"Public-Private Partnerships in Aerospace is the need of the hour in order to propel Government's indigenization efforts through ‘Make in India' and become a world leader in defence," said Dr. RK Tyagi in his address at the first ‘Make in India' Public-Private Partnership Meet organized jointly by HAL and Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) at Dr. VM Ghatge Convention Centre in Bengaluru recently.

The unique two-day meet was aimed at not only identifying and attracting potential suppliers, R&D partners to boost indigenization but also outlining the path for the integration of SMEs into the defence supply chain.

In his speech to a large MSME audience, Dr. Tyagi appreciated the CII for their efforts and said, "The Indian defence manufacturing sector is undergoing a sea change today amidst growing public sector interest in the global aeronautics arena. Through simplification, facilitation, education and providing access to the infrastructure for MSMEs, we will create the perfect setting for future growth." He added that defining the strategic objective of defence expenditure and offset policy as Indigenous Capability Development is the way forward in this process.

Sandeep Kumar Maini, Chairman, CII Karnataka said, "Under the guidance of Dr RK Tyagi, CII and HAL have once again joined hands in a major initiative to boost indigenization. CII remains committed to facilitate creation of a vibrant domestic aerospace industrial base in the country."

Dr. R K Tyagi further addressed key issues related to Indian defence manufacturing sector under various thematic pillars like import substitution, R&D investment, labour cost advantage and skill development. "In order to sustain global competitiveness, creating an export ecosystem, developing MSMEs as a powerhouse of innovation and boosting Brand India is vital," he added.