☀️ Schemes
Defence Minister calls for 'Aatmanirbharta 2.0' as Navy start-up challenges jump to 229
In 60 seconds: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called for 'Aatmanirbharta 2.0' in defence at SWAVLAMBAN 2026, the Navy's innovation seminar in New Delhi. The next phase of self-reliance should focus on advanced, globally competitive products, stronger research and secure supply chains, he said. The Navy's iDEX challenges for start-ups have grown from 20 to 229 since 2022.
Why it matters
Making weapons and equipment at home saves foreign exchange, creates skilled jobs and avoids being cut off by foreign suppliers in a crisis.
Explain it simply
A chai stall that first learned to make its own tea now wants to make its own stove and cups too, and good enough to sell to other shops. That's Aatmanirbharta 2.0.
The 3-minute read
What happened
SWAVLAMBAN 2026, the fifth Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar, was held on 26–27 October at the Manekshaw Centre, covering quantum, AI, autonomous systems and hypersonic technologies.
Background
Through iDEX, the Navy has 41 cases worth over ₹3,500 crore approved for purchase and 25 contracts worth over ₹1,900 crore signed. Import dependence remains, especially for equipment foreign suppliers specify for ships.
How it works
The minister called for a time-bound roadmap and buffer stocks for critical materials such as rare earth elements, a dual-use technology roadmap for all three services and the Coast Guard, and funding for high-risk, high-reward research.
What's next
The ministry wants more private-sector participation in defence research, and more iDEX products moving into large orders.
What it means for you
Engineering and tech start-ups can pitch solutions to defence challenges through iDEX, which offers grants and a path to orders.
Key numbers
- 20 → 229: Navy iDEX challenges since 2022
- ₹3,500 cr+: Value of 41 approved cases
- ₹1,900 cr+: Value of 25 signed contracts
Both sides
- Defence ministry: Self-reliance must now mean top-end, competitive technology.
- Industry: Small firms need faster orders after trials to stay alive.
Key terms explained
- iDEX
- A government programme that funds start-ups to solve defence problems.
- Supply chains
- The network of suppliers needed to make a product.
The story so far
- 2018: iDEX launched to fund defence start-ups. The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) programme began in 2018 to fund start-ups and small firms that solve problems posed by the armed forces.
- Today: 'Aatmanirbharta 2.0' call at SWAVLAMBAN
Exam notes (UPSC, SSC, Banking, PSC)
- iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) was launched in 2018 under the Defence Innovation Organisation.
- Positive Indigenisation Lists name defence items that must be bought from Indian sources.
- Dual-use technology has both civilian and military uses.
- Rare earth elements are used in magnets, electronics and defence systems.
Likely exam question: What is iDEX, and how does it support self-reliance in defence?