India aims to achieve 100% indigenous Naval platforms: ENC chief

Eastern Naval Command Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar.
| Photo Credit: File Photo

The second ‘Regional Defence MSME Conclave’ was held here on Monday, December 16. It was organised by the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with the Department of Defence Production, Union Ministry of Defence.

Eastern Naval Command (ENC) Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, during this keynote address, emphasised India’s ambition to achieve 100% indigenous naval platforms, reflecting the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defence. Achieving this vision requires fostering a culture of innovation, enhancing Research & Development (R&D), and embracing emerging technologies like AI, IoT, robotics, and additive manufacturing, he said. He added that collaboration among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), academia, and large defence manufacturers will be pivotal in this journey.

APIIC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director and AP State Industries Director M. Abhishikth Kishore spoke about the initiatives of the State Government to build an industry ecosystem such as the Special Industry Cluster.

Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. Chairman and Managing Director Commodore Hemant Khatri said that the shipbuilding industry needs skilled professionals to ensure that vessels meet global standards.

Founded in 2017 under the aegis of CII, the SIDM represents over 700 defence manufacturers, promoting policy advocacy, capacity building, and international cooperation. The conclave was the first of its kind to be held in Visakhapatnam, bringing together over 200 participants from MSMEs, officials from the Indian Navy and other key stakeholders to discuss the roadmap for expanding MSME participation in India’s defence ecosystem.

Representatives from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., L&T, Bharat Dynamics Ltd., Hindustan Shipyard Ltd, Ship Building Centre, Naval Dockyard, SIDBI and GeM engaged in fruitful meetings with regional MSMEs, paving the way for stronger supply chain integration.

A Tech Expo showcased cutting-edge innovations in underwater systems, anti-corrosion solutions, unmanned marine technologies, and advanced surveillance systems for MSMEs to demonstrate their technological prowess to key stakeholders and potential collaborators.