In this era, bravery must be complemented with cutting-edge skills: Punjab minister at defence conclave

Chandigarh: In a move to position Punjab as a hub of India's defence manufacturing, the Punjab govt on Saturday organised a Defence Skills Conclave focused on skill development for Defence, Aerospace and Strategic Sectors. The conclave, presided over by Punjab employment generation, skill development and training minister Aman Arora, served as a pivotal platform to architect a robust talent pipeline for the country's self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Addressing the gathering, Aman Arora highlighted the state's rich legacy in India's defence. He stated that in today's era of technological warfare, bravery must be complemented with cutting-edge skills. He stressed that the conclave was CM Mann-led Punjab govt's commitment to transform Punjab into a premier hub, which not only produces soldiers but also highly skilled technologists and engineers to make the country ‘Atmanirbhar' in defence manufacturing.He also highlighted that the state contributes over 12% of the country's soldiers, despite having only 2% of the population, while pointing out that Punjab has a rich legacy in defence and is well-positioned to attract investment in the defence industry, with international airports in Mohali and Amritsar and 1 of India's largest air force bases in Adampur, besides conducive and business-friendly policies and an environment in the state. The govt is working closely with industry leaders, educational institutions and stakeholders to identify skill gaps and develop targeted training programmes for the defence sector, he added.Highlighting Punjab's potential to contribute significantly to India's defence skilling efforts, Arora stated, "In the coming times, if any state can serve the country the most in terms of skilling for defence — digitally, psychologically and emotionally — it is Punjab." He stressed the need for collaborative policy-making between industry and Central govt to harness this potential and position Punjab as the nation's steadfast shield.Defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh lauded the Punjab govt for hosting the conclave, calling it a step towards making India a global manufacturing hub. He emphasised creating a strong skills ecosystem and a diversified industrial base. He said that Punjab has immense potential in defence manufacturing, as the state has a strong military tradition. Punjab chief secretary KAP Sinha and principal secretary Alaknanda Daya assured full support from the state govt to facilitate investments in the defence manufacturing sector. MSID: 126453406 413 |