Born in the era of Nehruvian socialism, IDRA gave the Central government sweeping control over production, expansion, and licensing of industries. From steel to cement, chemicals to textiles, nothing moved without Delhi’s nod. The vision? Balanced growth, public interest, and state-led development. For a while, it worked. India built public sector giants and shaped a mixed economy. But by the 1970s and 80s, cracks began to show. Red tape turned into a noose. Efficiency gave way to delays, corruption, and a thriving black market. Entrepreneurs navigated a maze of permissions, while potential industrial titans were stuck with clipped wings. Then came 1991. Liberalisation changed the game but IDRA never fully went away. Instead, its role was reimagined: less gatekeeper, more guardian especially in sensitive sectors like defense and hazardous industries. Even today, IDRA stands tall, amended, adapted, and digitised in 2023. But is it still fit for purpose? Or is it a relic of a bygone era? Join us as we trace the fascinating journey of IDRA—from the commanding heights of the economy to cooperative, competitive growth. Along the way, we ask tough questions about regulation vs. freedom, control vs. innovation, and what India truly needs to stay industrially agile in the 21st century. Was IDRA India’s industrial handbrake or its highway to self-reliance? Let’s find out.