Defence production up 174%, exports grow 34-fold under Modi govt in 11 years

In the 11 years since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, India’s defence sector has undergone a major transformation. Focused on self-reliance, modernisation, and global outreach, defence production surged by 174%—reaching ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023–24—while exports saw an exponential 34-fold rise, totalling ₹23,622 crore in 2024–25.

India now supplies defence equipment to over 85 countries including the US, France, and Armenia. Key indigenous systems like Akash missiles, BrahMos, loitering munitions, and Prachand helicopters have played a vital role in operations like Operation Sindoor, which showcased India’s growing capabilities in high-stakes conflict zones.

The government has also rolled out structural reforms including the appointment of a Chief of Defence Staff, streamlined procurement procedures, and the setup of defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. These initiatives have attracted investments worth over ₹8,600 crore and signed 253 MoUs for future growth.

Significantly, the number of women officers in the armed forces has tripled, with 507 getting permanent commission. As India eyes ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, the next frontier remains boosting R&D investment to achieve complete strategic autonomy.