Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has called on Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to provide incentives for aircraft and helicopter manufacturers to set up their operations in Karnataka and other parts of India. He made this appeal during his address at the inauguration of the prestigious ‘Aero India 2025’ event in Bengaluru on Monday, February 10.
Karnataka: A Hub for Aerospace Talent and Innovation
Shivakumar highlighted Karnataka’s pivotal role in India’s aerospace sector, noting that the state contributes 67% of the country’s aircraft and helicopter manufacturing for defence services and accounts for 65% of India’s aerospace-related exports. “Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, is home to some of the best talent in the aerospace industry, making it an ideal location for aircraft and helicopter manufacturing. By offering incentives to manufacturers, we can retain this talent within India and prevent brain drain. I appeal to the Defence Minister to consider this request,” he said.
Despite these impressive contributions, Shivakumar pointed out a significant gap in the industry. “While India has a well-established aircraft servicing and repair industry, the manufacturing of aircraft and helicopters remains largely absent. Most of the aircraft and helicopters used by the country are still imported from other nations,” he stated.
Bengaluru: India’s Aerospace Capital
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasised Bengaluru’s status as India’s aerospace capital, hosting over 60% of the country’s aerospace manufacturing and defence research companies. “Major organisations like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Boeing India have played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s defence and space capabilities,” he said.
With over 1,50,000 professionals employed in Bengaluru’s aerospace sector, the city has emerged as a global leader in aviation and defence technology. “Bengaluru ranks among the top three global aerospace cities in attracting foreign investments. The Government of Karnataka is actively developing aerospace and defence hubs across the state, including in Bengaluru, Belagavi, Mysuru, Tumakuru, and Chamarajanagar districts,” Shivakumar added.
Leadership in Drone Technology and Unmanned Systems
Shivakumar also highlighted Bengaluru’s leadership in drone technology and unmanned aerial systems, which are transforming both commercial and defence sectors. “The Bengaluru Aero Show 2025 showcases India’s advancements in both civil and military aviation. Karnataka was the first state in India to announce an aerospace policy in 2013, and we have since established a 1,000-acre dedicated aerospace park near Devanahalli to support aerospace companies,” he said.
Aero India: A Platform for Global Collaboration
Describing Aero India as more than just an exhibition, Shivakumar called it a testament to India’s growing strength in the aerospace and defence sectors. “Since its inception in 1996, this event has grown exponentially, bringing together global stakeholders to shape the future of aviation, defence, and space exploration,” he said.
The theme of this year’s event, “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities,” reflects India’s spirit of innovation and ambition, highlighting the country’s potential as a key player in the global aerospace industry. Shivakumar expressed confidence that Aero India 2025 would further strengthen international collaborations and position India as a global leader in aerospace and defence manufacturing.
Conclusion
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s appeal to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscores Karnataka’s commitment to fostering a robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem in India. By leveraging the state’s talent pool, infrastructure, and technological advancements, Karnataka aims to bridge the gap in aircraft and helicopter manufacturing, reduce import dependency, and propel India’s aerospace industry to new heights. As Aero India 2025 unfolds, it serves as a reminder of India’s potential to become a global powerhouse in aviation, defence, and space exploration.
