India’s defence exports have witnessed a remarkable surge, reaching a record Rs 21,000 crore from a mere Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago. During a visit to the Army War College (AWC) in Mhow Cantonment, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh set an ambitious target of Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
This achievement underscores India’s growing global presence in defence production, driven by indigenous manufacturing and technological advancements. Singh emphasized the importance of mastering frontier technologies to address the evolving nature of warfare, highlighting the challenges posed by unconventional methods such as AI-based warfare, cyber-attacks, and space warfare.
Key Achievements and Future Targets
Defence Export Milestone: Defence exports have surged to Rs 21,000 crore from Rs 2,000 crore in just ten years.
Target for 2029: The government aims to achieve Rs 50,000 crore in annual defence exports by 2029, reflecting India’s growing influence in the global defence market.
The Changing Nature of Warfare
Unconventional Methods: Singh highlighted the increasing threat posed by information warfare, AI, proxy warfare, and cyber-attacks.
Technological Mastery: Emphasizing the need to stay ahead, he stressed the importance of integrating new technologies like AI, electromagnetic warfare, and space capabilities into military training and defense strategies.
Strengthening Military Training and Integration
Role of Military Training Centers: Singh praised the Army War College and other training centers for their adaptive training curriculums, preparing soldiers for the challenges of modern warfare.
Focus on Integration: He emphasized the importance of promoting jointness among the three armed services, ensuring a cohesive approach to future security challenges.
National Vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Self-Reliance: The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), stressing that only through self-sufficiency can India enhance its defence capabilities on the global stage.
Strengthening National Security: Singh pointed out that a robust economy and secure borders are essential for India’s rise as a global power.
Defence Diplomacy and Global Footprints
Training Friendly Nations: The Army War College’s significant role in military diplomacy was highlighted, with officers from allied countries receiving training and contributing to India’s global military standing.
Future Defence Attachés: Singh urged officers to represent India’s defence interests globally, aligning with the nation’s strategic goals of economic and military growth.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Defence exports crossed ₹21,000 crore from ₹2,000 crore in a decade; target set for ₹50,000 crore by 2029. | – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced defence exports reached ₹21,000 crore. – Set target of ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. – Defence exports increased from ₹2,000 crore a decade ago. – Focus on frontier technologies: AI, space warfare, cyber-attacks. – India’s push for self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat. |
| Defence Minister: Rajnath Singh | – Rajnath Singh is the Defence Minister of India. |
| Army War College (AWC) | – Located in Mhow Cantonment, Madhya Pradesh. |
| Focus on evolving warfare techniques | – Emphasis on mastering AI, cyber warfare, proxy warfare, and space warfare. – Need for military to adapt to modern technological challenges. |
| Government’s vision | – Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) for strengthening defence capabilities. |
| Military integration | – Aim for better integration among the three armed services. |
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