Colonel (retired) JK Singh, an Army veteran from Jharkhand and former officer with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has submitted a report identifying Jharkhand as a potential hub for defence manufacturing. The report was formally handed over to Union minister of state for defence and Ranchi MP Sanjay Seth on 5th September 2025.
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Ranchi and Dhanbad are Suitable for Drome Manufacturing
Based on an assessment of mineral resources, industrial base, connectivity, and labour costs, Singh suggested at least seven types of defence components that can be set up in the state. He recommended an armour plate foundry in the Jamshedpur–Chaibasa belt, ammunition and shell casing units in Adityapur, and electronic and insulation plants in the mica-rich Koderma–Giridih belt. He also pointed to Ranchi and Dhanbad as suitable centres for drone manufacturing, backed by the availability of aluminium, copper, and graphite.
The report emphasises that while mining has driven Jharkhand’s economy, mineral reserves will not last forever. Diversifying into industries such as precision machining for artillery components and battery and electronics production could create a sustainable industrial ecosystem. Singh highlighted that Jharkhand’s existing steel plants, resource base, and proximity to eastern defence establishments make it a good place for defence related manufacturing.
Local Enterprises Participate in East Tech 2025
To encourage participation of local enterprises, the Army will host “East Tech-2025” in Ranchi from 19th to 21st September 2025. The event aims to showcase defence manufacturing opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. Singh said the initiative could help position Jharkhand as an emerging center for indigenous defence production.
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