Daijiworld Media Network - Vadodara
Vadodara, Jun 30: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday underscored the importance of self-reliance, technological advancement and national security, saying these three pillars will shape India's position on the global stage amid an evolving geopolitical landscape.
Addressing the valedictory session of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) in Vadodara, Singh said India's vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047 goes beyond economic progress and calls for significant growth in technology, industrial capability and strategic strength.
"The global geopolitical environment is changing rapidly. In such a scenario, India's self-reliance, technological capability and national resolve will determine the country's role in the world in the years ahead," he said.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', Singh said the objective is to build a nation that is not only economically strong but also technologically advanced and socially empowered.
He observed that history has shown every major power is built on three interconnected foundations — a robust economy, technological innovation and a strong national security framework.
"Economic development, technological progress and national security reinforce each other. A secure nation creates an environment where industries and innovation can thrive," the Defence Minister said.
Highlighting the growing role of the defence sector in the economy, Singh said defence manufacturing is no longer limited to producing military equipment but has become a key driver of industrial growth, infrastructure development, logistics and employment generation.
He noted that the establishment of defence corridors has created new economic opportunities while strengthening India's manufacturing ecosystem.
The Minister said the government has launched several initiatives to promote indigenous defence production, including Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, the Defence Acquisition Procedure and the Technology Development Fund, to reduce dependence on imports.
He added that reforms such as the Srijan Portal, Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme, Green Channel Certification and Self-Certification have encouraged greater participation by micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups in the defence sector.
Clarifying India's approach to self-reliance, Singh said the country's goal is not isolation but building domestic capabilities while remaining an active partner in global collaboration.
"For us, Atmanirbhar Bharat means a confident India that stands on its own feet and engages with the world as an equal partner," he said.
The Defence Minister reaffirmed India's willingness to collaborate with foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) through technology transfers and joint ventures, while ensuring that manufacturing expertise, investment and employment opportunities are created within the country.
Looking ahead, Singh identified emerging technologies such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity and space technology as critical sectors that will influence both economic growth and national security.
He said technology ecosystems being developed in Sanand and Dholera would play a significant role in strengthening India's technological sovereignty.
Concluding his address, Singh called upon industry leaders to leverage regional manufacturing strengths, promote innovation and contribute to building globally competitive capabilities that support India's long-term strategic and economic aspirations.