Defence Minister unveiled the fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) consisting of 98 items to be procured by the armed services from domestic suppliers over specified timelines. Additionally, he launched the Indian Navy’s updated indigenisation roadmap, known as Swavlamban 2.0.
What is Positive Indigenisation List (PIL)?
- Items on the Positive Indigenization List are those that are solely available for purchase by the Indian armed forces from domestic producers, including DPSUs and the private sector.
- This action is a component of the government’s attempts to encourage domestic production of defense equipment and lessen dependency on imported weapons.
- The Defense Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 introduced this idea.
- In the next five to ten years, it is anticipated that firm orders for large systems, critical platforms, weapon systems, sensors, and munitions would be placed; therefore, it places an emphasis on the import replacement of these components.
Items on the Indigenisation List
- Diverse Range: The PIL is home to a vast array of equipment, including guided weapon system test equipment, radars, automated mobile test systems, futuristic infantry combat vehicles, articulated all-terrain vehicles, different kinds of unmanned aerial vehicles, and precision kill systems for artillery.
- Strategic Importance: By strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities and lowering its dependency on outside sources, these goods are essential. They support India’s efforts to become self-sufficient in the field of defense.
Swavlamban 2.0: Industry Challenges and Initiatives
- 76 Challenges: As part of the 10th Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC-10) and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), Defence Minister Singh also introduced 76 challenges for industry participants at the Swavlamban 2.0 event.
- International Collaboration: India’s dedication to promoting international alliances for technical growth was demonstrated at the event, which also saw the release of two INDUS X challenges, an initiative between iDEX and the U.S. Department of Defence.
Vision of Self-Reliance
- Navy’s Commitment: In keeping with India’s 100th anniversary of independence, the Indian Navy is dedicated to achieving complete selfreliance by 2047.
- Strategic Significance: The importance of independence has been highlighted by the COVID-19 epidemic and international wars, particularly in the defense industry. Reliance on outside resources for defense requirements is regarded as a strategic weakness that requires attention.
- Accomplishments: The Navy’s initiatives to support domestic innovation have produced notable outcomes, including as technology agreements, collaborations with MSMEs and startups, and a growing network of defense suppliers.
Way forward
- Future Objectives: In keeping with its dedication to independence, the Indian Navy has set high goals to create cutting-edge technologies in association with local MSMEs and startups.
- Expanding Ecosystem: As a result of the Navy’s efforts, the defence ecosystem now includes over 100 new companies, with additional procurement orders on the horizon.
- A Strong India: By employing special ideas and skills created in India specifically for India, the goal is to create a force that embodies a powerful and advanced India.
