NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the inauguration of the C-295 aircraft manufacturing complex in Vadodara as a transformative milestone for India’s defence and aerospace sectors. The facility, developed through a collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus, represents the first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft in India.
During the inauguratio on Monday, which was attended by Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, PM Modi emphasized the rapid progress of the project. In a LinkedIn post on Wednesday, he remarked, “The speed of execution is breathtaking— from foundation stone to operational facility in just two years! This is a clear manifestation of a new work culture and the capabilities of the people of India.”
PM Modi provided a snapshot of the booming defence industry, highlighting that defence production surged to Rs 1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, and exports rose dramatically from Rs 1,000 crore in 2014 to Rs 21,000 crore this year. He noted the indigenization of over 12,300 items within three years and mentioned an investment of over Rs 7,500 crore in domestic vendors by Defence Public Sector Undertakings.
The Prime Minister outlined the comprehensive transformation of India’s defence ecosystem, saying, “Our complete defence ecosystem is being transformed with indigenous warships patrolling our waters, made-in-India missiles strengthening our deterrence, and domestically produced bulletproof jackets protecting our soldiers.” He reiterated India’s commitment to becoming self-reliant in defence while striving to emerge as a leading manufacturer of defence equipment on the global stage.
PM Modi attributed this progress to the skills of the “Yuva Shakti” (youth power) and the initiatives of his government, which have contributed to reduced import dependency, job creation in the defence manufacturing sector, and skill development for the youth. He encouraged startups, manufacturers, and innovators to seize opportunities in India’s defence sector, stating, “This is your moment to be part of history. India needs your expertise and enthusiasm. The doors are open for innovation, the policies are supportive, and the opportunity is unprecedented.”
In closing, he urged collective efforts to fortify India’s position as a self-reliant nation, declaring, “Together, let’s build a stronger, self-reliant Bharat!”