Maha’s first 3-day MSME defence expo to commence in Pune from Feb 24

The Maharashtra government is all set to organize a three-day MSME Defence Expo in Pune from February 24 to 26. The expo aims to provide a platform for micro-small-medium enterprises to contribute significantly to the defence production sector. The event will see participation from the armed forces, defence public sector undertakings, and ordnance factories.

The expo will be held at the International Exhibition & Convention Centre, Moshi and will be attended by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, with the likelihood of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh joining. Over 200 MSMEs and startups, the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy, along with over 20,000 engineering students are expected to participate in the expo. The event will focus on innovation, cooperation, and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

With Maharashtra being acknowledged as the industrial powerhouse of India, the expo aims to bring in a large number of entrepreneurs, increase investment, and facilitate interaction between manufacturers, buyers, and the armed forces. Exhibitors will showcase their defence-related products, technologies, and services in various sectors such as aerospace, armaments, electronics, communication, and logistics. The expo is also expected to provide lucrative business opportunities and potential contracts for the participants.

The Indian Air Force will demonstrate its indigenous capabilities through static displays of new generation Advanced Light Helicopter MK-IV and Light Combat Helicopter, as well as Aakash and SAMAR missile systems. There will also be interactive sessions between MSMEs and major defence procurement organizations, industry veterans, and potential investors.

The expo is significant in driving self-reliance, growth, and innovation in the defence sector, and it is expected to benefit MSMEs and startups in the defence technology export sector. The event underscores the government’s commitment to strengthen the state’s defence capabilities and promote self-reliance in the defence sector.

Overall, the MSME Defence Expo in Pune is set to be a significant platform for small and medium enterprises to contribute to the defence production sector and interact with major stakeholders in the industry, ultimately driving growth and innovation.


–IANS