Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared India’s strides towards self-reliance in safeguarding national interests by reducing dependence on critical imports. Emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency in today’s geopolitical scenario, Singh inaugurated the 10,000-Tons Aluminium Extrusion Press at Ordnance Factory Ambajhari in Nagpur. This move signifies a significant shift from import reliance to robust domestic production.
Singh highlighted India’s financial achievements, revealing a surge in defence production to Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025-26 from Rs 46,000 crore in 2014. Additionally, defence exports soared to a record Rs 38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, a substantial increase from less than Rs 1,000 crore in 2014. The minister projected India’s readiness to surpass future targets of Rs 3 lakh crore in defence production and Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports ahead of schedule.
Acknowledging the sector’s structural reforms, Singh commended the corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board into Defence Public Sector Undertakings. This transformation led to a remarkable growth in production and exports, with YIL contributing significantly. Stressing the importance of conventional hardware, Singh affirmed its relevance in modern warfare scenarios and future strategic planning up to 2047.
The proposed 10,000-Tons Aluminium Extrusion Press is poised to become a cutting-edge facility in India, manufacturing advanced aluminium alloy profiles for various critical applications. This initiative aligns with the vision of self-reliant and developed India, fostering collaborations between DPSUs and the private sector. The project positions Nagpur as a key hub for indigenous defence manufacturing, driving the nation towards self-sufficiency.
