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.