INS Kalvari is a fine example of 'Make in India': PM Modi

Published By : Admin | December 14, 2017 | 09:12 IST
Commissioning of the INS Kalvari in Indian Navy will further strengthen our defence sector: PM
INS Kalvari a fine example of ‘Make in India’ initiative, says PM Modi
Guided by the principle of SAGAR – Security And Growth for All in the Region, we are according highest priority to Indian Ocean region: PM

Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Vidya Sagar Rao, Defence Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Minister of Defence for State, Shri Subhash Bhamre, National Security Advisor, Shri Ajit Doval, Ambassador of France, Mr. Alexander Jigaral and other French guests, Chief of Navy, Admiral Sunil Lamba, Commanding in Chief, Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Girish Luthra Ji, Vice Admiral D.M. Deshpande Ji, CMD, MDL, Mr. Rakesh Anand, Captain S.D. Mehndale, other officers and staff of Navy, Officers and staff of MDL (Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited), other dignitaries present here in the program.

Today is an important day for 1.25 billion Indians, a day full of pride. I heartily congratulate all my countrymen on this historic achievement. Dedicating INS Kalvari submarine to the nation is a very auspicious opportunity for me. I also offer a lot of good wishes to the Indian Navy on behalf of the people of the country.

After a gap of about two decades, India is getting such a submarine. Kalvari's addition to Naval fleet is a big step taken by us in the defence sector. Indians have shed sweat to manufacture it, they have used their energy. This is a great example of Make in India. I heartily congratulate every worker, every employee involved in the making of Kalvari. I thank France too for contributing in the making of Kalvari. This submarine is also an excellent example of the rapidly growing strategic partnership between India and France.

Friends, this year is the golden jubilee of the Indian Navy's Submarine Arm. Just last week, Submarine Arm has been awarded President's Color. Power of Kalvari, or it could be said that the power of Tiger Shark will strengthen our Indian Navy. Friends, India's maritime tradition is very old, five thousand years. Lothal of Gujarat was one of the world's earliest sea-ports. Historians say that trade with 84 countries was conducted through Lothal. Our relationship with other countries of Asia and Africa has progressed through these sea waves only. Not only for business but culturally also Indian Ocean has linked us with other countries of the world and helped us to stand with them.

Indian Ocean has carved the history of India and now it is giving strength to modern India. Our coastline of more than 7500 kilometers, about 1300 small islands, about 25 lakh square kilometers of Exclusive Economic Zone, creates such a maritime power that is unmatched. The Indian Ocean is very important not just for India but for the future of the whole world. These oceans shoulder the burden of two-third of the world's Oil Shipments, one-third of the world's bulk cargo and half of the world's container traffic. Three-fourths of the traffic passing through it and goes into other parts of the world. Waves rising in this ocean reach to 40 countries and up to 40 percent of the world's population.

Friends, it is said that the 21st century is the century of Asia. It is also decided that the path of development of the 21st century will pass through the Indian Ocean. And hence Indian Ocean has a special place in the policies of our government. This approach is reflected in our vision. I also mention it by a special name - S. A. G. A. R.- or if I may say SAGAR i.e. Security and Growth for All in the Reason, "SAGAR". We are fully aware and cautious about our global, strategic and economic interests in the Indian Ocean and therefore the modern and multi-dimensional Navy of India is leading for peace and stability in the entire region. The way India's political and economic Maritime Partnership is increasing and regional framework is being strengthened, it makes it easier to achieve this goal.

Friends, the powers vested in the sea gives us economic power for nation building, and therefore, India is also serious about those challenges which are not only faced by India but also by other countries in this region. Whether it is terrorism coming through the sea or the problem of piracy, smuggling of drugs, India is playing an important role in dealing with all these challenges. Our mantra of Development of Everyone Together is the same be it water, air or land.

Considering the entire world as one family and moving forward with the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam (world is one family), India is constantly meeting its global responsibilities. For its fellow countries India is the first responder in their time of crises and therefore when Sri Lanka is flooded, Indian navy is the first to reach their promptly for offering help. When there was a water crisis in the Maldives, ships filled with water were sent from India immediately. When a cyclone hits Bangladesh, Indian navy rescues the stranded Bangladeshi people in the middle of the sea. On humanitarian grounds Indian navy never lagged and promptly came forward to help the victims of typhoon in Myanmar with all their might. Not only this, when the Indian Navy rescued more than four and a half thousand Indian citizens during Yemen crisis then it also rescued people from other 48 other countries safely and securely from that crisis. Humanitarian aspect of Indian diplomacy and Indian security system is the specialty of India, it is our distinctiveness.

I remember when an earthquake hit Nepal, how Indian Army and Air Force took over the relief operations. Over 700 flights, more than a thousand tonnes of relief material, taking thousands of earthquake victims from one place to another, extricating hundreds of foreign nationals, this "amiability" is in India's psyche, it is in India’s nature. India can never stay without doing the work of humanity.

Friends, an able and strong India has an important role not only for themselves but for the entire humanity. Today we are working shoulder to shoulder with different countries of the world. Their armies are eager to share experiences and to increase the synergy with our army. Last year alone, naval forces of 50 countries were involved in the International Fleet Review. One can hardly forget the panoramic scene in Visakhapatnam at that time.

This year also the Indian Navy has attracted the world's attention with its valor in the Indian Ocean. Indian Navy performed brilliantly with the Navy of the US and Japan during Malabar Exercises, held in July. Similarly India has continued with a series of exercises during different months with the navies of Australia, Singapore, Myanmar, Japan and Indonesia. Indian Army has also conducted joint exercises with the countries like Sri Lanka, Russia, America, Britain, Bangladesh and Singapore.

Brothers and Sisters, this whole picture is a witness to the fact that the countries of the world today are willing and committed to move with India on the path of peace and stability.

Friends, we are also aware that the nature of challenges for the security of the country has changed. We are doing our utmost to develop our defence preparedness to meet these challenges, proactive steps are being taken. Along with military Power, Economic Power and Technical Power, power of International relations, power of public confidence and the soft power of the country, all these should have synergy in between them. This is a demand of the present times.

Brothers and Sisters, in the past three years a change has begun in the eco-system related to defence and security. A lot of new initiatives have been taken. While on the one hand we are addressing on priority the topic of essential goods, at the same time pro-active agenda is also being set to develop the necessary technology in the country itself. From the licensing process to the export process, we are bringing transparency and balanced competition across the system. Our government has taken several steps to encourage foreign investment. Now 49 percent FDI can be done through automatic route. The option to have 100% FDI in some areas of the defence sector has now been opened. We have also made major changes in the Defence Procurement Procedure which is also encouraging Make in India. This is also creating new opportunities for employment.

I have been told that it took around 12 lakh man-days to construct INS Kalvari. During the course of its construction, the technical competence that Indian companies, Indian industries, small entrepreneurs and our engineers have got is, in a way, a "Talent Treasure" for the country. This skill-set is an asset for us, which will continuously benefit our country in the future.

Friends, we have made radical changes in our defence exports policy, so that Indian companies can manufacture products of defence sector and export them all over the world. A list of about one hundred fifty non-core items has been created, so our military forces can easily purchase the defence products that are being made here. Military forces do not need approval from Ordnance Factories for their purchase, they can buy such products directly from private companies.

In order to make the country self-reliant in the defence sector, the government is implementing the Strategic Partnership Model with the Indian private sector. It is our effort that just like foreign countries, Indian companies should also manufacture, from fighter planes to helicopters and from tanks to Submarine in our country. These Strategic Partners will further strengthen India's defence industry in future.

The government has also taken several policy decisions to accelerate the procurement of defence related items. Financial powers have also been increased at the level of Ministry of Defence and Services Headquarters. The whole process has been made more simple and effective. With these important reforms, the strength of our defence system and the capabilities of the forces of the country will enhance further.

Brothers and sisters, our government's security policy is not only creating an impact outside but is also having a positive impact on the internal security of the country. You all know how terrorism is being used as a proxy war against India. It is the result of our government’s policies and the bravery of our soldiers that we have not allowed such forces to succeed in J&K. In Jammu and Kashmir, more than 200 terrorists have been killed so far in this year. There has also been a significant decrease in stone pelting incidents.

In the Northeastern states also, there has been noticeable improvement in the situation. Naxal-Maoist violence has also come down. This indicates that more and more people in these areas are now returning to the mainstream of development. On this occasion today, I am thankful to all those who have laid down their lives for the security of the country. State police forces, para-military forces, our military, all the agencies engaged in security and those working clandestinely, 1.25 billion people of this country are grateful to them. I congratulate them, I thank them.

Friends, the strength of the country is connected with the strength of our security forces and therefore, keeping in view the requirements of the security forces, taking decisions for them without delay, standing with them is the priority of this government and it is in the nature of this government. This was our own commitment, due to which the issue of One Rank One Pension, which has been pending since decades, that promise has now been fulfilled. So far nearly 11 thousand crore rupees have been paid as arrears to more than 20 lakh retired army personnel.

Brothers and Sisters, on this occasion, I would like to remember the 6 brave Indian Navy officers, who are on an all ocean revolution mission. I would like to honor them. With the inspiration of Defence Minister Smt. Nirmala Ji and message from India’s women power, a lot of courage these six brave hearts are marching ahead.

Friends, only you are managing these unfathomable Indian capabilities in land, sea and air. Today a new journey begins with INS Kalvari.

May the god of sea keep you strong and safe. “Shamah Nau Varunah” this is your only motto. With this wish, I salute you once again with good wishes. I conclude here while congratulating all of you for this new entry in this Golden Jubilee year.

Many many thanks.

Bharat Mata ki Jai. (Long live Mother India)

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Text of PM’s address at third edition of Kautilya Economic Conclave in New Delhi
October 04, 2024
Today, India is the fastest growing major economy:PM
Government is following the mantra of Reform, Perform and Transform:PM
Government is committed to carrying out structural reforms to make India developed:PM
Inclusion taking place along with growth in India:PM
India has made ‘process reforms’ a part of the government's continuous activities:PM
Today, India's focus is on critical technologies like AI and semiconductors:PM
Special package for skilling and internship of youth:PM

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ji, President of the Institute of Economic Growth N K Singh ji, other distinguished guests from India and abroad at the Conclave, ladies and gentlemen! This is the third edition of the Kautilya Conclave. I am delighted to have the opportunity to meet you all. There will be numerous sessions here, discussing various economic issues over the next three days. I am confident that these discussions will help accelerate Bharat’s growth.

Friends,

This Conclave is being held at a time when two major regions of the world are in a state of war. These regions are crucial for the global economy, especially in terms of energy security. Amidst such significant global uncertainty, we are gathered here to discuss ‘The Indian Era.’ This shows that trust in Bharat today is unique... It demonstrates that Bharat’s self-confidence is exceptional.

Friends,

Today, Bharat is the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Bharat is currently the fifth largest economy in terms of GDP. We are number one in terms of global fintech adoption rates. Today, we are number one in smartphone data consumption. We are the second largest internet user base globally. Nearly half of the world’s real-time digital transactions are taking place in Bharat today. Bharat now has the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem. In terms of renewable energy capacity, Bharat is ranked fourth. When it comes to manufacturing, Bharat is the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. Bharat is also the largest producer of two-wheelers and tractors. And not just that, Bharat is the world's youngest country. Bharat has the third-largest pool of scientists and technicians globally. Whether it’s science, technology, or innovation, Bharat is clearly in a sweet spot.

Friends,

By following the mantra of ‘Reform, Perform, and Transform,’ we are continuously making decisions to drive the nation forward at a rapid pace. This is the impact that has led the people of Bharat to elect the same government for the third consecutive time after 60 years. When people’s lives change, they gain confidence that the country is moving on the right track. This sentiment is reflected in the mandate of the Indian public. The trust of 140 crore citizens is a great asset for this government.

Our commitment is to continue making structural reforms to make Bharat a developed nation. You can see this commitment in the work we have done in the first three months of our third term. Bold policy changes, a strong commitment to jobs and skills, a focus on sustainable growth and innovation, modern infrastructure, quality of life, and the continuity of rapid growth are reflected in the policies of our first three months. During this period, decisions amounting to over 15 trillion rupees i.e. 15 lakh crore rupees have been made. In these three months alone, work on numerous mega infrastructure projects has begun in Bharat. We have also decided to create 12 industrial nodes across the country. Additionally, we have approved the construction of 3 crore new houses.

Friends,

Another notable factor in Bharat’s growth story is its inclusive spirit. It was once believed that with growth comes inequality. But the opposite is happening in Bharat. Along with growth, inclusion is also taking place in Bharat. As a result, 250 million i.e. 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty in the last 10 years. Along with Bharat’s rapid progress, we are ensuring that inequality is reduced and that the benefits of development reach everyone.

Friends,

The confidence in Bharat’s growth predictions also shows the direction we are heading in. You can see this in the data from recent weeks and months. Last year, our economy performed better than any prediction. Whether it’s the World Bank, the IMF, or Moody’s, all have upgraded their forecasts for Bharat. All these institutions are saying that despite global uncertainty, Bharat will continue to grow at a 7+ rate. We Indians are confident that we will perform even better than that.

Friends,

There are solid reasons behind this confidence in Bharat. Be it manufacturing or the service sector, the world today sees Bharat as a preferred destination for investment. This is not a coincidence but a result of major reforms over the past 10 years. These reforms have transformed Bharat’s macroeconomic fundamentals. One example is Bharat’s banking reforms which have not only strengthened the financial conditions of banks but also increased their lending capacity. Similarly, the GST has integrated various central and state indirect taxes. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has developed a new credit culture of responsibility, recovery, and resolution. Bharat has opened sectors such as mining, defence, and space for private players and our young entrepreneurs. We have liberalized the FDI policy to create more and more opportunities for investors around the world. We are focusing on modern infrastructure to reduce logistics costs and time. Over the past decade, we have significantly scaled up investments in infrastructure.

Friends,

India has integrated process reforms into the government’s ongoing initiatives. We have eliminated over 40,000 compliances and decriminalised the Companies Act. Numerous provisions that previously made business operations difficult have been amended. The National Single Window System has been introduced to simplify the processes of starting, closing, and obtaining clearances for companies. Now, we are encouraging state governments to accelerate process reforms at the state level.

Friends,

To boost manufacturing in Bharat, we have introduced Production Linked Incentives (PLI), the impact of which is now visible across many sectors. Over the past three years, PLI has attracted investments of approximately ₹1.25 trillion (₹1.25 lakh crore). This has resulted in the production and sales amounting to about ₹11 trillion (₹11 lakh crore). Bharat's progress in the space and defence sectors is also remarkable. These sectors have only recently been opened up, yet more than 200 start-ups have already emerged in the space sector. Today, our private defence companies account for 20 percent of the country’s total defence manufacturing.

Friends,

The growth of the electronics sector is even more remarkable. Just 10 years ago, Bharat was a major importer of most mobile phones. Today, over 330 million or more than 33 crore mobile phones are manufactured in Bharat. In fact, no matter which sector you look at, there are exceptional opportunities for investors in Bharat to invest and earn high returns.

Friends,

Bharat is now also focusing on critical technologies such as AI and semiconductors, and we are investing significantly in these areas. Our AI mission will enhance both research and skills development in the AI field. Under the India Semiconductor Mission, investments totalling ₹1.5 trillion (₹1.5 lakh crore) are being made. Soon, five semiconductor plants in Bharat will begin delivering 'Made in India' chips to every corner of the world.

Friends,

You are all aware that Bharat is the leading source of affordable intellectual power. A testament to this is the presence of more than 1,700 global capability centres of companies from around the world operating in India today. These centres employ over two million i.e. 20 lakh Indian youth, who are providing highly skilled services to the world. Today, Bharat is placing an unprecedented focus on maximising this demographic dividend. To achieve this, special attention is being devoted to education, innovation, skills, and research. We have introduced a significant reform in this area with the implementation of the New National Education Policy. In the past 10 years, a new university has been established every week, and two new colleges have been opened each day. During this period, the number of medical colleges in our country has doubled.

And friends,

We are focusing not only on expanding access to education but also on improving its quality. As a result, the number of Indian institutions in the QS World University Rankings has more than tripled over the past decade. In this year's budget, we announced a special package for skilling and interning millions of young people. Under the PM Internship Scheme, 111 companies registered on the portal on the very first day. Through this scheme, we are supporting 1 crore youth with internships at major companies.

Friends,

Bharat's research output and patent filings have also seen rapid growth in the past 10 years. In less than a decade, Bharat has risen from 81st to 39th in the Global Innovation Index rankings, and we aim to advance further. To bolster its research ecosystem, India has also created a research fund worth ₹1 trillion.

Friends,

Today, the world has high expectations from Bharat regarding a green future and green jobs, and there are equally significant opportunities for you in this sector. You all followed the G20 Summit held under Bharat's presidency. One of the many successes of this summit was the renewed enthusiasm for the green transition. During the G20 Summit, the Global Biofuel Alliance was launched at Bharat's initiative, and G20 member countries strongly supported Bharat's development of green hydrogen energy. In Bharat, we have set a target to produce 5 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen by the end of this decade. We are also advancing solar power production at the micro level.

The Government of India has launched the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, a large-scale Rooftop Solar Scheme. We are providing funding to every household for setting up rooftop solar systems and assisting with solar infrastructure installation. So far, more than 13 million i.e. 1 crore 30 lakh families have registered for this scheme, meaning these households have become solar power producers. This initiative will save an average of ₹25,000 per family. For every three kilowatts of solar power generated, 50-60 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions will be prevented. This scheme will create approximately 1.7 million (17 lakh) jobs, producing a vast workforce of skilled youth. Therefore, numerous new investment opportunities are emerging for you in this sector as well.

Friends,

The Indian economy is currently undergoing a significant transformation. With strong economic fundamentals, India is on a path of sustained high growth. Today, Bharat is not only striving to reach the top but is also making concerted efforts to stay there. The world today offers immense opportunities across every sector. I am confident that your discussions will provide many valuable insights in the days to come.

I am confident that in the coming days, many valuable insights will emerge from your discussions. I extend my best wishes for this endeavour, and I assure you that this is not merely a debating forum for us. The discussions that take place here, the points raised, the do's and don'ts—those that prove beneficial—are diligently integrated into our governmental system. We incorporate them into our policies and governance. The wisdom you contribute during this churning process is what we utilise to shape a brighter future for our country. Your participation is, therefore, of immense importance to us. Every word you offer holds value for us. Your thoughts, your experience—they are our assets. Once again, I thank you all for your contribution. I also congratulate N. K. Singh and his entire team for their commendable efforts.

With warmest regards and best wishes.

Thank you!