Rajnath Singh Reviews Electric Vehicle Plant in Lucknow
Rajnath Singh's Visit to Ashok Leyland Plant
On Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Ashok Leyland manufacturing facility in Lucknow. During his visit, which coincided with the inauguration of the electric vehicle plant, he assessed the production of light tactical vehicles, unmanned ground vehicles, mine-resistant vehicles, and logistics drones. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also present at the event. In his inaugural address, Singh highlighted the establishment of a defence corridor in Uttar Pradesh, noting that weapons and ammunition related to the armed forces are now being produced in cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Jhansi, Agra, Chitrakoot, and Aligarh.
Investment and Local Benefits
The Defence Minister mentioned that over ₹34,000 crores have already been invested, with major companies setting up factories, benefiting local communities directly. He pointed out the establishment of a BrahMos factory in Lucknow, which had a significant impact during Operation Sindoor. India is now capable of manufacturing its own weapons, with Uttar Pradesh playing a crucial role in this strategic transformation.
Focus on Self-Reliance in Defence
Singh further elaborated that the Uttar Pradesh government has formulated a distinct policy for aerospace and defence units, along with an employment incentive policy. This initiative aims to position Uttar Pradesh as a hub for large-scale military equipment manufacturing. Emphasizing self-reliance in the defence sector, he stated that since 2014, domestic defence production has surged from ₹46,000 crores to ₹1.5 lakh crores. Currently, defence exports stand at ₹25,000 crores, with projections to reach ₹50,000 crores by 2030.
Industrial Growth in Uttar Pradesh
Discussing the industrialization of the state, Singh remarked, "Uttar Pradesh, once known for chaos, is now entering a new era of industrial development. The state is playing a vital role in the nation's progress. The Ashok Leyland electric vehicle plant will significantly benefit local residents and is expected to contribute to Uttar Pradesh's economic objectives. Originally slated for completion in 60 months, the plant was built in a record time of just 18 months, with an annual output of 2,500 electric vehicles."