India has moved another step closer to self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The Defence Ministry has released its sixth list of defence items that cannot be imported. The goods will be bought only from Indian companies, ending foreign imports after a set period.
Sixth List Worth Rs 3,070 Crore
The new list covers line replaceable units, sub-systems, sub-assemblies, spare parts, components and raw material. It includes 16 items for the Indian Coast Guard and 389 items for defence public sector undertakings. The estimated trade value of these 405 items is Rs 3,070 crore. The ministry has already issued five such lists covering 5,012 items.
T-90 Tanks, Su-30MKI and Missiles Covered
The items will be used in helicopters, tanks, light combat aircraft, radars and missiles. Air platforms covered include the Advanced Light Helicopter, Light Utility Helicopter, Su-30MKI and Light Combat Aircraft. The AL-31FP engine is also on the list. Armoured platforms such as T-72, T-90 and BMP-II are covered too. Warships and missile systems like Konkurs-M, Invar and MRSAM complete the range.
Over 15,700 Items Indigenized in Five Years
India has successfully indigenized more than 15,700 defence items in the last five years. This has reduced imports worth an estimated Rs 9,000 crore. Defence PSUs have placed purchase orders worth around Rs 10,000 crore with domestic vendors by March 2026. These orders include indigenous production.
MSMEs to Get a Role in Indigenization
Each item on the new list carries an indicative timeline for indigenization. Purchases will be made from the Indian defence industry. Defence PSUs and the Coast Guard will do the work through the Make process and internal development. MSMEs will get a special role in this effort.
Srijan Portal Links Industry to Defence Work
The Department of Defence Production launched the Srijan Defence Portal in August 2020. The dedicated platform connects defence PSUs and service headquarters with industry. MSMEs and startups can take up indigenization of defence items through this portal. The move strengthens India’s push for an Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
