Inaugurating the 14th Aero India 2023 - Asia's largest five-day aviation show - India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that with this event, India is “touching new heights and even crossing [them]”.
“Today, India is not just a market for defense companies in the world, but rather a potential defense partner, and this partnership is with nations that are looking for a reliable partner for their military needs,” Modi declared at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Karnataka's Bengaluru.
“The sky of Bengaluru is becoming a witness of the the capabilities of New India”, he added.
Describing the exhibition as an “example of [India's] expanding capabilities”, Modi noted that the record number of 100 nations participating in it proves that “the trust of the world in India has increased.”
Showcasing 'New India' Approach
Speaking about the Aero India show, Modi noted that it reflects the approach of 'New India', apparently referring to the 'Make in India' and 'Self-reliant India' approaches promoted by the BJP government.
“There was a time when it was considered just a show. In the past few years, the nation has changed its view. Today, it's not just a show, but [a demonstration of] India's strength. It focuses on the scope of India's defense industry and self-confidence.”
The Indian PM invited the private sector to invest in the defense sector as he said that India has transitioned from being largely an importer of armaments to a major exporter.
India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also commented on the occasion, saying that “in the global sky, India has emerged as a star, which not only shines itself, but illuminates others with its glow.”
“Aero India is a showcase of aerospace that has two important characteristics - height and speed. These two qualities define the working and personality of the Prime Minister. Height of integrity and commitment for India, speed of decision making and delivering results,” Singh stated.
This year's event will display indigenous equipment and technologies to forge partnerships with foreign companies.
On the occasion of the air show, Modi also released an Aero India 2023 commemorative stamp.