From seas to skies, India is becoming self-reliant: Modi, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The first made-in-India C-295 transport aircraft completed its maiden flight, marking a significant step in indigenous defence manufacturing.
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the indigenous Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM).
• The Indian Navy inducted three indigenously designed and built warships: INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, and INS Agray.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's growing self-reliance across defence and aviation sectors during his monthly Mann Ki Baat address.
• Citizens responded to the Prime Minister's call for austerity amidst the West Asia crisis by adopting measures like carpooling and recycling gold.
• Efforts in environmental conservation, including the protection of the Greater Adjutant Stork and the nomination of Meghalaya's Living Root Bridges for UNESCO World Heritage status, were also commended.

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Detailed Insights:

• The C-295 programme involves the procurement of 56 aircraft for the Indian Air Force, with 40 being manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems Limited in partnership with Airbus in Vadodara, Gujarat.
• The LRLACM is a subsonic, surface-launched cruise missile designed for precision strikes against land targets at long distances, with all major subsystems indigenously developed.
• INS Dunagiri is a stealth guided-missile frigate, INS Sanshodhak is a deep-water survey vessel, and INS Agray is an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, all built with over 75% indigenous content.
• The Prime Minister's appeal for resource conservation included encouraging the use of public transport, natural fertilizers, and postponing foreign travel.
• Biologist Purnima Devi Barman's work in Assam has been instrumental in changing public perceptions and conserving the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork.
• Meghalaya's Living Root Bridges, created by indigenous Khasi communities, have been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, showcasing unique bio-engineering and cultural heritage.
• Women in Madhya Pradesh's Rajgarh district are converting plastic waste into eco-bricks, contributing to sustainable waste management and public space beautification.
• The 'Baby League' football initiative in Nagaland promotes sports among children aged five to twelve, fostering grassroots talent.
• The Prime Minister urged citizens to support local artisans by purchasing Indian-crafted Ganesh idols, emphasizing material and country of manufacture.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A vision for a self-reliant India, aiming to make the country and its citizens independent in all senses, across various sectors.
• Make in India: A government initiative launched in 2014 to encourage companies to manufacture in India and boost the domestic manufacturing sector.
• MSMEs: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, which are crucial for employment generation, industrial output, and exports in the Indian economy.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: A landmark or area recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for its outstanding cultural, historical, or natural significance.