The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh News : New Defence Procurement Policy will create export base: Pallam Raju

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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

New Defence Procurement Policy will create export base: Pallam Raju

Special Correspondent

Says that country is focused on exports in advanced technology areas
Calls for scientists and politicians to act in unison to harness nation’s potential

HYDERABAD: The new Defence Procurement Policy, with an offset clause of 30 per cent production in the country for major orders, would create a huge capacity for both public and private sectors and set the base for exports.

This was announced here on Friday by Union Minister of State for Defence M.M. Pallam Raju, while replying to a query from the audience after delivering the Dr. Y. Nayudamma Memorial Lecture on “Science and Technology: Future Challenges” at the Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI).

He admitted that there was still not a “very clear policy” with regard to the export of defence weapons. However, as far as advanced technology was concerned, the country was trying to export, the minister stated, citing the example of BrahMos cruise missile and Dhruv helicopter in this regard.

Earlier, delivering the talk, he stressed the need for providing science and technology education at all levels, building centres of excellence and attracting young scientists and engineers. Mr. Raju called for strengthening links with expatriate scientists, creating digital libraries, building regional networks of collaboration and devising a new funding mechanism.

The Minister stated that the trends in the economic and GDP growth showed a better future was within the country’s grasp. It was absolutely necessary to consolidate its science and technology capabilities. “Together, we must lay the foundations for a better tomorrow, where the benefits of science and technology will include the excluded and give them a chance to live in dignity, with comfort, health and happiness.” Mr. Raju said “our scientific community and our political masters” have to act in unison to harness the country’s true potential and project India’s benign potential to the world.

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