The East Tech 2025 exhibition in Ranchi has concluded on a high note, with India’s defence sector poised for significant growth. The three-day event, organised by the Indian Army and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, has set the stage for defence procurements worth approximately Rs 1,000 crore over the long term. This marks a substantial leap from the Rs 600 crore in orders that followed the previous edition of East Tech, demonstrating the increasing momentum in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth emphasised the strategic importance of the event, stating, “When the Army, industry sector, and the government come under one roof, then indigenous products are promoted, which in turn would generate employment and prevent migration of workers.” The show successfully brought together 175 stalls featuring 400 delegates from both private and public sectors, showcasing cutting-edge innovations in defence technology. Among the highlights were drones, light machine guns, the Flycatcher weapon control system, battlefield vehicles, integrated snow tents, and Bofors guns.
The event also fostered critical discussions, with 300 result-oriented meetings held over the three days. While the minister did not disclose the specific products selected for procurement, the outcome underscores the growing synergy between defence forces, industry, and government in advancing indigenous defence manufacturing.
Entrepreneurs, particularly from the Adityapur Industrial Area, played a key role in the exhibition, alongside National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and the general public. Tridev Kumar, an NCC cadet, expressed pride in seeing Indian-made weapons and combat gear, while Aman Kumar noted that the scale of the display was unprecedented in his experience.
The event also included a cultural performance at the closing ceremony, adding a celebratory touch to the proceedings. As India continues to strengthen its defence industrial base, East Tech 2025 has reinforced the potential of collaboration between military, industry, and government to drive innovation and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.