India 

The Indian Army aims to halt all ammunition imports within the next fiscal year, emphasizing self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing and redirecting funds towards domestic producers. This move reflects India's commitment to the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative and signals a significant shift in its defense procurement strategy.

In a significant stride towards bolstering its defense capabilities, the Indian Army has set forth an ambitious plan to cease all ammunition imports within the next fiscal year. This pivotal decision underscores India's growing self-sufficiency in arms production, with local manufacturers rapidly expanding their capacities to meet the nation's defense needs.

The move comes on the heels of substantial progress made by the Indian industry in meeting the army's ammunition requirements. Major General V.K. Sharma, Additional Director General (Procurement) of the Indian Army, revealed that indigenous sources are now capable of supplying nearly 150 out of the 175 types of ammunition used by the army. This marks a remarkable turnaround from the army's previous heavy reliance on imports.

The transition towards self-reliance is a direct outcome of the government's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative, aimed at promoting domestic production and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. Currently, the army allocates approximately ₹6,000-8,000 crore ($725 - $970 million USD) annually towards ammunition procurement, funds that will now be redirected entirely towards Indian manufacturers.

This transformation is being facilitated through a phased approach utilizing 'positive indigenization lists', which identify items that India has the capability to produce domestically and will henceforth no longer import. As a result, foreign suppliers currently fulfill only a small fraction, ranging from 5-10%, of the army's ammunition requirements.

The corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Boards and the burgeoning private defense sector are driving India's surge in ammunition production. This year, Adani Defence & Aerospace inaugurated Asia's largest ammunition complex in Kanpur, promising a substantial output of various munitions for the armed forces. Additionally, Tata Aerospace & Defence has made significant strides as the first private aircraft manufacturer in India, partnering with the European aerospace giant Airbus to assemble the Airbus C-295 transport aircraft.

The Indian Army's commitment to sourcing ammunition exclusively from domestic sources underscores India's resolve to strengthen its defense industry. Industry experts, including Maj. Gen. Sharma, express confidence that this move will not only meet the military's demands but also position India as a significant player in the global arms market, potentially capturing up to 30% of market share in the coming years.

In conclusion, the Indian Army's endeavor to eliminate ammunition imports marks a pivotal milestone in the nation's journey towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing. By leveraging indigenous capabilities and fostering partnerships with the private sector, India is poised to emerge as a formidable force in the global arms market while enhancing its security preparedness on the domestic front.