The launch of the advanced stealth frigate “Vindhyagiri,” constructed by Kolkata’s Garden Reach Shipyards, represents a significant milestone for India’s self-reliance in shipbuilding. The ship was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu on the banks of the Hooghly River, highlighting its importance in showcasing India’s technological advancement and commitment to self-reliance. The launch signifies India’s progress in maritime capabilities and its vital role as a global defence player.
The nation’s drive towards naval self-reliance is making impressive strides through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. With a target of achieving 70 percent indigenization of the Navy’s capital budget by 2025, several key strategies are being implemented to attain this ambitious goal. Substantial financial backing from the Government is fostering the creation of indigenous technologies and products by Indian defence firms. A prime example is the DRDO’s spearheading of the development of fully indigenous stealth frigates known as P-17A. By encouraging private companies to invest in defence, the Government is embracing public-private partnerships. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises is proactively assisting smaller enterprises within the defence sector. Financial support is being provided for SMEs to innovate and create defence products. All this requires money, and as such, the focus is also on the export of Indian defence products, for which the Government is working to establish favourable conditions. Agreements with other nations have been inked to facilitate defence trade. These efforts are bearing fruit, as evident by the growth of indigenous content in the Navy’s capital budget, which has surged from 40 percent in 2014-15 to 64 percent in 2021-22. With a determined path, the Navy is poised to hit its 70 percent indigenization target by 2025.
In addition to the stealth frigate “Vindhyagiri, the Navy has successfully integrated the inaugural vessel from a quartet of homegrown stealth frigates, the INS Surat, the first unit from a series of six indigenous P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. Progress is evident in the ongoing construction of four submarines under the Project 75-India endeavour.
Considering recent global developments, particularly attempts to disrupt sea routes for shipping, the establishment of a robust naval command is of utmost significance from India’s perspective. India’s extensive coastline presents various challenges, including the prevention of arms and narcotics smuggling and the protection of critical national installations. Additionally, the expansionist ambitions of China, particularly its endeavours to establish a presence in countries like Sri Lanka and other neighbouring island nations, cannot be overlooked. In response to these challenges, the current Government has not only been addressing the Navy’s operational needs but has also been emphasising the importance of self-reliance. This focus on self-reliance has yielded substantial benefits, saving the nation significant amounts of foreign exchange. By developing indigenous naval capabilities, India is enhancing its ability to respond effectively to emerging threats and safeguard its maritime interests. The strategic importance of maritime trade cannot be overstated, as a substantial portion of global commerce relies on sea routes. Any attempts to block or disrupt these routes could have severe implications for the economy and national security. Therefore, India’s emphasis on bolstering its naval strength and self-reliance is a prudent response to these evolving challenges, ensuring the nation’s preparedness to maintain the security and integrity of its maritime domain.
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