India must build defence industry capacity, experts warn amid geopolitical shifts

Defence and policy experts are making a case for India to accelerate the development of its military-industrial capabilities, citing growing geopolitical pressures and the need for self-reliance in critical defence systems. As regional tensions persist and global supply chains face disruption, analysts warn that delays in building domestic defence manufacturing could leave India dependent on external sources for critical military equipment at crucial moments.

The push for a stronger defence-industrial base reflects broader concerns about India's vulnerability to external constraints. Experts contend that while India has made progress in defence indigenisation through initiatives like "Make in India" and the Defence Production Policy, the pace remains insufficient to meet emerging security challenges. A comprehensive military-industrial complex, they argue, would enable India to design, develop, and manufacture advanced weapons systems domestically rather than relying heavily on imports.

Key focus areas include semiconductors, aerospace manufacturing, naval systems, and advanced electronics—sectors where India currently lags behind competitors. Building capacity in these domains would not only enhance operational capabilities but also generate significant economic benefits through job creation and technological spillover effects.

Policy makers face the challenge of balancing immediate defence requirements with long-term industrial development. Strategic autonomy in defence, experts suggest, is no longer a luxury but an imperative for a nation with India's strategic position and security responsibilities in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.