Inauguration of Major Defense Manufacturing Ecosystem in Shivpuri

The Union Minister for Communications and Development of the Northeast, Jyotiraditya Scindia, today laid the foundation stone for the largest private missile and advanced defense manufacturing ecosystem in South Asia, established by Adani Defense and Aerospace, in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav in Shivpuri district. This project, with an investment of approximately ₹2,500 crores, aims to elevate India's defense production capabilities and position the Gwalior-Chambal region as a leading defense manufacturing hub in the country.

Scindia emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India has reached a pivotal moment. The nation is making historic strides towards self-reliance in the defense sector. He noted that under Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh is becoming a key center for industrial investment, and this project marks a significant achievement in that direction.

He highlighted that the defense complex, located in the Kolaras area of Shivpuri, is strategically positioned near the Kota Corridor and the Bombay-Gwalior National Highway, ensuring swift and effective supply of defense equipment to military establishments across the country.

This initiative will focus on manufacturing modern missile systems, precision-guided munitions, and advanced defense technologies. It is expected to strengthen India's indigenous defense production capabilities and export potential, further supporting the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.

Scindia mentioned that the project is anticipated to create around 5,000 direct and indirect job opportunities. Additionally, hundreds of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Gwalior-Chambal region will connect to the defense production supply chain, significantly benefiting the local economy.

During the event, Scindia presented four key demands for the overall development of Shivpuri to Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav. He requested approval for a ₹100 crore circular road spanning approximately 14 kilometers from Guna Naka to Gwalior Naka, passing through Durga Das Rathore Chauraha, Bhadeya Kund, and Jhansi Road to Karawal Bridge. He also proposed the installation of a 108-foot statue of Lord Shiva, the establishment of a super specialty wing and cardiology department at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Medical College, and the approval for a new government college in Khod of Shivpuri assembly. He expressed confidence that these projects would accelerate Shivpuri's development.

Scindia remarked that the jacket manufacturing unit in Badarwas, a ₹2000 crore cement grinding unit in Guna, and now the ₹2,500 crore defense manufacturing ecosystem in Shivpuri are clear indicators that the Gwalior-Chambal region is rapidly emerging as the largest industrial and investment center in Central India. He is optimistic that this area will become a major engine for defense production capacity, job creation, and industrial growth in the coming years.

Scindia expressed pride in laying the foundation for the new defense production facility in Shivpuri, noting that enhancing the country's defense capabilities has been a part of the historical legacy of the Scindia family. He recalled that during the reign of Maharaja Mahadji Scindia, ordnance factories and arsenals were established in Mathura, Delhi, Gwalior, Kalpi, and Gohad. Furthermore, the Jevaji Industrial Research Laboratory (JIRL), founded by Maharaja Jivajirao Scindia in Gwalior, was later dedicated to the Ministry of Defense and has evolved into the current Defense Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), playing a crucial role in the nation's defense research and development. He stated that the inauguration of this modern defense manufacturing project in Shivpuri is a new chapter in that glorious tradition.