Calling for self-reliance in drone technology, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (March 19, 2026) urged industry stakeholders to work in mission mode to establish India as a global hub for indigenous drone manufacturing by 2030.
Addressing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), start-ups, innovators and policymakers at the National Defence Industries Conclave held at Manekshaw Centre, Mr. Singh noted that true self-reliance goes beyond assembling drones and must extend to manufacturing critical components domestically.
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“From moulds to software, engines and batteries, everything must be produced in India,” he said, highlighting that many countries still rely heavily on imports, particularly from China, for key drone components.
Citing ongoing global conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions between Iran and Israel, the Defence Minister said these developments have established drones and counter-drone systems as decisive tools in modern warfare.
