Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], September 25 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the government is developing a vibrant defence sector in India and creating an ecosystem where every component bears the 'Made in India' label.

PM Modi, who inaugurated the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2025 in Greater Noida said Uttar Pradesh is playing a major role in creating a vibrant defence ecosystem in the country and the production of AK 203 rifles is going to start from the factory built in collaboration with Russia.

The Prime Minister also noted that that Russia is the country partner for this edition of the trade show, underscoring the strengthening of a time-tested partnership.

I am happy that more than 2200 exhibitors are showcasing their products and services here. This time, the country partner for the trade show is Russia. This means that at this trade show, we are further strengthening a time-tested partnership. I congratulate Chief Minister Yogiji, all other government colleagues, and stakeholders for organizing this event,' PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister talked of strides being made by Uttar Pradesh in manufacturing including in the electronics and mobile manufacturing sector.

He said Uttar Pradesh will now strengthen India's self-reliance in the semiconductor sector as well and work is about to begin on a large semiconductor facility just a few kilometres away.

'Another example is from the defence sector. Our forces want swadeshi, and want to reduce dependence on others. Therefore, we are developing a vibrant defence sector in India itself. We are creating an ecosystem where every component bears the 'Made in India' label. And Uttar Pradesh is playing a major role in this. Very soon, the production of AK 203 rifles is going to start from the factory built in collaboration with Russia,' PM Modi said.

'A defence corridor is also being constructed in UP. In which the production of many weapons including Brahmos missiles has already started. I would appeal to all of you, invest in UP, manufacture in UP. There is a strong network of lakhs of MSMEs here, and it is continuously growing. Harness their potential and manufacture a complete product here. The Uttar Pradesh government and the Government of India are with you, providing every support for this,' he added.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had in May this year inaugurated a 200-acre BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility Centre in Lucknow that will have integration of Booster subassemblies, Avionics, Propellant, Ramjet engines.

The approx. Rs 300 crore complex will pave the way for skill development for industry and entrepreneurs in a long way. The entire defence ecosystem of ancillary and sub-assemblies will be developed in the vicinity to support the complex. It will help in a big way in industrialisation and skill development of students of ITI, Supervisors, Engineers. It will ensure that people are not forced to migrate to look for job opportunities.

BrahMos is a Joint Venture between India (DRDO) and Russia (NPOM) for the development, production and marketing of the supersonic cruise missile.

The trade show, under the theme 'Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here', is being held from September 25 to 29.

It has three core objectives- innovation, integration, and internationalization. A three-pronged buyer strategy will target international buyers, domestic Business-to-business (B2B) buyers, and domestic Business-to-Consumer (B2C) buyers, providing opportunities for exporters, small businesses, and consumers alike.

UPITS-2025 is highlighting the state's diverse craft traditions, modern industries, robust MSMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs on a single platform. Key sectors being represented include handicrafts, textiles, leather, agriculture, food processing, IT, electronics and AYUSH.

It will also feature Uttar Pradesh's rich art, culture, and cuisine under one roof.

Russia is participating as a partner country adding strategic significance opening avenues for bilateral trade, technology exchange, and long-term cooperation. Over 2,400 exhibitors; 1,25,000 B2B visitors; and 4,50,000 B2C visitors are participating in the trade show, according to a release. (ANI)