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Following is the full text of speech of Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee delivered at the International Seminar – Aero India: 2005 in Bangalore today.
“I am extremely happy to be among professionals and researchers who have gathered here to debate developments and strategies related to aerospace technologies. This International Seminar coinciding with the Biennial Aero India Show has become a regular feature attracting wide participation. I notice that there has been a significant rise in the number of participants this time and the response has been overwhelming. Clearly there is a growing recognition of the importance and relevant of the event among the international aerospace community.
India values synergetic interactions among professionals who share technical expertise for mutual benefits. Sharing technology leads to development of cost effective solutions and specialized skills in people. In this context, the excellent performance of the IAF contingent in an international air combat cooperative exercise, a few months ago is worth applauding.
Well-articulated suggestions and recommendations, that emerge during such interactions, have enabled the participants to shape policies and programmes in aerospace technologies. I am happy to know that the plenary session is focusing on the emerging aerospace technologies and their numerous applications in both military and civil aviation sectors. Many achievements in telecommunications, electronics and robotics, to name a few, are all inspired by developments in aerospace. (I am told that composite materials use in aircraft construction also of use in making artificial limbs leading to social benefits. High levels of accuracy and safety, superior work culture, quality Infrastructure and skilled workforce which are the norm in aerospace technology have become standard ingredients of any successful technology.
Government of India is committed to promoting overall growth in agriculture, defence, communication and infrastructure development and other wide ranging spectrum of activities. Aviation and aerospace, endeavours, lead to better infrastructure, regional development, job opportunities for the educated youth of the country and therefore good return on investment. I am glad to see representatives from many nations at the seminar. I am sure the interactions will be to our mutual advantage.
While strengthening the defence forces with state of the art equipment, we must also lay emphasis on its effective maintenance through indigenous and innovative efforts, as these weapon systems are acquired at significant cost. Efforts in technology upgrades also need to be encouraged. I am happy that the production of Sukhoi - 30 MKI multi role fighter aircraft by HAL includes a significant indigenous avionics suite. Our national ambition and aspirations must be achieved by positive strategies and programmes. Successes in launch vehicle and satellite technology are clearly achievements the country can be rightfully proud of. That we can boldly think of initiatives for a moon mission is a tribute to our confidence in designing and building sophisticated aerospace systems.
In this connection I am glad to inform you that Government of India through Defence Research and Development Organisation investing close to Rs 10,000 crores in projects like :-
(a) Light Combat Aircraft
(b) Kaveri Gas Turbine engine
(c) Airborne Early Warning System to give the fillip to research, development and production.
At the same time, we would like to encourage joint participation in our defence systems development, testing and manufacturing efforts, as long as the economics of such joint ventures are mutually beneficial. Equally, important is an increasing Indian private industry role in the aviation products so that the best economics of cost and time can be achieved. It is clear that investment in education and training of our youth in a mission mode is important to maintain and make progress in high technology areas such as aerospace. Strengthening contents and improving delivery of education should also be given adequate focus.
You will all appreciate that the development of a country calls for commitment on the part of scientists, engineers, users, academicians, industrialists, students, armed forces and civil servants. The international seminar today provides the right opportunity for all these groups to interact and evolve a strategy for progress in aerospace technologies. For its part, India is already in the league of a handful of countries which have a capability to develop, test and manufacture aircraft, with the testing of the LCA Tejas, the ALH Dhruv and the IJT, currently underway. The successful development of the Brahmos missile is an example of what can be efficiently achieved by joint minds and efforts.
I must thank all of you who have gathered here to participate in the seminar. I thank every one of you including our honourable guests from abroad for the support that they have extended. I am sure that you will all carry with you pleasant memories of your participation in this International Seminar and a sense of professional satisfaction. I must congratulate the DRDO and the Aeronautical Society of India for their sincere efforts in conducting this fruitful seminar and wish the technical sessions a grand success.
BSM/RAJ
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