Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday called for India to emerge as a global hub for drone manufacturing, stressing that a strong indigenous ecosystem is vital for strategic autonomy and defence preparedness.
Addressing the National Defence Industries Conclave 2026 in New Delhi, Singh highlighted how modern conflicts have underscored the importance of drones and counter-drone technologies.
Lessons from Global Conflicts
The Defence Minister referred to ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions between Iran and Israel, noting that drones are playing a decisive role in modern warfare.
He emphasised the need for India to strengthen its capabilities in both drone production and counter-drone systems to remain future-ready.
Call for Complete Indigenous Ecosystem
Singh stressed that India must adopt a mission-mode approach to achieve self-reliance in drone manufacturing.
“From the drone’s moulds to its software, everything must be manufactured in India,” he said.
He highlighted the need to develop critical components domestically, including:
- Software systems
- Engines and propulsion units
- Batteries and energy systems
- Advanced materials
Startups, MSMEs Key to Defence Innovation
The Minister underlined the importance of startups, MSMEs, and private players in building a robust defence ecosystem, assuring full government support under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He described startups as “catalysts of change”, urging innovators to drive technological advancements.
DISC-14 and iDEX Challenges Launched
At the event, Singh launched:
- The 14th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC-14)
- The fourth edition of ADITI challenges under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) framework
A total of 107 problem statements from the Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard, and Defence Space Agency were unveiled to promote innovation.
Additionally, 101 innovation challenges funded by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) were introduced to support startups and MSMEs with mentorship, testing, and integration into supply chains.
Strong Progress Under iDEX
Highlighting achievements since 2018, Singh said:
- 676 startups and innovators have joined the ecosystem
- 548 contracts have been signed
- 566 challenges have been launched
- 58 prototypes worth ₹3,853 crore have received procurement clearance
- 45 contracts worth ₹2,326 crore have been finalised
MSMEs Driving Emerging Technologies
Singh noted the growing contribution of MSMEs in advanced sectors such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Robotics and automation
- Advanced manufacturing
He called for wider adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, including digital twins and simulation tools.
The government is supporting MSMEs through initiatives like:
- Udyam and Udyam Assist portals
- Budgetary support focusing on equity, liquidity, and professional assistance
He added that the number of MSMEs in India has nearly doubled from 4.67 crore in 2012-13 to around 8 crore today.
Towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat
The Defence Minister reiterated that strengthening indigenous manufacturing and innovation is key to achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and a Viksit Bharat.
The conclave, organised by the Department of Defence Production, focused on advanced manufacturing technologies and deeper integration of MSMEs into the defence value chain. Senior officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, were also present.
