Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday (May 4, 2026) underscored the urgent need for India to accelerate innovation in cutting-edge defence technologies, urging industry and academia to step up efforts in emerging domains such as directed energy weapons, hypersonic systems, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies.
Addressing the inaugural session of North Tech Symposium in Prayagraj, Mr. Singh stressed that future warfare will be shaped by rapid technological transformation and the element of surprise. The symposium was jointly organised by the Indian Army’s Northern and Central Commands, along with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers.