In a significant demonstration of its indigenous defence capabilities, India conducted a Tri-Services Live Fire and Manoeuvre Exercise in Pokhran, Rajasthan, aptly named ‘Bharat Shakti.’ This landmark event, attended by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, put the spotlight on an impressive range of home-grown weapon systems and platforms, embodying the nation’s push towards self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Prime Minister Modi, in his address, hailed the display as the embodiment of New India’s valor and skills. He remarked, “Today, Pokhran has once again become a testament to India’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), self-confidence, and its glorious strength.” He drew parallels with the historic nuclear tests conducted in the same location, emphasizing the significance of witnessing indigenous power.
Highlighting the recent successful test firing of the AGNI missile equipped with advanced MIRV technology, the Prime Minister underscored India’s entry into an elite group of countries with such advanced capabilities. This achievement, he noted, adds a significant feather in the cap of India’s self-reliance in defence.
Prime Minister Modi articulated a vision of a developed India that hinges on self-reliance, stressing the reduction of dependency on foreign entities. He provided examples ranging from edible oils to fighter jets, illustrating the breadth of India’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta. Among the notable mentions were the indigenously developed Tajas fighter jets, advanced light combat helicopters, and a range of other domestically produced military hardware, underscoring the might of Bharat Shakti.
In a push for bolstering India’s self-reliance in defence, the Prime Minister outlined several initiatives, including policy reforms, engagement of the private sector, and the establishment of defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, attracting investments worth Rs 7000 crore. The commencement of Asia’s largest helicopter factory in India was also highlighted as a significant achievement.
Over the last decade, India’s defence procurement from local companies has surged to Rs 6 lakh crore, doubling the country’s defence production to over Rs 1 lakh crore. The defence sector’s growth is further evidenced by the rise of over 150 defence startups, with the armed forces placing orders worth Rs 1800 crore with them.
Emphasizing the enhanced confidence and capability of the armed forces through the use of indigenously made weaponry, the Prime Minister reflected on India’s journey from being the world’s largest defence importer to a budding defence exporter. He also acknowledged the transformative efforts in corporatizing ordnance factories, revitalizing HAL, and establishing significant infrastructure and policies like the CDS, the War Memorial, and One Rank One Pension, which have collectively bolstered the defence ecosystem.
The exercise ‘Bharat Shakti’ not only showcased the advanced operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces but also symbolized India’s readiness to confront and overcome challenges with indigenous solutions. This event marks a pivotal moment in India’s defence narrative, showcasing the resilience, innovation, and burgeoning strength of its domestic defence industry on a global stage.
