India Overhauls Defence Policy to Achieve True Military Self-Reliance

India's defence establishment has intensified its self-reliance drive over the past year, moving beyond 'Make in India' toward an 'Owned by India' framework. Key policy changes include the Defence Acquisition Policy 2026, a raised domestic procurement target of 75%, and new categories such as Buy Global-Manufacture in India and MSME-reserved acquisitions. The Defence Acquisition Council approved 55 proposals worth Rs 6.73 lakh crore, covering platforms like QRSAM, Tejas Mk-1A, AEW&C Mk-1A, and Rafale Marine jets. The Army has also restructured its forces, introducing Rudra All Arms Brigades, Bhairav commando battalions, and Ashni drone platoons. These reforms were partly driven by unmanned aerial system vulnerabilities identified during Operation Sindoor.