The year 2025 stands as a defining chapter in India’s development journey. It saw policies translate into progress and intent into impact. 

 

 

In 2025, India marked a decisive consolidation of its national security framework under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the year, the government clearly articulated five firm norms on terrorism. These are – strong response to terror attacks, zero tolerance for nuclear blackmail, no distinction between terrorists and their sponsors, terrorism first in any dialogue, and an uncompromising stand on sovereignty.

 

 

This resolve was most clearly demonstrated through Operation Sindoor. On the 7th of May, India carried out its most significant military strikes in over five decades in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian forces struck terror infrastructure deep inside Pakistani territory, neutralising nearly one hundred terrorists. Eleven Pakistani air bases were hit with precision on 10th May, and none of India’s missiles were intercepted.

 

 

The operation drew global attention for its heavy reliance on indigenous capabilities. BrahMos supersonic missiles, Rafale fighter jets, and loitering drones were used in coordinated precision strikes, showcasing India’s growing technological strength.

 

 

Alongside operational resolve, India’s defence capabilities witnessed unprecedented growth. Defence production crossed one lakh fifty-four thousand crore rupees, while the defence budget rose to over six lakh eighty-one thousand crore rupees for 2025-26.

 

 

During the year, defence acquisitions worth over four lakh thirty thousand crore rupees were approved, including attack helicopters, Rafale-M jets for the Navy, advanced torpedoes, and surveillance systems.

 

 

The year also saw major indigenous breakthroughs, from the commissioning of warships and submarines and the induction of stealth frigates, to the successful rail-based launch test of the Agni Prime missile and the rollout of Made-in-India AK-203 rifles.

 

 

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridors together attracted investments exceeding nine thousand one hundred crore rupees. Two hundred eighty-nine MoUs were signed, unlocking over sixty-six thousand crore rupees in potential opportunities.

 

 

As the year concludes, India projects a framework of preparedness, technological confidence, and strengthened deterrence, reinforcing its commitment to national security and strategic self-reliance.