PM Modi Advocates for 'Made in India' Ships with Rs 70,000 Crore Investment for Global Trade Self-Reliance
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New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the government's initiatives aimed at shielding citizens from global fluctuations in oil prices while stressing the importance of maintaining operational global energy supply routes.
He informed the Rajya Sabha that a comprehensive campaign is in progress to manufacture 'Made in India' ships, thereby reducing the nation’s reliance on foreign entities in an evolving global landscape.
Discussing the crisis in West Asia, PM Modi strongly advocated for self-sufficiency across all sectors, including global fuel transport and maritime routes.
“Atmanirbharta is the definitive solution to protect our nation and its people from global disturbances. Currently, approximately 90% of India's trade is conducted via foreign vessels, which makes us vulnerable to external influences,” he stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized that this reliance exacerbates challenges during global conflicts or wars, revealing that the government intends to invest a staggering Rs 70,000 crore to boost the construction of 'Made in India' ships.
He asserted that the government is undertaking a significant initiative to achieve self-sufficiency in maritime industries, proclaiming that India is poised to emerge as a pivotal player in shipbuilding, shipbreaking, maintenance, and overhauling.
Moreover, PM Modi reaffirmed the government's commitment to attaining self-reliance in other domains, including defense, noting how a substantial portion of India’s armaments is now produced domestically.
He remarked that the country’s economic fundamentals remain robust, with the government remaining vigilant and proactive, planning contingency strategies for both the short and long term.
In a parallel to the Covid-19 pandemic, the government has established several inter-ministerial committees to address the fuel crisis stemming from the West Asia conflict.
PM Modi noted that the turmoil in West Asia has triggered a severe global energy crisis, disrupting regular supplies, especially through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for crude oil, gas, and fertilizers.
He added that India is striving to ensure the secure movement of vessels carrying essential goods despite the prevailing conflict.