By: Aditya Ahuja
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the Boeing India Engineering and Technology Center (BIETC) in Bengaluru, marking Boeing’s largest investment outside the United States.
The 43-acre campus, built with an investment of Rs 1,600 crores, is positioned as a key hub for collaboration within India’s startup, private, and government sectors.
Strategic Partnership for Aerospace Innovation
The new campus is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering partnerships with India’s vibrant aerospace and defense ecosystem. It aims to contribute to the development of next-generation products and services for the global aerospace industry.
Boeing Sukanya Program
PM Modi launched the Boeing Sukanya Program, designed to support the inclusion of more girls in India’s aviation sector. The program focuses on providing opportunities for girls and women to acquire STEM skills, with plans to establish STEM Labs at 150 locations. Additionally, scholarships will be offered to women aspiring to become pilots.
IFSCA’s Role in Reducing Offshore Dependence
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasized India’s commitment to reducing offshore dependence on aircraft leasing. He highlighted the role of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) in Gujarat’s GIFT City in achieving this goal.
India’s Growing Aviation Market
PM Modi acknowledged India’s position as the third-largest domestic civil aviation market, with a significant increase in volume over the past decade. He credited the UDAN scheme for contributing to the rise in domestic air traffic and expressed optimism about India becoming a major player in the global aviation market.
Encouraging States to Reduce Taxes on Aviation Fuel
To further boost India’s aviation market, the central government is encouraging states to reduce taxes on aviation fuel, PM Modi announced.
Future Outlook and Recognition for Bengaluru
PM Modi expressed confidence that Bengaluru, known for connecting tech potential with global demands, would play a crucial role in shaping the future of the aviation sector. He commended Boeing’s Global Technology Centre in Bengaluru as a testament to Indian talent and innovation.
Women’s Participation in Aviation
The Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable achievement of 15% of Indian pilots being women, three times the global average. He praised the leadership of Indian women in both fighter and civil aviation roles.
Infrastructure Growth
PM Modi shared that the number of operational airports in India has increased from around 70 in 2014 to 150, underscoring the country’s commitment to enhancing efficiency in aviation infrastructure.