Maharashtra Unveils New Aerospace and Defence Policy to Bolster Defence Manufacturing

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the formulation of a new aerospace and defence policy to boost defence manufacturing in the state. Speaking at the inauguration of the three-day MSME Defence Expo in Moshi, Pimpri Chinchwad, Fadnavis highlighted Pune's conducive ecosystem for defence manufacturing in recent years.

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Maharashtra's Leading Role in Defence Manufacturing

Fadnavis emphasized Maharashtra's leading position in defence manufacturing in the country. He mentioned the presence of key defence establishments such as the Air Force Maintenance Command, Army Southern Command, Indian Navy Dockyard, Hindustan Aeronautics facility, Mazgaon Dockyard, National Defence Academy, and several DRDO laboratories in the state.

BDL's Missile Production Facility in Amravati

The deputy CM also noted the upcoming missile production facility of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) near Amravati. He attributed this development to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recognition of the country's real prowess in defence manufacturing.

India's Growing Self-Reliance in Defence

Fadnavis lauded Prime Minister Modi's efforts in promoting self-reliance in the defence sector. He mentioned the Made in India campaign and the insistence on technology transfers alongside manufacturing as key initiatives in this regard. Fadnavis expressed optimism about India's growing self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.

Success of MSMEs in Aerospace and Defence

The deputy CM highlighted the success of MSMEs in aerospace and defence manufacturing in Maharashtra. He credited the state's 2017 aerospace and defence policy, which created a Rs 1,000 crore fund through angel investment, for the formation of 600 MSMEs working towards self-reliance.

Collaboration with Industry for Renewed Policy

Fadnavis announced the state government's intention to collaborate with the industry to introduce a renewed aerospace and defence policy. This policy aims to enhance the success of MSMEs and further boost defence manufacturing in Maharashtra.

Establishing Supply Chain Clusters

To establish a robust supply chain for defence manufacturing, the state's Industry Ministry has decided to create four clusters. This initiative aims to strengthen the defence manufacturing ecosystem in Maharashtra.

In conclusion, Maharashtra's new aerospace and defence policy, coupled with the state's existing strengths and initiatives, is poised to further enhance its position as a leading hub for defence manufacturing in India.