Telangana Aims to Emerge as Strategic Aerospace Hub: Sridhar Babu

Speaking at the national conference on “Changing Scenario in Aviation: R&D, Production and Certification” organized by the Hyderabad branch of the Indian Aviation Association at the Indian Engineering Staff College, Gachibowli, the Minister said that only countries and States that successfully integrate these three pillars will emerge as global leaders in the field of aerospace.

He said the state government has developed an ecosystem that can respond to the rapid changes and challenges faced by the global aviation industry.

Sridhar Babu said, “Aviation is no longer limited to aircraft and machinery manufacturing. It has become a reflection of a country’s strategic capacity, technological strength and confidence.”

The minister noted that while the industry was once dominated by the US, Russia and Europe, India now plays an increasingly important role in the global aviation supply chain.

Referring to UNESCO estimates, he said India had one of the world’s largest pools of scientists and engineers. However, he expressed concern that, according to the McKinsey report, less than 30 percent of research conducted in laboratories is converted into commercial production.

“The state government is committed to filling this gap and turning research into products,” he said. Citing the Deloitte Global Aerospace and Defense Survey, Sridhar Babu said 74 percent of aerospace senior executives now prioritize flexible supply chains and production capacity over low-cost manufacturing.

He said Boeing and Airbus estimate the world will need about 42,000 new planes over the next two decades. Telangana, especially Hyderabad, was poised to capitalize on this opportunity by strengthening its precision engineering base, defense manufacturing network and micro, small and medium enterprise ecosystem.

The minister said India continues to depend on foreign countries for aviation testing and certification, leading not only to higher costs but also delays of 18 to 24 months in bringing products to market.

He urged the Union government to support the development of a world-class aviation certification ecosystem in Hyderabad, which he said has all the necessary benefits.

Sridhar Babu said that emerging technologies such as drones, reusable rockets, AI-powered avionics, 3D printing and advanced materials will shape the future of aviation and Telangana is preparing itself accordingly.

He said more than 1,500 MSMEs in Hyderabad are already supplying parts to global aviation companies and taking the “Made in Telangana” brand to international markets.

He said the state’s aviation ecosystem is supported by aerospace and defense R&D institutions, global original equipment manufacturers, Central public sector enterprises, Adibatla Aerospace SEZ, private aviation parks, road connectivity and a talented talent pool.

Inviting industrialists, scientists, engineers and innovators to partner with the government, the Minister said Telangana is committed to building the future of the aviation sector from Hyderabad.

He then congratulated the scientists and other distinguished individuals for their contribution to the aerospace sector.