PM Modi Shares Lighthearted Moment with Safran Chairman Who Claims to be "Made in India" at New Aviation Facility Inauguration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi erupted in laughter during the virtual inauguration of Safran's Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility in Hyderabad when the French company's Chairman, Ross McInnes, humorously declared himself "Made in India" - a playful reference to his Indian birthplace and Modi's signature economic initiative.

The Wednesday ceremony marked the opening of Safran's new facility designed for servicing LEAP engines used in commercial aircraft. During his address, PM Modi emphasized that India represents a trusted partnership opportunity for global investors.

In what became a memorable moment of the event, McInnes expressed his personal connection to India's manufacturing campaign, stating, "I want to say that I am attached to this because I was born in India. So I'm 'Made in India' too." His comment immediately triggered hearty laughter from the Prime Minister.

Modi highlighted the significant impact of the new facility, explaining that the SAESI operation will have capacity to service up to 300 LEAP engines annually and create employment for over 1,000 highly skilled Indian technicians and engineers once it reaches full operational capability by 2035.

The Prime Minister pointed to India's rapidly expanding civil aviation sector, noting the country's position as one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets. He referenced the impressive orders from domestic carriers exceeding 1,500 aircraft.

In his address to potential investors, Modi stressed that India views them not merely as financial backers but as collaborative partners in the nation's development journey. "India is proving that betting on India is the smartest business decision of this decade," he asserted.

The Prime Minister also underscored the nation's commitment to "Design in India," emphasizing the initiative's large-scale implementation across various sectors of the economy.