New Delhi, May 05: Stating that the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’ reflected effectiveness of indigenously developed weapons and systems, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Tuesday said India’s military strength is increasingly being driven by its domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Addressing the North Tech Symposium 2026 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Seth, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) credited the armed forces for their “courage and determination” in executing the operation, stating that their efforts were bolstered by advanced Made-in-India equipment.
“India’s military might is forged in the factories of our defence industries,” he said, adding that the combined efforts of the government, defence public sector undertakings, private industry, start-ups and MSMEs have strengthened national security.
Referring to ‘Operation Sindoor,’ the Minister said the forces dismantled terror hideouts and countered adversarial designs, underlining the role of indigenous technology in enhancing operational capability.
He said India’s defence manufacturing sector has recorded significant growth, with rising production and export figures pointing to the country’s emergence as a capable player in the global defence market. This progress, he said, reflects the government’s push towards self-reliance in defence.
Highlighting the role of innovation, Seth described MSMEs as the backbone of the economy and start-ups as key drivers of future growth. He said they will play a pivotal role in achieving the government’s vision of a developed India by 2047.
He also emphasised the need for continuous technological advancement, noting that rapidly evolving global security challenges require the industry to stay ahead of the curve. He urged stakeholders to invest in research and development and explore emerging domains.
The minister referred to initiatives such as the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, stating that they have strengthened the defence ecosystem and created opportunities for industry participation.
Speaking on the occasion, Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Command, as per KNO, called for closer collaboration between the armed forces and industry to meet evolving operational requirements. He said self-reliance would enable strategic autonomy and technological sovereignty.
The three-day symposium, organised by the Indian Army’s Northern and Central Commands along with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, is themed “Raksha Triveni Sangam – Where Technology, Industry and Soldiering Converge”.
The event features participation from private defence manufacturers, start-ups and academia, showcasing technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles, drones, counter-UAV systems and surveillance equipment. (KNO)
