“Indian Army reduces ammunition imports, boosts indigenous production under ‘Make in India’ policy”, Economic Times, May 17, 2024:
“The Indian Army has significantly reduced its dependency on imported ammunition thanks to the ‘Make in India’ policy. By leveraging private sector capabilities and public sector firms, the Army aims to cease most ammunition imports within a few years. This shift not only cuts import costs but also enhances export potential. Key industry players, including Munitions India Limited and Solar Industries Limited, play crucial roles in this transition, ensuring readiness for emergencies.
ANIAn Indian Army training exercise of Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) firing The Indian Army has drastically reduced its dependence on imported ammunition, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ policy. Senior defence officials emphasized the crucial role of private sector industries in achieving this milestone.Reduced Dependence on ImportsThe Indian Army, with an annual budget of around Rs 20,000 crore for ammunition, previously allocated 35-40% for imports.
This figure has now been cut to less than 10%, with plans to reduce it further. “Now, that requirement has been cut down to less than 10 per cent, and we are looking to reduce it further in the next couple of years,” defence officials told ANI. The indigenisation effort includes ammunition for various weapon systems like tanks, artillery guns, air defence missiles, and grenade launchers…..”
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