India's Defence Manufacturing Gains Momentum with PRAGATI 2026 Exercise

India is making remarkable progress in its defence manufacturing sector, aiming for self-reliance and reduced imports. Major General CS Mann highlighted the growth during the PRAGATI 2026 military exercise, which involved over 400 personnel from various nations. The event showcased indigenous technologies and emphasized the importance of expanding into international markets. With a focus on counter-terrorism operations, participants engaged in extensive training exercises, demonstrating India's commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities. This initiative aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, promoting collaboration and exports in the defence industry.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 31, 2026, 10:13 IST

Strengthening Defence Manufacturing in India

The main objective of PRAGATI is to strengthen military-to-military cooperation

SHILLONG, May 31: In recent years, India has made significant strides towards achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing, aiming to lessen its reliance on foreign imports.

Major General CS Mann, the Additional Director General of the Army Design Bureau, remarked on Saturday that the growth of the country's defence sector is accelerating, thanks to government initiatives.

“The Indian defence industry is expanding due to the Government’s focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Mann stated during the closing ceremony of the multinational military exercise, PRAGATI 2026, held at the Joint Training Node in Umroi Military Station.

The increasing demand for military equipment in India presents vast opportunities for local defence manufacturers, which, according to Mann, will enable them to explore international markets.

One effective strategy for enhancing the domestic defence industry's presence globally is to demonstrate its capabilities during military exercises. The PRAGATI 2026 event saw participation from over 400 military personnel from countries including India, Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

The closing ceremony was graced by six Vice Chiefs and over 40 senior military officials from the participating nations. The Indian Army, in partnership with FICCI and the Army Design Bureau, organized a display of defence equipment, showcasing indigenous technologies and advanced military gear.

This exhibition underscored India's advancing capabilities in defence design, development, and manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, while also fostering collaboration and exports within the defence sector.

“We must enhance our presence in the export market,” Mann emphasized.

The PRAGATI exercise, a multilateral initiative, took place in semi-mountainous and jungle terrains, concentrating on counter-terrorism operations and included rigorous training through lectures, demonstrations, and practical exercises.

Participants engaged in joint training activities, which included rock climbing, ambush tactics, slithering, jungle shooting, room and bus interventions, IED detection, and casualty evacuation drills.