Commending the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) contribution to achieving self-reliance, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor in strengthening India’s operational readiness. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, self-reliance has become a national priority. Singh noted the significant growth in defence exports from less than Rs 1,000 crore in 2014 to a record Rs 24,000 crore today, attributing this progress to the government’s self-reliance initiatives.
Rajnath Singh outlined the goal of reaching Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029-30 and urged DRDO to explore export markets early in the design phase, particularly focusing on drones, radars, electronic warfare systems, and ammunition. He emphasized that prioritizing exports not only ensures cost recovery but also enhances global credibility and fosters strategic partnerships. Singh expressed confidence in DRDO’s pivotal role in shaping a developed India by 2047.
Highlighting the effective use of DRDO technology in Operation Sindoor and its role in advancing the indigenous defence sector, the Defence Minister stressed the importance of staying technologically ahead in today’s fast-paced world. He encouraged DRDO scientists to innovate continuously, emphasizing the need to adapt swiftly to evolving technologies to maintain a competitive edge. Singh suggested that DRDO venture into sectors where the private industry has not yet established itself, advocating for a dedicated wing within the organization to explore high-risk areas for potentially groundbreaking achievements.
Emphasizing the significance of reducing the timeline from research to deployment, Singh underscored the importance of timely induction of innovations into the Armed Forces as a key performance metric. He called for closer collaboration between DRDO and industries, proposing a co-development model involving the industry from the design phase to production, akin to international practices.
