India's Defence Minister Advocates for Increased Research Investment
Defence minister Rajnath Singh calls for sustained investment in research
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of sustained investment in research during the North Tech Symposium 2026 in Prayagraj, India. He highlighted the need for innovation to maintain military preparedness amid rapid technological changes, citing Operation Sindoor as a key example of India's military capabilities.
- 01Rajnath Singh stressed the necessity of sustained investment in military research.
- 02He highlighted Operation Sindoor as a successful use of advanced technology against terrorism.
- 03The minister noted the changing nature of warfare, citing examples from recent conflicts.
- 0425% of the defence R&D budget is now allocated to industry and academia.
- 05DRDO has opened its patents and testing facilities to Indian industries.
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During the North Tech Symposium 2026 in Prayagraj, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called for sustained investment in research to enhance India's military preparedness amid rapid technological advancements. He emphasized that the future of warfare is being shaped in laboratories and highlighted Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan in response to the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. Singh noted that this operation demonstrated the capabilities of the Indian military and the importance of maintaining the element of surprise in warfare. He pointed out the rapid evolution of conflicts, referencing the shift in warfare tactics observed in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Singh revealed that 25% of the defence research and development budget has been allocated to industry and academia, with over ₹4,500 crore already utilized. Furthermore, he announced that Indian industries now have free access to DRDO patents and that its testing facilities are available to industry partners, fostering collaboration and innovation.
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The emphasis on research investment could lead to advancements in military technology, enhancing national security and defense capabilities.
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