‘Self-reliance in manufacturing of defence equipment crucial’: Rajnath Singh

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that attaining self-reliance in manufacturing of defence equipment is a crucial factor for maintaining India's strategic autonomy. Singh was addressing the 'Startup Manthan' at Aero India 2021 in Bengaluru. Singh said, “Our Government is acutely conscious that startups being the latest entrants in the defence manufacturing sector require that extra push. With this aim in view, we have taken many steps to foster and encourage this partnership with private industry.” "Attaining self-reliance in manufacturing of defence equipment is a crucial factor for maintaining India's strategic autonomy. Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative stands out as one of the most effective and well-executed defence Start-up ecosystems created in our country," added the Defence Minister. Singh also said, “I am very happy to announce that 45 MSMEs who have participated in Aero India have already got orders worth ₹203 Crore.” Watch the full video for more.