India moving to self-reliance in defence, technology: President Ram Nath Kovind

President Ram Nath Kovind underlined his government's commitment to make India self-reliant in defence, technology and infrastructure development and said that the economy had grown despite the pandemic. In his customary address to both Houses of Parliament at the beginning of the first session of the year, he said there was growth in MSME sector, labour reforms, impetus given to start-ups, welfare schemes for the poor and commended the vaccination drive.

"My government is working with utmost determination to ensure a safe and secure India. Due to the policies of the government in the defence sector, especially in defence production, the country is becoming increasingly self-reliant." Of all approvals accorded for modernisation of armed forces in 2020-21, 87% were from 'Make in India' category. Preference was accorded to 'Make in India' in 98% equipment related contracts too. Armed forces have also issued a list of 209 military-equipment, which will not be purchased from abroad. A list of more than 2,800 defence equipment has also been issued by defence undertakings which will be manufactured domestically, he said.

MSME sector has been protected during the pandemic through adequate availability of credit through ₹3 lakh crore collateral laons. "The scheme has given a fresh lease of life to 13.5 lakh MSME units and also secured 1.5 crore jobs." He also referred to steps taken for synergy between ministries working on projects and labour reforms. Reforms in labour laws and the banking sector, and the changes in insolvency and bankruptcy code have been undertaken, he said.


"Last year, more than 26,000 compliance requirements were reduced by different departments of the Centre and states. Space sector has now been opened up for the private sector, providing a horizon of endless possibilities," he said. Construction of roads, resources and infrastructure in rural areas has opened up possibilities for the country 'neglected' for decades. In 2020-21, 36,500 km roads were built in rural areas. The government has encouraged start-ups and 60,000 new start-ups have sprung up since 2016 in 56 different sectors, creating more than six lakh jobs. In 2021, more than 40 unicorn start-ups came up. Due to the growth in the economy, GST collection has consistently remained above rs one lakh crore during the last several months, he said.