OCT 07: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh highlighted that the future of warfare will be shaped by artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, drones, anti-drone technology, quantum computing, and directed-energy weapons. Speaking at ‘Raksha Navachar Samvaad: Interaction with iDEX Startups’ ahead of the National Conference at Vigyan Bhawan, he urged innovators to develop technologies that redefine modern warfare, emphasizing that India must move from being a follower to a global standard-setter in defence innovation.
The Minister noted India’s measurable progress in indigenisation, with defence capital acquisitions rising from ₹74,000 crore in FY 2021–22 to ₹1.2 lakh crore in FY 2024–25, describing it as a shift from dependence to confidence. Under the Public Procurement Policy, at least 25% of annual procurement is reserved for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), and over 350 items are earmarked exclusively for them, strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence.
Rajnath Singh called upon startups to create India’s first Defence Unicorn, stating, “You are the architects of a new India that believes in designing, developing, and producing for itself.” He lauded innovators for contributing to record achievements in defence production worth ₹1.5 lakh crore and exports exceeding ₹23,000 crore.
Since iDEX’s launch in 2018, over 650 winners have emerged, with prototype procurements worth over ₹3,000 crore, marking a revolution in India’s defence innovation ecosystem. Initiatives like the Technology Development Fund, Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme, and Self-Certification provisions are creating a comprehensive framework to support and scale innovations.
Rajnath Singh underscored that India’s defence startup ecosystem is vital to a self-reliant, technologically advanced nation, and highlighted global recognition of Indian innovations, including displays at the Dubai Airshow 2025. He reaffirmed that India’s defence journey is moving from concept to creation, and vision to victory, under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission.
