‘Make India Production Base For Global Exports’: Rajnath Singh Invites French Companies For Defence Manufacturing

In his address to the chief executive officers (CEOs) of the French defence companies in Paris, Union defence minister Rajnath Singh urged them to make India their production base, not just for India’s market, but global exports.

Singh said that French companies, in collaboration, could modernise India’s shipyards and defence platforms by infusion of latest technology.

"We have undertaken significant economic reforms to improve the ease of doing business and opening up the economy for investments. Our Government under the leadership of our Prime Minister Modi has opened up defence sector manufacturing to a large extent under the 'Make in India' initiative," Rajnath Singh was quoted as saying by India Today.

Singh outlined how India had increased its Ease of Doing Business and further stated that if needed, suitable tax rationalisation will be considered for ‘Make in India’ in the defence sector.

The defence minister also praised French companies for their great energy and enthusiasm, and the regular participation in Defences Expos organised in India.

"Lucknow happens to be a city of rich culture and heritage and the French people are known to be highly appreciative of great cultures. Lucknow is the capital of Uttar Pradesh which is also a land of new opportunities," Rajnath Singh said, while inviting the French companies to the upcoming DefExpo in the city.

Highlighting India’s demand for aero engines, for military as well as other purposes, the defence minister requested French OEMs to consider building an Aero-engine complex on government-to-government basis.

He further added that the French companies could leverage from advantages in India such as low wages and availability of technical manpower.