Indian Defence Sector: The 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s top aerospace and defense exhibition, began at Air Force Station Yelahanka. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the event and highlighted India’s growing defense sector. He described it as a major force driving the country’s economy and showing India’s technological progress to the world.
During his speech, Singh called Aero India the “Kumbh of research,” emphasizing its role in bringing together experts and innovations in defense technology. He stated that this event not only showcases India’s industrial strength but also helps strengthen ties with friendly nations.
India’s Growing Defense Sector
Singh spoke about India’s journey from a developing country to a developed one. He talked about how the defense sector, once considered a smaller part of the economy, is now one of its key drivers. “Today, our defense industry is a powerful engine pushing India’s economic growth,” he said.
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To support this vision, the government has allocated a record ₹6.81 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence in the Union Budget for 2025-26. Out of this, ₹1.80 lakh crore will go towards purchasing new equipment. The government is also prioritizing local manufacturing, with 75% of the modernization budget set aside for Indian companies. This move aims to strengthen India’s defense industry and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
According to Tribune India, Rajnath singh emphasized the importance of private companies in India’s defense sector. He pointed out that private businesses have the ability and drive to take India’s defense production to new heights. “India’s private sector must step up and become equal partners in defense manufacturing, just as they are in advanced countries,” he said.
He highlighted the Tata-Airbus partnership, which is building C-295 transport aircraft in Gujarat, as a perfect example of successful public-private cooperation. He also noted that India is now a preferred location for making aerospace components and assembling complex systems, with both government and private industries playing key roles.
Indian Defence Sector: Success in Indigenous Technology
Singh praised India’s recent defense achievements, including the development of advanced weapons like the Astra Missile, the New Generation Akash Missile, and the Pinaka Guided Rocket. He expressed confidence that India would surpass ₹1.27 lakh crore in defense production and ₹21,000 crore in exports. The goal is to reach ₹1.60 lakh crore in defense production and ₹30,000 crore in exports by the end of 2025-26.
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Over the next five days, Aero India will display India’s air power and locally developed technologies alongside the latest products from global aerospace companies. The event aligns with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) and ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ missions. It aims to boost international partnerships and speed up local manufacturing in defense.
Singh confirmed the government’s goal of making India a fully developed nation by 2047. He described Aero India as more than just an exhibition; it represents India’s ambition to build a strong and independent defense sector. “Aero India reflects our vision for a self-reliant and powerful India,” he said.
