On Friday, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, speaking after awarding the President's Colours to the College of Defence Management (CDM), said the time is now ripe for launching a new phase of self-reliance in defence production by manufacturing technologically advanced equipment within the country.The Union Government has taken several measures to enhance the indigenous capabilities of the defence industry.
The government is encouraging Indian and foreign investors to invest in the defence sector through initiatives such as Make in India, Ease of Doing Business, and the development of defence industrial corridors. With the prominence of indigenization, many defence products have been identified for domestic manufacturing.
"The time is now ripe for launching a new phase of self-reliance by manufacturing technologically advanced equipment within India," she said.
She opined the defence forces officers are expected to wholeheartedly contribute towards achieving self-reliance and realizing the vision of Atmanirbhar (self-reliant)Bharat
India is focusing on a holistic approach that includes upgrading its conventional forces and embracing cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, drones, cyber warfare capabilities, and space defence technologies in the field of defence modernization
She said India is focusing on building strategic defence partnerships at the global level, and through multilateral economic and military frameworks and engagements, India's influence in regional and global defence discussions has grown significantly.
Focusing on self-reliance, technological advancement, and strategic collaborations India is not only securing its borders but also contributing to global peace and stability. As the country moves forward, India's defence sector should continue to evolve and adapt, thereby ensuring that the nation remains a source of strength, resilience, and cooperation in an increasingly interconnected and complex world.
The armed forces personnel need to keep themselves updated with the latest technological developments as well as changing operational dynamics, Murmu added
"The wars are fought beyond the battlefields. We are today witnessing psychological warfare. I urge you all to constantly evolve with time and strive for excellence in the rapidly changing security landscape," she said.
India's enhanced defence management capability will help strengthen diplomatic and military partnerships and increase defence exports. That helps India maintain a proactive stance in global security forums. The senior strategic leadership in Indian defence will play an important role in positioning India as a major player in the international arena, responding proactively to global security threats, she said.
She expressed confidence the collective efforts and individual excellence of the officers will help in realizing India's vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Expressing happiness to see women officers, the President said she has been encouraging and appreciating women officers at various events of defence services.
They are an inspiration for all the other women and young girls who dare to dream, she said.
