Rajnath Singh Calls for India to Become Global Drone Manufacturing Hub Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty
India Pushes for Drone Self-Reliance, Rajnath Singh Calls for Indigenous Defence Manufacturing Boost
The Impressive Times
He said India’s drone ecosystem must be strengthened not only at the final production level but also across components such as software, engines, batteries, and critical systems to reduce dependence on imports.
Rajnath Singh emphasised that achieving full self-reliance in defence manufacturing is essential to ensure national security and long-term preparedness, particularly in an uncertain global environment.
He added that MSMEs, start-ups, innovators, and large industries must work together in a coordinated ecosystem supported by strong policy backing from the government.
During the event, the government launched new innovation challenges under the iDEX framework, including the 14th Defence India Start-up Challenge and ADITI 4.0, aimed at promoting cutting-edge defence technologies.
Officials said over 100 problem statements were introduced from the armed forces, Coast Guard, and Defence Space Agency to encourage innovation in critical defence sectors.
A new set of innovation challenges was also launched for Defence Public Sector Undertakings to integrate MSMEs and start-ups into supply chains through mentorship and testing support.
The Defence Minister noted that hundreds of start-ups and MSMEs have already joined the defence innovation ecosystem under iDEX, with several prototypes cleared for procurement and contracts worth thousands of crores already signed.
He highlighted that technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, digital twins, and advanced manufacturing are transforming the defence production landscape globally.
Rajnath Singh urged MSMEs and start-ups to embrace Industry 4.0 technologies and strengthen horizontal and vertical integration across sectors to build a strong innovation ecosystem.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting MSMEs through reforms, digital platforms, and policy measures aimed at improving equity, liquidity, and professional support. Officials said the conclave also featured exhibitions showcasing advanced manufacturing technologies and collaboration opportunities between Indian and global defence companies.
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