India marches toward Defence Self-Reliance and Global Leadership: Rajnath Singh at JITO Connect 2025

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday highlighted India’s remarkable strides toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing and its growing stature as a global economic powerhouse at JITO Connect 2025 in Hyderabad.

JITO Connect is an annual platform organised by the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) that brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to discuss innovation, investment, and nation-building. This year, the event showcased India’s industrial and defence capabilities alongside the Jain community’s contributions to economic and social development.

Speaking at the event, Singh declared that India will no longer depend on foreign nations for defence equipment , proudly displaying “Made in India” on every platform—from Tejas fighter jets to Akash missile systems and Arjun tanks. He highlighted the recent deal between the government and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for 97 light combat aircraft , with over 64% of the equipment produced domestically .

“Our defence exports were worth Rs 600 crore 11 years ago. Today, they have reached Rs 24,000 crore, and we aim to achieve Rs 50,000 crore by 2029,” Singh said, stressing that India’s military advancements are intended solely to protect national values , not for aggression.

Singh also praised the Jain community , noting their philosophy of “Learn, Earn, and Return” and their contributions to education, environmental awareness, minority welfare, and skill development . Despite making up just 0.5% of the population , the Jain community contributes 24% of India’s tax revenue .

Beyond defence, Singh underscored India’s economic growth, noting that the country is on track to become the “Factory of the World” by 2030 . He highlighted rapid MSME growth, Rs 15 lakh crore in government procurements through the GeM portal , the decriminalisation of over 40,000 compliance standards , and GST’s role in creating a unified market . India’s “Local for Global” vision is already visible in the production of cutting-edge tanks and the export of toys to 153 nations , with the economy projected to rank second globally in purchasing power by 2030 .

Rajnath Singh concluded by linking India’s defence and economic success to national pride and inclusive development , emphasizing that innovation, self-reliance, and ethical business practices will continue to drive India’s global rise.