Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the extensive partnership between India and France, emphasizing the boundless nature of their collaboration. He commended the strategic alliance between the two countries, stating that India and France are trusted partners. Singh lauded the joint efforts of Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus Helicopters in inaugurating the final assembly line of H125 helicopters, underscoring the commitment to enhancing their cooperation in advanced manufacturing.
Singh reiterated the significance of initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat in India’s economic strategy, aiming for self-reliance in critical technologies through mutually beneficial associations. He emphasized the country’s focus on industrial growth through infrastructure projects, capital investments, and schemes like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Singh also highlighted the support provided to micro, small, and medium enterprises, along with efforts to bolster the startup ecosystem to meet both domestic and global demands.
As the Defence Minister, Singh outlined measures to boost private sector involvement in the defense industry, noting the shift towards a more diversified production landscape. He mentioned reforms such as corporatization of ordnance factories and the establishment of defense industrial corridors, which have increased the private sector’s contribution to around a quarter of India’s overall defense output. Singh pointed out the substantial growth in India’s defense exports, positioning the country as a key global exporter, benefiting MSMEs and auxiliary sectors.
Singh projected an investment exceeding Rs 1,000 crore in the H125 program, foreseeing a rise in employment opportunities for skilled professionals. He praised the H125 helicopter for its reliability and versatility, highlighting its effectiveness in various conditions, making it a trusted choice globally. Singh expressed gratitude to Airbus France and the French Defence Minister for their collaboration and support.
