India’s ordnance manufacturing sector observes Ordnance Factories Day annually on March 18, recognizing the history and role of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in defence production. The day marks the establishment of the Cossipore Ordnance Factory, the oldest in the country, which was set up in 1787.
The origins of India’s ordnance manufacturing date back to 1775, when the British East India Company formed the Board of Ordnance at Fort William, Kolkata. Over time, multiple facilities were established, including a gunpowder production unit in Ishapore. Post-independence, these facilities were taken over by the Indian government.
The OFB oversees 41 factories across five operational divisions, producing a range of equipment for land, sea, and air defence applications. These manufacturing units supply arms, ammunition, and related components to the Indian Armed Forces.
As part of the annual observance, ordnance factories conduct exhibitions displaying weapons, artillery, and ammunition, along with parades and award ceremonies. The event highlights the sector’s manufacturing capabilities and contributions to defence production.
In 2024, 62 industrial accidents were reported across India’s 41 ordnance factories, according to government data presented in Parliament. The number of incidents had been higher in previous years, with 75 accidents in 2023 and 83 in 2022. The Ministry of Defence stated that safety audits and reviews are conducted regularly, and compensation is provided to affected workers under existing policies.