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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the inauguration of the C-295 aircraft manufacturing complex in Vadodara as a pivotal moment in India's defense and aerospace landscape. The facility, a joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus, signifies a landmark achievement – marking the first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft in India. The project, completed within two years, embodies a new work culture and showcases the capabilities of India's workforce, as highlighted by PM Modi in a LinkedIn post.
The event, graced by the presence of Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, underscores the strategic partnership between India and Spain in the defense sector. PM Modi highlighted the booming Indian defense industry, noting that production surged to Rs 1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, with exports reaching Rs 21,000 crore, a significant increase from Rs 1,000 crore in 2014. This growth is attributed to the government's focus on indigenization, with over 12,300 defense items now manufactured domestically and an investment exceeding Rs 7,500 crore in domestic vendors by Defence Public Sector Undertakings.
The establishment of the Vadodara facility is a testament to India's comprehensive transformation in its defense ecosystem. PM Modi emphasizes the nation's progress towards self-reliance, with domestically produced warships patrolling its waters, indigenous missiles strengthening its deterrence, and domestically manufactured bulletproof jackets safeguarding its soldiers. The government's vision extends beyond self-sufficiency; it aims to establish India as a global leader in defense equipment manufacturing. This ambition hinges on the skills and potential of India's youth, who are driving innovation and propelling the defense sector forward.
PM Modi encourages startups, manufacturers, and innovators to seize the vast opportunities presented by India's defense sector. With supportive policies and unprecedented opportunities, he urges them to contribute their expertise and enthusiasm to India's defense modernization journey. He emphasizes the need for collective effort to strengthen India's position as a self-reliant nation, echoing his rallying cry, “Together, let's build a stronger, self-reliant Bharat!”