Rajnath Singh Hails Uttar Pradesh’s Transformation, Highlights Defence Growth and Inaugurates Naval Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow
Defence Minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh on Saturday praised the transformation of Uttar Pradesh, saying the state has moved from being associated with crime and lawlessness to becoming a hub of entrepreneurship and development.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Naval Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow, he credited Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership for bringing about this remarkable change.
Drawing a comparison between the past and present, Rajnath Singh remarked that Uttar Pradesh was once perceived as a state where every district had its own mafia network.
Today, however, it is increasingly recognised for its “One District, One Product” initiative, which promotes local industries and traditional crafts.
According to him, this shift reflects the state’s journey toward economic progress, improved governance, and greater public confidence.
Naval Shaurya Vatika: A Tribute to Courage and Sacrifice
The Defence Minister inaugurated the Naval Shaurya Vatika, a memorial and public attraction built at a cost of approximately ₹19 crore across more than two acres in Lucknow.
He described the site as much more than a tourist destination, calling it a living tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of India’s naval forces.
According to Rajnath Singh, the memorial will serve as an enduring source of inspiration for future generations by helping them understand the price paid by the armed forces to safeguard the nation’s freedom and security.
He expressed confidence that the Shaurya Vatika would not only become a landmark for Lucknow but also emerge as a significant tourism attraction and a symbol of the city’s evolving identity.
Uttar Pradesh’s Changing Image
The Defence Minister said Uttar Pradesh has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. He recalled a time when concerns over crime and weak law enforcement discouraged investors from considering the state as a business destination.
“People once viewed Uttar Pradesh as a place where law and order challenges made investment risky,” he said. “Today, the situation is entirely different. Investors are showing confidence, industries are expanding, and development is visible across the state.”
He added that residents across Uttar Pradesh are witnessing rapid improvements in infrastructure, governance, and economic activity.
According to him, Lucknow is no longer known only for its culture, heritage, and refined traditions but is also emerging as a symbol of patriotism, military pride, and modern progress.
Push for Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing
Highlighting the central government’s vision for national security, Rajnath Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasised the need for India to become self-reliant in defence production.
He noted that a truly strong nation cannot remain dependent on foreign countries for critical military equipment.
He said the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) has significantly strengthened the domestic defence sector.
As a result, India has made substantial progress in manufacturing advanced military equipment within the country.
According to the Defence Minister, domestic defence production has grown from approximately ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to more than ₹1.5 lakh crore today. He added that the figure is expected to approach ₹1.75 lakh crore by the end of the current financial period.
India’s defence exports have also witnessed remarkable growth. While defence exports were below ₹1,000 crore in 2014, they have now risen to nearly ₹40,000 crore, reflecting the country’s increasing capability and competitiveness in the global defence market.
Defence Corridor Strengthening Uttar Pradesh’s Role
Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor in boosting indigenous manufacturing and strengthening the nation’s defence ecosystem. He pointed out that the production of the BrahMos missile system in Lucknow is contributing significantly to India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
He also noted that Uttar Pradesh is making steady progress across multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, science and technology, trade, commerce, transportation, highways, and airport infrastructure.
Preserving Military Heritage for Future Generations
The Defence Minister stressed the importance of preserving military history and honouring the contributions of the armed forces. He said efforts are being made to ensure that retired military equipment, which has served the nation for decades, is displayed in schools, colleges, universities, and public institutions so that younger generations can learn about the sacrifices and achievements of India’s defence personnel.
He described the Naval Shaurya Vatika and its museum as more than just architectural structures. In his view, they stand as powerful reminders of the dedication, bravery, and service of India’s soldiers, sailors, and air warriors.
Maritime Security Key to Global Stability
Concluding his address, Rajnath Singh referred to ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in the Middle East, saying these developments underline the importance of secure maritime routes in maintaining global peace and economic prosperity.
He observed that the current geopolitical environment demonstrates how closely international stability is linked to the safety of sea lanes and maritime trade networks. Ensuring the security of these routes, he said, remains essential for sustaining global commerce, peace, and development.
The inauguration of the Naval Shaurya Vatika, he added, is not only a moment of pride for Lucknow but also a reminder of the vital role India’s armed forces play in safeguarding the nation’s interests both on land and at sea.
