New Delhi: The government is developing a robust domestic defence industrial ecosystem to position India as a strategic economy, said Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh. During the 21st convocation ceremony of Tezpur University on December 31, 2023, in Tezpur, he emphasized the ministry’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in the defense sector.
Rajnath Singh highlighted various steps taken by the Ministry of Defence to attain Aatmnirbharta in defense. He emphasized that, for the first time, the import of arms was restricted. “We have issued five positive indigenization lists, identifying 509 defense equipment for indigenous manufacturing. Additionally, four positive indigenization lists for Defence Public Sector Undertakings have been issued, covering 4,666 items to be manufactured domestically,” stated Raksha Mantri.
Underlining the government’s focus on domestic defense manufacturing, he pointed out that production had exceeded Rs. One Lakh Crore for the first time. He mentioned, “India’s defense exports, which were Rs 1,521 crore in 2016-17, have increased nearly tenfold, reaching a record Rs 15,920 crore in 2022-23.”
Rajnath Singh elaborated on the proactive approach of the present government in addressing any situation, replacing the crisis of credibility with a culture of confidence. He stated, “India no longer tolerates a ‘let-it-be’ approach. Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the new India believes in a ‘let’s-do-it’ approach.”
Regarding women empowerment, Rajnath Singh stated that steps have been taken to ensure proper representation of women in all sectors, including the military. He emphasized, “Today, women are walking shoulder to shoulder with men in every field in the country, from fighter planes to Chandrayan.”
Underscoring the significant role of youth in making the country Viksit Bharat, Raksha Mantri expressed that the idea of making India an economic and military superpower is based on confidence in the capabilities of talented youth. “To empower the youth and enhance their capabilities, our government has promoted a start-up culture and innovation ecosystem,” he added.
Referring to the start-up culture initiated by the Ministry in the Defence Industrial Sector, Rajnath Singh mentioned that Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has been successfully promoting innovative ideas since its inception. He concluded by stating, “Because of the various efforts by the Government to promote entrepreneurship among youth, today there are over one lakh start-ups in the country.”