Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged a phased removal of Chinese parts from Indian drones and called for a domestic manufacturing ecosystem that delivers full self-reliance. Speaking at the National Defence Industries Conclave 2026, he stressed that self-reliance must go beyond finished platforms to include critical inputs such as moulds, software, engines and batteries.
Singh pointed out a persistent vulnerability: even in nations that assemble drones domestically, many key components are still sourced from China. For India’s defence preparedness and strategic autonomy, he said, complete indigenisation of drone manufacturing is essential.
Citing lessons from recent conflicts, the minister noted the growing importance of drones and counter-drone systems in future warfare and argued that indigenous production is vital to maintain readiness and operational independence.
He addressed an audience of MSMEs, start-ups, winners of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs), private defence firms, innovators, policymakers and members of academia. The conclave, organised by the Department of Defence Production, carried the theme ‘Advanced Manufacturing Technologies.’
Singh also launched a DPSU-led initiative to showcase innovation and encourage design-driven work by MSMEs and start-ups. Under the programme, DPSUs will fund selected projects and provide mentorship, access to testing facilities and potential paths to integrate successful solutions into their supply chains.
