Reforms in defence production soon, says Parrikar

Panaji: Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today said the reforms in defence production would be in place in the next few months. “When we took over in Goa, the atmosphere in the state’s industrial scenario was negative as people had to go through several authorities,” Parrikar said while addressing the Goa Investment Summit organised by Confederation of Indian Industries (CII).[caption id=“attachment_2083255” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. PTI[/caption] “We find similar set of mindset in defence production. We have taken these issues in defence production in priority basis and in a few months, they will be completed,” he said. However, refusing to spell out details, he said, “I believe when we actually complete it, we should start bragging about it.” The defence minister also said that several existing regulations have held back the repairs of roads leading to the country’s borders. “Defence of the country is of paramount importance. Enemy of the country is not going to consider your laws. There should be proper set of laws for defence projects,” he said. Addressing the investors, Parrikar also said that the Centre is toying with the idea of setting up a helicopter production unit in Goa. “Goa has all the infrastructure required to set up such a unit. We have not finalised anything, but government is considering it,” he said. PTI