Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for greater self-reliance across India’s defence sector, saying the country must be able to manufacture critical components and complete weapon systems domestically.
Speaking at the NDTV Defence Summit 2026, Singh said India’s approach should extend from semiconductor chips and small components to naval ships and complete defence platforms. He described the principle behind the government’s Make in India approach as producing domestically wherever possible.
Recent structural reforms, he said, had strengthened India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. The country was also preparing for future security challenges rather than focusing only on current requirements.
Singh highlighted the growing role of technology in modern warfare. Future conflicts, he said, will operate across multiple domains involving artificial intelligence, drones, robotics, quantum technology, cybersecurity and autonomous systems.
India’s young technology workforce is already contributing to these areas, according to Singh. He also described the Defence Research and Development Organisation as a national innovation platform connecting industry, universities, startups and scientists.
The country’s defence startup ecosystem has grown from around a dozen in 2018 to more than 2,000, he said. Indian defence products are now reaching more than 100 countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe.
The minister also pointed to investment in India’s defence industrial corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. These initiatives form part of the government’s continued focus on reducing dependence on overseas suppliers.
