Government Sets Ambitious Target of Rs 3 Lakh Crore Defence Production by 2029, Says Rajnath Singh

The Indian government aims to achieve Rs 3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, with exports expected to hit Rs 50,000 crore by then, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Speaking at an event, Singh emphasised the increasing role of information warfare and urged citizens to act as social soldiers by countering misinformation and raising awareness.

Singh highlighted that while data is a powerful tool, it also poses significant challenges. He cited Operation Sindoor, where Pakistan attempted to demoralise Indian forces and citizens using fake videos and manipulated news. Despite the cessation of military actions, information warfare continues, and sharing false news inadvertently aids adversaries.

Defence Sector Growth and Self-Reliance

The Defence Minister noted India's progress towards self-reliance in defence. Previously reliant on foreign equipment, India is now becoming self-sufficient. The government's strategy against terrorism and for national security has strengthened the defence sector as a pillar of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Weapons used in Operation Sindoor were domestically produced.

India's annual defence production has surged from Rs 40,000 crore in 2014 to over Rs 1.30 lakh crore today. Defence exports have also risen sharply, reaching Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024-25. Indian-made defence products are now exported to nearly 100 countries.

Government Initiatives and Budget Increases

Singh outlined government measures to bolster the defence sector. These include raising the defence budget from Rs 2.53 lakh crore in FY 2013-14 to Rs 6.22 lakh crore in FY 2024-25 and reserving 75% of the budget for domestic procurement. Additionally, ten Positive Indigenisation Lists have been issued, covering over 5,500 items.

India's armed forces now utilise advanced weapons, missiles like Agni, Prithvi, and BrahMos, tanks, and other systems made domestically. The country also possesses the capability to construct aircraft carriers such as INS Vikrant.

Role of Media in National Security

Singh urged the media to prioritise accuracy over speed in reporting. He warned against the trend of prioritising viral content over verified information. He described journalism as a national duty that keeps citizens informed and vigilant about national security.

The media serves as a watchdog not only for border security but also for cyber and social challenges. "Journalism is not just a profession but a national duty," Singh stated. It plays a crucial role in uniting society and spreading awareness.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was among the dignitaries present at the event.

With inputs from PTI