India’s Defence Output Hits ₹1.5 Lakh Crore FY25.
In FY 2024-25, India’s defence production saw significant growth, with Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) recording a 16 per cent rise in output, while the private sector achieved an impressive 28 per cent increase. This surge reflects the country’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing, supported by government policies, technology adoption, and increased collaboration between public and private players to meet domestic and export demands.
In the financial year 2024-25, the country’s defence manufacturing output has touched an all-time high of ₹1,50,590 crore — a figure that underlines India’s growing self-reliance in the defence sector and its expanding industrial capabilities.
Even more striking is the long-term trend: compared to FY 2019-20, when production stood at ₹79,071 crore, the current figure reflects a staggering 90 per cent surge in just five years.
Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), other public sector manufacturers, and the rapidly growing private defence industry.
**Public and Private Contributions**Breaking down the numbers, Singh revealed that DPSUs and other PSUs accounted for nearly 77 per cent of total defence production, with the private sector contributing 23 per cent. This represents a notable rise in the private sector’s share, which has grown from 21 per cent in FY 2023-24 to 23 per cent in FY 2024-25.
“This growing role of the private sector shows the depth of our defence industrial ecosystem,” Singh remarked. “It is a clear sign that our policies to encourage private participation, foster innovation, and promote public-private collaboration are yielding results.”
**An Upward Trajectory for India’s Defence Base**The government has consistently emphasised reducing the country’s dependency on imports and developing a strong indigenous manufacturing ecosystem. This approach, Singh said, ensures that India not only meets its own defence needs but also builds the capacity to export advanced systems to global markets.
The results are already visible. In recent years, India has made significant strides in exporting defence equipment — from patrol vessels and radar systems to advanced weapons platforms — to friendly foreign nations. This export push complements the government’s vision of making India a net exporter of defence equipment, rather than a heavy importer.
Singh highlighted that sustained policy measures — such as the introduction of positive indigenisation lists, simplified procurement procedures, and increased budget allocations for domestic purchases — have played a pivotal role in driving growth. At the same time, there has been a conscious push to adopt new technologies, enhance research and development, and encourage start-ups and MSMEs to contribute to defence manufacturing.
The Minister also stressed the importance of expanding the export footprint, noting that the world is increasingly looking towards India for reliable, cost-effective, and advanced defence products.
**A Strong Future Ahead**With the current momentum, Singh expressed confidence that India’s defence production sector will continue to accelerate in the coming years. He noted that the synergy between public sector giants — with their decades of expertise — and nimble, innovative private players will remain a driving force behind this growth.
“This journey is not just about numbers,” Singh said. “It is about building a self-reliant India, ensuring our national security, creating jobs, and positioning the country as a trusted defence manufacturing hub for the world.”
As India’s defence industrial base grows stronger, the ripple effects are being felt across the economy — from generating skilled employment to boosting allied industries and fostering technological innovation. The FY 2024-25 milestone is, therefore, more than a record-breaking statistic; it is a statement of intent, signalling India’s determination to emerge as a global leader in defence manufacturing.
With consistent policy backing, expanding capabilities, and the combined dedication of the public and private sectors, the coming years promise even greater achievements for India’s defence production landscape.