Rajnath Singh at Aero India: Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing is Now Essential
Rajnath Singh at Aero India: The 15th edition of Asia’s largest aero show, Aero India, kicked off at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. Inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the event showcases India’s air power alongside advanced foreign fighter aircraft. The show runs from February 10–14, with a focus on domestic defence manufacturing and innovation.
Rajnath Singh’s Call for Defence Self-Reliance
Speaking at the CEO Roundtable during Aero India, Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of self-reliance in defence production. “In today’s rapidly changing warfare environment, self-reliance is not just a strategic choice but a necessity,” he said. Singh emphasized that the defence manufacturing sector is poised to become a pillar of India’s economy.
Changing Nature of Warfare
Rajnath Singh noted that modern conflicts increasingly rely on integrated systems of manned, unmanned, and autonomous platforms. Drones, for instance, have played pivotal roles in recent conflicts, underscoring the need for advanced manufacturing capabilities. He urged industry leaders to focus on innovative solutions, including software-driven systems that are replacing traditional hardware-based models.
Opportunities in the Indian Defence Ecosystem
During his address, Singh encouraged CEOs and industry leaders to seize the opportunities offered by India’s growing defence ecosystem. India’s policies on self-reliance, supported by a favourable regulatory environment, are creating new avenues for investment and innovation in defence production. Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding the domestic defence manufacturing base and invited global players to partner with Indian companies.
Aero India Highlights
Aero India’s first three days are reserved for industry professionals, while February 13–14 will be open to the general public. The event features a range of activities including seminars, aerial displays, and an exhibition of aerospace technologies. Highlights include the India Pavilion, showcasing domestic innovations, and the IDEX program, promoting indigenous defence capabilities.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s address at Aero India underscored the growing importance of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. As the nature of warfare evolves, India is stepping up its efforts to become a leader in advanced defence technology, fostering both economic growth and national security.
