Govt contemplates private firms to manufacture weapons

Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, Jan 7 (UNI) Union Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju today said the government is contemplating private companies in the country to manufacture weapons.

In a meet-the-press programme at the Press Club here, Mr Raju observed as 39 ordinance defence factories and eight public sector defence factories were not producing the weapons on time, the country was importing sophisticated weapons from foreign countries.

Hence, the government was considering to allow private companies to manufacture the weapons.

Full control of the units would come under government surveillance he informed.

He said for the joint protection of the sea from the African coast to the Malaka straits, the coast guard was considering an agreement with countries like Indonesia, Korea, Taiwan, Japan and Singapore.

Mr Raju said the media should refrain from publishing news contrary to development. Negative news would only retard the purpose of development, he added.

He said sensationalism was not necessary and balanced coverage was essential. Any shortcomings should be highlighted and strive to create a positive attitude.

Earlier, Mr Raju was at the Etimoga Health Centre as the Chief Guest in the pulse polio programme and complimented the health officials for their efforts towards eradicating polio.

UNI