Key Highlights from Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's Speech
Self-Sufficiency in Defence
- Ammunition Production: India has reached 88% self-sufficiency.
- Defence Exports: Achieved approximately ₹23,000 crore in 2023-24.
- Future Goal: Targeting ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
Commitment to Defence Industry
The government is focused on building a robust defence industry to ensure national security and contribute to economic growth.
Role of IIT Mandi Students
- Students are encouraged to develop technological solutions to enhance defence capabilities.
- Focus on innovation and entrepreneurship is emphasized to lead in fields like Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies.
Technological and Digital Advancements
- Expected growth in India's technological sector to $300-350 billion in the next five years.
- India's startup ecosystem comprises over 1.25 lakh start-ups and 110 unicorns, ranking third globally.
Digital Economy and Telecom Sector
- India's telecom sector is the second-largest globally.
- Success of UPI showcases India's leadership in digital transactions, marking a significant digital revolution.
Call to Action
Students should contribute to technological and digital advancements to ensure India's growth and development by 2047, adhering to principles of "initiate, improve, and transform (IIT)".