Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to inaugurate a significant ammunition manufacturing facility in Shirdi, Maharashtra on Saturday. The facility, part of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, will boost India’s indigenous Defence production capabilities. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will oversee the inauguration at the Savali Vihir Industrial Estate in Ahilyanagar district.
Built with an investment of around Rs 1,000 crore, the artillery shell manufacturing unit spans 200 acres. It is poised to become one of India’s largest private-sector artillery shell manufacturing plants. Using indigenous technology and materials, the facility can produce up to five lakh 155 mm artillery shells annually.
The completion of the project within a year is a significant milestone for India’s Defence manufacturing ecosystem. Besides artillery shells, the complex will host production units for various Defence equipment like rocket launchers, drones, and electronic testing systems. This development is expected to create about 2,000 employment opportunities, benefiting local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and boosting the regional economy.
The ammunition manufacturing facility aims not only to meet domestic Defence needs but also to facilitate Defence equipment exports to other nations. This aligns with India’s ambition to establish itself as a global Defence manufacturing hub. The project is anticipated to position Ahilyanagar district as a key centre for Defence manufacturing in the country.
Another significant ordnance manufacturing project is underway at Belwandi in Shrigonda taluka, covering 600 acres with an estimated investment of Rs 2,000 crore. Focused on producing explosives like TNT, RDX, and HMX, the facility is projected to have an annual capacity of 20,000 tonnes of TNT, making it a major player in explosive manufacturing.
Upon full operation of both projects, nearly 4,000 to 5,000 job opportunities are expected to be created in the region. To mark the inauguration, a two-day Defence exhibition will be held in Shirdi on May 23 and 24, showcasing advancements in Defence manufacturing and technology. This initiative is in line with the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ ‘Make in India,’ and ‘Make for the World’ initiatives, aiming to enhance India’s self-reliance in Defence production and expand global military exports.
