On October 7, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh officially opened a national conference titled "Opportunities in Defence Manufacturing in the Country" at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, organized by the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence. This event, which coincided with the special session "Raksha Navachar Samvaad: Interaction with iDEX Startups," served as a crucial platform to enhance collaboration between the central Ministry of Defence and the governments of States and Union Territories. Aimed at aligning regional industrial policies and infrastructure development with India's overarching goal of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing, this conference represents a significant advancement in the nation's defence sector.
Why it is important to be self-reliance in Defence along with other sectors
Highlighting the Importance of Defence Self-reliance, Rajnath Singh stressed that attaining self-reliance in defence transcends mere economic or production objectives; it is intrinsically connected to India's strategic autonomy and sovereignty. He reaffirmed that the responsibility to strengthen the defence sector lies with the entire nation, not solely with government entities. By referencing Operation Sindoor, where state governments demonstrated exemplary coordination during a mock drill, he illustrated how collaborative efforts can effectively address substantial challenges. This partnership exemplifies the collective determination of all Indians to enhance the country's defence capabilities.
Initiatives of the Conference
Major Launches and Initiatives at the Conference, during the event, Rajnath Singh introduced two essential digital platforms designed to support India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem: The Defence Exim Portal, which seeks to simplify the processes associated with export and import authorizations in defence manufacturing, and the Srijan DEEP (Defence Establishments and Entrepreneurs Platform), a digital repository that maps the capabilities and products of Indian defence industries.
Furthermore, two notable publications have been issued: the "Aerospace & Defence Sector Policy Compendium of States and Union Territories" and the iDEX Coffee Table Book entitled "Shared Horizons of Innovation." These efforts exemplify the government's dedication to promoting transparency, innovation, and facilitating business operations in defence production.
Empowering Startups and Innovation in Defence, Rajnath Singh also took part in the "Raksha Navachar Samvaad" session, where he engaged directly with iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence) startup winners. He encouraged Indian innovators and startups to spearhead the forthcoming technological revolution in defence. Emphasizing the transformation of warfare, he remarked that future conflicts will be conducted using algorithms, artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems, drones, anti-drone technologies, quantum computing, and directed-energy weapons. The Defence Minister urged a shift from mere imitation to becoming creators and global standard-setters in defence technology. This call for innovation is bolstered by reforms in procurement policies that benefit startups and MSMEs (Micro and Small Enterprises), including guaranteed procurement and streamlined processes, reinforcing India’s position as a defence innovator.
Manufacturing growth in defence sector
India’s Defence Manufacturing Growth and Strategic Outlook, Rajnath Singh proudly highlighted the extraordinary growth that India’s defence production sector has experienced in recent years. Defence production has escalated📈 from approximately ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to an astonishing ₹1.5 lakh crore in 2025, with the private sector contributing over ₹33,000 crore. This indicates that the industry has become a vital partner in the nation’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative. Defence exports have also increased significantly, rising from less than ₹1,000 crore in 2014 to ₹23,500 crore in 2025, showcasing India's evolution from a major importer to a reliable exporter of defence systems. The Defence Minister emphasized that defence manufacturing is not merely a strategic necessity.
Towards a Self-Reliant and Innovative Defence Future
The conference highlighted the essential role of States and Union Territories in developing a strong Indian defence manufacturing ecosystem. With the introduction of new digital tools, engagement with innovative startups, and necessary policy reforms, India is set to emerge as a global leader in defence innovation and production. Rajnath Singh’s vision is unequivocal—India must not only manufacture defence equipment but also innovate and take the lead on a global scale, ensuring the nation’s strategic autonomy while delivering advanced technology for future conflicts. The Raksha Navachar Samvaad, along with the conference, signifies a pivotal moment in India's quest to establish a self-reliant and technologically sophisticated defence industry. This landmark event and its results will motivate the defence manufacturing sector, policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs to work together and further enhance India’s standing in the global defence arena. The path forward is characterized by confidence, creativity, and a united resolve to transform India into a defence powerhouse.
