TLI Staff
Bengaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the 14th edition of Aero India 2023 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru.
The prestigious Aero India event is set to witness participation by more than 80 countries along with 800 defence companies including around 100 foreign and 700 Indian companies.
The event will focus on displaying indigenous equipment/technologies and forging partnerships with foreign companies.
In his inaugural address, Modi said that Aero India 2023 is a shining example of India’s growing capabilities and the presence of more than 100 nations at this event shows the trust that the entire world shows in India.
Throwing light on the theme of Aero India 2023 ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’, Modi said that the strength of Atmanirbhar Bharat keeps on growing with each passing day.
The Prime Minister underscored the importance of Aero India taking place in Karnataka which is the hub of India’s technological advancement. He said that this will open new avenues for the youth of Karnataka in the aviation sector. Modi called upon the youth of the state to deploy their technological expertise in the field of defence to strengthen the country.
“When the country moves forward with new thinking, new approach, then its systems also start changing according to the new thinking”, the Prime Minister noting that Aero India reflects the changing approach of New India.
He recalled when Aero India used to be ‘just a show’ and a window to ‘sell to India’ but the perception has changed now.
“Today, Aero India is India’s strength and not just a show”, the Prime Minister said as he stated that it not only showcases the scope of the defence industry but also showcases the self-confidence of India.”
He said that the ‘New India’ of the 21st century will neither miss any opportunity nor will it lack in effort.
The Prime Minister exuded confidence about India taking rapid strides in defence manufacturing in the world and stated that private sector and investors will play a big role in that.
“The India of today thinks fast, thinks far and takes quick decisions,” he said.