Rajnath Singh to open India’s largest private artillery shell plant in Shirdi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to inaugurate the Shirdi Defence Manufacturing Complex in Maharashtra on May 23, a project being billed as India’s largest private-sector artillery shell manufacturing facility. The complex, developed by Globe Forge Limited under the NIBE group, is being positioned as a major boost to India’s defence self-reliance and industrial capacity.

The 200-acre site is expected to produce artillery shell hardware at scale, with reported annual capacity of nearly 500,000 units, including 155mm shells, 120mm mortar ammunition, and 125mm rounds. Later phases may expand into missiles, rockets, drones, explosives, and aerospace-related manufacturing.

The project has an initial investment of Rs 1,000 crore, with long-term plans that could reach Rs 10,000 crore. It is expected to create about 2,000 direct and indirect jobs and support local MSMEs in the region.

Beyond employment, the facility is strategically important because it strengthens domestic ammunition production and supports the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat push. It also reflects the growing role of private industry in India’s defence ecosystem, especially in a town better known for pilgrimage than heavy manufacturing.