India prioritizes its security needs over geopolitical choices
NITI Aayog member and former DRDO chief VK Saraswat has urged venture capital firms to step up financial support for Indian defense startups, saying they have made strong progress but need more private funding to scale.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Advantage Vidarbha-2026 Business Conclave and Investment Summit, Saraswat said India’s defense innovation ecosystem is growing rapidly, supported by government policies and budgetary backing. However, he noted that venture capital participation remains lower than required, especially for startups working on advanced and future-ready defense technologies.
Commenting on India’s defense partnerships, Saraswat said the country’s priority is to meet its own security and technology needs, not to choose between global partners such as the US or Russia. India, he added, will continue to follow an independent path focused on national requirements.
Saraswat highlighted the Rs 7.85 lakh crore defense allocation in the 2026-27 Union Budget as a clear signal of the government’s intent. He said the focus is shifting toward large-scale domestic production, indigenization, and greater private sector participation to reduce costs and increase speed.
Also Read: Government Extends Startup India Recognition for Deeptech Firms to 20 Years
He also pointed to lessons from recent military operations, noting that future wars will rely more on non-contact warfare, long-range weapons, and advanced technologies. Government-backed R&D programs involving the private sector are aligned with this shift.
Saraswat said ministries and science departments have built a strong innovation framework, helping startups develop futuristic defense products. He stressed that stronger VC backing is now critical to help these startups grow, compete globally, and strengthen India’s defense capabilities.
