Is Tamil Nadu Aiming for Rs 75,000 Crore Defence and Aerospace Investment by 2032?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu targets Rs 75,000 crore in investments by 2032.
- State is ready to assist global players.
- Focus on the Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor.
- 3,000 delegates participating in AeroDefCon'25.
- Significant support for defence manufacturing.
Chennai, Oct 7 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, announced on Tuesday that the state is striving to secure investments amounting to Rs 75,000 crore in both the aerospace and defence sectors by 2032. He urged international entities to expedite their decisions regarding establishing operations in the state.
During the opening of the three-day AeroDefCon'25 at the Chennai Trade Centre, Stalin emphasized that Tamil Nadu is "investment-ready in every district."
The Chief Minister further stated, "Our government will consistently support armed forces personnel, scientists, industrial entrepreneurs, and investors. The Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor has emerged as a pivotal factor for this sector, and I envision the state transforming into a national manufacturing hub."
He pointed out that the state has undertaken major initiatives to position defence manufacturing as a key growth engine, including new industrial policies, integrated logistics support, and advanced infrastructure for high-tech industries.
"The Defence Industrial Corridor is poised to play a significant role moving forward," he remarked.
State Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa noted that the scale of AeroDefCon'25 showcases Tamil Nadu's dedication to becoming a global center for aerospace, defence, and strategic industries.
"We have convened around 3,000 delegates from 18 nations, who will engage in over 5,500 B2B meetings," he mentioned.
B.K. Das, Director-General of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for Electronics and Communication Systems, praised Tamil Nadu's initiatives.
"Representing DRDO, I assure you of our support. Together, we can elevate the nation," he stated.
According to Indian Coast Guard Director-General Paramesh Sivamani, Tamil Nadu has swiftly become a frontrunner in aerospace, defence, and even space technologies.
"The Chief Minister's declaration that every point on Tamil Nadu's map is investment-ready is not mere aspiration; it's already in progress," he noted.
Stephane-Pierre Castet, CEO of BCI Aerospace, which has hosted similar events globally, remarked that Chennai is hosting such a prestigious industry matchmaking event for the first time.
"Our goal is to assist small and medium enterprises in discovering new partnerships," he explained.
Numerous senior leaders and officials, including Ministers T.M. Anbarasan, Sriperumbudur MP T.R. Baalu, high-ranking Navy and Air Force officers, and leading defence entrepreneurs, attended the inaugural session.