Introduction
Nirmala Sitharaman made history by becoming India’s first full-time woman Defence Minister on September 3, 2017. During her tenure from 2017 to 2019, she played a crucial role in strengthening India’s defense capabilities, modernizing the armed forces, and handling critical national security issues. Her leadership was marked by major defense deals, strategic policy decisions, and a strong stance on national security.
Appointment as Defence Minister
- On September 3, 2017, Nirmala Sitharaman was appointed as India’s Defence Minister, succeeding Arun Jaitley.
- She became the first full-time female Defence Minister of India, with Indira Gandhi previously holding the additional charge.
- Her appointment came at a time when India was facing security challenges, including cross-border terrorism and tensions with Pakistan and China.
Key Achievements and Policies
1. Strengthening National Security & Defense Modernization
- Focused on modernizing the Indian Armed Forces by accelerating major defense procurement projects.
- Implemented the Strategic Partnership (SP) Model to boost domestic defense manufacturing under “Make in India”.
- Approved critical defense acquisitions, including Rafale fighter jets and modern artillery systems.
2. Rafale Deal & Fighter Jet Acquisition
- Finalized the Rafale fighter jet deal with France, ensuring the purchase of 36 multi-role Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force.
- The deal, signed in 2016, was executed under her leadership with delivery beginning in 2019.
- The Rafale jets significantly boosted India’s air combat capability, enhancing national security.
3. Balakot Air Strikes (2019)
- Played a critical role in India’s response to the Pulwama terror attack (February 14, 2019), where 40 CRPF personnel were killed.
- Under her leadership, India conducted the Balakot airstrikes (February 26, 2019), targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan.
- The airstrikes marked a strong policy shift towards retaliatory action against cross-border terrorism.
4. Defence Budget & Military Reforms
- Increased the defense budget to improve the military’s combat readiness.
- Focused on enhancing border security and infrastructure in regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.
- Strengthened India’s naval power by commissioning new warships and submarines.
5. Boosting India’s Defense Exports
- Promoted “Make in India” for defense manufacturing to reduce dependency on foreign arms.
- Encouraged indigenous production of fighter jets, missiles, and warships.
- Helped increase India’s defense exports, making the country a global supplier of military equipment.
6. Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
- Strengthened India’s defense ties with key allies, including the United States, France, and Russia.
- Signed key agreements like the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) with the US in 2018, improving military cooperation.
- Worked on defense technology transfers and joint military exercises with various nations.
Challenges Faced
- Managed tensions with Pakistan and China, particularly after the Doklam standoff (2017) and the Pulwama attack (2019).
- Addressed criticism and controversies surrounding the Rafale deal, defending the government’s decision against opposition claims.
- Balanced the demands of modernization and budget constraints in India’s defense sector.
Conclusion
Nirmala Sitharaman’s tenure as India’s Defence Minister (2017–2019) was a landmark period in the country’s defense history. She spearheaded major defense acquisitions, strengthened India’s military capabilities, and took decisive actions against terrorism. Her leadership in the Balakot airstrikes, Rafale deal, and defense reforms played a crucial role in India’s national security strategy. After her tenure, she took charge as India’s Finance Minister in May 2019, continuing her contribution to national policymaking.
Reference Websites
Hindustan Times – www.hindustantimes.com
The Hindu – www.thehindu.com
Times of India – www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com
NDTV – www.ndtv.com
Economic Times – www.economictimes.indiatimes.com