Role of Defence Public Sector Undertakings in Atmanirbharta

In India, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) have been pivotal to the nation’s journey towards self-reliance since independence. According to the Ministry of Defence, its Department of Defence oversees 16 Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), collectively known as DPSUs. Seven of these, referred to as the New DPSUs, were created in 2021 following the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). While debates persist regarding the effectiveness of DPSUs, especially amid a growing emphasis on private sector involvement in defence manufacturing, the ‘Atmanirbharta’ initiative offers a significant opportunity for these entities to adapt and redefine their objectives in light of shifting global and domestic dynamics. DPSUs are making substantial contributions to the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission in the defence sector, though they continue to face challenges that must be addressed.

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