Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Pokhran in Rajasthan on March 12 to oversee a military drill named ‘Bharat Shakti,’ showcasing the performance and integration of domestically developed weapons platforms and systems. This event will be attended by senior military officials from all three services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan.
The purpose of the exercise is to demonstrate PM Modi’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) in the defense sector. It aims to encourage military leadership to adopt India-specific tactics and strategies while also testing the security and reliability of indigenous communication systems against cyber threats.
Various indigenous defense assets such as Tejas fighter jets, K-9 artillery guns, drones, Pinaka rocket launchers, and short-range missiles will be featured in the exercise. Emphasis will also be placed on improving coordination among the three services, which often operate independently.
PM Modi’s visit to Pokhran precedes the announcement of the 2024 General Elections, where he seeks re-election for a third term. This exercise is anticipated to bolster his image as a resolute leader dedicated to bolstering India’s self-reliance and prowess in defense.
