Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 23: In a major step towards strengthening India’s indigenous defence production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Union defence minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate a large-scale ammunition manufacturing facility in Shirdi, Maharashtra, on Saturday.
The facility, developed within the Savali Vihir Industrial Estate of the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) in Ahilyanagar district, forms part of the broader Shirdi Defence Manufacturing Complex. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will preside over the inauguration ceremony.
Built with an investment of around Rs 1,000 crore and spread across 200 acres, the plant is among the largest private-sector artillery shell manufacturing units in India. It is designed to produce up to five lakh 155 mm artillery shells annually using indigenous technology and locally sourced materials.
Officials said the project was completed in about a year and is expected to significantly enhance India’s defence production ecosystem. Along with artillery shells, the complex will also manufacture rocket launchers, long-range rocket components, drones, and electronic testing systems.
The facility is projected to create around 2,000 direct and indirect jobs and is expected to generate substantial opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the region, boosting local economic activity.
Authorities also noted that the plant will not only meet domestic defence requirements but is also intended to support exports, aligning with India’s ambition to become a global defence manufacturing hub.
In addition to the Shirdi project, another major ordnance manufacturing unit is under development in Belwandi, Shrigonda taluka. Spread over 600 acres with an estimated investment of ?2,000 crore, the facility will focus on producing explosives such as TNT, RDX, and HMX, with an annual capacity of 20,000 tonnes of TNT.
Officials said that once both projects are fully operational, they could collectively generate employment for around 4,000 to 5,000 people in the region.
To mark the inauguration, a two-day defence exhibition will be held in Shirdi on May 23 and 24, featuring participation from leading defence companies and more than 100 MSMEs showcasing advanced technologies and manufacturing capabilities.
The initiatives are aligned with national programmes such as Make in India and Make for the World, aimed at boosting self-reliance in defence production and expanding India’s presence in global military exports.