Atma-Nirbharta in Defence Key to Viksit Bharat, Says Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh

Introduction: The Rising Tide of Indian Defence Power

For decades, India has steadily grown as a global power, navigating complex geopolitical landscapes and evolving economic landscapes. But recently, a pivotal shift has been occurring – a move towards a more robust and self-reliant defence sector. This isn’t just about strengthening military capabilities; it’s about fundamentally reshaping India’s strategic vision – a vision often dubbed “Viktish Bharat” – meaning “India of the Future.” And today, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh underscored this shift with a bold statement: “Atma-Nirbharta in defence is critical not only for preserving the strategic autonomy of the country, but also for achieving the broader goal of Viksit Bharat.” Let’s dive into what this means and why it’s such a significant development.

Understanding Atma-Nirbharta – Self-Reliance Through Defence

Atma-Nirbharta, literally translating to “self-reliance through defence,” is more than just a military philosophy. It’s a strategic imperative that acknowledges India’s economic strength and its desire to maintain its influence on the world stage. For too long, India has relied heavily on imports for its defense needs – a significant financial and strategic risk. The shift to bolstering domestic production is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. It’s about building a ‘Make in India’ capability for defence, reducing dependence on external suppliers, and enhancing India’s global standing.

The Scale of Transformation: A Nation of Exporting Defence

The numbers speak for themselves. Over 100 Indian companies are currently exporting defence products, including:

• Missiles: A diverse range of missiles, from short-range to medium-range, increasingly sophisticated and adaptable.
• Rocket Launchers: Crucial for defense capabilities and surveillance.
• Simulators: Essential for training and testing, significantly reducing operational costs.
• Armoured Vehicles: From light armored vehicles to tanks, demonstrating India’s growing armored capabilities.
• Dornier Aircraft: A specialized aircraft type geared towards maritime surveillance and patrol.
• Ships: Different types of ships, including those for maritime security, strategic presence, and humanitarian aid.
• Offshore Patrol Vessels: Essential for maintaining territorial integrity and security.

These aren’t just exporting; they’re building expertise and technological capabilities, establishing India as a key player in the global defense market.

The Ministry’s Strategic Shift: Boosting Domestic Innovation

Mr. Singh highlighted a crucial shift within the Defence Ministry – a significant reduction in timelines for procurement processes. He emphasized that the focus is now on “Research and Development” and “investing in capital equipment, machinery and engineering strength.” This is a deliberate effort to create a significant competitive advantage in defence technology.

The Ministry is actively encouraging private sector investment in:

• ‘Make in India’ Initiatives: Specifically targeting Defence Manufacturing.
• R&D: Increased funding and collaborative projects are being launched to develop innovative defence technologies.
• Capacity Building: Providing training and resources to domestic defence firms.

Looking Ahead: A Strategic Imperative

The transition to Atma-Nirbharta in defence is a fundamental shift in India’s national strategy. It’s about fostering innovation, bolstering economic resilience, and ultimately, securing India’s position as a global power with a robust and independent defense capability. It’s about not just maintaining the status quo, but actively shaping the future of defence.

Conclusion: Building a Stronger India, Securing its Future

Mr. Singh’s statement underlines a crucial point: India’s defense is no longer simply about protection; it’s about strategically positioning the nation to lead in a world increasingly defined by complex geopolitical challenges. Investing in Atma-Nirbharta is an investment in India’s future – an investment in its economic strength, its technological prowess, and its ability to proactively shape the international landscape. The journey to Viksit Bharat requires a renewed commitment to domestic defense capabilities, fostering innovation, and leveraging the vast talent pool within the country.