Centre Plans Major Defence Reform, Opens Door for Private Sector Missile Manufacturing

The Central Government is set to introduce a significant reform in India's defence manufacturing sector by permitting private companies to participate in missile production. As part of the initiative, the government is expected to invite proposals from eligible private firms in the coming weeks, marking a major step toward expanding private sector involvement in strategic defence projects.

According to reports, the Astra Mk-2 missile programme is likely to be one of the first projects offered to private industry. The proposed policy is aimed at strengthening indigenous defence capabilities, accelerating production, encouraging technological innovation, and enhancing self-reliance under India's defence manufacturing ecosystem.