Defence Ministry Reforms Boost Indian Defence Exports Access
The Defence Ministry has revised export and licensing norms to facilitate faster access for Indian defence manufacturers to global markets. The updated Defence Export Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) eliminates stakeholder consultation for non-lethal defence items to most destinations. The Open General Export Licence (OGEL) framework has been consolidated and its validity extended from two to three years, now covering all countries except those under sanctions. New provisions allow OGEL for items linked to long-term contracts with foreign manufacturers. These reforms aim to streamline procedures while maintaining safeguards for sensitive items, benefiting Indian defence manufacturers, including MSMEs, amid record growth in defence production, which reached ₹1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26, and exports of ₹38,424 crore.
Published 1 day ago • 28 Aug 2026, 05:57 PM IST