[Answered] Examine how a robust Defence Industrial Base (DIB) serves as a catalyst for India’s strategic autonomy and economic growth. Evaluate the role of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in mitigating supply-chain vulnerabilities within the contemporary global security landscape.

Introduction

Amid wars, sanctions, and weaponised supply chains, India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy hinges on a strong Defence Industrial Base, reinforced through Atmanirbhar Bharat to secure growth, resilience, and national security.

Defence Industrial Base (DIB): Conceptual Overview

1. Definition: DIB refers to the ecosystem of public, private, MSMEs, startups, R&D institutions, and supply chains supporting defence production.
2. Strategic Asset: Modern security links military power with industrial depth, technology absorption, and logistics resilience.

DIB as a Catalyst for Strategic Autonomy

1. Reduced Import Dependence: India remains among the top global arms importers (SIPRI), making indigenisation vital for crisis-time availability.
2. Operational Sovereignty: Indigenous platforms like Tejas and Arjun reduce vulnerability to sanctions, spares denial, and end-use restrictions.
3. Decision-Making Freedom: A strong DIB enables independent foreign policy choices without external military pressure.
4. Technology Control: Retention of source codes, upgrades, and lifecycle management enhances long-term autonomy.

Economic Growth Linkages of a Robust DIB

1. Manufacturing Multiplier: Defence manufacturing has high backward and forward linkages across metallurgy, electronics, AI, and space.
2. Employment Generation: Creates high-skill jobs in engineering, design, testing, and precision manufacturing.
3. Export Earnings: Defence exports crossed ₹21,000 crore (2023–24), reaching over 80 countries.
4. Global Value Chains (GVCs): Indian firms are integrating into aerospace and naval supply chains, enhancing competitiveness.

Atmanirbhar Bharat: Policy Framework

1. Structural Reforms: Corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board into DPSUs. Liberalised FDI norms (up to 74% automatic route).
2. Procurement Reorientation: Indigenisation lists banning import of 500+ defence items. Expansion of ‘Make’ and ‘Make-I/II’ categories.
3. Innovation Push: iDEX, SPARK, and startup-focused defence innovation corridors.

Mitigating Supply-Chain Vulnerabilities

1. Lessons from Global Conflicts: Ukraine war exposed fragility of global arms supply chains and ammunition shortages.
2. Domestic Manufacturing Resilience: Indigenous production ensures continuity during geopolitical disruptions.
3. Diversification of Suppliers: Reduces over-dependence on single-country sourcing.
4. DRDO–Industry Synergy: DRDO shifting towards frontier R&D while industry handles production and scaling.

Geopolitical and Strategic Context

1. Sanctions Era Security: Defence self-reliance shields India from coercive economic measures.
2. Credible Defence Exports: Exports strengthen diplomatic influence and strategic partnerships.
3. Indian Ocean Security: Indigenous naval platforms support sustained maritime presence.

Persistent Challenges

1. Regulatory Complexity: Licensing, testing, and certification delays.
2. MSME Constraints: Limited access to finance and export insurance.
3. Technology Gaps: Engines, semiconductors, and advanced materials still need attention.

Way Forward

• Long-Term Capability Roadmaps
• Single-Window Export Facilitation
• International Certification Alignment
• Public–Private–Academic Innovation Triad

Conclusion

As argued by Paul Kennedy in The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers, economic strength underwrites military power. Atmanirbhar Bharat anchors India’s DIB as the foundation of autonomy and growth.