'Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo' to be held in Pune from Feb 24

'Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo' to be held in Pune from Feb 24

Mumbai, Feb 17: In order to further strengthen the progress of self-reliant India in the sector of defence production and to promote the micro, small and medium industries producing defence materials in Maharashtra through the Industries Department of the State Government, a 3-days 'Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo' has been organized in Pune from 24th to 26th February 2024.
Notably, this is the first of its kind Defence Expo in Maharashtra to enable the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) of the state to contribute significantly to the defence manufacturing sector and is being held at the International Exhibition and Convention Center in Pune.

       All the three armed forces namely navy, army and air force are going to play an important role in this with the aim of promoting the coordination of industries with advanced technology and expertise in the sector of defence production. More than two hundred micro, small and medium enterprises, start-ups and more than 20 thousand engineering students will come together to exchange knowledge and skills. 

Known as the industrial powerhouse of India, Maharashtra is a leading state in promoting a self-reliant India. The state has a strong network of 39.88 lakh MSMEs. Out of which there are 108.67 lakh jobs on the Udhyam portal. The MSME Defence Expo will provide a dedicated platform for such industries to showcase their skill and capabilities and connect with key stakeholders in the defence industry.

          Highlights of MSME Defence Expo 2024:

More than 200 MSME exhibitors will showcase their defence-related products, technologies and services in various sectors such as aerospace, armaments, electronics, communication and logistics at the expo.

Interactive sessions between MSMEs and major defence procurement organizations, industry veterans and potential investors will be organised.

        Knowledge Seminar: Eminent experts and thought leaders will look at the latest trends, opportunities and challenges in the defence sector.

Skill Development Workshop: Interactive sessions are organized with the aim of enhancing the skills and capabilities of MSME employees to meet the needs of the defence industry.

Government Assistance Initiatives: Various government schemes, policies and financial assistance options to support MSMEs in defence manufacturing will be showcased.

             Strategic Partnerships: MSMEs in defence sector can connect with potential buyers, co-investors for business expansion.

Experts can get updates on the latest developments and trends in the defence industry through seminars and workshops.

Financial Assistance: Government schemes and funding opportunities will be available to promote the growth of defence sector MSMEs.

           Principal Secretary, Industries Department Dr. Harshdeep Kamble said that the government is committed to provide comprehensive support to MSMEs through this expo. These include facilitating industry linkages, offering technical assistance and streamlining regulatory processes. This will enable them to actively participate in India's defence sector. He further said that more than 2000 MSMEs, defence officials, industry representatives, investors and educational institutions will participate in the MSME Defence Expo 2024.

           Innovative defence manufacturing by industry giants such as L&T Defence, Mahindra, Tata, DRDO, Solar, Bharat Forge and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) has established Maharashtra as a leading manufacturer in the defence sector. It will provide participants with lucrative business opportunities,

potential contracts worth hundreds of crores and benefit MSMEs and start-ups in the defence technology export sector.

         "This expo underscores the government's commitment to strengthen our state's defence capabilities. With a focus on innovation and cooperation, this event plays a key role. Under the Atma-Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative towards self-reliance, growth and innovation in the defence sector are being propelled", expressed Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

          “After Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the concept of Atma-Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in the defence sector, a large number of defence MSMEs have been created. All the three armed forces are going to be take part. Today, while the country is producing a large number of defence equipment, there are 10 ordnance factories and 5 defence PSUs in Maharashtra. Ecosystem has been created in the state. Major corporate houses like Tata, Bharat Forge, Solar, L&T, manufacture products in the defence sector in the state. This will bring in large number of entrepreneurs, increase investment. Mainly, both manufacturers and buyers will be together in one place as armed forces. The Industries Department has taken the initiative and worked hard to make this concept a reality.” Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed the feeling that the government is trying to hold the biggest expo in Maharashtra till date.

         "This expo is an important step towards harnessing the immense potential of MSMEs in defence manufacturing in Maharashtra. It is in line with the Prime Minister's vision of becoming self-reliant in the defence sector by fostering local innovation and strengthening the domestic supply chain," Industries Minister Uday Samant said.