How Does Jairam Ramesh Emphasize Governance Continuity in BrahMos Missile Development?
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Synopsis
Jairam Ramesh underscores the significance of governance continuity in the advancement of the BrahMos missile. His insights reveal the collaborative efforts and milestones achieved under various administrations, showcasing the missile as a symbol of national strength and commitment.
Key Takeaways
- Governance continuity is vital for defense advancements.
- The BrahMos missile exemplifies Indo-Russian cooperation.
- Key milestones include agreements and successful launches.
- Induction into armed forces enhances national security.
- Political collaboration fosters technological progress.
New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) Congress General Secretary (Communications) Jairam Ramesh emphasized the crucial role of governance continuity for the effective evolution of the BrahMos missile system, highlighting it as a key instance of persistent national dedication across various governments.
In a post on X, Ramesh spotlighted the recent surge in attention surrounding BrahMos, a long-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile, which was reportedly utilized extensively during Operation Sindoor, initiated in response to the Pahalgam massacre.
“BrahMos is currently making headlines. It derives its name from the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers and serves as a remarkable testament to Indo-Russian collaboration,” Ramesh noted.
“This stands as yet another significant evidence of governance continuity -- a fact that cannot be overlooked or erased, no matter how often the current ruling establishment in New Delhi attempts to do so.”
Ramesh traced the missile’s journey through decades, pinpointing essential milestones achieved under successive Indian administrations.
“India’s Integrated Missile Development Programme commenced in 1983 and has seen numerous achievements. In the mid-1990s, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam along with his associate Sivathanu Pillai recognized the necessity for collaboration with Russia to advance supersonic cruise missile technology,” he stated.
An inter-governmental pact to co-develop the missile was established on February 12, 1998, under Prime Minister I.K. Gujral. “Interestingly, Gujral had previously served as India’s Ambassador to the USSR from 1976 to 1980,” Ramesh pointed out.
He noted that the inaugural formal contract was signed on July 9, 1999, during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s prime ministership, with the missile’s first successful launch occurring on June 12, 2001.
“The BrahMos headquarters complex in New Delhi, featuring design, simulation, and aerospace research facilities, was inaugurated by Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 4, 2004,” Ramesh added.
Ramesh also elaborated on the systematic induction of BrahMos into the Indian armed forces -- into the Navy in 2005, the Army in 2007, and the air-launched variant in 2012, all during Manmohan Singh’s leadership as Prime Minister.
“It was during Singh’s administration that the historic Indo-US nuclear agreement was signed in 2005, setting the stage for India’s eventual accession to the Missile Technology Control Regime in 2016,” Ramesh stated.
He credited Singh’s government with establishing vital facilities such as the BrahMos Integration Complex in Hyderabad and BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited.
Ramesh’s remarks came a day after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated a new BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility in Lucknow.
During the event, Singh praised the missile as “not only one of the world’s swiftest supersonic cruise missiles but also a testament to the might of the Indian Armed Forces, serving as a deterrent message to adversaries and a declaration of the nation’s steadfast commitment to securing its borders.”
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the collaborative efforts across political spectrums that have contributed to India's defense capabilities. The BrahMos missile serves as a prime example of sustained commitment and expertise in governance, which is crucial for national security and technological advancement.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BrahMos missile?
The BrahMos missile represents a significant achievement in Indo-Russian collaboration, showcasing India's advanced missile technology and contributing to national defense.
Who initiated the BrahMos missile program?
The BrahMos missile program was initiated under India's Integrated Missile Development Programme, which began in 1983.
What are the key milestones in the BrahMos development?
Key milestones include the inter-governmental agreement signed in 1998, the first contract in 1999, and the first successful launch in 2001.
How has the BrahMos missile been integrated into the Indian armed forces?
The BrahMos missile was inducted into the Indian Navy in 2005, the Army in 2007, and the air-launched variant in 2012.
What role did Manmohan Singh play in the BrahMos program?
Manmohan Singh's government oversaw significant developments in BrahMos, including the establishment of key facilities and the Indo-US nuclear agreement.
