Biggest defence importer for decades now exports to 75 countries: PM Modi hails 'Make in India' strength at Aero India - The Free Media

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that India, which had been the world’s largest importer of defence equipment for decades, now exports it to 75 countries.

“New India of the 21st century will now neither lose any opportunity nor lag behind in hard work. We’re prepared. On the reform path, we are bringing a revolution in every sector. “The country that was the largest importer of defence equipment for decades is now exporting defence equipment to 75 countries,” said PM Modi at the Aero India 2023 event.

PM Modi stated that the India of the twenty-first century will not miss out on any opportunity and will not be afraid to work hard to achieve its goals.

“Tejas fighter planes, indigenously developed INS Vikrant as well as the Helicopter factory in Tumakuru are examples of Make In India’s strength. “India of the twenty-first century will not miss out on any opportunity, nor will it be afraid to work hard to achieve its dreams,” he said after inaugurating the five-day show in Bengaluru.

PM Modi also emphasised that India has emerged as a potential partner for nations that are far ahead of it in the defence sector.

“Today, India is more than just a global market for defence companies. India is now a potential defence partner. This partnership is even with nations that are far ahead in the defence sector, nations that are looking for a dependable partner for their defence requirements,” said PM Modi.

PM Modi stated that the Aero India event has evolved to reflect India’s strength, with a focus on the country’s defence sector.

“There was a time when Aero India was regarded as a window of defence show in India. “Over the years, this event has evolved as a reflection of India’s strength, with a focus on India’s defence sector,” Prime Minister Modi said.

“India of ‘Amritkal’ is moving forward like a fighter pilot, who is not afraid of touching heights. Who wants to fly high? “Today’s India thinks quickly, far, and decisively,” he continued.

He stated that his goal is to increase defence exports to $5 billion by 2024-25.

“In the last 8-9 years, India’s defence sector has been revitalised.We simply believe that this is only the beginning. We intend to increase defence exports to $5 billion by 2024-25. “India will now move quickly to join the defense-producing countries,” said Prime Minister Modi.

“Defence minister’s conclave and CEO roundtable is also being organised in parallel with this year’s show. It will contribute to improving the capabilities of the Aero India show in collaboration with friendly nations,” he added.

He also encouraged young people to use their technological skills in the country’s defence sector.

“I appeal the youth, use your expertise in the field of technology, use it for empowering the country’s defence sector and open new innovations. “Today, the world sees India not just as a defence market, but also as a potential defence partner,” PM Modi added.

MSMEs and start-ups from India will exhibit the advancement of niche technologies as well as the country’s growth in aerospace and defence capabilities.

Airbus, Boeing, Dassault Aviation, Lockheed Martin, Israel Aerospace Industry, BrahMos Aerospace, Army Aviation, HC Robotics, SAAB, Safran, Rolls Royce, Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and BEML Limited are among the major exhibitors at Aero India 2023.