New Delhi: India achieved a record defence production worth ₹1.51 lakh crore in 2024–25, with Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) contributing 71.6 per cent of the total output, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced on Monday.
Singh made the remarks while reviewing the performance of 16 DPSUs at a high-level meeting in the capital. “All our DPSUs are strong pillars of India’s self-reliance. Their exceptional performance in operations like Operation Sindoor demonstrates the reliability and strength of indigenous defence platforms,” he said.
During the event, Singh also inaugurated the new DPSU Bhawan at the World Trade Centre in Naoroji Nagar, South Delhi.
Commending the DPSUs for their vital role in advancing India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, the minister said defence exports had reached ₹6,695 crore, reflecting growing global confidence in Indian-made systems. “This clearly shows that ‘Made in India’ defence products are earning international respect,” he added.
Calling for sustained momentum, Singh urged DPSUs to focus on rapid indigenisation of critical technologies, comprehensive R&D, quality assurance, timely deliveries, and a strategic approach to export growth. He directed the undertakings to prepare detailed indigenisation and R&D roadmaps with measurable targets for the next review meeting.
“On behalf of the government, I assure that any special intervention or assistance required will be provided promptly,” Singh said.
The defence minister also launched several R&D initiatives, including a new manual for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) aimed at strengthening its innovation ecosystem through digitisation, intellectual property generation, and collaborations with Indian academic institutions. Officials said the R&D roadmap of DPSUs represents a shift from licensed production to indigenous design and development.
Three major Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed among DPSUs during the event:
HAL and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) inked agreements with Yantra India Limited (YIL) to support its modernisation efforts, with HAL committing an interest-free advance of ₹435 crore to YIL.
A third MoU was signed for establishing a ‘Metal Bank’ at MIDHANI (Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited) to ensure steady availability of critical raw materials for key defence projects. MIDHANI aims to boost self-reliance in producing super alloys, special steels, and magnetic materials for defence platforms.
In a push toward sustainability, Singh also unveiled SWAYAM (Sustainable and Green Defence Manufacturing) — a compendium documenting the green transition across DPSUs. The initiative highlights efforts to improve energy efficiency, increase renewable energy use, and reduce carbon emissions throughout India’s defence production network.
