President Draupadi Murmu has described ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a “golden chapter” in humanity’s fight against terrorism and has lauded the contribution of PSUs in building the indigenous Akashteer Air Defence Control and Reporting System, which played a crucial role in the military conflict between India and Pakistan.
Public sector enterprises are playing an impressive role in the direction of building Atma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and their contribution in the Make in India campaign has been tremendous.
For decades, India depended heavily on foreign suppliers for critical defence equipment, often at the cost of both strategic autonomy and economic burden. But the tide is turning. ‘Operation Sindoor’ demonstrated that Indian innovation, backed by PSUs, can deliver world-class defence solutions tailored to our unique operational needs.
The Akashteer system, designed to provide real-time air defence control and reporting, not only enhanced battlefield readiness but also instilled confidence in the nation’s ability to protect itself with indigenous technology.
President Murmu’s recognition of PSUs is timely and well-deserved. From Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), public sector enterprises have consistently been at the forefront of research, production, and deployment of defence systems that strengthen national security. Their work has moved beyond simple manufacturing to cutting-edge innovation. The Akashteer system stands as an emblem of their evolving capability to deliver complex, technology-intensive solutions.
Equally significant is the broader message of Operation Sindoor. It underlines the effectiveness of the Make in India initiative, which has encouraged indigenous design, development, and production across sectors. Defence is, by nature, the most critical sector for self-reliance. When India equips its forces with systems made on home soil, it not only safeguards sensitive technologies from external dependency but also boosts its economy by generating employment, enhancing technical know-how, and strengthening the industrial base. India’s defence PSUs, working in synergy with private industry and start-ups, are ensuring that the country no longer remains dependent on external powers for its strategic needs.
At a time when terrorism remains a global menace, ‘Operation Sindoor’ offers a lesson not only in military might but also in the moral leadership of a nation determined to fight terror with resilience and self-reliance. |
