How DPM 2025 can help Indian startups, MSMEs
India just rolled out its Defense Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025, and it's a big deal for anyone interested in tech, startups, or national security.
This new rulebook, which controls about ₹1 lakh crore in defense buys every year, is all about boosting homegrown innovation and making it easier for private players and universities to team up with the defense sector.
The goal? Smarter, faster, and more modern defense gear.
What's new in DPM 2025?
DPM 2025 scraps the old No Objection Certificate rule, so private companies can now compete directly with public sector giants—no extra hoops.
There's also a fresh focus on in-house design and working with startups and universities, plus suppliers can receive assured orders for up to five years, with the possibility of extension to 10 years in exceptional circumstances, which is huge for stability and planning.
The big picture: More contracts are staying in India
More defense contracts are staying in India, and programs like iDEX are helping startups and MSMEs get in on the action.
Companies like Bharat Electronics have doubled their order books, and private players are seeing real growth thanks to research and development.
The catch? Some supply chains still rely on imports, which can be risky—but overall, it's a big boost for anyone dreaming of building the next big thing in defense tech.