Focus and trust in the Indian defence industry need of the hour

India has to develop indigenous capabilities to be called a great power in future, said veteran diplomat M K Rasgotra. He further stated that the shortcomings of the government's policy should be dealt with. The industry should constantly come up with recommendations to the government. Necessary investment in technological R&D is crucial. Strategic change from being a buyer to manufacturer is imperative. He was speaking at the valedictory session of the 4th international Conference on Energising Indian Aerospace Industry: Partnerships, Opportunities & Challenges organised jointly by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Centre of Air Power Studies.

While releasing the book 'Around the World in 80 Days' authored by Wing Commander Rahul Monga, SC., Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir congratulated the Indian Air Force for having been able to bring out a book based on real life experience of the pilot fraternity and for having given the officer time to undertake this adventure.

Focus on need to create an industrial structure which still does not exist and suggesting a massive shift in trust in the Indian industry as the government places in the foreign industry is the need of the hour, stressed Mr. Vijay Mathur, Managing Director, Inapex Limited. He also stated that the government needs to redefine its role and restructure its policies.

Dr. Vivek Lall, Vice President and Country Head (India), Boeing Integrated Defence Systems urged for opening up the market for overseas players as this will bring in competition. Hence the sector will be exposed to best products at better prices. The offsets obligation will bring in new technology and know how to national players.

Jasjit Singh, AVSM VrC VM (Retd), Director, Centre for Air Power Studies stated that exceptional capabilities across high-tech military and civil, public and private & Indian and foreign enterprises has to be developed with an open mindset. Industry must be able to involve the users as the ultimate stakeholders.

Gurpal Singh, Deputy Director General, CII announced that CII is working towards forming a centre of excellence for Defence & Aerospace. It will be a platform with experts recommending policy changes, voice stake holder's concerns etc. CII views transfer of technology as integral to the indigenisation of defence industry.

Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir with Editor-in-Chief Mr. Jayant Baranwal