Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a compelling address at the Exercise Tarang Shakti event, showcasing the rapid advancement and indigenization of India’s defence sector. Singh emphasized the transformative journey under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which aims to boost self-reliance in defense production.
“Our Indian Air Force and Defence Sector are advancing at a fast pace with the concept of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’,” Singh stated. He underscored the significant strides made in strengthening the sector’s self-sufficiency. “Our Defence Sector has taken a strong step towards indigenization,” he added, highlighting the shift from reliance on imported arms and equipment to becoming a prominent exporter.
Singh reflected on the historical context, noting that India was once heavily dependent on importing military hardware. “Some time ago, India used to be an importer of arms and equipment, but today we are exporting arms and equipment to around 90 countries,” he remarked. This development represents a major milestone in the country’s defense capabilities and global standing.
The Defence Minister praised the evolution of India’s Air Force and defence sector, describing it as a “golden story” of progress and achievement. Singh’s remarks underscore the ongoing efforts to enhance domestic production and technological advancement in India’s defense industry, marking a new era of self-reliance and international engagement.
Exercise Tarang Shakti, a major defense exercise demonstrating the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force and other defense units, served as the backdrop for Singh’s address, highlighting the practical applications of the sector’s growth and indigenization efforts.
As India continues to bolster its defense capabilities, the focus on self-reliance and export expansion reflects a strategic shift towards a more robust and independent defense sector, with significant implications for national security and international defense relationships.