Self-Reliant India in Defense — A Pledge of Strength, Valor, and Pride
“When the soldier is indigenous, the weapon is indigenous, and the resolve is indigenous — victory is certain!”
India is no longer merely envisioning its future — it is crafting it with its own hands, intellect, and courage. The grand program “Self-Reliance in the Defense Sector”, held at The Leela Hotel, Gandhinagar, stands as a resounding declaration of this resolve.
Jointly organized by the Department of Defense Production, Government of India; the Industries Department, Government of Gujarat; the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Laghu Udyog Bharati, the event became a vibrant showcase of the nation's defense capabilities, innovation, and determination.
Presided over by Hon’ble Cabinet Minister Shri Balvantsinh Rajput, the day began with the inauguration of specialized defense stalls, followed by an inspection of cutting-edge technologies and advanced equipment designed and manufactured in India.
In his inspiring address, Shri Baldevbhai Prajapati, Former National President and Prabhari of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan (Laghu Udyog Bharati), called upon the state’s MSMEs to harness government schemes, adopt advanced technology for defense manufacturing, and actively participate in public procurement. He reaffirmed that Laghu Udyog Bharati is steadfast in supporting industries on this journey toward Aatmanirbharta.
Once, India was dependent on foreign nations for everything from rifles to fighter jets. But under the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan has transformed the landscape. Today, the nation produces everything from drones to advanced military systems, powered by the ingenuity of Indian entrepreneurs, the skill of its engineers, and the commitment of its youth — who now stand as proud protectors of the nation.
The recent “Operation Sindoor” stands as a testament to this new strength. In it, Indian forces not only executed a daring rescue but also destroyed enemy strongholds — proving that today’s India has the will, the means, and the independence to defend itself and act decisively.
The program featured impactful presentations from DRDO laboratories, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., Tata Advanced Systems Ltd., L&T Defense, and Rashtriya Raksha University, offering MSMEs, startups, and local manufacturers a roadmap to integrate into the global defense supply chain.
In the vote of thanks, Shri Hansrajbhai Gajera, General Secretary of Laghu Udyog Bharati, made a strong appeal for establishing a dedicated Defense Corridor and Cluster in Gujarat to boost the state’s contribution to national defense manufacturing.
