The UPDIC brings forth a manufacturing revolution. How will this new initiative change India’s defence landscape?
During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, India faced difficulties acquiring weapons as many developed nations refused to supply them. However, times have changed, and India has embarked on a unique path in the defence field. This path has not only bolstered India’s security but has also played a significant role in making the country self-sufficient by developing high-quality technology.
The statement, ‘Self-reliance is not an option but a necessity’, was recently emphasised by India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. In recent years, India has taken significant strides towards self-reliance in the defence sector. The UPDIC project stands as a testament to this endeavour.
Let’s explore more about it.
What’s Happening?
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced during a program focused on India’s self-reliance. He revealed that the Uttar Pradesh Defense Industrial Corridor (UPDIC) would manufacture spare parts and produce advanced technologies like drones, UAVs, electronic warfare systems, and BrahMos missiles.
The UPDIC project has already allocated 600 hectares of land to 36 industries and institutions, attracting a massive investment of over Rs 16,000 crore through 109 signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). With this substantial investment and the dedicated efforts of various units, the UPDIC is poised to become a thriving centre for defence manufacturing, driving India towards self-reliance and establishing a solid foundation for technological excellence in the defence sector.
So, What is the UPDIC Project All About?
The Uttar Pradesh Defense Industrial Corridor (UPDIC) is a visionary project that aims to reduce India’s reliance on foreign suppliers in the defence sector. Launched in August 2018 with a significant investment of over Rs 3,700 crore, the project is set to transform the region’s defence production capabilities.
The defence corridor is a route which connects multiple cities and serves as the foundation for this initiative. It brings together various public and private sector companies and industries which manufacture military goods to facilitate the production of armed forces.
In Uttar Pradesh, the corridor spans Aligarh, Agra, Jhansi, Chitrakoot, Kanpur, and Lucknow, establishing a strategic network of industrial hubs dedicated to defence manufacturing.
Why is This Move Important?
The defence corridor aims to reduce India’s dependence on foreign countries for defence supplies. Currently, India heavily relies on imports to meet its defence needs. By establishing a robust defence manufacturing ecosystem within the corridor, India can produce high-quality defence products and weapons domestically, thereby reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
It is expected to enhance regional industrial growth. The development of defence-related industries within the corridor will create new employment opportunities, contributing to economic development in the region.
It will allow industries to connect with the global supply chain in defence production. This facilitates collaborations and partnerships with international entities for technological advancements and knowledge exchange.
The creation of Defence Industrial Corridors was announced by the Finance Minister in 2018-19, with one corridor in Tamil Nadu and the other in Uttar Pradesh, signifying the government’s commitment to promoting indigenous defence production capabilities.
What’s Next?
According to a report by BBC Hindi, Russia continues to be the largest arms supplier to India. However, its share in Indian defence imports has decreased from 62% to 45% between 2017 and 2022.
France holds the second position with a 29% share, while the United States accounts for 11%, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
Researchers have observed a decline of approximately 11% in India’s arms imports. This can be attributed to India’s growing focus on enhancing domestic production capabilities in the defence sector.
That’s it for today. We hope you’ve found this article informative. Remember to spread the word among your friends. Until we meet again, stay curious!
*The article is for information purposes only. This is not an investment advice.
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