"Will no longer depend on foreign nations": Rajnath Singh highlights Indian defence self-reliance at JITO Connect 2025

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], October 3 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday emphasised the country's progress toward self-reliance in the defence sector and the speed at which it is lowering its reliance on foreign suppliers.
Speaking at the "JITO Connect 2025" event in Hyderabad, Singh described how India is becoming a major global centre for manufacturing, ranging from "toys to tanks".
"As Minister of Defence, I am pleased to say that we will no longer be dependent on foreign nations for defence. 'Made in India' is now proudly displayed on every part and weapon," he said.
Singh informed that the government and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recently inked a deal for 97 light combat aircraft, with more than 64 per cent of the equipment to be produced in the country. Advanced Indian technology and expertise are being used to build indigenous platforms such as the Tejas fighter aircraft, Akash missile systems, and Arjun tanks.
Rajnath Singh emphasised the defence exports' growth, saying, "Our defence exports were worth Rs 600 crore 11 years ago. That amount has increased to Rs 24,000 crore today. This is anticipated to reach Rs 50,000 crore by 2029."
He emphasised that the goal of India's expanding defence capabilities is not aggression but rather the defence of national values. "We have made sure that we only take action to protect our country, whether it is Operation Sindoor or any other mission. The purpose of military might is to protect our values, not to launch attacks on others."
The Jain community and JITO's contributions to nation-building were also commended by the Defence Minister. He praised their "Learn, Earn, and Return" philosophy and said the nation is proud of the community's dedication to environmental awareness, minority welfare, education, and skill development. He praised their economic contribution, pointing out that although the Jain population makes up only 0.5% of India's total population, they account for 24% of tax revenue.
Defence Minister pointed out that Jain business people have been instrumental in India's development, from textiles to aviation. He also discussed the relevance of Jain teachings in the modern world, highlighting the following: Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and the Khama Vani (forgiveness) festival.
Rajnath Singh also emphasised how India's economy has grown to become the third largest in the world. He claimed that India is headed toward becoming the "Factory of the World" by 2030.
"MSMEs are growing rapidly. Rs 15 lakh crore in government procurements made through the GeM portal only. 40,000+ compliance standards were decriminalised, and GST established a unified market. India is advancing its 'Local for Global' vision by producing cutting-edge tanks and exporting toys to 153 nations. India's economy will rank second globally in terms of purchasing power by 2030," Singh predicted. (ANI)