NewzVille Desk
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stressed that robust economy forms the foundation of strong defence capabilities. Addressing the valedictory session of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Vadodara today, Singh expressed confidence that due to the strong presence in chemicals, electronics, shipbuilding and renewable energy sectors, Gujarat will soon emerge as a global hub for defence manufacturing.
Highlighting the country’s rapid progress towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, he said India’s domestic defence production, which stood at around 46,000 crore rupees in 2014, has increased significantly to ₹1.78 lakh crore at present.
He noted that Vadodara is now home to India’s first private-sector military aircraft manufacturing facility, where the Tata Group and Airbus are jointly manufacturing the C-295 transport aircraft, marking a historic milestone in the country’s aerospace journey.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced that MoUs worth 3.34 lakh crore were signed during the two-day Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit, which will lead to generate over 1.97 lakh job opportunities in the region in the coming days.
