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Defence Industry & Technology

COVER STORYDefence Industry & TechnologyTechnology

Raksha Mantri at National Defence Industries Conclave 2026

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  • Indigenous drone production ecosystem must for strategic autonomy, defence preparedness & self-reliance”

  • Over 200 problem statements of Defence Forces, ICG, DSA and DPSUs unveiled as part of DISC 14 & ADITI Challenges 4.0

  • “676 start-ups/MSMEs/Innovators join defence innovation ecosystem through iDEX; 58 prototypes worth Rs 3,853 crore receive procurement clearance; 45 procurement contracts signed valued at Rs 2,326 crore”

  • “MSMEs are playing significant role in driving economic growth; need to embrace new tech to achieve Viksit Bharat goal”

New Delhi: “India must work in a mission mode to emerge as a global hub of indigenous drone manufacturing in the next few years,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh as he stressed on the urgent need to build a drone production ecosystem to ensure strategic autonomy, enhance defence preparedness and make the country Aatmanirbhar in view of the present geopolitical uncertainties. He was addressing MSMEs, start-ups, winners of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), private defence companies, innovators, policymakers, and academia during the inaugural session of the two-day National Defence Industries Conclave, organised by the Department of Defence Production on the theme ‘Advanced Manufacturing Technologies’ at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi on March 19, 2026.

Raksha Mantri asserted that the ongoing conflicts, ranging from the Russia-Ukraine war to the tensions between Iran & Israel, are proof that drones and counter-drone technologies are destined to play a pivotal role in future warfare, and self-reliance in drone manufacturing is essential not merely at the product level, but at the component level as well. “From the drone’s molds to its software, engines, and batteries, everything must be manufactured in India. This is no easy task. In most countries where drones are manufactured, a significant number of critical components are currently imported from China,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh added that while the creation of any nation’s defence industrial ecosystem relies on the contributions of large industries, MSMEs, start-ups, and innovators, it is equally driven by a clear policy push from the government, tailored to meet the country’s specific defence requirements. While he called for active contribution of the private sector, he extended Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s full support to transform India into a global hub for indigenous drone manufacturing.

As part of the inaugural session, Raksha Mantri launched the 14th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC-14) and the 4th edition of ADITI challenges under the iDEX framework. A total of 107 problem statements, including 82 under DISC-14 & 25 under ADITI Challenges 4.0, from the Defence Forces, Indian Coast Guard and Defence Space Agency were launched to promote breakthrough innovations in various domains.

A new initiative featuring 101 innovation challenges from DPSUs was also launched by Raksha Mantri to encourage design-led innovation by MSMEs and start-ups. These challenges are funded by DPSUs, which will also provide mentorship, testing facilities and opportunities for potential integration into their supply chains to the winning start-ups.

Shri Rajnath Singh described iDEX and ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX as game-changer initiatives, through which start-ups, innovators, and MSMEs are provided with the opportunity to develop novel solutions to meet the specific requirements of the Defence Forces. “As of February 2026, approximately 676 start-ups, MSMEs, and individual innovators have joined the defence innovation ecosystem since the inception of iDEX in 2018. 548 contracts have been signed; and 566 challenges launched. Of these, 58 prototypes have received clearance for procurement, valued at around Rs 3,853 crore. Furthermore, 45 procurement contracts have already been signed, worth nearly Rs 2,326 crore. These figures demonstrate that innovation is gradually materialising into tangible products & technologies, and the role played by our start-ups & MSMEs in this transformation is steadily gaining strength,” he said.

Raksha Mantri emphasised that MSMEs are today actively engaged in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Automation, and Advanced Manufacturing, representing a monumental and positive transformation. He termed it as imperative for the MSMEs and start-ups to embrace and integrate these technologies to ensure the optimal utilisation of their resources and capabilities. “In the contemporary landscape, innovations such as Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Additive Manufacturing are reshaping the global manufacturing sector. Furthermore, technologies like ‘Digital Twins’ and advanced simulation tools are unlocking a host of new possibilities. A ‘Digital Twin’ essentially involves creating a virtual model of a real-world system. Such technologies empower us to better comprehend complex systems and facilitate more informed decision-making,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh added that ‘integration’ is another crucial concept for the enhancement of MSME capabilities. “This integration can be achieved in two distinct ways: Horizontally and Vertically. Horizontal integration implies that MSMEs from diverse sectors connect with one another, learn from each other’s experiences, and collaborate. Vertical integration signifies that MSMEs partner with large-scale industries, engage with emerging technological domains, and cultivate expertise in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Automation, Robotics, and Additive Manufacturing. Our MSMEs must advance towards the adoption of Industry 4.0. It is when both horizontal and vertical integration occur simultaneously that a robust innovation ecosystem is established,” he said.

Highlighting the numerous initiatives undertaken by the Government to strengthen the MSMEs, Raksha Mantri stated that a three-pronged approach has been introduced in this year’s Union Budget to provide MSMEs with Equity, Liquidity, and Professional support, thereby enabling them to emerge as ‘Champion MSMEs’. The objective is to accelerate the growth of MSMEs, and enhance their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets, he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that since 2014, the Government has consistently prioritised and focused on the expansion of this “vital” sector. To simplify the registration and identification of MSMEs, digital platforms such as the Udyam Portal and the Udyam Assist Portal have been launched. The objective is to integrate small industries into the formal economy, thereby ensuring that they receive the benefits of government schemes.” he said. He added that the number of MSMEs in the country stood at approximately 4.67 crore in 2012-13, and the figure has reached nearly 08 crore, according to recent data. This growth, he said, demonstrates the continuous rise in the spirit of entrepreneurship within the country, and small industries are now playing a significant role in driving economic growth.

“We see start-ups serving as catalysts for social change through their truly unique ideas, while others attain the coveted status of a ‘Unicorn’ within an incredibly short span of time. In the near future, many more will emerge as the next generation of ‘Unicorns’. All that is required is consistent effort, perseverance, and unwavering dedication,” said Raksha Mantri, urging the MSMEs and start-ups to march forward with zeal & enthusiasm to innovate, embrace new technologies, and realise the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar highlighted that the conclave aims to promote advanced manufacturing technologies, and integration of MSMEs in the production ecosystem and entire value chain starting from design, development and manufacturing. He added that the 200 Problem Statements will give an opportunity to MSMEs, industries, start-ups, young innovators in designing state-of-the-art products and enhance their skills.

The Secretary (DP) enumerated the series of steps taken by the Ministry to promote and strengthen the domestic defence industry during 2025 – Year of Reforms. “DDP implemented significant reforms including rationalisation and simplification of various approvals and permissions; strengthening of quality process and bringing testing laboratories belonging to DPSUs and DRDO. A digital database of industries working in the defence sector, named Srijan Deep, has also been created, wherein over 40,000 industries have been listed to increase the resource for R&D,” he said.

During the event, Raksha Mantri also released 05 publications of Department of Defence Production, which aim to strengthen awareness of policy initiatives, promote defence exports and facilitate ease of doing business for industry stakeholders. These are:

SAMARTHYA 2026 – A Journey Towards Self-Reliance in Defence Production: A document outlining the roadmap and key initiatives to strengthen self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Indian Defence Industry – Going Global: A report highlighting India’s growing defence exports and opportunities for Indian companies in the global market.

SANKLAN: A handy guide providing answers to common queries of defence companies and MSMEs.

Enabling Provisions to integrate MSMEs in Defence PSU ecosystem: A booklet outlining new measures to integrate MSMEs into the DPSU ecosystem.

AI Maturity Assessment Model: A framework to help defence organisations assess and improve their adoption of Artificial Intelligence technologies.

Shri Rajnath Singh also inaugurated an exhibition, wherein 20 large defence companies have set up their stalls to showcase their initiatives and programmes for co-opting MSMEs as partners, suppliers and innovators. In addition, 24 Indian and foreign companies are participating in the exhibition to display advanced manufacturing technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, additive manufacturing and smart materials.

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COVER STORYDefence Industry & TechnologyMILITARY

Raksha Mantri stresses self-reliance for readiness in uncertain times

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  • “Defence exports poised to reach approx. Rs 29,000 crore by April 2026”

  • “Indian Navy’s readiness, success of operations like Op Sindoor & self-reliance steps indicate that our defence sector is moving in the right direction”

  • “Our aim is to develop ships into technology hubs & bring them up to global standards through infrastructure modernisation”

  • “Govt aims to steer India into top 10 shipbuilding nations by 2030 & top five by 2047”

New Delhi: “Self-reliance is the only way to stay relevant and ready in the present era of uncertainty,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while inaugurating Sagar Sankalp – Reclaiming India’s Maritime Glory, a defence and maritime dialogue jointly organised by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Limited and a private media organisation in Kolkata, West Bengal on March 06, 2026. He emphasised that the current global situation has led to the realignment of supply chains, formation of new equations, and constant rise in maritime activities, reaffirming the Government’s resolve of attaining self-reliance in every field.

“Old ideas, old global order, and old perceptions are changing rapidly. These are the uncertainties we need to understand. The current situation in the Middle East is one prime example. What is happening there is quite unusual. It is difficult to make concrete comments about the future course of events in the Middle East or in our neighborhood. The Strait of Hormuz or the entire Persian Gulf region is crucial for global energy security. When there is disturbance in the region, it directly impacts the supply of oil and gas. Moreover, we’re witnessing supply chain disruptions in other sectors as well. These uncertainties have a direct impact on the economy and global trade. The global scenario is an abnormal situation. What is more worrying is the fact that this abnormality is becoming the new normal,” said Raksha Mantri.

Describing “technological dynamism” as another crucial element in today’s world, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that technology is bringing about unprecedented changes in every sphere of life, and it is even more clearly visible in the defence sector. He highlighted that high-end and precision technologies are being used in the defence sector, and the Government aims to achieve Aatmanirbharta in defence tech to remain stay ready for emerging and future challenges.

Raksha Mantri enumerated the structural and policy reforms implemented by the Government to bolster defence production qualitatively and quantitatively, with special emphasis on transparency, financial discipline, performance benchmarking, and R&D. Terming DPSUs as a key pillar of the Government’s self-reliance vision, he stated that, in the shipbuilding sector, GRSE and other shipyards, have also been given special focus to make the domestic industrial ecosystem strong and futuristic. “The goal is to develop ships into technology hubs, not just production units. Efforts are being made to bring them up to the global standards through infrastructure modernisation, digital ship design tools, modular construction techniques, and supply chain integration,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh also highlighted the steps taken to provide a level playing field to the private industry in the defence sector, including improved import-export processes, availability of DRDO labs, facilitating green channel certification, establishing defence corridors and opening up reserved orders of DPSUs. These steps, he said, are not only meant to facilitate, but to enable the private sector to achieve maximum performance, underlining the Government’s objective to ensure the nation’s development through equal participation of public and private sectors.

Raksha Mantri pointed out that the Government’s efforts are yielding positive results as, in the Financial Year 2024-25, domestic defence production surpassed a record figure of Rs 1.50 lakh crore, with defence exports touching an all-time high of approx. Rs 24,000 crore. He stated that by April 2026, the defence exports are poised to reach approx. Rs 29,000 crore and the Government has set a target to export defence equipment worth Rs 50,000 crore by FY 2029-2030.

Shri Rajnath Singh acknowledged the fact that the private industry, today, contributes with approximately 25 percent of the defence platforms/equipment and accessories manufactured in the country, and exuded confidence that this participation will increase to 50 percent share of total defence production by value in the times to come.

Raksha Mantri noted that all the warships and submarines on order for the Indian Navy are being built in Indian shipyards – from design, engineering, construction to lifecycle support. He termed it as a major leap towards self-reliance. “Self-reliance is no longer just a slogan; it is being established as a practical reality. A Builder’s Navy is not a slogan; it is a ground reality,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh also praised the contribution of MSMEs, start-ups, and indigenous vendors in the construction of large platforms, asserting that a warship is a product of joint efforts, also known as the Conglomerate Effect. This conglomerate effect creates synergy, increases efficiency, mitigates risk, and creates an ecosystem of innovation, he said. He emphasised that the Government has introduced several financial assistance schemes to advance India’s shipbuilding landscape, including the creation of a dedicated mechanism for long-term funding, liberalised FDI norms, and encouraged PPP model. Under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal vision 2047, investments worth approx. Rs 3 lakh crore have been planned to develop world-class shipbuilding clusters, he added.

Concluding his address, Raksha Mantri said that India’s maritime domain will be safe, prosperous, and strong if the nation moves forward with coordinated planning, technology adoption, and institutional synergy. “The Indian Navy’s readiness, the success of operations like Operation Sindoor, and the steps towards self-reliance indicate that India’s defence sector is moving in the right direction. If we work together to advance this maritime vision, in the years to come, India will not only safeguard its interests but also make a significant contribution to global maritime stability. Our target is to steer India into the top 10 shipbuilding nations by 2030, and reaching the top five by 2047,” he said.

In his remarks, CMD, GRSE Commodore PR Hari (Retd) reflected on India’s civilisational maritime legacy and the evolution of indigenous shipbuilding capability. He noted that India’s transition “from a Buyer’s Navy to a Builder’s Navy” marked a decisive turning point in restoring industrial depth. He also cited the journey from the delivery of INS Ajay in 1961 to the next-generation platforms under construction as symbolic of technological transformation and rising indigenisation.

The conclave brought together senior naval leadership, policymakers and industry stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening India’s maritime security architecture and shipbuilding ecosystem. Panel discussions focused on aligning naval shipbuilding with emerging geopolitical dynamics, addressing grey-zone threats and distributed maritime operations; building sovereignty at sea through resilient domestic supply chains; expanding shipbuilding scale to meet global trade and energy transition demands; and positioning India as a competitive global destination for shipbuilding and ship repair through progressive port policy, regulatory reform and industrial collaboration.

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