India's new defence complex in Shirdi marks a leap toward self-reliance

India has taken a major step towards self-reliance in defence production with the inauguration of a new manufacturing complex in Shirdi. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched the Nibe Group’s Defence Manufacturing Complex and Artillery Shell Production Project, calling it a 'golden chapter' for the country’s defence capabilities. The facility, the largest of its kind in the private sector, will produce nearly five lakh artillery shells each year. The inauguration ceremony saw key figures highlight the project’s significance. Singh stressed that future conflicts would depend on technological strength rather than troop numbers alone. He also predicted that India could become the world’s top defence exporter within the next two to three decades.

Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan reinforced this view, stating that modern warfare now requires a 'whole-of-nation approach'. He warned that battlefields would no longer be limited to physical territories but would expand into cyberspace and data networks.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the state’s defence corridor was nearing completion. He claimed Maharashtra already leads in defence manufacturing and will further strengthen its position. Ganesh Ramesh Nibe, Chairman of the Nibe Group, described the event as a historic moment for India’s push towards self-sufficiency in defence production. The new facility marks a significant boost for India’s defence manufacturing ambitions. With an annual capacity of nearly five lakh artillery shells, it will play a key role in meeting domestic and export demands. The project aligns with broader efforts to reduce reliance on imports and position India as a global defence leader.