Nashik: Initiative To Develop City As Defence Hub, NIMA Holds Talks With HAL CEO Shishir Patra

Nashik: An important discussion was held between the office-bearers of the Nashik Industries and Manufacturers Association (NIMA), led by President Ashish Nahar, and the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Shishir Patra, regarding the development of Nashik as one of the country’s key defence hubs and the establishment of an anchor unit in the public sector (PSU) or through private participation for the defence sector.

This meeting has gained special significance as it follows the recent discussions held with Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, where various related issues were raised. The meeting with Shishir Patra was aimed at taking the next steps forward in this direction.

It was highlighted during the discussion that HAL currently has orders for various aircraft, and Nashik’s industrial ecosystem is fully prepared to manufacture the required spare parts and components. The city already offers a favourable industrial environment for the defence sector, and large-scale investments are planned here.

NIMA President Ashish Nahar expressed confidence that the establishment of a public sector undertaking or a privately operated anchor unit for defence manufacturing in Nashik would prove to be a milestone in promoting ancillary industries, innovation, employment generation, research and development, and strengthening the country’s defence capabilities. He also stated that NIMA and all industrial associations are ready to extend full cooperation for this initiative.

It was also noted that, with HAL’s support and the backing of hundreds of entrepreneurs, Nashik’s industrial city is fully prepared to evolve into a defence manufacturing cluster. With strategic support and the necessary infrastructure, Nashik can make a significant contribution to India’s defence manufacturing sector and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Recent announcements by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the creation of a defence corridor have further underscored the government’s commitment to developing Nashik as a major centre for the defence and aerospace sectors.

NIMA office-bearers also pointed out that Nashik already has more than 1,000 MSMEs operating in the precision engineering sector, giving it the capacity to develop a complete defence production corridor. Accordingly, a demand was made to formally declare Nashik as a defence manufacturing centre and provide the necessary infrastructure support.

Meanwhile, it was also emphasised that passenger and cargo traffic at Nashik International Airport is increasing, and in view of the 2027 Kumbh Mela, a major expansion of the airport is essential. This, they said, presents a major opportunity to strengthen defence logistics, cargo transportation, and aerospace connectivity.

HAL CEO Shishir Patra assured the delegation that all the demands and proposals discussed during the meeting would be forwarded to the Ministry of Defence for serious consideration. The discussion was held in a highly positive and cordial atmosphere. Those present at the meeting included NIMA President Ashish Nahar, Vice President Manish Rawal, Secretary Rajendra Ahire, and senior HAL officials.