Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday commended the overwhelming national support for the Agnipath scheme, underscoring India's progress toward self-sufficiency in the defence sector and its growing reputation as a significant defence exporter.
During his appearance on the 'Raksha Sutra- Sandesh to Soldiers' podcast hosted by the Ministry of Defence, the Union Minister also conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Indian defence forces for their critical role in safeguarding the nation's freedom.
"The entire country is extending its immense support to the Agnipath scheme. The youth are being extensively recruited into the forces through this initiative. In the first two batches, 40,000 Agniveers have completed their training and have just been allotted deployment in units, with 100 women included in each group," Rajnath Singh stated.
Discussing India's advancements in defence manufacturing, he noted, "We are continuously moving towards self-reliance in the manufacturing of weapons, cannons, tanks, fighter ships, helicopters, missile systems, and more for the armed forces. Our government, under Make in India, is ensuring that weapons made in India are in the hands of our soldiers."
The Defence Minister also pointed out that India, once primarily known as an importer of weapons, is now establishing itself as a significant exporter. "In the financial year 2023-24, our defence exports have reached Rs 21,000 crore," he noted.
Addressing the significance of self-reliance in the defence sector, Singh mentioned the substantial funding allocated in the latest Union Budget.
"This year's Union Budget for 2024-25 has allocated Rs 6.22 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence, the highest among all ministries. Today, our forces are becoming more capable and self-reliant, with defence procurement receiving a larger share," he said.
Singh also emphasized that in the last decade, approximately Rs 6 lakh crore worth of defence equipment has been sourced from Indian companies, thereby doubling the nation's defence production.
He also praised India's contributions to global peacekeeping, stating, "India has always been a supporter of global peace. Whenever given the opportunity, India has played a crucial role in ensuring global stability. Along with the country's progress, our soldiers have also contributed to global peace."
Additionally, the Defence Minister took the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of Indian athletes, especially those who recently competed in the Paris Olympics.
"117 Indian athletes participated, including star javelin thrower Subedar Major Neeraj Chopra, who won a silver medal, bringing glory to the nation," he said.
Read also | Hemant Soren Accuses BJP of Using Financial Tactics to Disrupt Family and Party
Read also | VP Dhankhar Calls for Prioritizing National Interest Over Political Gains
