Govt giving attention to indigenous defence technologies

New Delhi, Feb 21 (PTI) Noting that government waspaying special attention to indigenous development of defencetechnologies, President Pratibha Patil today said efforts wereon for creation of an environment for private industry tocontribute to defence production.

She also said that the government was ensuring"highest level of probity and professionalism in the armedforces."

In her address to the joint sitting of both Houses ofParliament, Patil stressed on the need for indigenisation ofthe defence industry.

"Special attention is being paid to the indigenousdevelopment of defence technologies, the expansion of defenceproduction capabilities and the creation of an environment forprivate industry to contribute to defence production," shesaid.

She said the government is taking all necessary,"steps to transform our armed forces into a modern force thatis equipped to meet the security challenges of 21st century."

She also said that the indigenous multi-role lightcombat aircraft, Tejas, is being inducted into the Indian AirForce.

Stressing upon the need for welfare measure in thearmed forces, Patil said, "The government will continue toensure the welfare of servicemen and ex-servicemen." PTI AD SC