Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday laid the foundation stone for a ₹16,000-crore fighter jet infrastructure project in Puttaparthi, describing the occasion as a “historic chapter” for both Andhra Pradesh and India’s defence sector.
Addressing the gathering during the event, Singh said the large-scale defence infrastructure initiative marked a major step in strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and strategic preparedness. Multiple projects linked to the defence and aerospace ecosystem were launched during the programme.
“Today is a very special day. I believe this occasion is going to add a historic chapter in the history of Andhra Pradesh and India’s defence sector,” Singh said while speaking at the foundation ceremony.
The Defence Minister also highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of Puttaparthi, known globally as the birthplace of spiritual leader Sathya Sai Baba. Singh said institutions established under Sathya Sai Baba’s vision in education, healthcare and social service continued to contribute to the town’s development and national recognition.
“The blessings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, in the form of various institutions of education, health and human service, remain one of the key reasons behind the progress of this town even today,” he said.
Officials said the fighter jet infrastructure project is expected to significantly boost India’s aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem while creating employment opportunities and industrial development in the region. The project also aligns with the Centre’s broader push for self-reliance in defence production under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
India has accelerated investments in defence infrastructure and indigenous weapons manufacturing in recent years amid rising regional security challenges and efforts to reduce dependence on foreign military imports. Several major defence corridors and aerospace projects have already been launched across different states to strengthen domestic production capacity.
The Andhra Pradesh government has been actively promoting the state as an emerging destination for defence and aerospace investment, leveraging its industrial corridors, ports and infrastructure connectivity. Officials believe the Puttaparthi project could attract additional defence-related investments in the coming years.
Security arrangements were heightened during the event, which was attended by senior defence officials, political leaders and industry representatives.