Innovation Drive: Rajnath Singh Urges Defence Stakeholders to Push Self-Reliance

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called on defence industry stakeholders to innovate and enhance self-reliance. At the 'Swavlamban 2024' seminar, he praised public-private cooperation for reducing import reliance and fostering innovation. Singh highlighted the role of challenges like ADITI 3.0 and DISC 13 in advancing indigenous technologies.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday urged defence industry stakeholders and innovators to translate new ideas into practical products to ensure the armed forces' essential requirements are met. Speaking at the Navy-hosted 'Swavlamban 2024' seminar, Singh emphasized the importance of innovation and self-reliance.

He praised the government's efforts in reducing import dependency, fostering public-private collaboration, and spurring a revolution in science and technology across India. The third edition of the ADITI challenge and the 13th edition of the Defence India Start-up Challenges were launched, aiming to boost indigenous defence technologies and operational efficiency.

Singh lauded the progress in self-reliance and urged continued efforts from Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and the private sector. He highlighted the recent achievements of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the significance of collaborations with MSMEs and start-ups in the defence sector.