Uttar Pradesh minister Suresh Khanna first to be declared state’s ‘outstanding legislator’A special ceremony is proposed be held in the assembly at a future date to present the “outstanding legislator” award. Published on: May 16, 2026 7:46 AM IST By HT Correspondent
No film star is having a year as good as Sandra Hüller. With Project Hail Mary smashing the box office, and new film Fatherland earning rave reviews at Cannes, she could do the unprecedented. We all know a potential Oscar clip when we see one
Dual-income techie couple hesitates to buy ₹1.7 crore flat amid IT layoffsThe techie shared that while they can manage the EMIs and down payment, they fear getting trapped with a massive loan during layoffs. Published on: May 16, 2026 7:09 AM IST By Trisha Sengupta Share via Copy link For tech
Hollywood star John Travolta has been surprised with an honourary Palme d'Or, the Cannes equivalent of a lifetime achievement award, while premiering his directorial debut at the film festival. The 72-year-old actor, who was at the film festival for the premiere of Propeller One-Way Night Coach
‘Bee tornado’ spotted near White House: ‘Is this a biblical curse 2.0?’Videos circulating across social media showed dense clouds of bees swarming around the White House press corps’ “Pebble Beach” media workspace. Updated on: May 16, 2026 4:06 AM IST By Shirin Gupta Share via Copy
Split tenure plan for Kerala CM post shot down in Delhi during Congress leadership talksOn Thursday, the party announced their choice as VD Satheesan, the 61-year-old leader of opposition. There were no deputy chief ministers announced. Updated on: May 16
India cannot depend on others for its security: RajnathDefence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasizes self-reliance in India's defence sector, highlighting significant advancements and new projects for national security. Published on: May 16, 2026 7:58 AM IST By Srinivasa Rao Apparasu
Uphold ‘nation first’ spirit, support PM’s call to conserve fuel: YogiChief minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurates, lays foundation stone of ₹208-crore projects in Maharajganj district, says every vote transformative, can choose development or mafia rule Published on: May 16
India cannot depend on others for its security
India cannot depend on others for its security: Rajnath
India cannot depend on others for its security: Rajnath
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasizes self-reliance in India's defence sector, highlighting significant advancements and new projects for national security.
Published on: May 16, 2026 7:58 AM IST By Srinivasa Rao Apparasu, Hyderabad Share via Copy link Union defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday called for self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector, noting that India is still dependent on other countries for its national security. Meanwhile, he highlighted the progress in India’s defence manufacturing, stating that the country has witnessed a significant change in the last decade. India cannot depend on others for its security: Rajnath “At a time when there is an upheaval around the world, we can only ensure the security of our nation when we take charge of it. We cannot remain dependant on other countries on matters related to national security,” Singh said Singh said the country had once been one of the world’s largest arms importers, but the situation had changed significantly due to sustained policy measures. “Earlier, India produced defence equipment worth only ₹46,000 crore. Today, production has crossed ₹1.54 lakh crore and will soon reach ₹1.75 lakh crore,” he said, adding that defence exports had risen from just ₹600 crore earlier to nearly ₹40,000 crore. Addressing the gathering after laying the foundation stone for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project and several strategic defence manufacturing units at Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Satya Sai district, Singh said indigenous defence manufacturing projects would significantly strengthen India’s defence sector. The facility, being established by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will comprise the core integration, development and flight-testing complex for India’s flagship indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft programme. Describing the project as a historic milestone in the defence history of both Andhra Pradesh and the country, the Union defence minister said it would focus on the development of fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft. Spread across nearly 650 acres in Puttaparthi with an estimated project cost of approximately ₹15,803 crore, the proposed complex will serve as a national hub for aircraft integration, validation, flight testing and certification activities. “Only a few countries in the world possess such flight-testing centres. India has now joined that league,” he said. He expressed confidence that advanced fighter aircraft developed under the AMCA programme would showcase India’s growing air power and defence strength. Singh said the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) would invest ₹480 crore to manufacture advanced autonomous underwater systems and torpedoes, enabling India to indigenously produce several systems that were previously imported. “The project would enhance coastal security and support the country’s blue economy initiatives,” he said. Singh further stated that Agneyastra, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, would manufacture advanced weapon systems with an investment of ₹1,500 crore for future warfare requirements. He added that HFCL would establish a facility with an investment of ₹1,294 crore to manufacture electrical fuses. The defence minister said eight drone companies were jointly developing a Drone City in Kurnool, which would strengthen the Make in India initiative. “Drone technology has become a game changer in modern warfare. Apart from defence, drones also have applications in agriculture and several other sectors,” he said. He said Andhra Pradesh would manufacture weapons and technologies required for Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, adding that the projects would help achieve complete self-reliance in the defence sector. Singh said the government and private sector were working together to accelerate the growth of India’s defence ecosystem. “Industries, startups and institutions are collectively participating in a mass movement for national development,” he said. He called upon Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu to develop the Rayalaseema region into a major military-industrial complex, citing its proximity to Bengaluru as a strategic advantage. “If this region is transformed into a military industrial hub, it will play a crucial role in national development,” he said. Singh praised Naidu for bringing cutting-edge technologies, including quantum technology, to Andhra Pradesh and added that global technology giants such as Google had chosen the state for investments. “AP means Advanced Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh has become a role model for the country,” he remarked. Singh said foundation stones had been laid for four defence companies under the strategic defence project and for eight companies in the proposed drone at Kurnool. Speaking at the function, the chief minister described Operation Sindoor as a proud example of India’s growing technological strength and the success of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector. He said the AMCA project would showcase the capabilities of India’s defence sector and strengthen indigenous combat aircraft manufacturing using homegrown technology. “It would pave the way for the development of a dedicated township and generate employment opportunities for around 7,500 people,” he said. Calling upon industrialists and entrepreneurs to invest in the state, Naidu asked them to “design in Andhra Pradesh, make in Andhra Pradesh, lead from Andhra Pradesh.” He assured full support from the state government for industries and investors coming to Andhra Pradesh. State IT minister Nara Lokesh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a strong response to Pakistan, which he said made every Indian proud. He described Rajnath Singh as the “iron man” and one of the biggest strengths behind Operation Sindoor. Lokesh said the sacred land of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai was now emerging as a new hub of India’s defence power with the establishment of AMCA project. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Srinivasa Rao Apparasu Srinivasa Rao is Senior Assistant Editor based out of Hyderabad covering developments in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana . He has over three decades of reporting experience. Check India news real-time updates, latest news, CBSE 12th Result 2026 LIVE from India on Hindustan Times and more across India. Home/India News/India Cannot Depend On Others For Its Security: Rajnath See LessUnion defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday called for self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector, noting that India is still dependent on other countries for its national security. Meanwhile, he highlighted the progress in India’s defence manufacturing, stating that the country has witnessed a significant change in the last decade.
“At a time when there is an upheaval around the world, we can only ensure the security of our nation when we take charge of it. We cannot remain dependant on other countries on matters related to national security,” Singh said
Singh said the country had once been one of the world’s largest arms importers, but the situation had changed significantly due to sustained policy measures.
“Earlier, India produced defence equipment worth only ₹46,000 crore. Today, production has crossed ₹1.54 lakh crore and will soon reach ₹1.75 lakh crore,” he said, adding that defence exports had risen from just ₹600 crore earlier to nearly ₹40,000 crore.
Addressing the gathering after laying the foundation stone for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project and several strategic defence manufacturing units at Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Satya Sai district, Singh said indigenous defence manufacturing projects would significantly strengthen India’s defence sector.
The facility, being established by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will comprise the core integration, development and flight-testing complex for India’s flagship indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft programme.
Describing the project as a historic milestone in the defence history of both Andhra Pradesh and the country, the Union defence minister said it would focus on the development of fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft.
Spread across nearly 650 acres in Puttaparthi with an estimated project cost of approximately ₹15,803 crore, the proposed complex will serve as a national hub for aircraft integration, validation, flight testing and certification activities. “Only a few countries in the world possess such flight-testing centres. India has now joined that league,” he said.
He expressed confidence that advanced fighter aircraft developed under the AMCA programme would showcase India’s growing air power and defence strength.
Singh said the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) would invest ₹480 crore to manufacture advanced autonomous underwater systems and torpedoes, enabling India to indigenously produce several systems that were previously imported. “The project would enhance coastal security and support the country’s blue economy initiatives,” he said.
Singh further stated that Agneyastra, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, would manufacture advanced weapon systems with an investment of ₹1,500 crore for future warfare requirements. He added that HFCL would establish a facility with an investment of ₹1,294 crore to manufacture electrical fuses.
The defence minister said eight drone companies were jointly developing a Drone City in Kurnool, which would strengthen the Make in India initiative. “Drone technology has become a game changer in modern warfare. Apart from defence, drones also have applications in agriculture and several other sectors,” he said.
He said Andhra Pradesh would manufacture weapons and technologies required for Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, adding that the projects would help achieve complete self-reliance in the defence sector.
Singh said the government and private sector were working together to accelerate the growth of India’s defence ecosystem. “Industries, startups and institutions are collectively participating in a mass movement for national development,” he said.
He called upon Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu to develop the Rayalaseema region into a major military-industrial complex, citing its proximity to Bengaluru as a strategic advantage. “If this region is transformed into a military industrial hub, it will play a crucial role in national development,” he said.
Singh praised Naidu for bringing cutting-edge technologies, including quantum technology, to Andhra Pradesh and added that global technology giants such as Google had chosen the state for investments. “AP means Advanced Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh has become a role model for the country,” he remarked.
Singh said foundation stones had been laid for four defence companies under the strategic defence project and for eight companies in the proposed drone at Kurnool.
Speaking at the function, the chief minister described Operation Sindoor as a proud example of India’s growing technological strength and the success of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector.
He said the AMCA project would showcase the capabilities of India’s defence sector and strengthen indigenous combat aircraft manufacturing using homegrown technology. “It would pave the way for the development of a dedicated township and generate employment opportunities for around 7,500 people,” he said.
Calling upon industrialists and entrepreneurs to invest in the state, Naidu asked them to “design in Andhra Pradesh, make in Andhra Pradesh, lead from Andhra Pradesh.” He assured full support from the state government for industries and investors coming to Andhra Pradesh.
State IT minister Nara Lokesh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a strong response to Pakistan, which he said made every Indian proud. He described Rajnath Singh as the “iron man” and one of the biggest strengths behind Operation Sindoor.
Lokesh said the sacred land of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai was now emerging as a new hub of India’s defence power with the establishment of AMCA project.
Source: HindustanTimes
Related Posts: Amazon's $50 billion OpenAI investment may depend on IPO or AGI milestone New world order will depend on how countries leverage their own version of the Strait of Hormuz India cannot afford to pollute its way to prosperity Cannot allow India to be maligned Why India cannot afford to democratise AI without democratising understanding Macron, Merz, Tusk to visit Moldova to back its 'security, sovereignty' Opinion | Why Disruption Cannot Be The Opposition’s Parliamentary Strategy Cannot sleep at night State, non-state actors cannot denigrate any community through speeches or art Banks cannot charge interest on money recovered
The tax cut could help cushion the impact of recent jet fuel price hikes on consumers and transport-related sectors in the state. The Maharashtra government on Friday reduced value-added tax (VAT) on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) or jet fuel from 18 per cent to 7 per cent for a period of six months
1 minutes ago
US President Donald Trump has cautioned Taiwan against formally declaring independence from China. "I'm not looking to have somebody go independent," the US president told Fox News on Friday, at the end of his two-day summit with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing
1 minutes ago
As AI reshapes career expectations, students and parents are increasingly evaluating universities through the lens of future-readiness. Modern infrastructure, technology enabled learning environments and visible institutional preparedness are emerging as important factors influencing admissions
Just now
The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested the main accused in the alleged paper leak in the 2026 undergraduate National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, said the Union government on Friday. In a press release, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions identified the alleged
1 minutes ago
Rupee at Fresh All-Time Low: The domestic currency hits its fresh all-time low of 96.14 against the US dollar during the day, falling 50 paise from the previous close. Rupee at New Record Low: The Indian rupee on Friday breached the 96 mark for the first time in history
Just now
The cruise missile hit the nine-story corner apartment block Thursday during what the Ukrainian air force said was Russia’s biggest barrage on the country of the full-scale invasion. Emergency workers finished digging through the rubble searching for victims after more than a day
1 minutes ago
The Indian rupee closed at a record low of 95.8 against the United States dollar on Friday. During the intraday trade, the currency breached the 96-per-dollar mark on account of rising global oil prices due to the war in West Asia and inflation concerns
1 minutes ago
OpenAI has launched a new Personal Finance experience inside ChatGPT which allows users to connect their financial accounts, chat with the AI assistant to understand their spending habits, subscriptions, investments, and broader financial goals
Just now
Love Horoscope Today for May 16, 2026: Real love may feel safer than expectedLove Horoscope Today: Find daily astrological predictions for all sun signs. Published on: May 16, 2026 7:30 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link Aries Love asks you to think of long-term
Just now
In a significant milestone for Assam politics, Chandra Mohan Patowary has been sworn in as Pro-tem Speaker of the 16th Assam Legislative Assembly, ready to lead the ceremony for incoming MLAs as the Assembly convenes on May 21. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is currently reviewing advancements
1 minutes ago
The casting process for the new James Bond has officially begun, after years of anticipation and speculation about who will take over from Daniel Craig as 007. "The search for the next James Bond is under way," Amazon MGM Studios said in a statement
1 days ago
Efforts to unseat British Prime Minister Keir Starmer from within his party broke into open rebellion on Thursday (May 15, 2026), with one potential rival resigning from the Cabinet and two others positioning themselves for a future leadership challenge
1 days ago
Mango and avocados are an unlikely pair, but one that works really well together. The creaminess of the avocado with the sweet and delicate flavours of the mangoes comes together to create something incredible. Who said salads have to be boring? This salad is a bright
1 days ago
The in Beijing is forcing Korea's to weigh a difficult trade-off as equipment suppliers see fresh business opportunities while manufacturers fear a narrowed . This dilemma pits the potential for immediate sales in China against the long-term risk of helping Chinese firms catch up to industry
1 days ago
‘Not right’: Former RAW chief flags security risks in PM Modi convoy downsizingStressing that the present security environment remains “highly volatile”, Goel said the Prime Minister’s protection should instead be strengthened. Published on: May 15
1 days ago
Nearly three decades after Cuban fighter jets shot down two civilian aircraft over the Florida Straits, the United States is now preparing to indict former Cuban president Raúl Castro, younger brother of Fidel Castro, over the incident that left four people dead
1 days ago
Jwala Gutta 'donated 60 litres of breast milk to government hospitals in Hyderabad and Chennai' in one year: Here is whyJwala Gutta highlighted the importance of donor milk for infants in NICUs. The badminton champion shared her journey of ‘donating 60 litres of breast milk’
1 days ago
Is pancreatic cancer hiding in plain sight? Gastroenterologist explains the silent red flags most people ignoreDr Saurabh Sethi warns that pancreatic cancer often progresses silently, with vague symptoms like back pain and weight loss easily ignored. Family Published on: May 15
1 days ago
Father breaks laptop, makes student sleep on floor over 57.4% in CBSE examsThe Reddit post has sparked a discussion on the toxic environment created by some Indian households during academic cycles. Published on: May 15, 2026 12:20 PM IST By HT Trending Desk Share via Copy link A heartbreaking
1 days ago
Chinese tech giant Tencent announced strategic partnerships with the Services Export Promotion Council () and the () on Friday.“Our goal in India is two-pronged: bringing world-class gaming experiences to Indian players, while simultaneously building the developer and talent ecosystem
1 days ago
By modernising a classic, Nike evolves the Pegasus 42 to outclass competitionWith an Air Zoom tech system assisted by a profound rocker silhouette, the Pegasus 42 feels closer to Nike’s elite runners Published on: May 15, 2026 11:18 AM IST By Vishal Mathur Share via Copy link No matter how
1 days ago
China called on Friday (May 15, 2026) for a lasting truce in the West Asia and for shipping lanes to be reopened “as soon as possible”, as the strategic Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed during the war with Iran. Iran has largely blocked shipping through the vital strait since
1 days ago
When world leaders sit across a dining table, the food rarely serves a purely culinary purpose. This familiar setup with a strategic warmth was once again on display in Beijing, where Donald Trump and Xi Jinping sat down for a working lunch shaped as much by politics as palate
1 days ago
India’s AI ecosystem is entering a new phase driven by collaborative platforms connecting builders, enterprises, and innovation communities at scale. As AI experimentation becomes more accessible, ecosystems such as ET AI Hackathon 2.0 are accelerating real-world innovation
1 days ago
PM Modi landed, signed key deals, left UAE - all in 2 hours | Full list of pactsAmong the deals signed between India and the UAE during PM Modi's visit is agreement on framework for strategic defence partnership between both countries. Updated on: May 15
1 days ago
Antique idol, brass items stolen from Chandni Chowk temple recovered; 2 heldAntique idol, brass items stolen from Chandni Chowk temple recovered; 2 held Published on: May 15, 2026 2:50 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi, A 45-year-old burglar and a woman have been arrested for allegedly
1 days ago
'Why is Bangalore rental situation this bad?': Woman says landlord ‘randomly’ hiked rent by ₹4,000 a montha Bengaluru woman’s video about her landlord allegedly increasing her rent by ₹4,000 a month has sparked a discussion around the city’s rental crisis. Updated on: May 15
1 days ago
