Dr Jitendra Addresses Prayagraj Defence Symposium, Highlights 174% Rise In Defence Production

PRAYAGRAJ : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh on Tuesday said that India has entered a decisive phase in its defence journey, where technology, indigenous innovation and private sector participation are shaping a new global identity for the country.
Addressing the North Tech Symposium 2026 in Prayagraj, the Minister said that warfare is no longer defined by physical strength alone but increasingly driven by advanced technologies, real-time data systems and automated platforms. He said this transformation has significantly enhanced India’s operational capabilities and global standing.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that in the last decade, India has transitioned from being a major importer of defence equipment to an emerging exporter, with defence production reaching ₹1.54 lakh crore recording 174 % rise in one decade and export growth rising to ₹23,622 crore recording 34 times rise in one decade.
The Minister said a substantial contribution of around Rs 15,000 cr to total exports came from the private sector, reflecting a major shift towards collaborative defence manufacturing.
Referring to the increasing support from the government , the Minister said, the current budget 2026-27 earmarks Rs 681000cr for budget, which is 9.5 % more than last year.
Referring to India’s expanding technological base, the Minister said sectors such as space, atomic energy, artificial intelligence and quantum technologies are now integral to defence preparedness. He said India has already achieved rapid progress in quantum-secure communication capabilities, which will play a critical role in future warfare systems.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said reforms in key sectors have opened new opportunities for industry participation, enabling faster innovation cycles and scaling of indigenous technologies. He added that government support through funding mechanisms and policy initiatives is creating a strong ecosystem for research, development and deployment.
Emphasising the importance of synergy, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the alignment of operational requirements of the Armed Forces with scientific research and industrial capability is essential for building a resilient and self-reliant defence ecosystem. He called for accelerated timelines from design to deployment, with focus on reliability, scalability and long-term sustainment.
The Minister also spoke about the evolving role of the Armed Forces, highlighting their critical contribution not only in national security but also in disaster response and humanitarian assistance, recalling recent instances where timely intervention saved lives.
The North Tech Symposium 2026, being held in Prayagraj from May 4 to 6, is themed “Raksha Triveni Sangam- Where Technology, Industry and Soldiering Converge.” The event is jointly organised by the Northern and Central Commands of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM).
The symposium serves as a premier platform bringing together the Armed Forces, industry, academia and start-ups to develop mission-oriented indigenous solutions for evolving operational requirements. Key focus areas include artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, counter-drone technologies, robotics, cyber and electronic warfare, communication systems, mobility platforms and high-altitude operational support.
Over 280 industry partners are participating in the event, with 284 exhibition stalls showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies. The programme includes live demonstrations, structured interactions, and extensive stakeholder engagement through one-to-one meetings, conferences and technology showcases aimed at accelerating indigenous capability development.
The event was attended by senior Army commanders from Northern and Central Commands, senior officers of the Armed Forces, representatives of SIDM, leading industry stakeholders, scientists, academia and start-ups engaged in defence and advanced technology domains.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence is rooted in technological sovereignty, with a focus on developing, owning and sustaining critical technologies within the country. He expressed confidence that collaborative efforts between the Armed Forces, industry and research institutions will accelerate India’s emergence as a leading defence technology nation.
He said the outcomes of the North Tech Symposium will play a significant role in strengthening India’s defence preparedness and advancing indigenous innovation for future battlefield requirements.