MUMBAI, Feb 7: Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu on Friday called on the industry to create a robust ecosystem that includes skill development, design, manufacturing, maintenance, certification, and knowledge sharing for civil aviation. This initiative emphasizes the need for close collaboration between various ministries and industry stakeholders.
During a high-level review meeting on aircraft component manufacturing advancements held in New Delhi, Naidu reassured industry representatives of the government’s steadfast commitment to establishing a comprehensive and inclusive roadmap.
The meeting featured senior officials, including Civil Aviation Secretary V Vualnam, AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar, Director General of Civil Aviation Faiz Ahmed, along with representatives from industry associations, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), MROs, research institutions, and multiple government departments, according to an official statement.
Discussions focused on bolstering domestic production capabilities and improving India’s global competitiveness in aircraft component manufacturing, the statement noted.
Driven by strategic partnerships with leading global aerospace companies and the rising demand for air travel, India’s aircraft component manufacturing sector is witnessing substantial growth, the release indicated.
It further highlighted that major international OEMs are increasingly sourcing components from India, which speaks to the high quality and reliability of the domestic industry.
“We have established a commendable position in the global civil aviation sector, but our goal is now to take the lead. It is essential to develop a comprehensive ecosystem that includes skill development, design, manufacturing, maintenance, certification, and knowledge sharing through close cooperation across ministries and industries. India is progressing toward becoming a significant hub for civil aviation and aircraft component manufacturing,” Naidu remarked during the meeting.
Emphasizing that India is on the path to becoming a key player in civil aviation, the minister expressed, “Leveraging our vast talent pool and resources, along with integrating valuable insights from the industry, we can formulate a unified national roadmap that transforms these opportunities into tangible, strategic benefits.”
Naidu delineated a two-pronged strategy aimed at expanding indigenous aircraft component manufacturing by utilizing the supply chain networks of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), while also enhancing international market access for Indian component OEMs.
“This meeting represents a crucial initial step in a longer journey. We are dedicated to conducting several similar meetings regularly with all stakeholders, guaranteeing continuous feedback and support to propel the growth of this industry,” stated Vualnam.
All attendees of the meeting also reiterated their commitment to collaboration and strategic partnerships, the release added. (PTI)