India's New Defence Doctrine

In an address following Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's aggressive new stance against terrorism emanating from Pakistan, highlighting a focus on 'Made in India' defense equipment.

Defence Exports and Their Role

• Boosting defense exports is crucial to enhancing India's defense manufacturing capabilities.
• Target set by Rajnath Singh: ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029, which is a significant increase from the current ₹23,622 crore.

Challenges in Defence Manufacturing

One major issue faced by defense manufacturers is the inconsistency in government procurement, which occurs in a start-stop manner, challenging manufacturers in terms of training and investment planning.

Strategic Importance of Defence Exports

• Defense exports can serve as a force multiplier for India, helping to strengthen partnerships with countries like Armenia.
• These partnerships allow India to challenge adversaries and further validate its defense platforms.

Requirements for Achieving Export Targets

• Government of India (GoI) must streamline processes to facilitate exports and minimize bureaucratic obstacles.
• Establishment of a unified, dedicated defense exports promotion authority to coordinate various stakeholders and streamline export processes.
• Coordination required among defense PSUs, private companies, military testing facilities, and GoI agencies like DEO and DGFT.

Role of a Unified Authority

• Could help exporters navigate complex legal requirements for military or dual-use items listed under India's SCOMET.
• Facilitate the process of obtaining special licenses and end-user certificates.
• Help identify new markets for Indian defense exports.

Engagement with MEA and Export Promotion

• While MEA currently handles many agreements, a specialized agency could focus solely on promoting exports.
• Such an agency could be authorized to extend lines of credit for purchasing Indian equipment.

Successful Defence Platforms

• DRDO's Akash air defense system, upgraded L/70 guns, and BrahMos missiles have proven effective in recent conflicts with Pakistan.
• The aim is to equip not only Indian forces but also those of allied nations with these systems.