Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, while inaugurating the second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) on the theme ‘Make in India Opportunities and Challenges’, called for innovations in the field of ammunition for creation of a strong and self-reliant base that keeps the Armed Forces fully prepared to deal with future challenges. While exhorting the private sector to work with the Government in catering to the ammunition needs of the Armed Forces, he described advanced ammunition as the reality of the new age warfare, which is a must for India, given its regional and global imperatives and security challenges. He asserted that a healthy mix of local endeavours and foreign collaboration is the bedrock of India’s journey of self-reliance.
TRIBUTES TO KARGIL WAR HEROES ON 23RD ANNIVERSARY OF INDIA’S HISTORIC VICTORY IN 1999
The nation paid tributes to the bravehearts of the Kargil war on the 23rd anniversary of India’s historic victory in 1999, which is celebrated as ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’ every year. To mark the day, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt and the Defence Secretary along with the three service chiefs laid wreath at National War Memorial, New Delhi and paid homage to the fallen heroes who ensured India’s victory during the Kargil war of 1999. Various events, remembering the fallen heroes of the Kargil war, were organised across the country, including at Kargil War Memorial in Dras to mark this momentous occasion.
DEFENCE ACQUISITION COUNCIL APPROVALS
Defence Acquisition Council has accorded Acceptance of Necessity for Capital Acquisition Proposals amounting to Rs 28,732 crore under Buy (Indian IDDM) and Buy (Indian) categories giving a further boost to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in Defence. These proposals include:
- Guided Extended Range Rocket Ammunition, Area Denial Munition Type I, Infantry Combat Vehicle—Command for Indian Army, Bullet Proof Jackets with Indian Standard BIS VI level of protection and Close Quarter Battle Carbines
- Autonomous Surveillance and Armed Drone Swarms
- Upgraded 1250KW capacity Marine Gas Turbine Generator
- 14 Fast Patrol Vessels for Indian Coast Guard
