Is India’s Defence Sector Becoming Self-Reliant? Rs 29,558 Crore Push Explained!

India’s Defence Boost: DRDO’s Rs 29,558 Crore Push for Self-Reliance
The Indian government has ramped up investments in indigenous defence technology, approving Rs 29,558.66 crore for DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) over the past three years. This funding is aimed at reducing dependency on foreign defence imports and strengthening India’s military innovation.

Key Funding Breakdown
2023: 40 projects worth Rs 3,842.71 crore
2024: 43 projects worth Rs 22,175.49 crore (highest allocation)
2025 (so far): 20 projects worth Rs 3,540.46 crore
Major DRDO Projects Under Development
Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE): Designed for unmanned combat aircraft, two projects have been approved:
Flightworthy Kaveri Dry Engine Development (Rs 472.42 crore)
Technology Demonstration of Kaveri ‘Dry’ Engine (Rs 251.17 crore)


Civil-Military Drone Certification: The Centre for Military Airworthiness (CEMILAC) is collaborating with DGCA to standardize drone certification for both defence and civilian use.
Global Partnerships: DRDO is in talks with EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency), Airbus, and Embraer to develop India’s own military aircraft certification process.

Encouraging Private Sector & Innovation
Zero ToT Fees & Royalty-Free Patents: DRDO has waived technology transfer fees and royalty payments for Indian companies supplying to the Armed Forces.
Open Testing Facilities: Private firms can now access DRDO labs for R&D.
Industry-Academia Collaboration: The DIA-CoE (DRDO Industry Academia Centres of Excellence) bridges research and practical defence applications.


FAQs on DRDO’s Defence Funding (Exam Relevance)
Q1. How much has the Indian government allocated to DRDO in the last three years?
A: Rs 29,558.66 crore (2023-2025) for indigenous defence projects.
Q2. What is the Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE)?
A: A DRDO-developed engine for unmanned combat aircraft, with two approved projects worth Rs 723.59 crore.
Q3. How is DRDO promoting private sector involvement?
A: By offering free patents, zero ToT fees, and open access to testing facilities for Indian defence manufacturers.
Q4. What role does CEMILAC play in drone certification?
A: It collaborates with DGCA to create unified certification standards for military and civilian drones.
Q5. Why is this funding significant for competitive exams?
A: It aligns with UPSC/SSC/PSC questions on Atmanirbhar Bharat, defence indigenization, and DRDO’s role in military tech.


Why Is This Important for Your Exams?
UPSC/State PSC: Covers defence policies, Make in India, and DRDO’s contributions (GS Paper III).
SSC/CGL: Current affairs on government schemes and technological advancements.
NID/NIFT/KAS: General awareness on indigenous innovation and defence-sector growth.
Essay & Interview Prep: Strong case study on self-reliance in defence technology.