The landscape of modern warfare is rapidly evolving, with algorithms, autonomous systems, AI, drones, anti-drone technology, quantum computing, and directed-energy weapons shaping the future of defence, stated Raksha Mantri during the ‘Raksha Navachar Samvaad: Interaction with iDEX Startups’ held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
Addressing innovators, the Raksha Mantri called on them to lead India’s technological transformation and create the nation’s first Defence Unicorn, emphasizing that defence innovation must move from imitation to global standard-setting. He noted that defence capital acquisitions from domestic sources have risen from ₹74,000 crore in FY21-22 to ₹1.2 lakh crore in FY24-25, signaling a shift from dependence to confidence.
Since its inception in 2018, iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) has transformed India’s defence innovation ecosystem. Over 650 iDEX winners have emerged, with prototype procurements exceeding ₹3,000 crore, fostering a robust framework connecting startups with the Armed Forces’ technological needs. The initiative has also contributed to record defence production of ₹1.5 lakh crore and exports exceeding ₹23,000 crore.
The Raksha Mantri highlighted reforms supporting startups and MSMEs, including the Defence Procurement Manual (DPM-2025), Defence Acquisition Procedure updates, Technology Development Fund, and Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme, ensuring innovators receive support from ideation to production. Strategic collaborations with key government departments and financial institutions were also emphasized to scale homegrown solutions.
An exhibition showcased breakthrough technologies developed under iDEX and ADITI, where the Raksha Mantri engaged with innovators and acknowledged their contributions to Operation Sindoor and international platforms like the Dubai Airshow 2025. The event featured panel discussions on scaling startups, bridging innovation and production, and advancing Aatmanirbharta through R&D.
The conference reaffirmed that India’s defence startup ecosystem is central to achieving self-reliant and technologically advanced defence capabilities, strengthening national security while fostering innovation-led economic growth.
