The IAF already operates 36 Rafales and has cleared 26 Marine Rafales for the Navy, but another batch of 114 remains under evaluation due to cost concerns. Meanwhile, India’s indigenous Tejas Mark-2 project has advanced significantly, with HAL reporting 60% prototype completion and a first flight expected in 2026. Testing will run till 2029–30 before full-scale production begins.

India currently fields 30 squadrons against the required 42, and strategic experts argue the need may rise to 60 squadrons in view of China–Pakistan two-front risks. With Tejas Mark-2 priced at ₹700 crore per unit compared to Rafale’s ~₹1,600 crore, the economic advantage is clear.

Tejas Mark-2 will be equipped with a GE-414 engine, BrahMos, Astra-2 BVR missiles, advanced radar, AI-supported flight systems, a 1,500 km combat radius, and 13 hardpoints. India is already procuring 180 Tejas Mark-1A jets.

Defence analysts note that for the same budget as 114 Rafales, India could field around 250 Tejas Mark-2 jets, addressing long-term squadron gaps. The primary concern is engine delivery delays from GE, which have already slowed Mark-1A production.

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Speaking at the event, she highlighted initiatives like soil health cards, financial assistance, fertilisers, and increased MSP for foodgrains and pulses. Sitharaman noted that the new processing unit can handle 133 metric tonnes of tur, 100 metric tonnes of chickpeas, and 76 metric tonnes of mixed pulses annually, enabling farmers to get better prices and reduce dependency on middlemen.

The minister emphasised that this initiative will empower farmers, support farmer producer organisations (FPOs), promote holistic rural development, and create sustainable livelihoods for self-help groups and rural entrepreneurs. The programme aims to make the Raichur district’s agricultural ecosystem robust and market-driven, enhancing production quality and shelf life of pulses.

Earlier, Sitharaman interacted with over 60 interns of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) in Hampi. She engaged with representatives from companies like Infosys, IBM, TCS, HAL, and NMDC, encouraging interns on professional growth, skills development, and contributions to India’s development journey.

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Introduced in 1963, the MiG-21 became the IAF’s first supersonic fighter and was widely regarded for its versatility. Over 870 jets were procured, many manufactured locally by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The aircraft served as an interceptor, ground-attack fighter, and trainer, shaping generations of Indian pilots. It played key roles in the 1965 and 1971 wars, the 1999 Kargil conflict, and the 2019 Balakot airstrike.

Rajnath Singh highlighted that continuous upgrades allowed the MiG-21 to remain operational for over 40 years, far exceeding the lifespan of similar jets globally. “The MiG-21 strengthened India’s air defence and inspired countless air warriors,” he said, emphasizing its enduring legacy.

The final operational sortie was flown by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, joined by pilots from No. 23 Squadron, the last unit operating the MiG-21. Senior officials, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan and astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, attended the farewell.

With the MiG-21 retirement in India, the focus now shifts to indigenous fighters like the LCA Tejas and future programs such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, ensuring India continues its path toward modern and self-reliant air power.

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Previously, the IAF had purchased 83 Tejas jets, but this new deal surpasses the earlier acquisition, reinforcing India’s aerial combat strength. Alongside this modernization, the IAF plans to retire 36 old MiG-21 fighter jets, marking a significant step in upgrading its fleet with state-of-the-art aircraft.

The addition of Tejas Mark-1A jets is aimed at enhancing air defense, operational readiness, and indigenous manufacturing capabilities, showcasing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production.

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