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MSMEs, Startups Key to India's Defence Strength & Self-Reliance: MoS

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth emphasized the crucial role of MSMEs and startups in strengthening India's defence ecosystem and protecting national security. He described them as "brand ambassadors of innovation" central to achieving self-reliance and making India a global defence manufacturing hub. The National Defence Industries Conclave 2026 concluded with discussions on advanced manufacturing and boosting industry participation. Officials expressed confidence in achieving ambitious targets for defence production and exports by 2030, supported by a record defence budget allocation.

Key Points: MSMEs, Startups Vital for Defence Strength: Sanjay Seth

  • MSMEs boost defence capabilities
  • Drive Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision
  • Target Rs 50,000 cr defence exports by 2030
  • Record defence budget creates opportunity
2 min read

MSMEs, start-ups key to defence strength and self-reliance: MoS Sanjay Seth

MoS Defence Sanjay Seth says MSMEs and startups are crucial for India's defence capabilities, innovation, and achieving self-reliance goals.

"brand ambassadors of innovation - Sanjay Seth"

New Delhi, March 20

MSMEs and start-ups are playing a crucial role in strengthening India's defence capabilities and safeguarding national interests, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth said on Friday.

The National Defence Industries Conclave (NDIC) 2026 concluded in the national capital after two days of detailed discussions on advanced manufacturing technologies and boosting industry participation in defence production.

Addressing the valedictory session, Sanjay Seth highlighted that MSMEs, start-ups and innovators are emerging as key drivers of India's defence ecosystem.

"Their growing role is helping enhance the capabilities of the armed forces and protect the country from evolving security challenges," he said.

The conclave, organised by the Department of Defence Production, brought together stakeholders from across the defence sector, including MSMEs, Defence Public Sector Undertakings, private companies, policymakers and academia.

The discussions focused on strengthening India's manufacturing base and accelerating the use of modern technologies.

Sanjay Seth described MSMEs and start-ups as "brand ambassadors of innovation" and said they are playing a central role in achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and making India a global defence manufacturing hub, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He expressed confidence that India will achieve its targets of Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports and Rs 3 lakh crore in defence production by 2030.

He also pointed to the record allocation of Rs 7.85 lakh crore to the defence ministry in the Union Budget 2026-27 as a major opportunity for industry players, especially smaller firms and innovators.

Speaking at the event, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar said the conclave provided a platform for direct engagement between industry, government and academia.

"The discussions helped identify technology gaps, collaboration opportunities and ways to strengthen supply chains in the defence sector," he noted.

The event featured several sessions on key areas such as artillery systems, naval technologies, armoured vehicles, advanced materials, missile systems and defence maintenance.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone working in a tech startup, this is encouraging news. The defence sector has been opaque for too long. Platforms like NDIC that connect us directly with policymakers and DPSUs are essential. Hope the 'ease of doing business' promise translates to faster approvals and less red tape for small firms.
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Rohit P
Rs 50,000 crore in exports by 2030 is an ambitious target. We have the talent and the drive. Seeing Indian-made defence equipment like the BrahMos being sought after globally fills me with pride. Jai Hind!
S
Sarah B
While the intent is good, I hope there's a strong focus on quality control and rigorous testing. Defence manufacturing isn't like making consumer apps. A single component failure can have grave consequences. The 'brand ambassadors of innovation' must also be ambassadors of reliability.
K
Karthik V
This is excellent. For decades we depended on imports, which hurt our strategic autonomy. Now, with startups working on drones, AI, and advanced materials, we are building an indigenous ecosystem. It also creates high-tech jobs for our engineers. Aatmanirbhar Bharat in action!
M
Michael C
The collaboration between academia, industry, and government mentioned here is the real key. Silicon Valley grew from similar synergy. If India can replicate that model for defence tech, it will be a game-changer not just for security but for the entire manufacturing sector.

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