Emphasis on indigenisation in manufacturing of defence-related products in Rajasthan

Steps are being taken in Rajasthan to promote the defence industry with an emphasis on indigenisation in the manufacturing of defence-related products. Rajasthan’s strategic location and land availability have served as important factors in the defence development and investments in the country.

The strategies to support defence production, in which the private sector occupies a share of 22.5%, were discussed at an interaction of the Department of Defence Production with the stakeholders and entrepreneurs here over the weekend. The State government’s proposed defence aerospace policy was a key feature discussed at the meeting.

The Union government’s intent to provide assistance to the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector and give private companies access to defence technologies developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was also conveyed to the representatives of about 20 industrial units at the interaction.

Sushil Satpute, Deputy Director General, Department of Defence Production, said the private and public enterprises in India’s defence industry were currently producing goods worth ₹1.50 lakh crore, of which ₹23,600 crore was exported to allied countries. “Over the last 10 years, defence production licences in the private sector have increased significantly from 246 to 742,” Mr. Satpute said.

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Officials from the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) threw light on the advantages offered by the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme-2024 for defence production. Alok Gupta, Principal Secretary (Industries & Commerce) was among those present.

‘A showcase event’

The entrepreneurs raised concerns about difficulties in acquiring licences and approvals, and requested the Defence Ministry to organise an exhibition in the State to showcase the necessary defence equipment. If the arrangements for testing of defence products are made, new ventures and investments in the sector may be brought to the State.

The Department of Defence Production has been working to attract domestic private sector capital and create a conducive environment for private players to undertake core manufacturing activities in strategic sectors. A robust production infrastructure and self-reliance in design and production in Rajasthan is considered significant for the department.

Commissioner of Industries Rohit Gupta, RIICO Managing Director Shivangi Swarnkar, and Bureau of Investment Promotion’s Commissioner Suresh Ola were among those who attended the meeting held at Udyog Bhawan here.