India’s defence sector has witnessed unprecedented growth and modernisation in recent years, driven by indigenous production, strategic investments, and a renewed focus on self-reliance. From the ₹10,000 crore Pinaka rocket ammunition deal to advanced missile technologies like Agni V MIRV and Pralay, the nation is reinforcing its position as a global military powerhouse.

Speaking about India’s evolving defence capabilities, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated, ‘India’s defence transformation is not accidental; it is the result of strategic policies, technological innovation, and a commitment to our sovereignty. We are not just equipping our armed forces; we are building a foundation of self-reliance for generations to come.’

The Pinaka Enhanced Rocket System, developed by DRDO, has become a symbol of India’s growing indigenous capabilities. “Pinaka is more than a weapon—it represents India’s determination to rely on its own technological advancements. It ensures that our armed forces are equipped with world-class systems made right here on Indian soil,” said Singh. The deal, which engages both public and private sectors, highlights the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and creating jobs within the country.

India’s successful deployment of the Agni V missile, equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, reflects its strategic deterrence capabilities. ‘Agni V sends a strong message: India is prepared to defend its sovereignty against any threat. It enhances our deterrence capability and demonstrates our readiness to face modern challenges,’ Singh emphasised.

The addition of the Pralay tactical missile further strengthens India’s strike capabilities. Designed for rapid deployment and precision targeting, it is ideal for high-altitude and border operations. ‘Pralay is a game-changer. It ensures that India can respond swiftly and effectively in any conflict scenario,’ Singh remarked, calling the missile a testament to DRDO’s innovative approach to modern warfare.

India’s foray into Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) is equally impressive, representing the future of military technology. These systems, including laser-based and microwave-based weapons, are critical for neutralizing advanced threats like drones and missiles. ‘DEWs showcase our ability to lead in next-generation warfare. These systems are a reflection of India’s scientific talent and strategic foresight,’ Singh said.

Singh also highlighted the transformation in India’s defence budgeting over the years. Before 2014, defence spending focused primarily on maintenance, with limited investment in modernisation. Today, the defence budget has consistently increased under the able the leadership of PM Modi, with the 2024-25 allocation crossing ₹ 6.21 lakh crore. ‘Our budgets reflect our priorities. Nearly 75% of our defence modernization Budget is directed toward domestic procurement, ensuring that every rupee strengthens our self-reliance and national security,’ he said.

Emphasising the commitment of the Government towards Atamnirbharta in defence, Shri Singh mentioned “ Recognizing the need for robust growth of private defence industry in the country, 25 % of this modernization budget allocation has further been reserved for procurement from private defence industry. This has assured private sector of firm demand, thus encouraging them to undertake further investment. This has been a game-changer so far as development of domestic defence industry is concerned.

The Defence Minister asserted that another major game-changer in defence manufacturing in India has been the issue of five Positive Indigenization Lists containing more than 500 major defence items which are to be produced within country over a span of time. These lists have provided a road map for progressive realization of the objective of self-reliance in defence.

Infrastructure has been another critical focus area. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has significantly enhanced connectivity in strategic areas like Jammu & Kashmir and the North East. Projects like the Atal Tunnel exemplify the government’s commitment to integrating infrastructure with defence preparedness. ‘The development of all-weather roads and tunnels ensures that our troops can mobilize swiftly while empowering local communities. This is a dual achievement of security and inclusion,’ Singh noted.

India’s defence transformation extends beyond protecting borders; it is about securing the nation’s future and positioning it as a global leader. ‘Our journey is one of innovation, self-reliance, and unwavering resolve. We are building a stronger India that is prepared for any challenges’ Singh concluded.

India's defence sector exemplifies the nation's resilience and vision, focusing on modernisation, indigenous production, and strategic investments. As Rajnath Singh aptly put it, ‘India is not just building weapons; we are building strength, security, and sovereignty for generations to come.’

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PM chairs a High-Level Meeting to review Ayush Sector
February 27, 2025
QuotePM undertakes comprehensive review of the Ayush sector and emphasizes the need for strategic interventions to harness its full potential
QuotePM discusses increasing acceptance of Ayush worldwide and its potential to drive sustainable development
QuotePM reiterates government’s commitment to strengthen the Ayush sector through policy support, research, and innovation
QuotePM emphasises the need to promote holistic and integrated health and standard protocols on Yoga, Naturopathy and Pharmacy Sector

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg to review the Ayush sector, underscoring its vital role in holistic wellbeing and healthcare, preserving traditional knowledge, and contributing to the nation’s wellness ecosystem.

Since the creation of the Ministry of Ayush in 2014, Prime Minister has envisioned a clear roadmap for its growth, recognizing its vast potential. In a comprehensive review of the sector’s progress, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for strategic interventions to harness its full potential. The review focused on streamlining initiatives, optimizing resources, and charting a visionary path to elevate Ayush’s global presence.

During the review, the Prime Minister emphasized the sector’s significant contributions, including its role in promoting preventive healthcare, boosting rural economies through medicinal plant cultivation, and enhancing India’s global standing as a leader in traditional medicine. He highlighted the sector’s resilience and growth, noting its increasing acceptance worldwide and its potential to drive sustainable development and employment generation.

Prime Minister reiterated that the government is committed to strengthening the Ayush sector through policy support, research, and innovation. He also emphasised the need to promote holistic and integrated health and standard protocols on Yoga, Naturopathy and Pharmacy Sector.

Prime Minister emphasized that transparency must remain the bedrock of all operations within the Government across sectors. He directed all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of integrity, ensuring that their work is guided solely by the rule of law and for the public good.

The Ayush sector has rapidly evolved into a driving force in India's healthcare landscape, achieving significant milestones in education, research, public health, international collaboration, trade, digitalization, and global expansion. Through the efforts of the government, the sector has witnessed several key achievements, about which the Prime Minister was briefed during the meeting.

• Ayush sector demonstrated exponential economic growth, with the manufacturing market size surging from USD 2.85 billion in 2014 to USD 23 billion in 2023.

•India has established itself as a global leader in evidence-based traditional medicine, with the Ayush Research Portal now hosting over 43,000 studies.

• Research publications in the last 10 years exceed the publications of the previous 60 years.

• Ayush Visa to further boost medical tourism, attracting international patients seeking holistic healthcare solutions.

• The Ayush sector has witnessed significant breakthroughs through collaborations with premier institutions at national and international levels.

• The strengthening of infrastructure and a renewed focus on the integration of artificial intelligence under Ayush Grid.

• Digital technologies to be leveraged for promotion of Yoga.

• iGot platform to host more holistic Y-Break Yoga like content

• Establishing the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat is a landmark achievement, reinforcing India's leadership in traditional medicine.

• Inclusion of traditional medicine in the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-11.

• National Ayush Mission has been pivotal in expanding the sector’s infrastructure and accessibility.

• More than 24.52 Cr people participated in 2024, International Day of Yoga (IDY) which has now become a global phenomenon.

• 10th Year of International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 to be a significant milestone with more participation of people across the globe.

The meeting was attended by Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Principal Secretary to PM Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary-2 to PM Shri Shaktikanta Das, Advisor to PM Shri Amit Khare and senior officials.