 "India's Military Prioritizes Self-Reliance in Weapons and Ammunition: Gen Manoj Pande")
India's armed forces are undergoing a major transformation, prioritizing domestic production of weapons and ammunition. This push for self-sufficiency, known as indigenization, was highlighted by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Manoj Pande in a recent address.
From Importer to Innovator
"The Indian Army is changing from being a buyer of weapons to becoming a partner of Indian industry in development and production," stated General Pande. He emphasized the concept of "national champions," fostering defense manufacturers with the potential to compete both domestically and internationally.This shift is already paying off. India's defense exports surged to Rs 21,000 crore in 2023-24, a 30-fold increase in just five years. Private companies are playing a vital role in this growth alongside established public sector manufacturers.
Focus on Ammunition and Technology
Ammunition is a particular point of emphasis. The Indian Army currently uses 175 different types, with 134 produced by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and public sector companies. Private manufacturers are now being integrated into the supply chain.The military is also investing heavily in technological advancement. 120 projects are underway to develop 45 niche technologies within India. General Pande stressed the need to quickly adopt commercially available technologies to bolster capabilities.
Balancing Modernization with Existing Needs
While self-reliance is the long-term goal, India's military still faces challenges in updating its inventory with cutting-edge equipment. Currently, much of its arsenal is considered outdated, and immediate replacement is unfeasible. The Army intends to phase in modern weapons more gradually.2024 has been declared the "year of technology absorption," with a focus on meeting all combat needs through domestic production.
