Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on January 01, 2026, lauded the Defence Research and Development Organisation for the decisive role played by its indigenously developed weapon systems during Operation Sindoor, calling it a testament to the organisation’s professionalism and unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s national interests. He made these remarks during his visit to DRDO Headquarters, New Delhi, on the occasion of the organisation’s 68th Foundation Day.
DRDO Systems Proved Their Operational Excellence in Operation Sindoor
Commending DRDO’s contribution to strengthening India’s defence preparedness, the Raksha Mantri stated that the weapon systems developed by the organisation performed seamlessly during Operation Sindoor, significantly boosting the morale and confidence of the Armed Forces. He underlined that DRDO’s continued focus on indigenisation has ensured the availability of state-of-the-art technologies and equipment tailored to India’s operational requirements.
Confidence in Creation of ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Air Defence Shield
Shri Rajnath Singh expressed strong confidence that DRDO will play a pivotal role in the creation of ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, a comprehensive air defence initiative announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his Independence Day 2025 address.
Under this ambitious initiative, DRDO is tasked with equipping India’s vital installations with an advanced air defence system to provide complete aerial protection over the next decade. Highlighting the growing importance of air defence in modern warfare, as demonstrated during Operation Sindoor, the Raksha Mantri stated that he was confident DRDO would achieve this critical objective in a timely manner.
From Technology Creators to Trust Builders
The Raksha Mantri praised DRDO not only as a creator of advanced defence technologies but also as a trust builder, inspiring confidence and belief among citizens and the Armed Forces alike. He highlighted that DRDO’s growing collaboration with the private sector, academia, start-ups, and MSMEs has led to the creation of a synergised and resilient defence ecosystem.
He noted that DRDO has consistently improved its internal systems and processes—ranging from procurement and project management to industry engagement—making operations faster, more efficient, and more reliable.
Focus on Innovation, Deep Tech and Next-Generation Technologies
Calling upon DRDO to keep pace with the rapidly evolving global technological landscape, Shri Rajnath Singh urged the organisation to continue focusing on innovation and identify newer areas to further enhance private sector participation. He appreciated DRDO’s sustained efforts in deep tech and next-generation technologies, stating that progress in these areas would not only enhance India’s military capabilities but also strengthen the broader defence ecosystem.
Continuous Learning Key to Future Readiness
Emphasising that the current era is defined by continuous development and constant learning, the Raksha Mantri said that concepts such as technology scanning, capability assessment, and future readiness are no longer optional. He cautioned that rapid advancements in technology and new domains of warfare are quickly rendering older knowledge obsolete.
“We must never assume that the learning process has ended. We must continue learning, challenging ourselves, and paving the way for the new generation,” he remarked.
Briefing on Achievements and Roadmap for 2026
During the visit, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr Samir V Kamat, briefed the Raksha Mantri on the organisation’s ongoing R&D activities, key achievements in 2025, initiatives to promote collaboration with industry, start-ups, and academia, and the strategic roadmap for 2026. Shri Rajnath Singh was also apprised of major targets set for the coming year and the reforms being undertaken to further strengthen DRDO.
Senior Leadership in Attendance
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth was present on the occasion. The event was also attended by Directors General, Corporate Directors, senior scientists, and officials of DRDO, reflecting the collective commitment of the organisation towards innovation-driven national security.
Conclusion
The Raksha Mantri’s remarks on this Day reaffirm the organisation’s critical role in strengthening India’s defence capabilities through indigenous innovation. The proven performance of DRDO systems during Operation Sindoor, coupled with ambitious initiatives like Sudarshan Chakra, highlights India’s steady march towards technological self-reliance, operational superiority, and future readiness in an increasingly complex security environment.
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Source: PIB
