Secure borders, holistic development & transformed global image: India rising as one of the strongest countries under PM Modi's leadership: Rajnath Singh

NEW DELHI. From secure borders & self-reliance to a strong economy and transformed global image, India is rising as one of the strongest countries under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said while addressing the 'Rising India Conclave' organised by a private media organisation in New Delhi on March 30.

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He pointed out that all sectors, especially defence, have been witnessing a transformative change in the last few years, which has guided India to a respectable position on the world map.

The Defence Minister credited the bold approach and unwavering resolve of the Government, which has ensured secured borders and a battle-ready Armed Forces backed by a self-reliant defence industry. Terming national security as Government's top priority & self-reliance as the only medium to achieve it, he asserted that relentless efforts are being made to attain 'Aatmanirbharta' in defence.

He listed out some of the steps taken by Ministry of Defence, including notification of positive indigenisation lists; earmarking of record 75 per cent of defence capital procurement budget for domestic industry in Financial Year 2023-24 and efforts to provide local companies access to international market.

On the success achieved due to these decisions, the Defence Minister stated that the domestic defence production has witnessed a significant increase in the last few years. "We are not only catering our own needs, but are also exporting weapons & equipment to other countries.

From Rs. 900 crore 7-8 years ago, defence exports have skyrocketed and are nearing Rs. 14,000 crore in the current Financial Year. "Our target is export defence equipment worth Rs.40,000 crore by 2026," he said.

The Defence Minister also touched on the start-up-based innovation ecosystem created in the country. He stated that the Government's efforts have resulted in the creation of over 100 unicorns, which is testament to the success of this ecosystem.

Rajnath Singh lauded the Prime Minister's visionary leadership which has guided India to become the fifth-largest economy and transformed its global image to that of an agenda-setter.