Keeping in mind the challenges that the government is facing in the defence sector, there is a need to make strategic plans very carefully and then take decisive steps on them.
BJP’s election manifesto included some issues. It promised to increase India’s defense footprint at strategic locations and to partner with friendly countries with the aim of protecting its security interests in the Indian Ocean region. Regarding defense production, the party has promised to continue supporting startups so that indigenization can be accelerated. At the same time, there is also an emphasis on increasing the export of Made in India defense equipment.
Defence sector exports reached a record high of Rs 21,083 crore (about $2.63 billion) in the financial year 2023-24. The government has now set a target of Rs 35,000 crore by 2025. In view of the ongoing standoff with China, strong arrangements will have to be made to deal with internal security threats like insurgency and terrorism along with constant strict monitoring on the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Adapting to the military/security challenges posed by climate change is also on the agenda.
Defence strategists emphasise the need to increase the number of military training and exercises with countries in West and South East Asia. The armed forces should also be given a bigger role in acquiring defence platforms. The vision of future battlefields will play an important role in plans to enhance capabilities. Acquisition and indigenisation will also depend directly on this.
On whose head does the responsibility lie?
Rajnath Singh, 72 years: BJP
Defense Minister
From branch to ministry
Born in 1951 in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh, Rajnath Singh studied in village school and then at Gorakhpur University. He joined RSS in 1964 and entered politics as a member of Jan Sangh in 1974. Rising rapidly in the party, he became the state’s Education Minister (1991-92) and then Chief Minister (2000-’02). Later he also became Union Agriculture, Transport and Home Minister respectively. In 2019, he took over as Defense Minister.
Reforms and defense procurement
Many important defence procurement deals, including the Rafale fighter jet and the S-400 missile defence system, were signed under Rajnath Singh’s supervision. His tenure also saw several strategic reforms, such as the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
Make in India initiative
Under his supervision, the ministry prioritised indigenous manufacturing of advanced equipment, from the light combat aircraft Tejas to the Dhanush howitzer and Pinaka rocket launcher.
All-round leader
Singh is one of the few old stalwarts of BJP who are still active. Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Singh has had good relations with leaders of all parties. His varied experience is going to prove to be very useful in the coalition government.
state Minister
Sanjay Seth, 64 years: BJP
Long distance from Ranchi to Delhi
Seth has become a BJP MP from Ranchi for the second time. In 2019, he defeated Subodh Kant Sahay of Congress. As a student leader, he spent 25 days in jail after LK Advani’s arrest during the Ram Rath Yatra in 1992.