Aero India 2023 reflects India's new strength, capabilities, says PM Modi

Bengaluru, Feb 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday unveiled the five-day Aero India 2023 show in Bengaluru. Addressing the inaugural event, he said the sky of Bengaluru is a witness to the capability of New India. ''The sky of Bengaluru is becoming a witness to the capability of New India. Bengaluru's sky is giving a testimony that the new height is the truth of New India. Today, the nation is touching new heights and even crossing it,'' PM Modi said.

''Aero India is an example of the expanding capabilities of India. The presence of around 100 nations here shows that the trust of the world in India has increased. More than 700 exhibitors from India and the world are participating. It has broken all the past records,'' he added, as per news agency ANI.

He further stressed that the Aero India exhibition "reflects a new approach of New India". ''Aero India reflects new approach of New India. There was a time when it was considered just a show. In past few years,the nation has changed this perception. Today, it's not just a show but also India's strength. It focuses on scope of Indian defence industry & self-confidence,''he said.

''Today, India is not just a market for defence companies in the world. India is a potential defence partner today. This partnership is even with those nations that are much ahead in defence sector, nations that are looking for a dependable partner for their defence requirements,''

''New India of 21st century will now neither lose any opportunity nor lag behind in hard work. We're ready.On the path to reforms, we're bringing revolution in every sector. The country which was the biggest defence importer for decades now exports defence equipment to 75 countries,'' PM Modi emphasised.

Aero India 2023

The five-day exhibition at the Yalahanka Air Force station complex on the outskirts of Bengaluru will see the participation of 809 defence companies and delegates from 98 countries, news agency PTI reported citing officials.

The event is organized by the Indian Ministry of Defence in association with the Indian Air Force and the Department of Defence Production. Aero India showcases the latest aerospace and aviation technologies, products, and services, and provides a platform for international and domestic companies to network, collaborate, and showcase their capabilities.

According to an official statement, the focus of Aero India-2023 this time will be on displaying indigenous equipment/technologies and forging partnerships with foreign companies, in line with 'Make in India, Make for the World' vision. It said the biggest-ever event till date is likely to witness the participation of 98 countries, the Defence Ministers of 32 countries, Air Chiefs of 29 countries and 73 Chief Executive Officers of global and Indian original equipment manufacturers.