Russia 'Time-Tested Partner', Says PM Modi, Pitches For Self-Reliant India At International Trade Show

Noida: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the International Trade Show 2025 in Greater Noida on Thursday, made a pitch to make India self-reliant, saying that despite global uncertainties, India’s

growth remains resilient and remarkable.Addressing the business event, PM Modi mentioned that the partner for this event is Russia, adding that this means the two nations "are further strengthening this time-tested partnership."Emphasising that the nation has to become Aatmanirbhar and self-reliant, PM Modi said the country is aiming to make manufacture from chips to ships.Prime Minister's remarks on Russia has come at a time when the United States desperately wants India to cut its oil purchases from Moscow as it believes this is what is funding Vladimir Putin to expand the war.

AK-203 Rifles in Collaboration With Russia Soon: PM Modi

In order to achieve self-reliance and reduce external dependence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the Indian Armed Forces and the government is committed to developing a robust defence infrastructure in line with this vision.PM Modi noted that Uttar Pradesh is playing a significant role in boosting the indigenous defence production. He mentioned that the production of AK-203 rifles will soon commence at a factory established in collaboration with Russia.

"Our armed forces aspire to achieve self-reliance and minimise dependence on external sources. To this end, we are dedicated to developing a robust defence infrastructure within India, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that every component is proudly 'Made in India'. To support this vision, we are fostering a thriving ecosystem, with Uttar Pradesh playing a pivotal role in this initiative. In line with these efforts, the production of AK-203 rifles will soon commence in a factory established with assistance from Russia," PM Modi said.He added that a Defence Corridor is being developed in UP, where manufacturing of BrahMos missiles and other weapon systems has already begun.The trade show, under the theme 'Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here', is being held from September 25 to 29. The trade show has three core objectives- innovation, integration, and internationalisation.A three-pronged buyer strategy is targeting international buyers, domestic Business-to-business (B2B) buyers and domestic Business-to-Consumer (B2C) buyers, providing opportunities for exporters, small businesses, and consumers alike.With inputs from ANI