Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, in an address at a Defence Summit in New Delhi, emphasized the significant strides taken by the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership to strengthen the country's defence apparatus.
The event, organized by a private media organization on March 07, 2024, shed light on the revolutionary changes being implemented to bolster India's defence capabilities and promote a sense of Indianness in its defence policies.
Central to the discourse was the promotion of 'Aatmanirbharta' or self-reliance in defence manufacturing, a cornerstone of the government's agenda. Rajnath Singh highlighted various initiatives aimed at achieving this goal, including the establishment of Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh & Tamil Nadu, positive indigenization lists, and reserving 75% of the capital procurement budget for domestic industries.
These efforts have already borne fruit, with annual defence production surpassing Rs 1.10 lakh crore and defence exports reaching Rs 16,000 crore. The Defence Minister underscored the government's commitment to empowering the private sector and fostering innovation among the youth.
He emphasized the importance of technology innovation over imitation, positioning India as a technology creator rather than a follower. This shift in mindset, according to Shri Rajnath Singh, is crucial for shedding the colonial mentality and instilling pride in India's national heritage.
Moreover, the government's efforts extend beyond technological advancements to encompass holistic welfare measures for serving and retired personnel of the Armed Forces.
Initiatives such as the National War Memorial and the implementation of the One Rank One Pension scheme reflect the government's dedication to honoring the sacrifices of the armed forces and their families.
The Defence Minister's address resonated with a vision of a strong and self-reliant India, equipped to defend its interests on the global stage. It emphasized the need for a harmonious blend of military power and spiritual values, rooted in India's rich cultural heritage.
Through transformative policies and a renewed sense of national pride, India is poised to emerge as a formidable force in the realm of defence and security. As the nation marches forward on its journey towards self-reliance and resilience, the leadership of Shri Rajnath Singh continues to steer India's defence sector towards new horizons, setting the stage for a prosperous and secure future.
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