• 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 14^th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC-14) and the 4^th 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.

New Delhi: Defence Headquarters Training Institute (DHTI), Ministry of Defence has achieved a significant milestone by securing “Ati Utkrishth” (4-Star) accreditation under the National Standards for Civil Services Training Institutions (NSCSTI) framework. This marks a substantial advancement from its earlier “Uttam” (1-Star) rating during the previous accreditation cycle held two years ago.

As part of the accreditation review process, a four-member NSCSTI assessment team conducted an onsite inspection of DHTI on 10–11 March 2026.

The assessment team examined institutional records, training documentation, infrastructure, governance mechanisms, academic processes, and compliance materials in accordance with the prescribed NSCSTI framework.

The enhanced accreditation underscores DHTI’s sustained commitment to strengthening institutional systems, improving the quality of training, and adopting best practices in capacity building, in alignment with the Government of India’s broader vision of civil services capacity development under Mission Karmayogi.

• Dr. Jitendra Singh Assures Kudankulam Units 3–6 on Track, Safe from Geopolitical Shifts; No Delay or Cost Escalation Expected.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh informed RS: Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project Talks Progressing; 6×1600 MW Framework Ready, Commercial Issues Under Discussion
• “India Not Solely Dependent on External Uranium; Nuclear Capacity Doubled Since 2014, Targets 22 GW by 2032 and 100 GW by 2047 with Duty Exemptions Till 2035”
• Dr. Jitendra Singh Clarifies 50% Power to Host State Under Gadgil Formula; ‘Safety First, Production Next’ Doctrine and Balanced Nuclear Allocation Policy Reiterated

New Delhi: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, today asserted in the Rajya Sabha that India’s nuclear energy programme is in a decisive expansion phase, backed by policy reforms, private sector participation and clearly defined capacity targets extending up to 2047.

The Minister said India’s installed nuclear capacity, which stood at 4,780 MW in 2014, has risen to 8,780 MW and is projected to reach 22,380 MW by 2031–32, 47 GW by 2037, 67 GW by 2042 and 100 GW by 2047. He affirmed that India is moving forward with self-reliance and confidence, and that geopolitical developments will not derail ongoing nuclear projects.

Replying to supplementaries raised by R. Girirajan, Jairam Ramesh, Ram Gopal Yadav and M. Thambidurai, the Minister addressed concerns relating to timelines, international negotiations, fuel security, CSR initiatives, and power-sharing arrangements.

Responding to questions on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Dr. Jitendra Singh said Units 3 and 4 are targeted for completion by 2026–27, while Units 5 and 6 are scheduled by 2030. He stated that there is no reason to apprehend any disruption due to recent geopolitical developments, including shifts in India–US relations.

Tracing the project’s history, he said the Kudankulam project was conceived in 1988, construction began in 2002, and the first unit became operational in December 2014 after the present government assumed office. The subsequent operationalisation of the first two units within the last decade reflects a clear implementation framework and disciplined adherence to timelines.

On a query regarding Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives within the 16-kilometre emergency planning zone, the Minister said that the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited undertakes CSR and Rehabilitation & Resettlement (R&R) activities for communities around all nuclear facilities.

He informed the House that significant allocations have been made under CSR, with ₹168 crore spent in the current financial year across projects. Specific figures for Kudankulam over the last four years would be furnished separately. He added that such initiatives focus on infrastructure, healthcare, education and skill development for local communities.

Addressing a question on negotiations concerning the proposed six 1600 MW reactors at Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project, Dr Jitendra Singh said that discussions have been ongoing and that while the technical agreement framework is in place, certain commercial aspects remain under consideration. He indicated that the matter is being pursued in coordination with relevant ministries, keeping national interest paramount.

On concerns regarding uranium imports and possible supply disruptions in a volatile global environment, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India has strengthened its energy security significantly over the last decade. He said nuclear capacity has more than doubled since 2014 and that policy measures, including recent enabling provisions and duty exemptions for nuclear plant equipment imports up to 2035, are aimed at accelerating domestic capability. He said the expansion roadmap demonstrates that India is not dependent solely on external sources and is steadily enhancing indigenous potential.

Responding to questions on power allocation, the Minister said distribution of electricity generated from nuclear plants follows the long-standing Gadgil formula, under which 50% of power is retained by the host state, 35% is allocated to neighbouring states and 15% goes to the central grid. This mechanism ensures balanced regional distribution.

On safety concerns and past apprehensions in the Kudankulam region, the Minister reiterated that India’s nuclear programme operates on the principle of “Safety First, Production Next.” He clarified that allegations regarding centralized storage of spent fuel at Kudankulam were scientifically unfounded, as each reactor manages its own specific fuel cycle.

Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded that the government has instituted clear timelines for nuclear expansion and is implementing them in a structured and disciplined manner, positioning nuclear energy as a key pillar of India’s long-term energy transition strategy.

Strengthening India’s Defence Capabilities

In a significant move towards modernizing India’s armed forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, has approved capital acquisition proposals amounting to ₹13,165 crore. This decision underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its defence preparedness while promoting indigenous manufacturing under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

Key Approvals

The DAC’s latest approvals include several crucial procurements aimed at bolstering the operational capabilities of the Indian Army and Navy. Some of the major acquisitions include:

• 25 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mark III – Procured from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at an estimated cost of ₹3,850 crore. These helicopters will significantly improve the Army’s lift capability and operational readiness.
• Rocket Ammunition Procurement – The council has sanctioned the purchase of Terminally Guided Munition (TGM) and HEPF/RHE Rocket Ammunition under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, amounting to ₹4,962 crore. This move aims to boost indigenous design and development of advanced weaponry.
• Additional Defence Proposals – Other approvals worth ₹4,353 crore include modernization initiatives and amendments to the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, ensuring streamlined procurement processes and efficiency.

Focus on Indigenous Defence Manufacturing

A remarkable 87% of the total approved procurement will be sourced from domestic manufacturers, reinforcing India’s push for self-reliance in defence production. This decision aligns with the government’s vision of reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and fostering innovation within the Indian defence sector.

Conclusion

The DAC’s latest approvals mark a significant step in strengthening India’s defence capabilities while supporting indigenous industries. With a focus on modernization, efficiency, and self-reliance, these acquisitions will play a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.