India unveils its largest private artillery shell plant in Shirdi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated India’s largest private-sector artillery shell manufacturing plant in Shirdi. The facility, operated by Nibe Group, will produce nearly five lakh units annually. Singh described the project as a major step toward self-reliance in defence production. The new Defence Manufacturing Complex and Artillery Shell Production Project marks a significant shift in India’s defence capabilities. Singh called it a 'golden chapter' in the country’s push for indigenous manufacturing. He stressed that future conflicts would depend on technological strength rather than troop numbers alone.

Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan echoed this view, stating that modern warfare now extends into cyberspace and information networks. He noted that India’s defence strategy had evolved into a 'whole-of-nation approach', integrating advanced technologies across sectors.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis highlighted the state’s leadership in defence production. He announced that the Maharashtra Defence Corridor was nearing completion, reinforcing the region’s position as a key hub. Fadnavis also pointed to the success of indigenous technologies, such as those used in operations like Sindoor.

Singh praised the private sector’s expanding role in defence, citing Nibe Group’s technological advancements. He added that India was transitioning from a major arms importer to a potential global exporter within the next two decades. The Shirdi facility strengthens India’s defence manufacturing capacity, with an annual output of nearly five lakh artillery shells. The project aligns with broader efforts to reduce dependency on imports and boost domestic innovation. Officials have emphasised that technological superiority will shape the country’s military future.