Innotechsynergies

Welcoming a Generational Shift: India’s Vision 2047 for Defence Manufacturing

16 Jun 2025

India’s defence sector is standing at the cusp of a transformation—one that is not just tactical, but strategic, systemic, and generational.

The recently released KPMG-CII report, “Atmanirbhar, Agrani, and Atulya Bharat 2047 – India’s Defence Industrial Sector Vision 2047”, unveiled at the CII Annual Business Summit 2025, is a visionary blueprint. It outlines a bold, clear path toward making India a global leader in defence manufacturing, grounded in self-reliance, backed by innovation, and powered by partnerships.

As someone who has worked across manufacturing ecosystems, from shopfloors to strategic advisory, I am very positive about the vision outlined in this report. It reflects the maturity of our intent and the alignment between policy, industry, and technology that is now taking shape.

What Makes This Vision Different

This report lays out a phased strategic roadmap that aligns with India’s long-term aspirations. It defines three horizons:

Short Term (2025–2032)
Build self-reliance through R&D and indigenous manufacturing
Medium Term (2032–2038)
Become a top-five global defence exporter
Long Term (2038–2045)
Lead in critical niche technologies globally

Each phase is supported by capability-building pillars from R&D and production to regulatory reform and global partnerships.

Key Highlights That Matter

  • Science, R&D & Innovation: Push for a National Defence Technology and Innovation Framework (NDTIF)
  • Skilled Talent: A skilled workforce will be the backbone of next-gen defence systems
  • Production Capabilities: Strong push for local manufacturing, defence corridors, and testing infrastructure
  • Regulatory Reforms: Simplified frameworks and competitive DPSUs
  • Global Collaborations: Strategic tie-ups with the U.S., Israel, Japan, and EU nations
  • Advanced Infrastructure: High-end testing, simulation, and smart manufacturing facilities

Why This Matters Now

India’s journey toward defence self-reliance cannot be built on procurement strategies alone. It must be built on the ground through factories, suppliers, engineers, and leadership teams that can deliver quality, scale, and precision. This report signals that the future of Indian defence will not just be secured by policy, but by capability.

A Personal Note

Having worked with PSUs, private defence manufacturers, and strategic technology partners, I believe now is the moment to act. This is our opportunity to leapfrog, not just copy. To lead, not just participate. And to make defence manufacturing a cornerstone of a truly Atmanirbhar Bharat.
“We must envision what the world will need and not do what we are told to. Vision 2047 gives us that direction.”