Bharat as a Defence power by 2047: Bolstering Defence Ecosystem

Bharat strives to maintain a formidable security apparatus in 2047, encompassing advanced defense technologies, strategic alliances, and comprehensive Cybersecurity measures. Investments in defense modernisation have bolstered national security capabilities, ensuring preparedness against diverse threats ranging from Cyber attacks to traditional security challenges. Collaborative efforts with global partners reinforce India’s commitment to regional stability and international peacekeeping missions, underscoring its role as a responsible global actor.
The evolution of a nation’s stature on the global stage hinges not only on its military might but also on its economic stability, societal cohesion, and geopolitical strategy. India, in particular, has recognised the multidimensional nature of national strength. The nuclear tests at Pokhran-2 underscored its military capability, yet India understands that sustainable greatness requires robust economic foundations and strategic geopolitical positioning.
In recent years, Bharat’ defense sector has seen significant advancements driven by the imperative to modernise in response to escalating geopolitical challenges. The government’s focus on strengthening and developing this sector reflects its commitment to national security. This transformation encompasses technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and policy initiatives aimed at enhancing both defensive capabilities and global influence.

Bharat’s defence sector is one of the most significant pillars of its national security and economic framework. With an annual Budget allocation that consistently ranks among the highest in the world, Bharat’s defence expenditure reflects its strategic importance and the necessity to maintain a robust military presence. In the regular Union Budget of the Financial Year 2024-25, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) allocated Rs 6,21,940.85 crore (approx. US $75 billion), the highest among the Ministries. Bharat allocates substantial resources towards maintaining and enhancing its strategic defence assets. The allocation to MoD for FY 2024-25 is higher by approx. Rs one lakh crore (18.43 per cent) over the allocation for FY 2022-23 and 4.79 per cent more than allocation of FY 2023-24. The total allocation comes out as approx. 12.90 per cent of Budgetary Estimate of Union of India. The allocation is aimed to promote Aatmanirbharta in defence technology & manufacturing and equipping the Armed Forces with modern weapons/platforms along with creation of job opportunities for the youth.

Commitment to Secure the Nation

In the fiscal year 2024-25, the defence budget is pegged at around $75 billion, positioning it as the fourth-largest military spender globally, following the United States, China and Russia which emphasise the nation’s commitment to strengthening its military infrastructure and capabilities. This substantial investment underscores the country’s commitment to ensuring its sovereignty and preparing for any potential security challenges.

Bharat defence sector is a complex and expansive ecosystem that encompasses the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and various paramilitary forces. Additionally, it includes numerous research and development organisations, defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs) and an increasing number of private enterprises. Historically, the defence sector in Bharat has been dominated by state-owned entities such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited. However, recent policy shifts have aimed at encouraging greater participation from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups, recognising their potential to drive innovation and agility in the sector.

Encouraging Private Players

To address these challenges, the Government has been pushing for increased private sector participation and international collaborations. Initiatives such as the Make in India campaign and strategic partnerships with foreign defence manufacturers aim to boost domestic production capabilities and reduce reliance on imports. By encouraging private players to enter the defence sector and facilitating technology transfers through joint ventures, Bharat seeks to build a robust and self-reliant defence industrial base.

The Government’s emphasis on reducing dependence on external sources and prioritising indigenous development is a strategic imperative. The Government has taken several policy initiatives in the past few years and brought in reforms to encourage indigenous design, development and manufacture of defence equipment, thereby promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing & technology in the country.