The Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, P K Mishra, conducted a significant visit to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru to assess the progress of important indigenous defense projects. Accompanied by HAL’s Chairman and Managing Director D K Sunil and other board members, the focus of the visit was primarily on evaluating the production and development status of India’s flagship fighter aircraft programs.
Mishra’s tour began at the LCA Mk 2 hangar located at the Aircraft Research and Design Centre (ARDC). He then proceeded to inspect the LCA Tejas Assembly Hangar and the Aerospace Division. During his time in the Tejas division, he reviewed the production progress of the LCA Tejas Mk 1A, gaining insights into its ongoing manufacturing milestones.
The highlight of the visit was a display of six LCA Mk 1A fighter aircraft along with two LCA Mk 1 trainer variants currently under production. HAL’s demonstration reinforced its capability to spearhead complex, multi-stakeholder defense projects. Additionally, the organization reiterated its commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense production, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Mishra’s visit to HAL falls within a broader governmental strategy aimed at closely monitoring and accelerating indigenous defense and infrastructure initiatives. In recent weeks, he has inspected several major projects in Gujarat, including the Ahmedabad-Dholera Greenfield Expressway, Dholera International Airport, and Tata Electronics’ Semiconductor Fab Project.
Discussions during his review meetings underscored the importance of timely execution and adherence to global quality standards. Mishra also emphasized the necessity to fortify India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem through technological innovation and the development of skilled manpower—elements crucial for the future of the country’s defense sector.
