Indian Army marks breakthroughs in self-reliance with rapid indigenisation push

In a major breakthrough, the Indian Army has forged a new path towards its indigenisation drive in the Year of Tech Absorption. The Army has significantly reduced dependence on foreign suppliers across critical weapon systems, soldier gear and emerging technologies.

Over 1,050 spares and more than 60 major assemblies of foreign-origin equipment have already been indigenised, enabling upgrades and significantly enhancing self-reliance. In addition, 1,035 assemblies and sub-assemblies and 3,517 spares for existing equipment have been successfully developed within the country, marking a substantial step towards the national goal of self-reliance.

The Army is simultaneously advancing a range of key technologies - from cryo-coolers for thermal imagers and flight controllers to GNSS systems and electrical speed controllers for Unmanned Aerial Systems and drones. These initiatives, driven by in-house innovation and close collaboration with Indian industry, MSMEs and start-ups, are aimed at boosting operational readiness and align directly with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat @2047.

In a parallel development, the Army has recorded a major milestone in indigenising Special Clothing and Mountaineering Equipment (SCME) for troops deployed in Super High Altitude Areas. According to the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI), 55 of the total 57 SCME items - a remarkable 97% of the inventory - have now been fully indigenised. The remaining two are undergoing trials and are expected to be indigenised by 2026.