Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, has raised serious concerns about India’s defence sector. Speaking at the CII Annual Business Summit 2025 on Thursday, Singh said India is losing its best talent.
“We are not able to get the best people for the job,” he said.
“Many of our skilled scientists and engineers are leaving the country for better opportunities abroad.”
Singh called for better pay, good work conditions, and more research freedom to keep top talent in India.
“If we want to build strong, self-reliant defence systems, we must value our people — not just with words but also with good pay and world-class facilities,” he said.
He stressed that India’s future in advanced technologies like aerospace, artificial intelligence, and next-generation weapons depends on having top experts.
Singh also spoke about delays in defence projects. “Timeline is a big issue,” he admitted.
“We sometimes sign contracts even when we know they won’t be delivered on time.”He pointed out the delay in the delivery of Tejas Mk1A fighter jets by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd as an example.
The Air Chief urged the government and industry to work together. “We need realistic promises, quick action, and long-term plans if we want India to become truly self-reliant in defence,” Singh said.
His warning comes as India pushes its Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) policy in defence manufacturing.
