India’s domestic defence production has surged to a record Rs 1.5 lakh crore from Rs 46,000 crore in 2014, as stated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He expressed confidence that this figure would further rise to Rs 1.75 lakh crore in the coming months. The minister made these remarks during the foundation laying ceremony of various defence projects in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh.
Rajnath Singh highlighted that India’s defence exports have seen significant growth, reaching Rs 38,424 crore from less than Rs 1,000 crore before 2014. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in the defence sector, he stated that the goal is to ensure all forces are well-equipped and competitive. Singh also commended the collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing defence manufacturing.
The Defence Minister praised the Public-Private Partnership model adopted by the country, transforming defence production into a people’s movement. He noted the positive impact of this approach in Andhra Pradesh, where projects like the establishment of a ‘Drone City’ in Kurnool are underway. Singh also mentioned the foundation stone laying for key projects, including the Core Integration and Flight Testing Centre for the Fifth Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.
