PM Modi Highlights India's Self-Reliance in Defence Sector

In a recent address during his monthly radio programme, 'Mann Ki Baat', Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the nation's strides towards self-reliance, particularly in the defence sector. On June 28, 2026, he highlighted significant milestones, including the maiden flight of the indigenous C-295 transport aircraft and the successful test of the Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM).

Mr. Modi emphasised the importance of June as a pivotal month for India's aviation and defence industries. He revealed that 40 C-295 aircraft are being manufactured within India, which he noted would significantly support the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector as well as the aerospace industry, fostering job creation. The first of these aircraft successfully flew on June 10. A Rs 21,935-crore deal is in place for the Indian Air Force to procure 56 of these aircraft, with 40 being produced by Tata Advanced Systems Limited in collaboration with Airbus at a facility located in Vadodara.

Moreover, the Prime Minister announced that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) had completed a successful flight test of the indigenous LRLACM earlier this month. “From the seas to the skies, our India is becoming increasingly secure and self-reliant,” Mr. Modi stated, highlighting that all major components of the missile were developed domestically.

The Prime Minister also mentioned the recent induction of three warships—the INS Dunagiri, INS Shanshak, and INS Agrya—into the Indian Navy, all of which were designed and built entirely in India.

In addition to defence advancements, Mr. Modi expressed gratitude to citizens for their positive responses to his appeals for resource conservation amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia. He reported that many people have started carpooling, utilising public transport, delaying foreign travel, and opting for natural fertilisers. He also noted an increase in families recycling old gold for weddings instead of purchasing new jewellery.

“I am grateful to every citizen of the country; not only have they supported my appeal, they are also actively cooperating in every way,” he acknowledged.

The Prime Minister also focused on environmental conservation efforts, commending biologist Purnima Devi Barman for her efforts in changing public perceptions about the hargila bird in Assam. He lauded community initiatives in Meghalaya aimed at preserving living root bridges, which India has requested to be granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Additionally, Mr. Modi praised women's initiatives in Madhya Pradesh's Rajgarh district where plastic waste is transformed into eco-bricks for enhancing public spaces. He also highlighted the ‘Baby League’ football initiative in Nagaland for children aged five to 12.

As the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, Mr. Modi encouraged citizens to purchase idols made from locally sourced clay and crafted by Indian artisans, urging them to verify both the material and the country of manufacture before their purchases.