Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], June 30 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday attended the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit in Vadodara and said that Gujarat has truly emerged as India's growth engine. During the event, he visited the industry's and MSMEs' exhibition, interacted with representatives from the defence manufacturing industry, and later addressed the summit's valedictory ceremony.

In his address, the Defence Minister praised the Government of Gujarat for organising the summit and said, 'The Vibrant Gujarat platform showcases the vibrancy of the people and industries of Gujarat. Today, it has evolved into a broad movement aligned with the vision of a victorious and developed India. Over the past two decades, it has brought about unprecedented transformation in Gujarat, and today Gujarat has become India's growth engine.'

Referring to Gujarat's defence-related industries, Rajnath Singh said, 'The work you are doing in the defence industry is also commendable. You inspire us to create a favourable environment for the private industry. The defence sector is not limited to manufacturing weapons; it also drives a broader economic ecosystem. The creation of defence corridors generates new opportunities for industry and employment.

'Great nations stand on three strong pillars: economic strength, technological strength, and national security. These three are deeply interconnected. Where there is economic prosperity and technological leadership, security also becomes stronger. And where national security is strong, industry and innovation can flourish,' Rajnath Singh said.

During his address, Singh also referred to the changing geopolitical situation and underscored the crucial role of industry in this evolving landscape.

'India's self-reliance, technological capabilities, and collective resolve will determine the role the country plays on the global stage in the decades to come,' he said.

'Today, the success of indigenous platforms, growing participation of the private sector and the fresh energy of startups have together created a strong defence ecosystem. Our objective is to build a defence ecosystem where innovation, industry, and self-reliance come together to further strengthen the security capabilities of a new India,' he added.

The Defence Minister further said, 'Gujarat has a robust industrial base and a skilled workforce. Vadodara is now home to India's first private-sector military aircraft manufacturing facility. The Tata-Airbus C-295 Project is a historic milestone in India's aerospace journey. The K-9 Vajra, which has significantly enhanced the capabilities of our armed forces, has also been manufactured at a facility in Gujarat. Today, a semiconductor ecosystem is being developed in Sanand and Dholera.'

Concluding his remarks, the Defence Minister added, 'For us, Atmanirbhar Bharat means an India that is self-confident, stands firmly on its own feet, and engages with the world as an equal partner. That is why we wholeheartedly welcome collaboration with foreign OEMs.' (ANI)