At a Defence Summit organized by a private media organization in New Delhi on February 24, 2024, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh expressed that the Government, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is prioritizing long-term gains over short-term outcomes to propel India towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the distinctive focus on long-termism and gains as a key difference between the present Government and previous administrations.
He emphasized that unlike in the past, the current Government has implemented policies geared towards providing not only short-term gains for five years but also ensuring lasting reforms in the defense sector. These include the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff position and the establishment of the Department of Military Affairs, fostering jointness, synergy, and coordination among the three Services.
The Raksha Mantri noted the Government’s emphasis on integrating the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force to enhance coordination during crises, emphasizing the shift from siloed operations to better-coordinated efforts. He detailed major steps in defense manufacturing, such as positive indigenization lists for Services and earmarking 75% of the capital acquisition budget for procurement from local companies.
Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the radical changes made for long-term gains, aligning with the goal of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat.’ He highlighted the ban on arms import, transforming short-term difficulties into opportunities, and reiterated the importance of self-reliance in defense production for India’s security.
The Raksha Mantri discussed initiatives like defense industrial corridors and support for start-ups, indicating the Government’s commitment to fostering long-term growth. He stressed the importance of investing in futuristic technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and cyber warfare, aligning with the vision of making India a major player in technology.
Shri Rajnath Singh revealed in-principle approval for capital acquisitions worth over Rs 4,35,000 crore in the Financial Year 2023-24, emphasizing the allocation of the highest budget among Ministries in the Union Budget 2024-25. He mentioned the Agnipath scheme, aiming to strengthen the country’s military.
The Raksha Mantri outlined the Government’s aim to manufacture high-end systems like aero-engines and gas turbines in India within the next five years. He highlighted decisions across various sectors, including GST implementation, health, education, banking reforms, infrastructure development, and social welfare, reflecting a comprehensive and long-term approach to national development.
Shri Rajnath Singh concluded by emphasizing the Government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for women in every field, acknowledging the increasing role of women in the Armed Forces and their continuous growth.
