NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, MAR 20
India’s march towards defence self-reliance gained fresh momentum as the National Defence Industries Conclave (NDIC) 2026 concluded at the Manekshaw Centre, bringing together a powerful coalition of MSMEs, start-ups, policymakers, academia, and defence majors to shape the future of indigenous military manufacturing.
Organised by the Department of Defence Production, the two-day conclave revolved around the theme ‘Advanced Manufacturing Technologies’, highlighting how innovation and industry collaboration are redefining India’s defence capabilities.
- NDIC 2026 spotlights MSMEs as the backbone of next-gen defence manufacturing
- MoS for Defence Sanjay Seth underscores innovation-driven national security
- ₹7.85 lakh crore defence outlay fuels industry participation & scale
- Ambitious targets—₹50,000 crore exports, ₹3 lakh crore production by 2030
- Cutting-edge tech—from AI to semiconductors—powers India’s military future
Voices from the vanguard
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri @SethSanjayMP graced the valedictory session of National Defence Industries Conclave today at Manekshaw Centre in Delhi. He also visited an industry exhibition organised alongside the conclave.
During his address, he expressed confidence in the country… pic.twitter.com/IEogHOY9ns
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) March 20, 2026
Sanjay Seth, MoS for Defence: “MSMEs and start-ups are strengthening India’s industrial base and playing a critical role in achieving Aatmanirbharta in defence. They are safeguarding national interests by enhancing the capabilities of our armed forces against emerging threats.”
“MSMEs and start-ups are the brand ambassadors of innovation, driving India towards becoming a global defence manufacturing hub and a Viksit Bharat.”
“With the government’s full support, we are confident of achieving ₹50,000 crore in defence exports and ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2030.”
“The record allocation of ₹7.85 lakh crore in the Union Budget 2026–27 presents a significant opportunity for MSMEs and start-ups to contribute meaningfully to national self-reliance.”
Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production): “The conclave provided a unique platform for MSMEs to directly engage with DPSUs, industry leaders and policymakers, enabling collaboration, technology development and supply-chain integration.”
“These deliberations helped identify technology gaps, capability requirements and new avenues for strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.”
“The discussions reinforced the importance of innovation, advanced manufacturing and MSME participation in enhancing global competitiveness.”
Technology meets tactical edge
NDIC 2026 featured deep-dive sessions across critical domains, including:
- Artillery, small arms & infantry systems
- Naval platforms & shipbuilding
- Armoured vehicles & logistics
- Ammunitions, missiles & air defence
- Defence MRO & lifecycle support
Emerging tech themes led by Defence Research and Development Organisation and iDEX included:
- Smart manufacturing & Industry 4.0
- AI-driven systems & robotics
- Guidance, navigation & propulsion
- Advanced materials & semiconductors
Showcasing India’s Defence might
An expansive industry exhibition showcased capabilities from 20 leading defence companies and 24 Indian and global players—spotlighting innovations in automation, additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and smart materials.
The event also highlighted policy reforms and innovation platforms by the Department of Defence Production, aimed at accelerating indigenous capability building.
NDIC 2026 stands as a defining milestone in India’s journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence, reinforcing the country’s ambition to emerge as a globally competitive manufacturing powerhouse.
