Rajnath Singh Highlights DRDO's Role in National Defense at Establishment Day Meeting
During the 68th establishment day of DRDO, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the organization's pivotal role in national defense, particularly during the Sindoor operation. He expressed confidence in DRDO's future contributions, especially in establishing the Suraksha Chakra by 2025. Singh praised the collaboration with the private sector and emphasized the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to technological advancements. He urged DRDO to focus on developing relevant products and maintaining a commitment to learning and growth in a rapidly changing world. This meeting underscored the importance of DRDO in enhancing India's defense capabilities and ensuring national security.
| Jan 1, 2026, 17:59 IST
Rajnath Singh Chairs DRDO Establishment Day Review Meeting
On Thursday, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh presided over a review meeting at the DRDO Bhawan in the national capital, marking the 68th anniversary of the DRDO. During his visit, he emphasized that the weapon systems developed by DRDO played a crucial role during the Sindoor operation, showcasing the organization's professionalism and commitment to safeguarding national interests. He commended DRDO for enhancing India's indigenous capabilities by equipping the armed forces with cutting-edge technologies and equipment, noting that the devices used during the operation functioned seamlessly, boosting the morale of the soldiers.
Future Role of DRDO in National Security
The Defense Minister expressed confidence that DRDO would play a significant role in establishing the Suraksha Chakra, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day address from the Red Fort in 2025. He stated that under this initiative, DRDO is tasked with equipping critical installations with air defense systems to ensure comprehensive aerial security over the next decade. The importance of air defense in modern warfare was evident during the Sindoor operation, and he believes DRDO will diligently work towards achieving this goal promptly.
Collaboration and Innovation at DRDO
Rajnath Singh praised DRDO not only as a technology creator but also as a trust builder, instilling hope and confidence among the public. Acknowledging the collaboration with the private sector, he noted that increasing engagement with industry, academia, and startups has led to the development of a coordinated defense ecosystem. He remarked, “DRDO has consistently improved its systems, processes, and methodologies. Efforts are being made to streamline and enhance reliability from procurement to project management, including collaboration with startups and MSMEs.”
Adapting to Technological Advancements
The Defense Minister urged DRDO to align with the rapidly evolving technological landscape and continue developing relevant products in response to changing times. He called for a focus on innovation and the identification of more areas to enhance private sector participation. He appreciated DRDO's efforts towards advanced technologies and next-generation innovations, stating that progress in this direction would not only bolster national capabilities but also strengthen the defense framework.
Continuous Learning in a Changing World
Rajnath Singh emphasized that the current era is not just about science but also about continuous development and learning. He pointed out that in this changing world, technology scanning, capability assessment, and future preparedness are no longer mere concepts. He remarked that the world is evolving daily, with technology, innovation, and new battlefields advancing rapidly, rendering yesterday's knowledge obsolete. He stressed the importance of never assuming that the learning process has concluded, urging the need to keep learning and challenging oneself to pave the way for future generations.