Op Sindoor demonstrated India’s world-class defence readiness sharpened by Govt’s ‘Nation First’ & ‘Forces First’ resolve: Raksha Mantri

Why in news

The Raksha Mantri highlighted Operation Sindoor as a demonstration of India's defence preparedness, attributing this readiness to the government's 'Nation First' and 'Forces First' approach and its focus on indigenization and innovation in the defence sector.

Exam relevance

GS3, GS2 · Internal Security, Economy, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Operation Sindoor showcased India's defence preparedness.
2. The government's 'Nation First' and 'Forces First' resolve has sharpened defence readiness.
3. Procurement worth over Rs 2,400 crore approved from start-ups & MSMEs.
4. Rs 1,500 crore projects sanctioned for new technologies.
5. 676 start-ups and innovators are engaging through iDEX.
6. 551 contracts have been inked with start-ups and innovators.
7. Rs 70,000 crore investments proposed for defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh & Tamil Nadu.
8. Rs 10,000 crore has already been invested in defence corridors.
9. Defence production target set at Rs 2 lakh crore for the current year.
10. Defence production target set at Rs 3 lakh crore by 2029.
11. Defence exports are poised to reach Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.
12. Operation Sindoor is a reminder of the valour of Indian Defence Forces.
13. The operation reflected the government's 'zero tolerance' stance against terrorism.

Prelims pointers

• Operation Sindoor demonstrated India's defence preparedness.
• Procurement from start-ups & MSMEs in defence sector exceeds Rs 2,400 crore.
• iDEX platform engages 676 start-ups and innovators in defence.
• Defence corridors in UP and Tamil Nadu are proposed to receive Rs 70,000 crore investment.
• India aims for defence exports of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.
• The government has a 'zero tolerance' stance against terrorism.

Mains practice question

Examine the significance of indigenization and innovation in bolstering India's defence preparedness and national security, citing recent government initiatives and targets.

Static linkage

The article touches upon India's defence preparedness, indigenization efforts in defence manufacturing, and the government's policy initiatives aimed at boosting the defence sector. This relates to concepts like national security, defence industrial complex, Make in India initiative, and the government's approach to counter-terrorism.

Significance

The statement by the Raksha Mantri underscores a shift towards self-reliance in defence, evidenced by increased procurement from domestic start-ups and MSMEs, and significant investments in defence corridors. This focus on indigenization and innovation is crucial for enhancing national security, reducing import dependency, and fostering economic growth through defence exports and production targets. The emphasis on 'zero tolerance' towards terrorism highlights the government's security posture.