In a strategic effort to enhance digital transformation in India’s defence sector, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Department of Defence Production (DDP) convened a two-day workshop titled “Embracing Industry 4.0 and QA 4.0 in Defence Manufacturing.” This pivotal event took place on April 24–25, 2025, at the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) Headquarters in New Delhi, marking a significant move towards modernizing India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
The workshop attracted leaders from Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), industry participants, and technology innovators, creating a platform for robust discussions on the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. Central to these discussions were advancements such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Blockchain, and Cyber-Physical Systems. These technologies are positioned to revolutionize production workflows and quality assurance processes within the sector.
A primary goal of the workshop was to develop a progressive innovation ecosystem that enhances operational efficiency while ensuring that Indian defence products remain competitive on the global stage.
The event opened with insights from Dr. Garima Bhagat, Joint Secretary (Land Systems) at MoD/DDP. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to fostering collaboration among government entities, DPSUs, and the private sector. Dr. Bhagat highlighted that adopting Industry 4.0 and QA 4.0 strategies is essential for India to manufacture defence equipment that meets international standards and maintains a competitive edge. She emphasized the importance of integrating emerging technologies to improve productivity, elevate quality standards, and create a resilient and future-oriented defence manufacturing base.
Addressing the attendees, DGQA Director General Shri N. Manoharan outlined the organization’s initiatives aimed at incorporating smart technologies into quality assurance processes. He announced that the “National Level Defence Quality Conclave” is set for May 8, 2025, during which a comprehensive Vision Document regarding Industry 4.0 and QA 4.0 adoption will be presented. The conclave is anticipated to feature contributions from both national and international experts focusing on strategies for expanding Industry 4.0 in defence production.
The workshop is part of a larger initiative themed the ‘Year of Reforms,’ led by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar. This initiative seeks to drive significant reforms within the defence sector, prioritizing innovation, efficiency, and self-reliance in the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The Ministry’s strategy includes transitioning traditional production units into smart factories equipped with systems for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, self-diagnostics, and optimized processes, thereby positioning India prominently on the global defence manufacturing landscape.
Participating in the workshop were senior officials from MoD and DDP, executives from key DPSUs such as HAL, BEL, BEML, MDL, GRSE, and GSL, as well as representatives from technology firms and startups specializing in Industry 4.0 advancements. The event featured interactive sessions, live demonstrations, and collaborative discussions aimed at addressing real-world challenges and sharing successful case studies. Concluding with actionable recommendations, these insights will be incorporated into the forthcoming Defence Quality Conclave and future strategic policy initiatives.
Through these concerted efforts, the Ministry of Defence aims to establish a technologically advanced, efficient, and globally competitive defence manufacturing ecosystem in India.
