India’s defence manufacturing sector is entering a transformative phase, driven by a combination of government policy initiatives, technological innovation, and rising global demand for defence products. The sector is strategically critical for national security and economic growth, offering opportunities for large corporations, start-ups, and regional industries to contribute to a self-reliant defence ecosystem.
To accelerate this vision, the Ministry of Defence (MoD), under the Department of Defence Production, is hosting a national-level conference on ‘Opportunities in Defence Manufacturing in the Country’ on October 7, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the event, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the defence industrial base.
The conference aims to align central and state government initiatives, bringing together senior officials from all States and Union Territories. By coordinating regional industrial policies, infrastructure development, and investment promotion, the MoD seeks to foster a conducive environment for defence manufacturing growth across the country.
A key highlight will be the launch of the Defence Exim Portal, designed to simplify the process of export and import authorisations for defence products. This digital platform is expected to enhance ease of doing business for Indian defence manufacturers and facilitate global trade. In addition, the Srijan DEEP (Defence Establishments and Entrepreneurs Platform) portal will be unveiled, mapping the capabilities and products of domestic defence industries to encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation.
The conference will also feature the release of two important publications: the Aerospace & Defence Sector Policy Compendium of States and Union Territories, detailing state-specific initiatives and incentives, and the iDEX coffee table book ‘Shared Horizons of Innovation’, highlighting innovative solutions from start-ups and entrepreneurs under the Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) program.
India’s defence manufacturing push aligns with its broader Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, targeting reduced import dependency and building globally competitive manufacturing capabilities. Government initiatives such as Make in India for Defence, iDEX, and strategic partnerships with private firms are already showing results, with domestic production of small arms, ammunition, drones, and naval vessels on the rise.
Analysts believe the sector presents enormous opportunities for job creation, technological development, and regional industrial growth. With global defence budgets rising, Indian companies are positioned to export products and services, strengthening the country’s footprint in international markets.
The conference is expected to catalyse collaboration among policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. By highlighting investment prospects, technological capabilities, and regulatory support, the event will help India consolidate its defence manufacturing ecosystem and move closer to achieving self-reliance.
In conclusion, India’s defence manufacturing sector is at a pivotal juncture. With supportive government policies, active industry participation, and innovation-driven platforms, the nation is poised to emerge as a global hub for defence production, driving economic growth, employment, and strategic security.