New Delhi, India – India has unveiled an ambitious new framework, titled ‘RAKSHA,’ to guide its defence diplomacy over the next decade, signalling a more structured and proactive approach towards building strategic partnerships across the world. Released by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday, the document lays down a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening India’s military engagement, defence industrial cooperation, and global security partnerships in line with its long-term national interests. At a time of growing geopolitical competition and rapidly changing military technologies, the framework underlines New Delhi’s effort to emerge as a more influential and dependable security partner.
A senior Defence official stated that the central idea behind RAKSHA is that defence diplomacy can no longer remain limited to ceremonial military exchanges and joint exercises. Instead, India is seeking to build long-term, outcome-oriented partnerships that contribute to regional stability, strengthen military capabilities, and promote Indian defence products in global markets. One of the key pillars of the framework is the deepening of strategic partnerships, with India recently signing agreements with Indonesia to deliver the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system and Astra Mk-1 missiles. The blueprint also emphasizes capacity building and military cooperation, expanding joint training, military education, and institutional partnerships.
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A major dimension of RAKSHA is defence industrial cooperation, reflecting India’s push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. India is increasingly seeking partnerships involving co-development, co-production, and technology transfer. India’s defence exports touched a record ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, reflecting growing international acceptance of Indian-made military platforms. The framework also highlights maritime security and regional stability, reinforcing India’s role as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific. By linking strategic partnerships, military cooperation, and defence manufacturing, RAKSHA seeks to create a comprehensive framework for the next phase of India’s global rise.
