Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday showcased a series of achievements that reflect India's growing self-reliance across defence, aviation, education and culture, with the successful maiden flight of the made-in-India C-295 military transport aircraft emerging as one of the standout milestones.

During the latest edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi said recent developments underline the country's expanding capabilities in advanced manufacturing and indigenous innovation. He pointed to the C-295 project as a major boost for India's aerospace ecosystem, stressing that large-scale domestic production is creating opportunities for industries, small businesses and skilled workers.

The first India-manufactured C-295 military transport aircraft completed its maiden flight earlier this month, marking a major step in the country's efforts to strengthen defence production under the Make in India initiative. Of the 56 aircraft being acquired for the Indian Air Force, 40 are slated to be assembled in India through a collaboration between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems at a manufacturing facility in Gujarat's Vadodara.

Modi said such projects are helping build a stronger industrial base while generating employment and encouraging the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) linked to the aerospace sector.

Highlighting India's indigenous defence capabilities, the Prime Minister also referred to the recent induction of three naval platforms into the Indian Navy. He noted that the vessels were designed and built domestically, describing them as examples of India's increasing competence in defence manufacturing and maritime engineering.

According to Modi, June brought several accomplishments that have strengthened national confidence and demonstrated the country's ability to develop strategic assets using home-grown expertise.

The Prime Minister also reflected on the global celebrations of International Yoga Day on June 21, saying yoga programmes were organised across thousands of locations worldwide. He noted that participation extended across continents, reflecting yoga's growing international appeal.

Drawing attention to India's performance at the World Yoga Asana Championship held in Ahmedabad, Modi said Indian participants finished at the top of the medal standings, securing more than 100 gold medals and reaffirming the country's leadership in the discipline.

Beyond defence and wellness, Modi highlighted a development in higher education that he described as equally significant. He praised Nalanda University for reviving the ancient Indian tradition of Shastrarth, a structured form of intellectual debate and discussion, as part of its convocation ceremony.

He said the practice encourages participants to present arguments backed by logic and evidence while fostering the ability to listen to and understand differing viewpoints. Such traditions, he added, reflect India's long-standing culture of dialogue, critical thinking and knowledge exchange.

With PTI inputs