Aero India 2023: Asia's largest aero show kicks off in Bengaluru; 251 pacts likely to be inked
Bengaluru (Karnataka), February 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the 'India Pavilion' at the Aero India show in Bengaluru. Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 14th edition of Asia's biggest aero show - Aero India 2023 - at Air Force Station in Yelahanka here.
It is learnt 251 agreements with expected investments of Rs 75,000 crore were likely to be inked. A commemorative stamp was also released by the Prime Minister on the occasion. The five-day event, on the theme 'The runway to a billion opportunities', will showcase India's growth in aerospace and defence capabilities.
It will display indigenous equipment and technologies and forge partnerships with foreign companies, in line with the 'Make in India, Make for the World' vision for a secure and prosperous future.
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Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Bengaluru sky was bearing testimony to the capabilities of New India. "This new height is the reality of New India, today India is touching new heights and transcending them too", the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister said that Aero India 2023 was a shining example of India's growing capabilities and the presence of around 100 nations at this event showed the trust that the entire world showed in India.
He noted the participation of more than 800 exhibitors, including Indian MSMEs and startups along with the well-renowned companies of the world. Throwing light on the theme of Aero India 2023 'The Runway to a Billion Opportunities', the Prime Minister expressed that the strength of Aatmanirbhar Bharat kept on growing with each passing day.
Referring to the Defence Minister's Conclave and CEOs Round Table that is being organised along with the show, PM Modi said active participation in the sector would enhance the potential of Aero India.
The Prime Minister underscored the importance of Aero India taking place in Karnataka which is the hub of India's technological advancement.
He said this would open new avenues for the youth of Karnataka in the aviation sector. The Prime Minister called upon the youth of Karnataka 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 said, as he highlighted that Aero India 2023 reflected the changing approach of New India.
The Prime Minister 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".
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The Prime Minister said India's successes were bearing witness to its capabilities. Tejas, INS Vikrant, advanced manufacturing facilities in Surat and Tumkur, said the Prime Minister, were the potential of Aatmanirbhar Bharat with which the world's new alternatives and opportunities were linked.
The Prime Minister called upon the private sector to invest in the defence sector which would create new opportunities for them in India and in many other countries.
He also commended Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai for organising the event on a grand scale. He described Karnataka as a pioneer in industrialisation and one of the most prominent states contributing to India's economic growth.
Governor of Karnataka Thawar Chand Gehlot, Chief Minister of Karnataka Basvaraj Bommai, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia and Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt were among those present on the occasion.
- ANI
