India targets ₹3 lakh crore defence output by 2029, says Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a high-level meeting on defence modernisation in Jaisalmer, charting out a comprehensive roadmap for India's military-industrial complex. The government has set a target of ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, marking a significant expansion of the country's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.

Speaking at the meeting, Singh highlighted three pillars guiding the government's defence strategy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration: enhanced budgetary allocation, development of self-reliant domestic defence manufacturing, and advancement of indigenous technologies. The focus underscores New Delhi's commitment to reducing dependence on imported defence systems and building a robust domestic supply chain.

The ambitious production target reflects India's broader vision to establish itself as a credible defence manufacturing hub in the region. By prioritizing domestic capabilities, the government aims to create employment opportunities while strengthening the country's defence infrastructure. The initiative aligns with the Make in India campaign and the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme, which seek to boost indigenous industrial capacity across critical sectors.

The Jaisalmer meeting brought together senior defence officials and ministry representatives to coordinate on modernisation priorities. Officials discussed strategies to encourage private sector participation in defence manufacturing and streamline regulatory frameworks to accelerate production timelines.