NDIC 2026 to Spotlight Advanced Manufacturing, Boost MSME Role in Defence Sector

Officials say adopting these technologies is crucial for enhancing efficiency, innovation and global competitiveness in defence production.

India is set to accelerate its push toward defence self-reliance with the National Defence Industries Conclave (NDIC) 2026, scheduled for March 19–20 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. The two-day event will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh.

Organised by the Department of Defence Production (DDP), the conclave is themed “Advanced Manufacturing Technologies” and aims to integrate MSMEs and start-ups more deeply into India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Driving Aatmanirbharta Through Technology

The conclave comes at a time when India is rapidly modernising its defence industrial base, with a focus on cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Robotics and automation

• Additive manufacturing (3D printing)

• Digital twins

• Smart and advanced materials

Officials say adopting these technologies is crucial for enhancing efficiency, innovation and global competitiveness in defence production.

MSMEs at the Core of Defence Supply Chain

A key objective of NDIC 2026 is to strengthen the role of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which are increasingly seen as:

• Innovation drivers

• Key suppliers to large defence manufacturers

• Critical contributors to indigenisation efforts

The conclave will bring together:

• MSMEs and start-ups

• Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)

• Private defence companies

• Policymakers and academia

• Technology providers

This multi-stakeholder platform is expected to expand participation across the defence value chain.

Exhibition to Showcase Next-Gen Defence Technologies

A major highlight of the event will be a technology exhibition, featuring:

• Leading public and private defence companies

• 24 Indian and international firms showcasing advanced manufacturing solutions

The exhibition aims to:

• Promote partnerships between MSMEs and large defence firms

• Demonstrate practical applications of emerging technologies

• Facilitate technology transfer and collaboration

New Innovation Challenges for Start-ups

During the conclave, the Defence Minister will also launch a new set of innovation challenges for MSMEs and start-ups.

These challenges, issued by:

• Defence Forces

• DPSUs

are expected to:

• Encourage problem-solving for real-world defence needs

• Accelerate development of indigenous technologies

• Provide opportunities for start-ups to enter the defence sector

Thematic Sessions on Key Defence Domains

The conclave will host multiple thematic and domain-specific sessions, covering:

• Aerospace and aviation systems

• Naval technologies

• Defence electronics

• Advanced materials

• Defence platforms and systems

These sessions will focus on:

• Indigenisation strategies

• Innovation and R&D

• Emerging global trends

• Policy and regulatory frameworks

Expanding Opportunities Beyond Defence Sector

NDIC 2026 is also expected to attract industries from non-defence sectors, encouraging them to:

• Diversify into defence manufacturing

• Leverage existing capabilities for military applications

• Participate in India’s growing defence market

This approach aims to broaden the industrial base and accelerate capacity building.

Building on Nationwide MSME Outreach

The conclave builds on momentum from:

• 12 State-level MSME conclaves

• Ongoing industry interactions led by DDP

These efforts have helped identify challenges, opportunities and policy gaps in integrating MSMEs into defence production.

Toward a Globally Competitive Defence Ecosystem

Officials say NDIC 2026 will play a critical role in:

• Strengthening industry participation

• Promoting innovation and collaboration

• Accelerating India’s journey toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence

A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration

With a strong focus on advanced technologies and MSME integration, the conclave is expected to serve as a catalyst for transforming India’s defence manufacturing landscape.

By bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and innovators, NDIC 2026 aims to lay the groundwork for a self-reliant, technologically advanced and globally competitive defence ecosystem.