Maharashtra Leads in Defense Innovation: Army Chief Visits MSME Expo

Pune, February 26: Highlighting Maharashtra's significant contribution to India's defense sector, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande visited the Maharashtra MSME Defense Expo-2024 today. He commended the state's proactive approach in promoting defense manufacturing and self-reliance.

The three-day expo, organized by the Government of Maharashtra, showcases the technological advancements and capabilities of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), private companies, and defense research institutions in the state. General Pande lauded Maharashtra for being the first state in India to formulate a defense manufacturing policy after private investment was permitted in the sector. He also highlighted the state's focus on aerospace and defense as key sectors, contributing to over 20% of national aircraft and ship production and over 30% of arms and ammunition.

General Pande emphasized the importance of both MSMEs and startups in achieving self-reliance in defense equipment production. He mentioned the Indian Army's ongoing collaboration with 65 startups on 55 projects under the IDEX initiative, with contracts worth Rs 70 crore already signed.

The Army Chief also showcased the Indian Army's commitment to indigenous innovation, showcasing various equipment and systems developed within the country. Additionally, he highlighted the Army's efforts in filing intellectual property rights (IPRs) and promoting indigenously developed technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) based generator protection system and a biomedical device.

General Pande concluded his visit by urging all stakeholders to contribute collectively towards achieving self-reliance and realizing the aspirations of a new, emerging India. The Maharashtra MSME Defense Expo serves as a testament to the state's commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening India's defense capabilities.