Maharashtra’s Defense Manufacturing Policy Positions the State and Pune as India’s True ‘Defense Cluster’ – Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Inauguration of Nibe Defence and Aerospace Ltd’s Advanced Missile Complex and Small Arms Manufacturing Facility

Pune : Maharashtra is the first state to have developed a defense manufacturing policy in 2017, recognizing the need to stay ahead of the times. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized that Maharashtra, and specifically Pune, is the true defense cluster of India. He also mentioned that with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Make in India – Make for the World” initiative, the country is now on a path to defense excellence, providing opportunities and platforms for innovation.

CM Fadnavis was speaking during the inauguration of Nibe Defence and Aerospace Ltd’s cutting-edge missile complex and small arms production facility at Naneckerwadi in the Chakan industrial area. He also participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the company’s Shirdi facility. Deputy Chief Minister and Pune District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Industry Minister Dr. Uday Samant, MLA Mahesh Landge, Nibe Ltd President and MD Ganesh Nibe, and officials from L&T Defence were present at the event.

CM Fadnavis explained that while India had always had innovators, they lacked platforms and opportunities. However, Prime Minister Modi’s “Make in India” initiative has changed that. He noted that in the past, defense production in India was limited, but with the rise of technological warfare and modernization, India is now catching up with global superpowers.

The CM highlighted how, in 2016, the Mazagon Dock launched a submarine entirely made from imported parts, but recently, more than 60% of the components were manufactured in India. This shift, he explained, had not only improved efficiency but also created a thriving defense ecosystem. India, which was once entirely dependent on imports, now exports defense products worth ₹25,000 crores.

Maharashtra’s defense manufacturing policy in 2017 allocated ₹100 crore to establish a fund of funds for the sector, resulting in the launch of 300 defense startups. Pune, Nagpur, and other cities now produce defense equipment, contributing significantly to India’s defense autonomy. CM Fadnavis further mentioned that India has now developed guided missiles with a range of up to 2,000 km and is making its mark among the world’s most advanced defense nations.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also expressed the need for private sector involvement in strengthening the country’s defense readiness. He emphasized that future warfare would be multifaceted, occurring not only on land but in the air, at sea, in space, and even through internet and mobile channels. He praised Nibe Ltd for its contributions to this growing sector and recognized the company’s role in advancing India’s defense capabilities.

In his address, Ajit Pawar acknowledged that in the past few years, there have been substantial changes in India’s defense manufacturing industry, especially with the involvement of private players like Nibe Ltd. He commended Ganesh Nibe for his entrepreneurial spirit and contributions toward self-reliant defense production. Pawar also spoke about the progress made in the defense expo in Pune, which received international recognition.

Additionally, Industry Minister Dr. Uday Samant acknowledged the role of Ganesh Nibe in putting Pune on the map for defense innovation, and assured the state’s support for Nibe Ltd in expanding its initiatives.

The event concluded with the inauguration of various defense collaborations, including partnerships with DRDO, Premier Explosives, Maharashtra Government’s MRSAK, and Thales Alenia Space. The dignitaries also inspected the facilities and engaged with the company’s leadership.

The ceremony was attended by several officials, including Industry Department Principal Secretary Dr. P. Anbalagan, Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation CEO P. Velerasu, and other prominent leaders and staff members.