Showcasing Maharashtra’s Defence Manufacturing Prowess:

• The expo, organized by the Maharashtra government, showcases the indigenous capabilities and innovations of MSMEs, private companies, DRDO labs, and DPSUs in the state.

General Pande’s Keynote Address:

• He commended Maharashtra for being a major contributor to India’s economy, highlighting its leadership in:
  • Industrial growth
  • Exports
  • FDI attractiveness
• He praised the state for being the first in India to establish a Defence Manufacturing Policy and designate aerospace and defence manufacturing as a thrust sector, resulting in:
  • Over 20% contribution to the national output of aircrafts, ships, and boats
  • 30% contribution to the national output of weapons and ammunition

Focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat and Innovation:

• General Pande emphasized the improved economic growth and aspirations of Indian citizens.

• He appreciated the government and armed forces’ commitment to sustainable development through:

  • Policy reforms
  • Skilling initiatives
  • Infrastructure investment
  • Digital initiatives
  • Supporting entrepreneurship

• He highlighted the importance of leveraging MSMEs and startups in meeting the Indian Army’s capability development needs through the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) initiative.

• He elaborated on the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) program, stating that:

  • All projects are mandated to involve startups.
  • 55 projects worth Rs 400 crore are currently underway, involving 65 startups.
  • Four contracts worth Rs 70 crore have been finalized for equipment procurement.
  • The iDEX approach utilizes a “Spiral Model” for developing indigenous technology.

• He mentioned the Indian Army’s in-house Ideas & Innovation initiative, citing two successful examples of technology transferred to industry:

  • VIDYUT RAKSHAK – IoT-based generator protection system
  • A biomedical device

Promoting Innovation and Intellectual Property:

• General Pande underscored the Army’s commitment to promoting innovation through:
  • Pursuing Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) for co-developed products
  • Filing 66 IPRs to date, with 13 patents, 5 copyrights, and 5 design registrations already granted

Army Equipment Display and Industry Interaction:

• The Indian Army showcased its indigenous equipment and systems at the expo, including:
  • Tanks
  • Artillery
  • Rocket launchers
  • Bridge systems
  • Air defense guns and radars
  • Assault rifles and other infantry weapons
• General Pande interacted with participating industries, encouraging them to align their products and services with the future needs of the Army.
• He urged everyone to contribute to building a self-reliant India through commitment and resolve.

This visit highlights the Indian Army’s focus on promoting self-reliance and fostering innovation in the defense sector, while collaborating with MSMEs and startups to achieve its modernization goals.

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5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commences in Rajasthan

Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 25th February to 9th March 2024

The contingent of both sides comprises of 40 personnel each… pic.twitter.com/63JjrUZWwZ

— PIB India (@PIB_India) February 25, 2024

Alternating Annual Exercise:

Held annually, ‘Dharma Guardian’ alternates between India and Japan, fostering mutual understanding and operational readiness. This year, 40 personnel from each side participate, with the Japanese contingent represented by the 34th Infantry Regiment and the Indian Army by a Battalion from the Rajputana Rifles.

Shared Objective:

The exercise aims to enhance combined capabilities in conducting joint operations in semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. High-intensity physical training, joint tactical drills, and specialized skills development are core elements of the program.

Realistic Training Scenarios:

Troops will practice establishing temporary bases, setting up intelligence grids, conducting mobile vehicle checks, executing cordon and search operations, and honing their skills in heliborne operations and house intervention drills. A dedicated weapon and equipment display will showcase India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and growing defense manufacturing prowess.

High-Level Engagement:

Lieutenant General TOGASHI Yuichi, Commanding General of the Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force, will visit India on the sidelines of the exercise. His presence at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on March 3rd will witness live demonstrations of combat shooting, specialized heliborne operations, and house intervention drills.

Strengthening Ties:

‘Dharma Guardian’ serves as a platform for sharing best practices in tactical operations and fostering interoperability, camaraderie, and mutual respect between troops. This strengthens defense cooperation, further solidifying the bilateral relationship between India and Japan.

Stay Updated:

Follow this space for further updates and insights into this crucial military exercise!

#IndiaJapanJointExercise #DharmaGuardian #MilitaryCooperation #StrategicPartnership

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State Secretary for international relations Vojko Volk attended a rally in support of on behalf of the PM. He emphasized that “ are fighting with determination, dignity and courage. Their fight is our fight. will continue supporting .” pic.twitter.com/bFClJd9Ldo

— Vlada Republike Slovenije (@vladaRS) February 24, 2024

A Fight for Dignity and Global Order:

Taking the stage, State Secretary Volk delivered a passionate address, highlighting the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people: “Ukraine is fighting with determination, dignity, and courage. Their fight is not just for their own freedom, but for the very principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity that underpin the global order.”

He went on to underscore Slovenia’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine: “Slovenia will continue to stand firmly with Ukraine. We will provide humanitarian assistance and work with our allies to implement strong sanctions against Russia.”

Beyond National Borders:

State Secretary Volk’s words resonated deeply with the crowd, emphasizing the broader implications of the conflict: “When a Permanent Member of the UN Security Council does not respect the fundamental principles on which global stability is based, this is a signal for the end of the world order as created after World War II.”

His statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for a united global response. Slovenia’s firm stance with Ukraine, and its commitment to upholding the international order, are crucial at this critical juncture.

Call to Action:

The rally concluded with a call to action, urging all individuals to stand with Ukraine in whatever way they can. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply raising awareness, every contribution counts in this fight for freedom and justice.

Spreading the Message:

By sharing this blog post on your social media platforms and using the hashtag #StandWithUkraine, you can help amplify the message of solidarity and encourage others to join the cause. Together, we can show the Ukrainian people that they are not alone in their struggle.

Together for Ukraine:

Slovenia’s firm stance with Ukraine, and its commitment to upholding the international order, are commendable. Let us stand united in our support for the Ukrainian people and defend the values of freedom and democracy.

The post Slovenia Stands with Ukraine: State Secretary Volk Attends Rally, Emphasizes Global Solidarity appeared first on PM Kishan.

Key takeaways:

• Long-term focus: The government prioritizes long-term gains over short-term benefits, emphasizing sustainable development and self-reliance.
• Defense modernization: Initiatives like Chief of Defence Staff, Department of Military Affairs, and indigenization lists aim to enhance jointness, synergy, and domestic weapons production.
• Self-reliance through exports: India aims to transition from arms importer to exporter, targeting Rs 50,000 crore in annual exports by 2028-29.
• Boosting innovation: Encouraging startups and investing in futuristic technologies like AI and cyberwarfare to propel India’s technological prowess.
• Investing in infrastructure: Schemes like Sagarmala and PM Gati Shakti promote long-term infrastructure development for future generations.
• Empowering women: Providing equal opportunities in all fields, including the Armed Forces, for holistic societal progress.

Key quotes:

• “The government, headed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is focusing on long-term gains and not short-term outcomes to make India a developed nation by 2047.”
• “Radical changes have been made in the defense sector for long-term gains to make it completely self-reliant, and achieve the Prime Minister’s goal of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.”
• “Through initiatives like setting up defence industrial corridors, the Government is making sure that modern military hardware is not only manufactured in India, but also exported to friendly countries.”
• “Investing in futuristic technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, smart weapons, cyber warfare and space warfare.”
• “Women are being provided opportunities in every field at par with their male counterparts.”

This post highlights India’s ambitious roadmap towards becoming a global defense power and achieving sustainable development through long-term vision and strategic investments.

The post India’s Long-Term Vision: Self-Reliance, Innovation, and a Global Defense Powerhouse appeared first on PM Kishan.

Prompt and Professional Action:

• Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists from the Indian Navy boarded the MV Islander and meticulously sanitized the vessel to eliminate any potential residual risks. This crucial step ensured the safety of the crew and allowed the ship to resume its journey.
• Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the medical team also embarked on the vessel upon the Master’s request. They provided immediate and effective medical assistance to an injured crew member, demonstrating the Navy’s commitment to the well-being of those at sea.

A Testament to Commitment:

This prompt and professional response by the Indian Navy highlights their unwavering dedication to maritime security and the safety of merchant vessels and seafarers. Their relentless efforts serve as a beacon of hope and assistance in the region, reaffirming their commitment to international cooperation and the peaceful movement of goods across the seas.

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