SSB Lecturette Notes: Make in India: Achievements, Challenges & Way Forward

Fresh SSB batches start around the 1st & 15th of every month.


“A nation that produces, prospers. A nation that only consumes, depends.”


Introduction

  • Launched on 25th September 2014, Make in India is a flagship initiative of the Indian Government aimed at transforming India into a global manufacturing hub.
  • Encourages both domestic and foreign investors to manufacture in India, boosting employment, innovation, and skill development.
  • Plays a critical role in achieving economic self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) and reducing import dependency, especially in defense, electronics, and renewable energy.


Key Objectives

  • Increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to 25% of GDP.
  • Create 100 million new jobs.
  • Improve ease of doing business.
  • Promote Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
  • Strengthen infrastructure, innovation, and export competitiveness.


Focus Sectors

  • Automobiles.
  • Defense Manufacturing.
  • Electronics Systems.
  • Renewable Energy.
  • Railways.
  • Textiles.
  • Pharmaceuticals.
  • Chemicals.
  • Aviation.


Achievements (2014–2025)

  • FDI Growth:
    • India received $89 billion in FDI in 2022–23, among the top 3 globally.
    • Defense sector saw a 400% rise in FDI over the past 5 years.
  • Rise in Domestic Manufacturing:
    • India is now 2nd in mobile phone manufacturing globally.
    • Local production of iPhones and semiconductor push through India Semiconductor Mission.
  • Defense Indigenization:
    • Indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant commissioned.
    • Made-in-India arms, drones, and missiles exported to friendly nations.
    • Defense exports crossed ₹21,000 crore in 2023–24.
  • Green Manufacturing:
    • Boost in solar panel production, EVs, and hydrogen fuel technologies.
    • India emerging as a global hub for clean energy solutions.
  • Infrastructure and Logistics:
    • PM Gati Shakti and National Logistics Policy launched.
    • Industrial corridors, multimodal parks, and Bharatmala projects easing freight movement.


Challenges

  • Complex land and labor laws in some states.
  • Supply chain dependency on imports for raw materials.
  • Need for upskilling workforce to match industrial needs.
  • Global recessionary trends affecting investment flows.
  • Delay in execution of mega projects due to bureaucratic hurdles.


Recent Developments (2024–25)

  • PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes expanded to electronics, textiles, drones, and pharmaceuticals.
  • India-UAE CEPA and other FTAs giving Indian manufacturers global market access.
  • Global companies shifting from China to India under “China+1” strategy.
  • Semiconductor plants being set up in Gujarat and Maharashtra with global partners.
  • PM MITRA parks launched to boost integrated textile manufacturing.


Way Forward

  • Streamline regulations across states to attract MSMEs and global players.
  • Strengthen infrastructure and logistics ecosystems for faster manufacturing cycles.
  • Focus on sustainability and green technology in manufacturing.
  • Empower youth with vocational and technical skills through Skill India.
  • Ensure policy stability and continue incentives under PLI schemes.


Conclusion

  • Make in India is not just a campaign but a movement toward economic sovereignty.
  • In an uncertain world, self-reliant manufacturing is India’s shield and sword.
  • With strong policy, innovation, and partnerships, India is poised to become a global manufacturing powerhouse, ensuring growth that is resilient, inclusive, and future-ready.

Sachin Jangir
Recommended for IMA 160 (AIR 140) & NDA 152 (AIR 128).

OUR COURSES View More