The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : ‘Cut down on foreign defence products’

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Wednesday, Mar 26, 2008
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

‘Cut down on foreign defence products’

HYDERABAD: Defence Minister A.K. Antony has called for increased indigenisation of defence products, as depending on foreign suppliers in the long term was not good for the country’s strategic requirements.

Addressing DRDO scientists after visiting various laboratories here on Tuesday, he said in the context of the changing world situation and security scenario in the country’s neighbourhood, it was better that dependence on foreign suppliers was reduced at the earliest. The country could not spend ‘precious’ money for procurement.

Stating that he was not happy with the current state of affairs, the Minister stated: “We all must work together” to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

Pat for scientists

Complimenting scientists for the successful launch of Agni-1 missile, he said rapid advances in science and technology required the DRDO to adjust its organisational structure/goals to new situations and requirements and shed old mindsets.

He said the government was aware of the need to enable the DRDO adjust itself to the changing environment. Stating that the Rama Rao Committee was looking into these issues, he said: “It will be our effort to support and enable the DRDO and its community of talented scientists to meet these challenges effectively.”

Earlier, Mr. Antony went around an exhibition of missiles and their technologies.

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