Nagpur, Maharashtra
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the Nag Bhushan award ceremony in Nagpur, highlighting the growing role of indigenous defence innovation and entrepreneurship, while celebrating individuals who have elevated the city’s reputation on both national and global platforms.
Speaking at the event, Fadnavis expressed pride in the recognition being conferred upon two distinguished personalities, including Satyanarayan Nuwal and Daksh Khante. He stated that it is a matter of great joy that individuals from Nagpur are being honoured for enhancing the city’s name and prestige across the country and the world. The ceremony, organized by the Nag Bhushan Foundation, brought together leaders, innovators, and citizens to celebrate excellence and achievement.
Focusing on the journey of Satyanarayan Nuwal, the Chief Minister highlighted the challenges faced in entering India’s defence sector. He pointed out that there was a time when private participation in defence manufacturing was considered unlikely, due to strong dependence on imports and entrenched systems that discouraged domestic innovation.
According to Fadnavis, earlier governments faced significant pressure from powerful lobbies linked to defence imports, which limited opportunities for local entrepreneurs. He noted that despite these obstacles, Nuwal persisted, acquiring licenses step by step and gradually building a strong presence in the sector, demonstrating determination and vision.
The Chief Minister emphasized that a major shift occurred with the introduction of initiatives like Make in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stated that these reforms encouraged entrepreneurs to invest in domestic manufacturing, including critical areas such as defence production, paving the way for innovation and self-reliance.
“As liberalisation began in this sector, it opened new doors, and innovators like Nuwal proved that India can develop world-class weapons,” Fadnavis said, highlighting the transformation in the country’s defence ecosystem. He stressed that such developments mark a significant step toward reducing dependence on foreign imports.
In a strong statement on technological advancement, Fadnavis asserted that cutting-edge work is being carried out within the country. He claimed that India is now capable of developing advanced systems, including warheads that are beyond the imagination of many nations, reflecting growing confidence in indigenous capabilities.
The Chief Minister further stated that several innovations currently being developed are unique and have not yet been produced anywhere else in the world. He expressed confidence that such technologies will soon be manufactured in India for the first time, particularly in Nagpur’s growing industrial ecosystem, positioning the city as an emerging hub for advanced manufacturing.
The event also highlighted the achievements of Daksh Khante, who has gained recognition in adventure sports. Fadnavis noted that such accomplishments contribute to the city’s identity and inspire the younger generation to pursue excellence in diverse fields.
The Nag Bhushan awards ceremony served as a platform to connect individual success stories with national progress, showcasing how local talent can contribute to broader goals such as innovation, self-reliance, and global competitiveness.
Observers noted that the Chief Minister’s address reflected a strong emphasis on the importance of policy support, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement in shaping the future of the country. The focus on defence manufacturing aligns with India’s broader vision of becoming self-reliant in critical sectors.
At the same time, the recognition of achievers from Nagpur reinforced the city’s growing importance as a center for talent and innovation. Fadnavis’s remarks highlighted that with the right support and determination, individuals and industries from the region can achieve global standards.
The address concluded with a message of confidence and ambition, underlining that India’s journey toward self-reliance and technological excellence is being driven by innovators who are redefining possibilities and setting new benchmarks for the future.
