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Bharat Forge, Mahindra Defence Asked to Boost Military Production in India
In a strategic push to ramp up India’s military readiness, the government has directed top private defence companies like Bharat Forge and Mahindra Defence Systems to scale up production of munitions and military-grade carriers.
This directive comes amid increasing regional threats and the need to strengthen India’s defense supply chain under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. With growing demands on logistics, ammunition, and mobility platforms, the Defence Ministry has turned to private players to bridge gaps that public sector units alone cannot meet.

Why This Decision Matters
The move follows a surge in regional instability and border security concerns. India is not just planning for emergencies but is preparing for sustained high-intensity deployments.
By asking private defence manufacturers to expand output, the government aims to:
- Speed up critical defence deliveries
- Ensure 24/7 availability of military resources
- Diversify the production base to reduce dependency on imports
Bharat Forge & Mahindra’s Role in India’s Defence Landscape
Bharat Forge
Known globally for its forging and engineering strength, Bharat Forge manufactures artillery shells, armoured vehicle components, and cannon barrels. It plays a key role in India’s heavy artillery modernization.
Mahindra Defence Systems
A leader in light armoured carriers, troop transport vehicles, and tactical support equipment, Mahindra is essential to the Indian military’s mobility and logistics framework.
Both firms are expected to enhance output, reduce lead times, and support indigenous innovation through partnerships and production expansion.
Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence: A Growing Reality
This latest instruction is a part of India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Over the past few years, India has made major policy shifts to:
- Prioritize procurement from Indian vendors
- Ban imports of certain critical military items
- Support public-private partnerships in defence R&D
The involvement of Bharat Forge and Mahindra is a direct outcome of this ecosystem shift.

What’s Next for India’s Private Defence Sector?
The Ministry of Defence is expected to:
- Provide advanced purchase orders to fast-track production
- Offer financial incentives for capacity expansion
- Ensure regulatory ease for technology transfer and vendor development
This is expected to open the door to more Make in India defence contracts and could also attract foreign defence collaborations in the private sector.
FAQ Section
1. Why has the Indian government asked Bharat Forge and Mahindra to increase defence production?
The Indian government has directed Bharat Forge and Mahindra Defence Systems to ramp up production of munitions and military carriers to meet growing national security needs and reduce dependency on foreign imports under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
2. What kind of defence equipment does Bharat Forge produce?
Bharat Forge manufactures artillery systems, ammunition shells, gun barrels, and components for armoured vehicles. It plays a crucial role in supporting India’s artillery modernization and munitions production.
3. What does Mahindra Defence Systems specialize in?
Mahindra Defence Systems focuses on light armoured vehicles, tactical troop carriers, logistics support vehicles, and land mobility platforms designed specifically for the Indian Army and paramilitary forces.
4. Is this move part of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence?
Yes, this decision aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, which emphasizes building self-reliance in critical sectors like defence by promoting indigenous manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
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