New Delhi, Feb. 13: : Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the 14th edition of India's biennial aerospace exhibition 'Aero India' which will showcase the country as an emerging hub for manufacturing military aircraft, helicopters, equipment and new-age avionics. He emphasised that Aero India 2023 is not only a show but a "reflection of India's self-confidence."

According to the Indian Media, At the inaugural event held at Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru, PM Modi released commemorative stamps and said: "Bengaluru sky is bearing testimony to the capabilities of New India. This new height is the reality of New India. India is touching new heights and transcending them too"

"Aero India 2023 is a shining example of India’s growing capabilities and the presence of more than 100 nations here shows the trust that the entire world shows in India. More than 700 exhibitors from India and the world are participating. It has broken all past records," he added.

He further stressed that the Aero India exhibition "reflects a new approach of New India". "Today, Aero India is India’s strength and not just a show. It not only showcases the scope of the defence industry but also showcases the self-confidence of India," he added.

Tejas, INS Vikrant, advanced manufacturing facilities in Surat and Tumkur, said the Prime Minister as he hailed the potential of Aatmnirbhar Bharat.

According to the Prime Minister, India is no longer just a market for defence companies in the world, the country is a potential defence partner today. "This partnership is even with those nations that are much ahead in the defence sector, nations that are looking for a dependable partner for their defence requirements," he said.

"The new India of the 21st century will neither miss any opportunity nor will it lack any effort. We're ready. We're bringing revolution brought in every sector with the help of reforms," PM Modi emphasised India used to be the largest defence exporter for decades and has now started exporting defence equipment to 75 countries in the world.

“Aero India's deafening roar echoes India's message of Reform, Perform and Transform”, the Prime Minister remarked.