All posts by webadmin

Cutting down on imports a big challenge

Editorial

IT’s intriguing that India continues to be the world’s biggest arms importer despite the Modi government’s consistent emphasis on self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) and indigenous production in the defence sector. In his address at the ongoing Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the evolving global security scenario demanded innovative approaches and stronger partnerships. But is greater strategic collaboration helping India become a global powerhouse of defence research, development and innovation? Or is it making the country more dependent on foreign manufacturers? These questions need to be addressed with an open mind by the Centre as well as the top brass of the defence forces.

The government’s resolve to cut down on arms imports and boost exports is being put to the test by US President Donald Trump. He is insistent that India should buy more US-made security equipment. Trump, who is set to host Prime Minister Modi, wants a ‘fair’ trading relationship with New Delhi. And he has made no bones about his zealousness to introduce new tariffs on steel and aluminium imports into the US, a move that could hit many Indian companies. India, which is keen on co-production of Stryker combat vehicles and fighter jet engines, needs to ensure that such deals are not skewed in favour of the US.

Russia’s preoccupation with the Ukraine war has prompted India to rely less on its traditional defence partner and focus more on acquisitions from Western nations in a bid to diversify supplies. Transfer of technology is a prerequisite for bolstering domestic production in the long run, but some Western firms have shown reluctance on this count. The Defence Minister has asserted that India does not believe in transactional relationships or imposing solutions. However, the same cannot be said with confidence about the country’s top partners. New Delhi must judiciously prioritise its strategic interests, striking a balance between indigenous capacity-building and its ‘Make for the world’ aspirations.

With no major terror activity in Jammu region for past sometime, the security forces are keeping a close eye on the Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and terror associates to know if the terrorists were plotting a new strategy, specifically in…

Arjun Sharma Our Correspondent

With no major terror activity in Jammu region for past sometime, the security forces are keeping a close eye on the Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and terror associates to know if the terrorists were plotting a new strategy, specifically in the upper reaches of the division.

Police officials in terror-affected districts of the region have been asked to remain vigilant and act against any OGW present in their respective areas. The police have also started action against SIM card dealers who sell new connection without proper authentication.

Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, Lt General Navin Sachdeva, held separate security and operational review in different areas of Jammu region on Monday.

Jammu IGP Bhim Sen Tuti reviewed operational preparedness of the Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban range during his first high-level review meeting after assuming the charge. Senior officials from these districts and other areas were present during the meeting.

At the meeting, the IGP assessed the security situation, operational readiness and response mechanisms in the region. The focus was on ensuring effective coordination between various security agencies and police forces deployed in the area to maintain law and order, as well as to combat potential security threats.

“A detailed review of the strategic deployment of forces across Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban districts was conducted. Emphasis was placed on countering emerging security challenges, improving surveillance and enhancing coordination between field forces and the intelligence network. The IGP also discussed strengthening the logistics support, patrolling and preventive measures to thwart any potential incidents,” an official said.

The IGP also highlighted the need for continuous engagement with local communities, particularly in areas with difficult terrain, to foster cooperation and build trust. Ensuring the welfare of officers deployed in these areas, particularly in remote and challenging locations, was also stressed as a priority.

Doda and Kishtwar have witnessed many attacks by Pakistani terrorists last year in which many security forces personnel were killed. Some terrorists were also shot dead in these areas.

Meanwhile, GOC Lt General Navin Sachdeva along with other senior Army officers visited the Rajouri sector for an operational update on the prevailing security situation and the hostile activities. He asked the troops to remain prepared for all contingencies.

There have been reports of activities on the other side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri during recent times. Reports also suggested that firing from other side on Indian troops took place multiple times during the recent days.

Amid a thick blanket of snow and temperatures dropping below -5 degrees Celsius, Army personnel are conducting patrolling operations in the upper reaches of Doda district, ensuring the region’s security, officials said on Monday. The region has witnessed multiple terrorist…

Amid a thick blanket of snow and temperatures dropping below -5 degrees Celsius, Army personnel are conducting patrolling operations in the upper reaches of Doda district, ensuring the region’s security, officials said on Monday.

The region has witnessed multiple terrorist attacks in the past. The Army’s vigilant presence has been instrumental in monitoring and preventing terrorist activities, ensuring the safety of the local population.

In response to past militant attacks, security forces have intensified surveillance, adopting a proactive approach to locate and neutralize foreign terrorists. The Army’s counter-terrorism operations in Doda have yielded positive results, further reinforcing security in the region.

On Sunday, the Doda Police conducted a mock drill to enhance emergency preparedness and security.

Additional Superintendent of Police (SP), Doda, Shakeel Raheem Bhatt said the district was divided into three zones to assess police preparedness in handling emergencies. “We had divided Doda into three zones to conduct mock drills and check our preparedness to deal with emergencies,” Bhatt said.

He expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the public, shopkeepers and tourists, assuring them that there was no need to panic

India must transform its information operations to counter Pakistan’s propaganda effectively.

Lt Gen Dushyant Singh retd

On a winding stretch of the Jammu-Srinagar highway, a convoy of 78 vehicles carrying 2,500 CRPF personnel was making its way to Srinagar on February 14, 2019. Among them were 40 bravehearts of the 76th CRPF Battalion. Unnoticed by the troops, a Mahindra Scorpio packed with 200 kg of explosives, driven by 22-year-old Adil Ahmad Dar — a suicide bomber from the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) — rammed into one of the buses. The explosion killed 40 soldiers, marking one of the deadliest attacks on Indian security forces in decades.

This was not the first time that India faced such brutality. The 2016 Pathankot airbase attack, the 2018 Uri terror strike and the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks were all grim reminders of Pakistan’s proxy war against India.

However, Pulwama became the inflection point that tested India’s strategic patience. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement after the attack reflected the nation’s resolve: “Security forces have been given full freedom to choose the time and place for the future course of action. Terrorists have made a big mistake and will pay a heavy price.”

The Pulwama attack forced India to rethink its counterterrorism strategy. For decades, Pakistan had waged a proxy war, bleeding India with “a thousand cuts.”

While diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan globally were initiated, the national leadership, including the military, believed a stronger response was necessary. The challenge was to act decisively despite the nuclear dynamics between the two nations.

India had to move beyond reactive approaches, overcoming bureaucratic inertia, intelligence gaps and predictable military response.

Addressing the root causes of radicalisation in Jammu and Kashmir and transforming governance in the region became critical.

The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in August 2019 was a watershed moment. It revoked J&K’s special status, extended the jurisdiction of Central agencies, and allowed them to target terror funding, money-laundering and other activities that fuelled terrorism. The state was also bifurcated into two union territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh — further integrating the region with the rest of the country.

India’s desire for a proactive counterterrorism strategy has often been hindered by several barriers.

First, geopolitical constraints, including Pakistan’s alleged support for militant groups and the nuclear deterrence dynamics, have historically limited India’s options.

Second, intelligence gaps — due to inadequate human intelligence, poor coordination and technological limitations — have made pre-empting attacks difficult.

Third, legal and institutional hurdles, such as delays in implementing counterterrorism laws and reforms, have slowed progress. For instance, the proposal for a National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) after the 26/11 attacks remains stuck in bureaucratic red-tape.

Finally, anti-India propaganda fuelled by Pakistan and supported by internal actors, like the Hurriyat Conference, and overground workers has complicated efforts to balance public demand for swift retaliation with long-term strategic goals.

Post 2014, India began to adopt a more assertive approach. Surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) in 2016 and 2019 demonstrated India’s willingness to use military force.

Diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan and designate terrorists gained momentum.

However, Pulwama demanded an even stronger response.

On February 26, 2019, the Indian Air Force conducted airstrikes on a JeM training camp in Balakot, Pakistan. This marked the first use of air power against Pakistan since 1971 and signalled a significant shift in India’s strategy.

The strikes, which killed hundreds of terrorists, effectively called Pakistan’s nuclear bluff and raised the threshold for India’s response to terrorism.

Pakistan retaliated with airstrikes on Indian military targets, leading to a dogfight in which India lost a MiG-21 Bison and its pilot. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured, but not before he had shot down a much superior aircraft in terms of capability, the F-16 of the Pakistani Air Force.

However, combined pressure from India and the international community forced Pakistan to release him.

While India achieved strategic surprise and deterred Pakistan from major terror attacks since Pulwama, the operation also highlighted the need for better perception management.

India must transform its information operations to counter Pakistan’s propaganda effectively.

Despite moving down the global terrorism index, India’s challenges are far from over. With two hostile neighbours who act in a collusive manner against India and the evolving terror tactics, the threat persists. Groups like the LeT and the JeM have rebranded as “The Resistance Front”, while lone-wolf attacks, fuelled by social media radicalisation, are on the rise.

To counter these threats, India must invest in advanced intelligence technologies, improve inter-agency coordination and strengthen regional cooperation with countries like Afghanistan and Central Asian states. Hard power options, including punitive actions akin to those taken by Israel or the US, must remain on the table.

At the same time, India must balance counterterrorism measures with respect for human rights and civil liberties.

The Pulwama attack was a turning point in India’s fight against terrorism. It shattered old mindsets and forced India to adopt a more proactive and multi-dimensional approach. The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, the Balakot airstrikes, and the integration of J&K into the Union Territory framework, were bold steps that redefined India’s counterterrorism strategy.

While significant progress has been made, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. India’s ability to adapt, innovate and respond decisively will determine its success in securing its future from the menace of terrorism.

                 I Cannot express my experience and explained rather a surprised ,flabbergasted , to know sea change in working style for issue/reissue of Chandigarh Passport . Must say other passport office in India and Police verifications must adopt the same methodology and working style of passport office as Chandigarh ,if not better.

   (a) Had applied for reissue of Passport for my self & my wife on 29 Jan 2025(Wednesday)

(b) got appointment for 03 Feb 2025 at 4:30 pm for both .

(c) All formalities were hassle free  .

(d) Received call for Police verification on 03 Evening itself from ASI Harish Pandey for verification which is Free of cost .

(e) After police verification got message from passport office on 05 Feb 20025 that passport has been dispatched and ultimately received on 06 Feb 2025 within a period less than 72 hours .

What a change brought In by the present Regional Passport officer Chandigarh Smt Priyanka Mehtani . We veterans salute her for making the best and efficient Passport office in India .God bless her .

Word about Chandigarh Police  verification Team

      (a)First time in my life never heard Police carrying out Police verification of passport without their hands being greased .

(b) ASI  harish pandey sounded me the verification is free of cost ,

(c )  There is a total change in approach of Verification police team

(i) firstly moral courage secondly Impressive and pleasing uniform worn by team.

(ii) Hope police of Punjab and other states follow same and make independent department for verification.

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh piloted a TEJAS MK-1 fighter jet with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi as the co-pilot on Sunday, February 9. This marks the first time an Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief has flown the Army Chief in an indigenous combat aircraft. The 45-minute flight in the two-seater trainer version of the TEJAS MK-1 Light Combat Aircraft took off from the Yelahanka airbase in Bangalore during Aero India 2025.

This event signals jointness in the armed forces and the air force’s backing of the locally produced fighter jet. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh will also fly in a formation of three TEJAS MK-1s on Monday, the opening day of Aero India 2025, which is Asia’s biggest Air Show. The air force has already inducted the TEJAS MK-1s.

This development comes at a time when Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to begin critical trials on the TEJAS MK-1A, an advanced variant of the MK-1 aircraft. These trials will test the indigenous Astra beyond-visual-range missile, the aircraft’s locally made electronic warfare suite, and the Israeli Elta radar.

HAL is aiming to deliver the first fighter jet to the IAF by March 31, after completing the necessary certification requirements. The TEJAS MK-1A will also participate in the aerial display during the five-day Air Show.

The IAF has ordered 83 MK-1A fighters for ₹48,000 crore in February 2021 and plans to buy 97 more Mk-1As at a cost of around ₹67,000 crore. HAL is in talks with US firm GE Aerospace to expedite the delivery of the F404 engines for the MK-1A aircraft.

Aero India 2025, Asia’s premier aerospace exhibition, has begun today, February 10, and will continue until February 14 at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. The event will showcase a range of advanced aircraft, including the U.S. F-35 Lightning II and Russia’s Su-57.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 15th edition of Aero India, emphasizing India’s strength and self-reliance in the aerospace sector.

Spectators can witness aerial displays, including the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran and Sarang teams, as well as international aerobatic squads. The exhibition includes participation from the US Air Force’s F-35 fifth-generation fighter aircraft, and the Russian Su-57.

The event highlights India’s growing capabilities in the global aerospace arena, with a dedicated India Pavilion displaying over 275 exhibits across five zones. Indian defence giants like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) are showcasing their latest innovations, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas) and the Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv).

Prior to the event, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh took a historic flight together in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted mainly clear skies throughout the week in Bengaluru.

Bangalore Traffic Police have implemented traffic restrictions and diversions from February 10 to 14. Attendees were advised to arrive early, carry valid identification, and use public transportation. The exhibition is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with air shows in the morning and afternoon.

The event includes a Defence Ministers’ Conclave for discussions on global security and defence partnerships. The first three days (Feb 10–12) are reserved for business travellers.

Reuters

The rural police have arrested another army jawaan for allegedly leaking confidential information to Pakistan-based intelligence agencies. The accused, identified as Sandeep Singh from Sardoolgarh, is currently stationed at the Nasik Army camp. He was arrested in Patiala while on…

The rural police have arrested another army jawaan for allegedly leaking confidential information to Pakistan-based intelligence agencies. The accused, identified as Sandeep Singh from Sardoolgarh, is currently stationed at the Nasik Army camp. He was arrested in Patiala while on leave.

This marks the second arrest in the past three days. Earlier, the police apprehended Amritpal Singh from Chamba Kalan village in Chohla Sahib, Tarn Taran. Amritpal was reportedly part of a syndicate involved in espionage and cross-border drug smuggling. The police have also booked another army jawan, Rajbir Singh, in the same case and teams have been dispatched to arrest him.

Sandeep Singh’s arrest followed the interrogation of Amritpal Singh. The police seized three mobile phones from Sandeep, which have been sent for forensic examination to determine the extent of the information he shared with the agencies.

Authorities say Sandeep Singh provided vital details such as Army movements, ammunition information and locations of various army units to Pakistan’s ISI. The espionage racket is believed to have been operating for the past two years.

In addition to Amritpal, the police had earlier arrested Mandeep Singh alias Maddy and Madhav Sharma of Rajasthan. The police seized 500g of heroin, Rs 10 lakh in drug money, a cash counting machine and a .30 bore pistol from their possession. The car they were travelling in was also impounded.

SSP (Amritsar Rural) Charanjit Singh Sohal said the army authorities have been notified about the involvement of Amritpal, Sandeep Singh and Rajbir in transferring sensitive information to Pakistan’s ISI and their role in cross-border drug smuggling. He said Sandeep Singh would be produced in court and brought on police remand for further investigation.

Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 Felon and the US’ Lockheed F-35 Lightning II are both advanced, fifth-generation fighters

In a historic moment, the latest stealth fighter aircraft from rival countries, Russia and the US, are sharing the same airspace and adjoining parking slots on the tarmac at Aero India 2025, which kicked off in Bengaluru on February 10. Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 Felon and the US’ Lockheed F-35 Lightning II are both advanced, fifth-generation fighters. Notably, this marks the first appearance of the Su-57 in India, whereas the F-35 has been showcased at Aero India previously.

The inclusion of these cutting-edge aircraft at Aero India 2025 highlights the significance of stealth, connectivity, and multi-role versatility in next-generation fighter aircraft for modern air forces, according to the Ministry of Defence. This year’s event is expected to be the largest air show in Asia.

Su-57: A twin-engine, multirole fighter capable of aerial combat as well as ground and maritime strike, the Su-57 incorporates stealth, super-manoeuvrability and super-cruise features besides a large payload capacity. Its sleek, aerodynamic design and internal weapons bays reduce radar cross-section, enhancing its survivability

It combines supersonic cruising speeds, advanced sensor integration and a formidable arsenal of weapons comprising long range air-to-air, air-to-surface as well as hypersonic missiles, bombs and precision guided munitions. The Su-57 is equipped with advanced systems such as the N036 Byka radar featuring multiple arrays for a 360-degree situational awareness and Irbis-E infrared search and track system, enabling it to detect and engage targets without relying on radar. Its aero-engines provide thrust vectoring, a hallmark of Russian fighter design that provides exceptional agility and manoeuvrability.

F-35: Designed for air superiority and strike missions, the F-35 has three variants –conventional take-off and landing, short take-off and vertical-landing and a carrier-based naval variant, making it adaptable to diverse operational requirements. It first flew in 2006 and entered service with the US Marine Corps in July 2015, followed by the US Air Force in August 2016 and the US Navy in February 2019.

At the heart of the F-35 is the sensor fusion technology, which integrates data from its advanced radar, electro-optical targeting system and distributed aperture system into a single, real-time operational picture for the pilot. This capability, combined with its low-observable stealth design, allows the F-35 to penetrate heavily defended airspace and conduct precision strikes effectively.

While Russia is the sole operator of the Su-30 so far, with a limited number of aircraft in service, the F-35 has been exported to Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, South Korea and the United Kingdom, with a dozen more potential customers lined up.

India was a development partner with Russia on the PAK-FA – the joint Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft project that culminated with the Su-57, it pulled out in 2018 over concerns of costs, work share and operational requirements.

The presence of the Su-57 and F-35 at Aero India could spark discussions on future partnerships, technology transfers and joint development opportunities, aligning with the vision of self-reliance, as well as offer valuable insights for India’s defence modernisation and indigenous fighter development programmes, the MoD has stated.

B-1B Lancer: The US Air Force’s long range supersonic bomber has flown over Indian skies before during air shows. With a range of 11,000 km and a payload capacity of 34,000 kg of nuclear and conventional weapons, including missile and bombs, this aircraft forms a critical component of American strike capabilities.

Known for its distinctive variable-sweep wing design, the B-1B combines high-speed performance and advanced avionics for mission accomplishment and can rapidly deploy and strike targets across vast distances, making it a key asset for global power projection.

KC-135 Stratotanker: The cornerstone of the US Air Force’s aerial refuelling fleet, it is a military adaptation of the Boeing 707 airframe designed to extend the range and operational flexibility of combat aircraft. Since its introduction in the 1950s, it has played a vital role in global military operations, providing critical mid-air refuelling support to fighter jets, bombers, transport aircraft and reconnaissance platforms.

With a capacity to carry over 90,000 kg fuel, the KC-135’s versatility and reliability have made it an asset for power projection, enabling long-range missions and rapid deployment of forces worldwide. The aircraft has undergone numerous upgrades and modernisation over the years to meet contemporary requirements.

Besides these that would be part of the flypasts at Aero India, several fighters, logistics and unmanned aircrafts are on static display. These include –

F-16 Fighting Falcon: A single-engine lightweight multi-role fighter aircraft that is operated by numerous air forces around the world, including Pakistan. It has been used extensively in combat, including American operations in the Middle East, Gulf and east Europe.

Airbus A330 MRTT: A multirole tanker-transport aircraft in service with 15 nations, it integrates the ability to transport large numbers of troops and cargo with the speed, range and comfort of an airliner. It can be configured as a mid-air refuelling aircraft and as a medical evacuation aircraft with stretchers.

A-400M: A four-engine turboprop military airlifter that combines the ability to fly to strategic distances carrying heavy loads with the ability to land and deliver those loads on tactical short and unpaved airstrips, it can airlift outsize cargo such as heavy armoured vehicles, helicopters or specialised civil engineering equipment. It can also be reconfigured as an aerial tanker.

Embraer C-390 Millennium: It is a new generation military multi-mission airlift aircraft designed for mobility, airfield operation flexibility and high safety levels at low operational costs. It can perform a variety of missions such as cargo and troop transport, cargo and paratroopers airdrop and aerial refuelling.

Airbus’ Ecureuil H125: The single-engine helicopter has been produced in large numbers for global customers and depends on performance, versatility, lower acquisition and maintenance costs, while also excelling in high-and-hot and extreme environments. Tata and Airbus Helicopters have partnered to establish the industrial setup for producing the H125 in India, becoming the first entity in the private sector to start manufacturing helicopters in India. Deliveries are expected to commence in 2026.

Rajnath Singh says ‘India has always been an advocate of peace and stability’

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday, said that peace can never be achieved in a weak state of security, and only by being strong, we will be able to work for a better world order.

Citing global uncertainties, he said that as a big country, India has always been an advocate of peace and stability.

Speaking after inaugurating the 15th edition of Aero India here, he also highlighted that the time has come for the private sector to become an equal partner in the defence industry.

“For us, there is no Indian security or Indian peace in isolation. Security, stability and peace are shared constructs that transcend national borders. The presence of our friends from foreign countries (at Aero India) is a testimony to the fact that our partners share our vision of One earth, One family, One future,” Singh said.

He stressed the need to work together to deal with today’s uncertainties and the new challenges emerging from today’s perspectives.

nt

“Peace can never be achieved in a weak state of security. The banyan tree of peace can stand only on the roots of strength. I believe that we all have to be strong together, only then will we be able to ensure peace. Only by being strong, we will be able to work for a better world order,” he said.

Further noting that in this environment of global uncertainty, India is a big country where there is peace and prosperity, the Defence Minister said, “If you assess the history of India, you will find that we have neither attacked any country nor have we been involved in any great power rivalry.”

“As a big country, India has always been an advocate of peace and stability. And when I am saying this, it is not just a matter of saying, but it is a matter of our fundamental ideal,” he said.

Pointing at the theme for Aero India, ‘The Runway To A Billion Opportunities’, Singh said, “I believe that there cannot be a more suitable theme than this. It tells us that in our country of a billion plus people, personifying a billion opportunities, this Aero show can be nothing less than that.”

Aero India which starts today, has many objectives, he said, “The first important objective of Aero India is to showcase not only our Industrial capability but also our technological advancements, to the world.”

Stating that there is a bigger objective of strengthening our symbiotic relations with friendly nations, Singh said, today the platform of Aero India, has brought together, government representatives, industry leaders, air force officers, Scientists, Defence Sector Experts, Start-ups, Academia and other stakeholders from across the world.

“This confluence would be effective in bringing our partners closer together, ultimately benefiting us all,” he added.

Noting that Maha Kumbh is underway in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj and scores of people are taking a dip of faith and devotion there, the Defence Minister said, “I feel that another Maha Kubh is beginning today in the form of Aero India. While on one hand the Prayagraj Kumbh is a Kumbh of soul searching, and the Maha Kumbh of Aero India is a Kumbh of research.”

Highlighting that India is going through a transformational phase and that the country is fast moving from being a developing to a developed nation, the Defence Minister said, in every sector, we see radical improvement, and India has made a huge jump in sectors like physical infrastructure, digital infrastructure, Start-up ecosystem, industrial support base, MSMEs, innovation.

In the defence sector too there is a wave of innovation, he said.

Historically, the defence industrial sector was viewed as a non-economic sector in India, and it was not seen as a component of the national economy, but merely as an unavoidable necessity in view of national security, Singh said. However, he said, in the last 10 years the government brought about a paradigm shift in this.

“It is our endeavour that, just like sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, industry etc., the defence industrial sector should also be seen as an economic sector. This sector should be fully integrated with the overall economy. Overall, one of the main objectives of our campaign is also to do economic mainstreaming of the Defence Industrial Sector. Today, the Indian Defence Industrial sector is a motor, powering the growth engine of the Indian economy,” he said.

In the last 10 years, the government has considered the defence sector as the top priority sector of the country, he said.

Stating that the budgetary allocation for the sector has improved, Singh pointed out that a record Rs 6.81 lakh crore has been allocated for this sector in 2025-26 fiscal. This is 9.53 per cent increase from last year.

The defence capital budget has also been increased to Rs 1.80 lakh crore for this fiscal, he added.

He also lauded the contribution of Bengaluru in strengthening the defence ecosystem.

India’s domestic defence manufacturing is at a record level of over Rs 1.25 lakh crore, he further said, “Our defence export has crossed the record figure of Rs 21,000 crore for the first time. In the future, we are committed to making a significant increase in these figures.”