Ministry of Defence: In a significant move towards bolstering self-reliance in defence production and reducing import dependence, the Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence, has unveiled the fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL). This latest list comprises 346 crucial Line Replacement Units, Systems, Sub-systems, Assemblies, Sub-assemblies, Spares & Components, and raw materials, collectively valued at Rs 1,048 crore for import substitution.
These items will now be exclusively procured from Indian industries after the specified indigenisation timelines outlined in the list, accessible on the Srijan portal (https://srijandefence.gov.in). Launched in 2020, the Srijan portal facilitates Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Service Headquarters (SHQs) in offering defence items to MSMEs and start-ups for indigenisation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative has significantly propelled indigenous defence production, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spearheading efforts to achieve self-reliance. DPSUs like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and others listed will undertake indigenisation through ‘Make’ procedures or in-house development in collaboration with industries, including MSMEs.
The indigenisation efforts not only aim to boost the economy and reduce import dependency but also foster enhanced investment in defence and augment the design capabilities of the domestic defence industry. Academia and research institutions will play a pivotal role in this collaborative effort, ensuring technological advancements and innovation.
Previously, four PILs encompassing 4,666 items were notified, of which 2,972 items worth Rs 3,400 crore have already been indigenised. Alongside the DPSUs’ efforts, the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) has also notified five positive indigenisation lists comprising complex systems, sensors, weapons, and ammunition.
As of June 2024, over 36,000 defence items have been offered for indigenisation, with more than 12,300 items successfully indigenised in the last three years. This initiative has resulted in DPSUs placing orders worth Rs 7,572 crore on domestic vendors, further strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and capabilities.
