Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday called for India to emerge as a global hub for drone manufacturing within the next few years, stressing that building a robust indigenous ecosystem is critical for strategic autonomy and defence preparedness.
Addressing the National Defence Industries Conclave 2026 in New Delhi, Singh said that ongoing global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions between Iran and Israel, have highlighted the growing importance of drones and counter-drone technologies in modern warfare.
He emphasised that India must adopt a mission-mode approach to achieve self-reliance in drone manufacturing, not only at the product level but also across critical components such as software, engines, batteries, and materials. “From the drone’s moulds to its software, everything must be manufactured in India,” he said, noting that many countries still depend heavily on imports for key components.
The minister underlined the role of startups, MSMEs, and private industry in building a strong defence manufacturing ecosystem, while assuring full government support under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During the event, Singh launched the 14th edition of the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC-14) and 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 encourage design-led solutions from startups and MSMEs, with support in mentorship, testing, and integration into supply chains.
Highlighting progress under iDEX, Singh said that since its launch in 2018, around 676 startups and innovators have joined the defence innovation ecosystem. So far, 548 contracts have been signed and 566 challenges launched. Notably, 58 prototypes worth approximately ₹3,853 crore have received procurement clearance, while 45 contracts valued at ₹2,326 crore have already been signed.
He also stressed the growing role of MSMEs in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing, calling for greater adoption of Industry 4.0 practices, including digital twins and advanced simulation tools.
Singh further highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen MSMEs through policy support, digital platforms like Udyam and Udyam Assist portals, and a three-pronged budgetary approach focusing on equity, liquidity, and professional assistance.
He noted that the number of MSMEs in India has nearly doubled from about 4.67 crore in 2012-13 to around 8 crore today, reflecting a surge in entrepreneurship and their increasing contribution to economic growth.
Calling startups “catalysts of change,” the Defence Minister urged innovators and entrepreneurs to continue driving technological advancements and contribute towards the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.
The conclave, organised by the Department of Defence Production, focused on advanced manufacturing technologies and enhancing integration of MSMEs into the defence production value chain. Senior defence officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and other top military leadership, were also present at the event.
