and maintenance activities within the country.

The latest achievement also underlines the growing importance of domestic defence procurement in India’s military modernisation strategy. As more equipment and components move towards indigenous production, the country is expected to gain greater control over critical supply chains and reduce exposure to disruptions in international defence markets.

With thousands of items already brought under domestic manufacturing and further products being identified for indigenisation, India’s defence sector is steadily moving towards a more self-reliant model. The ₹9,000 crore import substitution achieved so far represents a significant step in that transition, while the expanding role of Indian industry could further strengthen the country’s long-term defence manufacturing capabilities.