Prayagraj: India’s defence sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with defence production reaching ₹1.54 lakh crore and exports surging to ₹23,622 crore, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Tuesday. He highlighted that this growth reflects a 174% rise in production and a 34-fold increase in exports, signalling a decisive shift towards self-reliance and global competitiveness.
Major Announcements at North Tech Symposium 2026
Addressing the North Tech Symposium 2026 in Prayagraj, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised that India has entered a new phase in its defence journey, driven by technology, indigenous innovation, and increased private sector participation.
The three-day symposium, being held from May 4 to 6, is themed “Raksha Triveni Sangam – Where Technology, Industry and Soldiering Converge.” It is jointly organised by the Northern and Central Commands of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers.
Defence Budget Sees Steady Increase
The Minister noted that the Union Budget for 2026–27 has earmarked ₹6.81 lakh crore for defence, marking a 9.5% increase over the previous year. This enhanced allocation reflects the government’s continued focus on strengthening national security and modernising defence capabilities.
Shift from Importer to Exporter
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted a significant structural shift in India’s defence ecosystem.
“India has transitioned from being a major importer of defence equipment to an emerging exporter,” he said.
A key contributor to this growth has been the private sector, which accounted for approximately ₹15,000 crore of total defence exports, underlining the success of collaborative manufacturing models.
Technology Driving Modern Warfare
The Minister stressed that modern warfare is increasingly technology-driven, with reliance on:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Real-time data systems
- Automated platforms
- Cyber and electronic warfare tools
He added that sectors such as space, atomic energy, AI, and quantum technologies are now integral to defence preparedness.
India has also made notable progress in quantum-secure communication capabilities, which are expected to play a crucial role in future warfare systems.
Boost to Indigenous Innovation and Startups
Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that policy reforms and government support mechanisms have created a strong ecosystem for innovation.
He said that funding initiatives and regulatory changes are enabling:
- Faster innovation cycles
- Scaling of indigenous technologies
- Greater industry participation
Startups and MSMEs are increasingly contributing to defence manufacturing, further strengthening the push for Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
Call for Greater Synergy in Defence Ecosystem
Emphasising the need for coordination, the Minister called for stronger alignment between:
- Armed Forces’ operational requirements
- Scientific research institutions
- Industrial manufacturing capabilities
He stressed the importance of reducing timelines from design to deployment, with a focus on reliability, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
Role of Armed Forces Beyond Security
Dr. Jitendra Singh also highlighted the evolving role of India’s Armed Forces, noting their crucial contribution in:
- Disaster response
- Humanitarian assistance
- Emergency operations
He recalled recent instances where timely interventions by the forces helped save lives during crises.
North Tech Symposium Showcases Cutting-Edge Innovation
The North Tech Symposium 2026 has emerged as a major platform for collaboration between defence stakeholders. Key highlights include:
- Participation of over 280 industry partners
- 284 exhibition stalls showcasing advanced defence technologies
Focus areas such as:
- Unmanned systems
- Counter-drone technologies
- Robotics
- Cyber and electronic warfare
- Communication systems
- Mobility platforms
- High-altitude operational support
The event features live demonstrations, conferences, and one-on-one stakeholder interactions, aimed at accelerating indigenous defence capabilities.
Towards Technological Sovereignty in Defence
Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated that India’s push for self-reliance is rooted in technological sovereignty—developing and sustaining critical technologies within the country.
He expressed confidence that collaboration between the Armed Forces, industry, academia, and startups will accelerate India’s emergence as a global leader in defence technology.
Conclusion
The strong growth in defence production and exports, coupled with rising budgetary support and technological advancements, highlights India’s evolving position in the global defence landscape. The North Tech Symposium 2026 is expected to play a key role in shaping the next phase of this transformation.
Read also: Made-in-India Hypersonic Glide Missile Gains Speed, Strengthening National Security Capabilities
