Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a public gathering at the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2025 (UPITS-2025), highlighting India’s strides in defence manufacturing and self-reliance.
He stated, “With Russia’s help, AK-203 rifle production will begin shortly — and a defence corridor is being built in Uttar Pradesh.” The Prime Minister emphasized that the new factory will enable India to manufacture everything “from chip to ship,” reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. “For a country like Bharat, being dependent on others is no longer acceptable,” he added.
PM Modi also touched on India’s economic resilience, saying, “Despite global disruptions and uncertainties, India’s growth remains attractive. These challenges don’t hinder us; instead, we seek new directions. Amid all these disruptions, India is strengthening the foundations for the coming decades. Our resolve and mantra is Atmanirbhar Bharat. Nothing is more helpless than being dependent on others. The more a country relies on others, the more its growth is compromised.”
He further noted, “A strong ecosystem is being built, and Uttar Pradesh is playing a major role in it. Very soon, with Russia’s cooperation, AK-203 rifle production will commence in a UP factory. A defence corridor is also being developed here, where BrahMos missiles and other weapons are already being produced.”
