Senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh will retain his position as Defence Minister, with major reforms planned for the coming months in the DRDO, focusing on promoting exports and domestic defense manufacturing, according to sources. During his tenure, there has been a notable emphasis on promoting self-reliance in defense production. Under his leadership, the government has restricted imports of various defense items, with a focus on manufacturing critical weapons domestically. Additionally, amidst increasing tensions with China, India has expanded its defense imports from the US. Singh has also been a proponent of increasing the roles of women in the armed forces, extending their service terms, and enhancing promotion opportunities. Prior to this role, Singh served as the national president of the BJP. These tasks are crucial in shaping the future of India’s military strategy and maintaining national security.

Agnipath Recruitment Scheme Under Scrutiny

The Agnipath scheme, launched in June 2022, aims to induct young personnel into the armed forces for short-term service. Both male and female candidates aged 17.5 to 21 are recruited for four years, with a provision to retain 25% for an additional 15 years. Recruits, known as Agniveers, receive a severance package instead of a pension upon completing their service. This scheme has faced criticism and protests, with concerns about job security and long-term career prospects.

Senior leaders from the BJP’s alliance partners, including the Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), have called for a review of the scheme. JD(U) leader K C Tyagi stated, “A section of voters has been upset over the Agnipath scheme. Our party wants those shortcomings, which have been questioned by the public, to be discussed in detail and removed.” Similarly, Chirag Paswan from LJP also emphasized the need for a review at an appropriate time.

Advancing Theatre Command Reforms

The unification of theatre commands is another major reform on the agenda. This initiative aims to integrate the army, navy, and air force into unified theatre commands, enhancing joint operations and efficiency. The BJP’s election manifesto highlighted military theaterisation as a priority, and progress has been made in this direction.

The Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, effective from May 10, 2024, supports this reform by enabling commanders to exercise control over service personnel across different branches. Former Defence Minister Rajnath Singh noted that while the theaterisation process is advancing, it may take years to fully implement.

Focus on Indigenous Military Production

Reducing dependency on imported weapons is a crucial goal for the new government. Despite India’s increasing military exports, it remains the world’s largest arms importer. The Modi government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative has driven significant progress in domestic manufacturing, with projects like the Tejas fighter jet and Scorpene submarines.The government plans to continue government-to-government deals and competitive tenders to boost domestic production. The procurement of additional Scorpene submarines is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024, with Defence Public Sector Undertakings leading these efforts.

Managing China Relations

Tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) remain high, with military standoffs since April 2020. Despite numerous rounds of military talks, the situation has not returned to pre-2020 status. New agreements are necessary to ensure peace and stability along the LAC.

Immediate Leadership Decisions

A critical immediate task for the new Defence Minister is the appointment of a new Army Chief, as the current chief is set to retire by the end of June. This decision will influence the direction of military reforms and leadership in the coming years.