The challenges and significance of indigenous in India's aviation sector
This article, titled "Plane, Not Simple," provides a critical analysis of India's aviation landscape, highlighting the strategic necessity and challenges of indigenous aircraft manufacturing. It is highly relevant for UPSC subjects like Economy (Infrastructure, Indigenization of Technology) and Internal Security.
## Key Highlights for UPSC
### 1. The Strategic Deficit
* Military Needs: India faces dwindling fighter jet squadrons. While the procurement of 114 Rafale jets from France is a priority, it faces geopolitical hurdles.
* Geopolitical Risks (ITAR): The American acquisition of French supplier LMB Aerospace means Rafale sales could fall under US ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). This could require US waivers for India to buy French platforms, highlighting the risks of dependency on foreign supply chains.
* Civilian Demand: India has an order book of over 2,000 civilian planes for the next decade, almost all of which are currently imported, leading to massive forex outflow.
### 2. The Certification Challenge
* Technical Barriers: Developing an aircraft is only half the battle; certification is the costliest and most technically demanding phase.
* Case Study (China’s C919): Despite entering service in 2023, China’s C919 lacks certification from the EASA (EU) and FAA (USA), limiting its global marketability. India must prepare for these rigorous international standards.
### 3. Structural Hurdles in Manufacturing
* Ecosystem Development: Manufacturing requires a vast network of thousands of specialized suppliers for avionics, landing gear, and sub-systems.
* The Engine Riddle: Jet engine technology remains the "holy grail." Even China still struggles to produce reliable indigenous engines.
### 4. Government and Private Sector Initiatives
* Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV): The Government of India (GOI) plans to earmark ₹12,511 crore to set up an SPV for developing regional transport aircraft.
* Public-Private Partnership: The MoU between Adani Group and Brazil's Embraer to build a regional aircraft facility in India is cited as a positive step toward building a domestic ecosystem.
## Critical Analysis for Mains
The article argues that a civilian manufacturing base will have "spillover benefits" for the military. By "learning by doing" in the civilian sector, India can eventually solve complex problems like engine manufacturing and reduce its vulnerability to international regulations like ITAR.
Potential Question: "Discuss the challenges and significance of indigenization in India’s aviation sector in light of global supply chain dependencies."