Rajnath, Guj CM sign MoU to hold DefExpo in Gujarat next year

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani on Thursday reviewed the preparations of DefExpo-2022, at Kevadia and signed an MoU to hold the 12th edition of the expo in state capital Gandhinagar, from March 10 to 13 next year.

DefExpo is the central government’s flagship event showcasing the land, naval, air as well as homeland security systems.

During the meeting, Singh and senior defence ministry and Gujarat officials stated that the previous edition of DefExpo held in Lucknow in February last year was a success due to the partnership between the Central and state governments.

It was agreed that as DefExpo-2022 coincides with the 75th year of Independence, being celebrated as 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', the event needs more active participation and synchronised efforts at all levels.

The Defence Minister urged all stakeholders to ensure maximum participation in the event. He hoped that not just domestic but international representation will be much greater at DefExpo2022. Reiterating the government’s resolve to 'Make in India, Make for the World', Singh was confident that India will soon become a global manufacturing hub.

DefExpo-2022 will be a hybrid business event, with the exhibition planned at the Helipad Exhibition Centre and seminars at Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre. A live demonstration of weapons and defence platforms is also planned at the Sabarmati River Front in Ahmedabad.