In a significant shift towards bolstering its domestic defence sector, the Indian government has allowed private companies access to advanced missile technology developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This move aims to accelerate the transition from development to mass production of missiles, increase domestic manufacturing, and lessen India's reliance on foreign imports. The decision will enable private companies to compete for technology and production rights, subject to certain conditions, and create opportunities for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the supply chain. This development spans a variety of missile systems, including surface-to-air, air-to-air, anti-radiation, antitank, and land-attack cruise missiles. The policy change ends the monopoly held by state-owned defence companies like Bharat Dynamics in missile production and allows private firms to become prime integrators of these systems. This move comes as India seeks to encourage self-reliance in defence manufacturing under its Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, amidst growing geopolitical uncertainties on both borders with Pakistan and China. The decision follows a series of significant increases in India's defence budget over the past few years, with this year's budget being 16% higher than the previous one, reflecting an urgent need for defence preparedness after recent conflicts and geopolitical events. Furthermore, India is also developing a tri-services conventional missile force to enhance its deterrence capabilities against potential adversaries like China.