Measures to Promote Indigenous Defense Manufacturing:

Defense Acquisition Procedure (DAP): The DAP, introduced in 2016, aims to promote indigenous defense manufacturing by encouraging the acquisition of defense equipment from domestic suppliers.

Make in India: The Make in India initiative, launched in 2014, focuses on promoting indigenous manufacturing and innovation across various sectors, including defense.

Strategic Partnership Policy (SPP): The SPP, introduced in 2017, aims to promote cooperation between Indian and foreign companies to develop joint ventures and partnerships in the defense sector.

Progress in Defense Indigenization:

• Indigenization of Defense Equipment: The Indian government has made significant progress in indigenizing defense equipment, with a target of achieving 70% indigenization by 2025.
• Increased FDI: The government has allowed 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in the defense sector, which has attracted investments from foreign companies.
• Private Sector Participation: The private sector has been encouraged to participate in the defense sector, with several companies receiving contracts and partnerships.

Recent Examples:

• Rafale Deal: The Rafale deal with France, signed in 2016, is an example of successful defense indigenization, with the majority of the aircraft being manufactured in India.
• Tejas LCA: The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) is a homegrown fighter jet developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and is considered a success story of indigenous defense manufacturing.
• Arjun Tank: The Arjun Main Battle Tank (MBT) is another example of indigenous defense manufacturing, developed by the DRDO and manufactured by Hindustan Heavy Vehicles Limited (HVLL).

Challenges:

• Lack of Infrastructure: India lacks adequate infrastructure, including manufacturing facilities, testing facilities, and supply chain management, which can hinder the growth of indigenous defense manufacturing.
• Technology Transfer: The lack of technology transfer from foreign partners can be a significant challenge for Indian defense manufacturers.
• Quality Control: Ensuring quality control and regulatory compliance can be a challenge for Indian defense manufacturers.

Key Points:

• Indigenization is Crucial: Indigenization is crucial for India’s defense self-reliance and security.
• Private Sector Participation: Encouraging private sector participation is essential for promoting indigenous defense manufacturing.
• Infrastructure Development: Developing infrastructure is critical for the growth of indigenous defense manufacturing.
• Technology Transfer: Ensuring technology transfer from foreign partners is essential for promoting indigenous defense manufacturing.