Pokhran: Prime Minister Narendra Modi observed a spectacular display of indigenous defence capabilities in a Tri-Services Live Fire and Manoeuvre Exercise titled ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Pokhran today. The event showcased a variety of indigenous weapon systems and platforms, symbolizing India’s strength and self-reliance under the Aatmanirbharata initiative.
Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister hailed the demonstration as a testament to the spirit of the new India. He remarked, “Today, Pokhran once again witnesses the triveni of India’s Aatmnirbharta, self-confidence, and glory.” Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of Pokhran, a site associated with India’s nuclear test, as now showcasing the power of indigenous strength.
Referring to the recent test firing of the long-range AGNI missile with advanced MIRV technology, the Prime Minister highlighted the cutting-edge capabilities achieved in defence technology. He noted that only a few countries globally possess such advanced technology, marking another milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence.
“The idea of Viksit Bharat is unimaginable without Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” Prime Minister Modi asserted, stressing the need to reduce dependence on other nations. He underscored that India’s emphasis on self-reliance spans from edible oils to fighter jets, showcasing a comprehensive approach to Aatmanirbharta. The Prime Minister lauded India’s achievements in the defence sector, including tanks, cannons, fighter jets, helicopters, and missile systems, all reflecting the nation’s strength.
Enumerating the steps taken for achieving self-reliance in defence, Prime Minister Modi mentioned policy reforms, the involvement of the private sector, and encouragement of MSME startups. He highlighted the establishment of defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, with a significant investment of Rs 7000 crore. The Prime Minister commended the Chiefs of all three forces for their support in creating lists of non-imported items and promoting Indian ecosystems.
Expressing satisfaction over the increase in indigenous procurement, Prime Minister Modi revealed that equipment worth Rs 6 lakh crore has been procured from Indian companies in the last decade. The defence production of the country has doubled to more than Rs 1 lakh crore during this period, with over 150 defence startups receiving orders worth Rs 1800 crore.
“Aatmanirbharta in India’s defence is the guarantee of self-confidence in the armed forces,” declared PM Modi, highlighting the increased energy when using indigenously made weapons during wars. He cited the production of India’s own fighter jets, aircraft carriers, C295 transport aircraft, and advanced flight engines in the last decade.
Referring to the recent Cabinet decision to design, develop, and manufacture 5th generation fighter jets in India, the Prime Minister envisioned the growth of the defence sector, generating numerous employment and self-employment opportunities.
Prime Minister Modi recounted the transformation in India’s defence sector since 2014, moving from being the largest defence importer to a defence exporter with an eight-fold increase in defence exports. He highlighted the corporatization of ordnance factories, revitalization of HAL, and the establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff, War Memorial, and border infrastructure.
Proudly mentioning the implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP), the Prime Minister noted that 1.75 lakh defence personnel from Rajasthan have received benefits amounting to Rs 5,000 crores under OROP.
Emphasizing the link between the strength of the armed forces and the economic muscle of the nation, PM Modi envisioned a future where India, as the third-largest economy globally, would attain new heights in defence prowess. He acknowledged the role of Rajasthan in this process, stating, “Viksit Rajasthan will give strength to Viksit Sena.”