Vadodara: The fourth edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for the Central Gujarat region is being held on June 29 and 30, 2026, at Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals (GSFC) University in Vadodara. On the second day of the two-day conference, a seminar on the theme ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat in Aerospace and Defence’ was organised. On this occasion, MoUs worth ₹2,550 crore were signed for investments in Gujarat’s defence sector in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. During the event, the Defence Minister interacted with participants, listened to their suggestions on making India self-reliant in the defence sector, and discussed ways to further strengthen the country’s defence capabilities.

Addressing the participants, the Union Minister said, “If the startups or industries present here have any issues or suggestions regarding making India self-reliant in the industrial and defence sectors, please let us know. Tell us what your expectations are from the government. We want to understand them.”

During the interaction, participants presented suggestions on developing world-class testing facilities, establishing new testing infrastructure, strengthening Gujarat’s role in the defence sector, ensuring the availability of basic materials within the country, developing a defence corridor in Gujarat and several other related matters.

As a Startup, You Can Directly Seek an Appointment with the Defence Minister: Defence Minister

Mr. Neel Vaidya, Founder of Amrut Defence, a company engaged in the defence sector and drone manufacturing, respectfully presented a suggestion to the Defence Minister. He stated that companies often face difficulties in identifying the appropriate end users for their products and services and sought the Minister’s guidance on the matter.

Responding to the query, the Defence Minister said, “I regularly meet startups working in the defence sector. I stay informed about their issues and the challenges they face. Our officials are also present during these interactions, and necessary directions are issued immediately. Various conferences and programmes in this sector continue to be organised regularly. However, I would like to tell you that whether or not such conferences are held, and even if no meeting is scheduled, as a startup you can directly seek an appointment with the Defence Minister.”

MoUs Worth ₹2,550 Crore Signed for Investments in Gujarat’s Defence Sector

Four companies signed MoUs for investments in Gujarat’s defence sector. Dinesh Chandra Defence Systems Pvt. Ltd. signed an MoU worth ₹800 crore, Shreeram Aerospace and Defence LLP signed an MoU worth ₹150 crore, Shree Khodiyar Heavy Engineering Pvt. Ltd. signed an MoU worth ₹100 crore, and SRK Tectronics LLP signed an MoU worth ₹1,500 crore. The total investment of ₹2,550 crore will be made across Kheda, Rajkot, Vadodara and Ahmedabad districts of Gujarat. These investments are expected to generate more than 4,000 employment opportunities. The companies are engaged in manufacturing defence systems, defence equipment, aerospace tooling and engines, as well as UAV systems and application hardware.

During the programme, several startups from the defence sector were felicitated. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Mamta Verma, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and Mines Department. DeshGujarat