There needs to be a distinction between indigineously developed and indigineously manufactured in policy documents. Otherwise the line becomes so blurry and gives space for workaround.. as we're seeing.
Even better if something is conceived in india, developed in india, manufactured in India fully.
That means technology for thermal management, composites etc. This distinction can really help both business, startups, and regulators to manage our defense ecosystem.
There is.
Different categories of make in India.
Make-I" is a government-funded category within the Indian defence procurement procedure for projects that require indigenous design and development of equipment, systems, or platforms. It involves the government providing financial support, typically up to 70% of the prototype development cost, and requires a minimum of 50% indigenous content. The government funds the development of advanced military platforms, such as a light tank or a new communication system, to foster self-reliance in the defense sector.
Make-II (Industry-Funded): Projects for prototype development of military hardware or upgrades, primarily for import substitution, where no government funding is provided. The industry funds the development based on an assured order once the prototype is successful.
Make-III (Indigenously Manufactured): This category covers military hardware and spares/assemblies that may not be designed in India but can be manufactured domestically as an import substitute. Indian firms may collaborate with foreign partners for production.
Buy (Indian – IDDM): This is the top priority procurement category, for products Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured with a minimum of 50% Indigenous Content (IC).
Buy (Indian): Procurement from Indian vendors with an indigenous content of 60% (if not indigenously designed) or 50% (if indigenously designed).
Buy (Global – Manufacture in India): Outright purchase from foreign vendors, but with a minimum of 50% IC achieved through manufacturing or MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) in India.
Buy (Global): Outright purchase from foreign vendors, typically when indigenous options are not available, though it has a minimum 30% IC requirement for Indian vendors in DAP 2020.
Leasing: Allows the armed forces to use equipment without owning it, avoiding large upfront capital costs.
Strategic Partnership Model (SPM): A model for private Indian firms to act as system integrators, collaborating with foreign OEMs to build an ecosystem for major platforms like submarines or fighter jets.