New Delhi: India has set an ambitious target to increase its defence production to ₹3 lakh crore and defence exports to ₹50,000 crore by 2029. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced these targets while discussing the modernisation of the Indian Armed Forces in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, on November 3, 2026.
The government aims to strengthen India’s domestic defence industry, improve military capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign defence equipment.
India Defence Production Reaches ₹1.78 Lakh Crore
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that India’s defence production has increased significantly over the past decade.
According to the figures shared during the meeting, defence production increased from ₹46,429 crore in FY 2014–15 to a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025–26.
This growth reflects India’s increasing focus on domestic manufacturing and the government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s defence industry.
India Sets ₹50,000 Crore Defence Export Target
India has also made major progress in defence exports. Rajnath Singh said that defence exports, which were below ₹2,000 crore in 2014, have now increased to nearly ₹40,000 crore.
The government aims to increase this figure to ₹50,000 crore by 2029. Achieving this target could further strengthen India’s position in the global defence market and create more opportunities for Indian defence manufacturers.
Defence Budget Reaches Record ₹7.85 Lakh Crore
The Defence Minister highlighted the government’s growing investment in national security.
The defence budget for FY 2026–27 has increased to a record ₹7.85 lakh crore. This includes ₹2.19 lakh crore for capital expenditure and modernisation.
The increased allocation will support military modernisation, defence equipment purchases and the development of advanced technologies.
Modernisation Of The Indian Armed Forces
The meeting focused on the changing nature of warfare and the need to build a modern, technologically advanced and operationally agile Indian Army.
Rajnath Singh said that emerging security challenges and rapid technological developments are changing the way future wars may be fought. He stressed the importance of preparing India’s Armed Forces to deal with these new challenges.
DRDO And Private Sector To Strengthen India Defence Production
The Defence Minister highlighted the important role of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in developing advanced weapons, missiles and military systems.
He also said that the government is providing equal opportunities to private companies in the defence sector.
These opportunities cover businesses ranging from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to large defence manufacturers.
Greater participation from private companies is expected to support innovation, increase domestic production and strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
What is the Key Focus Area of India Defence Production
The meeting also discussed Emerging and Disruptive Technologies that could shape future military operations. These technologies include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Autonomous systems
- Unmanned platforms
- Cyber and space capabilities
- Electronic warfare
- Advanced communication systems
These technologies are becoming increasingly important for modern military operations.
India aims to develop stronger technological capabilities to improve the effectiveness and preparedness of its Armed Forces.
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FAQs
India has set a target of achieving ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
India aims to increase its defence production to ₹3 lakh crore by 2029, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
India’s defence production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025–26, compared with ₹46,429 crore in FY 2014–15.
