At the 65th Foundation Day of IIT Kanpur, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh encouraged young Indians to innovate and create high-tech solutions. He emphasized that developing advanced technology in India is essential for realizing the vision of a self-reliant and strong nation, termed “Viksit Bharat.”
Singh noted that cutting-edge technology has transformed modern warfare, with tools like drones and hypersonic missiles changing the landscape. He stressed the need for India to reduce dependence on imported tech in defense, highlighting initiatives like iDEX, which provides funding to start-ups working on defense innovations.
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Singh also celebrated India’s progress in defense exports, which have grown from Rs 600 crore a decade ago to Rs 21,000 crore last year, with expectations of reaching Rs 50,000 crore by 2030.
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed at the event between IIT Kanpur, defense public sector undertakings, and other stakeholders, supporting defense innovation and research partnerships.
