Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday dedicated seven new defence companies formed out of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) to the nation. He urged the newly inaugurated firms to prioritise ‘research and innovation’ in their work culture.
Speaking at the inauguration event, PM Modi said, “I urge these companies to prioritise ‘research and innovation’ in their work culture. You’ve to take lead in future technology, give opportunities to researchers. I would also urge startups to collaborate with these 7 companies.”
The Prime Minister also stated that India is taking new resolutions to build a new future. “Today, there is more transparency and trust in the defence sector than ever before. Under self-reliant India campaign, the goal is to make country world’s biggest military power on its own,” he said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt and representatives from the Defence industry associations were also present on the occasion.
The Prime Minister also stated that India is taking new resolutions to build a new future: PM Narendra Modi at the event to dedicate seven state-run defence companies.
PM Modi takes dig at previous govts
Taking a dig at previous governments in the country, the Prime Minister said they didn’t give much attention to the degradation of the ordnance factories.
“After Independence, there was a need to upgrade ordnance factories, adopt new-age technologies, but it didn’t get much attention: PM Modi,” he said. Adding, “In last seven years, India worked to create a modern military industry with the mantra of ‘Make in India.”
Lauding his government, PM Modi said major reforms rolled out in the defence sector; instead of stagnant policies, a single-window system was arranged.
The seven new defence companies are Munitions India Limited (MIL); Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVANI); Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWE India); Troop Comforts Limited (TCL); Yantra India Limited (YIL); India Optel Limited (IOL); and Gliders India Limited (GIL).
