From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Sep 1: Karnataka has set an ambitious target of nearly doubling its defence production by 2025 and increasing defence exports to Rs 25,000 crore by then, as announced by Large and Medium Industries Minister M B Patil on Friday.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 36th National Convention of Aerospace Engineers, themed "SPACE - Boundless Opportunities," hosted by the Karnataka State Centre of the Institution of Engineers (India), he also revealed the goal to attract investments of Rs 45,000 crore in the aerospace and defence sector during the policy period of five years (2022-2027).

This thrust on aerospace and defence sectors is expected to generate 60,000 employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, the minister stated.

He further emphasized the government's commitment to transforming Karnataka into the Aerospace and Defence manufacturing hub, encompassing maintenance, repair, and operations for both the Indian market and exports.

"Although India's space programme is among the most advanced, it occupies only a small fraction of the global space economy. Recognizing this, our government has initiated reforms to encourage private participation and foster growth in the space sector, thereby attempting to increase our global market share," Patil explained.

Highlighting the far-reaching implications of space technology, he noted that Karnataka has established a robust aerospace and defence ecosystem, with 25% of India's aircraft and spacecraft industry based in the state. Moreover, 67% of all aircraft and helicopters manufactured for defence services are produced in Karnataka. The state also contributes to 65% of the country's aerospace-related exports from India, Patil added.