Modi’s 'Atmanirbhar' push hits turbulence as India navy still lacks indigenous fighter aircraft

New Delhi (Web Desk): Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) campaign launched nearly a decade ago, India’s efforts to develop a modern indigenous naval fighter aircraft have suffered significant setbacks.

Corruption and political favoritism have plagued the defense sector, disrupting key projects. Prominent industrial conglomerates like Adani and Ambani have been accused of influencing defense contracts, further complicating the push for self-reliance.

The Indian Navy rejected the domestically produced Tejas Mk-1 and Mk-2 fighter jets due to performance limitations, shifting focus to the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program. However, this program is far from completion, with the first flight expected in 2029 or 2030 and induction into the naval fleet projected around 2038.

Meanwhile, China has already inducted advanced fifth-generation fighters such as the J-20 and J-35, highlighting India’s lag in defense capabilities.

To compensate, India has purchased 26 Rafale-M fighter jets from France, signaling continued reliance on foreign technology and casting doubt on the government’s self-reliance claims.

Defense analysts warn that these delays and dependence on imports jeopardize India’s air defense autonomy and question the feasibility of Modi’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” goals.