New Delhi, September 15 (Daily Kiran) : India is making significant strides in transitioning from a defense importer to a defense exporter, according to Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. Speaking at the DRDO-Industry Coordination Meeting “Vimarsh 2026” in New Delhi, Singh noted that in recent years, startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have emerged as key innovators in the country. These small enterprises are generating new ideas and technologies crucial for defense.
Singh emphasized the importance of MSMEs and startups in achieving the goal of a self-reliant India. He pointed out that these businesses are developing components and subsystems for large defense systems, as well as cutting-edge technology. The partnership between the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and industries should extend beyond just production to include research, design, testing, certification, and manufacturing.
“The DRDO possesses knowledge and technology, the industry has expansion and manufacturing capabilities, startups bring innovation and agility, and our youth embody the dream of a new India,” Singh stated. He believes that when these four forces unite, no goal will be unattainable. With a collaborative effort, India’s defense capabilities will be unmatched globally.
The minister also highlighted new policies and guidelines released on the same day, which open up fresh opportunities for the industry. These initiatives focus on industry-led research and development while promoting funding for startups and MSMEs. Additionally, there is an emphasis on collaboration between educational institutions and industries, particularly in future technologies like AI, quantum computing, and hypersonics.
Singh reiterated that while the DRDO is a leading organization for research and development in defense, efforts must go beyond government initiatives. “This is a collaborative endeavor,” he remarked, stressing that the partnership between the DRDO and industries is key to making India a global hub for defense manufacturing. It is essential not only to develop products within India but also to foster the capability and confidence to produce them.
He clarified that self-reliance should not be limited to developing certain components or weapon systems. “Self-reliance should be part of our character and attitude,” he asserted. A nation with its own technology has the power to shape its future. The sense of self-reliance must permeate our thoughts and consciousness.
In recent years, significant reforms in the defense sector have been unprecedented, Singh noted. Under the vision and leadership of the Prime Minister, crucial decisions have been made, including the positive indigenization list, the “Make in India” initiative, and the allocation of 25% of the defense research and development budget to the private sector. These measures are aimed at reducing reliance on imports and steering the country toward self-sufficiency.
During the event, several important policies and guidelines were released, and various memorandums of understanding were exchanged, including technology transfers and contracts.
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