'Today, once again Pokhran became witness...' PM Modi watches India's might at 'Bharat Shakti' (WATCH)

By Team MyNationFirst Published Mar 12, 2024, 6:41 PM IST
Highlights

Highlighting achievements and initiatives in the defense sector, including successful missile tests, policy reforms, and support for MSME startups, PM Modi outlined India's transformation from a defense importer to an exporter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday witnessed a synchronized display of indigenous defence capabilities during a Tri-Services Live Fire and Manoeuvre Exercise held in Pokhran, Rajasthan. Dubbed 'Bharat Shakti,' the event showcased a range of indigenous weapon systems and platforms, highlighting the nation's prowess and commitment to self-reliance in defence, as part of the Aatmanirbharata initiative.

| PM , along with delegates from more than 30 countries, witnesses exercise "Bharat Shakti" at the Pokhran field firing range in Jaisalmer. pic.twitter.com/rbNhWo1Lt6

— DD News (@DDNewslive)

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister hailed the valour and skills on display, proclaiming them as emblematic of the spirit of New India. He emphasized Pokhran's significance, linking the event to India's historical nuclear tests while celebrating the current display of strength through indigenization.

Prime Minister Modi lauded the recent successful test firing of the long-range AGNI missile equipped with advanced MIRV technology, positioning it as a testament to India's technological advancement in defence. He stressed the importance of reducing dependence on foreign imports, highlighting India's strides towards self-reliance across various sectors, from edible oils to fighter jets.

Enumerating measures to bolster India's defence sector, PM Modi outlined policy reforms, private sector involvement, and support for MSME startups. He lauded the establishment of defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, highlighting significant investments and the inauguration of Asia's largest helicopter factory in India.

The “live fire and manoeuvre exercise”, called , is witnessed by PM , Defence Minister , and the top military brass. It is aimed at showcasing indigenous weapons firepower and the military’s operational capabilities and readiness.… pic.twitter.com/lPGsxzoHKt

— DD News (@DDNewslive)

Reflecting on India's journey from being the world's largest defence importer to a burgeoning defence exporter, PM Modi highlighted the transformation of ordnance factories and the revitalization of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). He underscored achievements such as the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the construction of the War Memorial, and enhanced border infrastructure.

PM Modi also celebrated the implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP), noting its impact on service personnel and their families. He emphasized the nexus between economic strength and defense prowess, envisioning India's ascent to become the third-largest economy in the world.

'Bharat Shakti' – a synchronised display of indigenous defence capabilities thru Tri-Services live fire & manoeuvre at Pokhran, Rajasthan.

Watch the live coverage of from Field Firing Ranges: https://t.co/3r0mczFsSw pic.twitter.com/stPZMGR2co

— DD News (@DDNewslive)

The event was attended by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff Gen Manoj Pandey, Chief of Air Force Staff, Air Chief Marshal Vivke Ram Chaudhari, and Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar, among others.

Stunning visuals from , Rajasthan. Exercise, demonstrating the firepower might of Made-in-India weapon systems at the Pokhran field firing range in the deserts of Rajasthan. pic.twitter.com/iWl3x4YflN

— DD News (@DDNewslive)

About Exercise Bharat Shakti 

The Bharat Shakti exercise showcased integrated operational capabilities across land, air, sea, cyber, and space domains. Key equipment and weapons systems included T-90 (IM) Tanks, Dhanush and Sarang Gun Systems, Akash Weapons System, Logistics Drones, Robotic Mules, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), unmanned aerial vehicles, Naval Anti-Ship Missiles, and Autonomous Cargo Carrying Aerial Vehicles. This demonstration underlined India's readiness to address contemporary and future challenges with indigenous solutions, highlighting the resilience and innovation of the Indian defence industry.

Read Exclusive COVID-19 Coronavirus News updates, at MyNation.

click me!