Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to visit Shirdi in Maharashtra on May 23 to inaugurate a major defence manufacturing complex aimed at strengthening India’s indigenous defence production capabilities under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
The new facility, located in Ahilyanagar district, has been developed by NIBE Group and is expected to manufacture artillery shells, drones, aerospace components, explosives, and advanced defence systems. Officials described the project as one of the largest private-sector defence manufacturing initiatives in India.
According to reports, the Shirdi Defence Manufacturing Complex has been built across nearly 200 acres and is expected to generate around 2,000 direct and indirect jobs in the region.
The facility is also expected to support India’s growing defence exports and strengthen domestic defence supply chains involving MSMEs and private manufacturers.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan are also expected to attend the inauguration ceremony.
Officials said the project reflects India’s increasing focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing and advanced military technology. The company has reportedly been working on guided rockets, universal rocket launchers, drones, and ammunition systems using indigenous technology.
The inauguration event will also include a large defence capability exhibition and MSME showcase, where Indian companies will display locally developed technologies and manufacturing solutions linked to the defence and aerospace sectors.
Local leaders said the project could transform Shirdi into a major defence manufacturing hub while boosting employment opportunities and industrial growth in Maharashtra.
The development comes as India continues expanding domestic defence production capacity and reducing dependence on imported military equipment. Defence exports from India have witnessed significant growth in recent years as the government pushes for indigenous manufacturing across strategic sectors
