India’s defense imports have reduced by around 21% in a short period of time, over the past four to five years, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Naval Innovation and Indigenization Organization (NIIO) seminar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Monday that in the last four to five years, India’s defense imports have reduced by nearly 21 percent. He added that India is rapidly transitioning from the world’s largest defense importer to a major exporter.
“Our defense exports have increased seven times in the last eight years. Very recently, our countrymen were filled with pride when they came to know that last year, we had achieved defense exports worth ₹13,000 crore and of this 70% was from the private sector” said PM Modi during the ‘Swavlamban’ seminar at NIIO.
The Emergence of new defense technologies in India
Mr. Modi introduced ‘SPRINT Challenges‘ aiming at the creation of 75 indigenous technologies/products for incorporation into the Navy by the private sector. He also observed the demonstration of the nation’s first electric drone capable of transporting a human passenger. Nikunj Parashar, founder and CEO of Sagar Defense, which created the drone, said that it can be used in medical emergencies to deliver patients rapidly to hospitals and in agriculture for logistics support.
Mr. Modi said that the Indian military’s self-reliance is crucial in the 21st century. Learning from past decades, we are establishing a new defense ecosystem with everyone ‘s combined efforts, he said, adding that defense R&D has been extended to the private sector, academia, MSME, and start-ups.
Mr. Modi said the scope of national security concerns has expanded to space, internet, economic, and social space. As India establishes itself on the world stage, misinformation and disinformation are ongoing attacks. Mr. Modi stated that “Forces hurting India’s interests, whether in the country or outside, must be thwarted.”
Defense Secretary Ajay Kumar said the country is developing a marine diesel engine that will power navy ships when ready, he said. Till now the country has been importing these engines, but soon India will be capable of producing them by itself. “We’re also making heavyweight helicopters of 10 tons and above to fulfil all three services’ needs,” Mr. Kumar said. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is designing a Multi-Role Helicopter to replace Mi-17s.
Several enterprises and start-ups also showcased products in advanced stages of development with the support of the Defense Ministry and Navy exhibited at the seminar.
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