DRDO weapons proved decisive in Operation Sindoor, Rajnath Singh says on organisation’s 68th foundation day

New Delhi. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 1 said weapon systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) played a “decisive role” in Operation Sindoor, underscoring the organisation’s professionalism and commitment to national security.

Addressing scientists and officials at DRDO Headquarters on the organisation’s 68th Foundation Day, Singh said the indigenous systems performed seamlessly during the operation and significantly boosted the morale of Indian soldiers. He credited DRDO for strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence by providing the armed forces with advanced, home-grown technologies.

The Defence Minister expressed confidence that DRDO would be central to the ambitious Sudarshan Chakra initiative announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day 2025 address. Under the programme, DRDO has been tasked with deploying a comprehensive air defence shield to protect India’s vital installations over the next decade. Referring to the lessons of Operation Sindoor, Singh said modern warfare had once again highlighted the critical importance of robust air defence.

Singh also lauded DRDO for emerging as both a technology developer and a “trust builder”, saying its growing collaboration with industry, start-ups and academia had helped create a more dynamic and integrated defence ecosystem. He noted that reforms in areas such as procurement, project management and private-sector engagement were making the organisation more efficient and responsive.

Calling on DRDO to stay aligned with rapidly evolving technologies, the Defence Minister urged it to deepen its focus on innovation, deep-tech and next-generation capabilities, while expanding opportunities for private sector participation. Such efforts, he said, would not only enhance India’s military strength but also reinforce the country’s broader defence industrial base.

Highlighting the fast-changing nature of warfare and technology, Singh said continuous learning and future readiness were now essential.

“Yesterday’s knowledge quickly becomes obsolete. We must keep learning and challenging ourselves to prepare the next generation,” he told DRDO scientists.

During the event, DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Samir V Kamat briefed Singh on the organisation’s achievements in 2025, ongoing research programmes, industry and start-up partnerships, and key targets and reforms planned for 2026.

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, along with senior DRDO scientists and officials, was also present at the function.