Karnataka will continue to add strength to defence sector: CM Bommai

BENGALURU: Karnataka will continue to add strength to the defence sector, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said on Monday.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 14th edition of the Aero India 2023, Asia’s largest air show, at the Air Force Station at Yelahanka in Bengaluru, he said Karnataka will play a major role in making India a world leader. “As per Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Karnataka will make immense contributions in economic, social and defence sectors”, he noted.

The scale and magnitute of the Aero India show is an example of our capabilities. India has demonstrated in the defence sector and by hosting the air show. When the Paris air show was stopped during the pandemic, the Aero India show was held successfully. This time, there are more exhibits on display and the number of exhibitors has also increased, he said.

In Karnataka, the HAL was established in 1940, and the BHEL, BEL and DRDO in 1950. The ISRO was set up in 1960 and the first satellite, the Aryabhatta, was built in Bengaluru. Karnataka is in the forefront in the aerospace and defence sectors and about 65 per cent of defence production is happening in Bengaluru, he pointed out.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi releasing a commemorative stamp as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai look on.

The state has introduced a defence and aerospace policy and over 45,000 youngsters will be involved in developing the two sectors, the CM said. He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for organising the 14th edition of Aero India in Bengaluru.