The Chief of Army Staff, General Manoj Pande, graced the Maharashtra MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) Defence Expo 2024 at the International Exhibition Convention Centre in Moshi, Pune. Organized by the Government of Maharashtra, the expo serves as a platform showcasing the indigenous capabilities and innovations of MSMEs, private companies, DRDO laboratories, and DPSU setups in the state.
Key Points:
- Maharashtra’s Contribution: General Manoj Pande acknowledged Maharashtra’s vital role in the nation’s economy, industrial growth, exports, and FDI attractiveness. He highlighted the state’s distinction as the first to frame a Defence Manufacturing Policy after private investment was permitted in the sector.
- Economic Impact: Maharashtra’s commitment to the defence sector is evident in its contribution of over 20% to the country’s output in aircraft, ships, and boats, and 30% to the national output in weapons and ammunition.
- Focus on Startups: General Pande emphasized the importance of leveraging both MSMEs and the startup ecosystem for the Indian Army’s self-reliance initiative. Under the Innovations in Defence Excellence (iDEX) procurement, 55 Indian Army projects worth Rs 400 Cr are being pursued through 65 startups.
- Innovation and Intellectual Property: The Army Chief highlighted the Indian Army’s in-house Ideas & Innovation initiative, showcasing innovations like VIDYUT RAKSHAK and a biomedical device. Sixty-six Intellectual Property Rights have been filed, including 13 patents, 5 copyrights, and 5 design registrations.
- Equipment Display: The expo featured displays of indigenous equipment and systems by the Indian Army, including tanks, howitzers, rocket launchers, bridge systems, assault rifles, and various other weapons and equipment.
General Pande encouraged industries participating in the expo to align their products and services with the future requirements of the Indian Army. He urged collective contributions towards the aspirations and goals of a self-reliant India.
