What is Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP)?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The IGMDP aimed to achieve self-reliance in critical missile technologies for India's defense.
- 2.
It focused on developing five missile systems: Prithvi (surface-to-surface), Agni (ballistic missile), Trishul (surface-to-air, short range), Nag (anti-tank), and Akash (surface-to-air, medium range).
- 3.
The DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) was the primary agency responsible for implementing the IGMDP.
- 4.
The programme involved collaboration between various public and private sector companies for manufacturing and component supply.
- 5.
The Agni series of missiles are designed to be nuclear-capable, providing a strategic deterrent capability.
Visual Insights
IGMDP: Key Missiles and Objectives
Illustrates the key missiles developed under IGMDP and its objectives.
IGMDP
- ●Agni
- ●Prithvi
- ●Trishul
- ●Nag
- ●Akash
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Agni-3 Nuclear-Capable Ballistic Missile Successfully Test-Fired off Odisha Coast
Science & TechnologyUPSC Relevance
The IGMDP is important for the UPSC exam, especially for GS-3 (Science and Technology, Security). Questions can be asked about the programme's objectives, achievements, and impact on India's defense capabilities. It's relevant for both Prelims (factual questions about missiles) and Mains (analytical questions about self-reliance in defense).
In recent years, questions have focused on India's missile defense programme and its strategic implications. For example, a question might ask about the significance of IGMDP in enhancing India's nuclear deterrence. When answering, focus on the programme's contribution to self-reliance, technological advancements, and national security.
Frequently Asked Questions
61. What was the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) and what were its primary objectives?
The Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) was an Indian Ministry of Defence programme started in 1983 and concluded in 2008. Its main goal was to achieve self-sufficiency in missile technology for India's defense. The programme aimed to develop five missile systems: Agni, Prithvi, Trishul, Nag, and Akash.
Exam Tip
Remember the five missile systems developed under IGMDP: Agni, Prithvi, Trishul, Nag, and Akash. These are frequently asked in prelims.
2. What were the key provisions or focus areas of the IGMDP?
The IGMDP focused on several key areas to achieve self-reliance in missile technology. These include:
- •Achieving self-reliance in critical missile technologies for India's defense.
- •Developing five missile systems: Prithvi (surface-to-surface), Agni (ballistic missile), Trishul (surface-to-air, short range), Nag (anti-tank), and Akash (surface-to-air, medium range).
