Evolving global security scenario demands innovation, stronger partnerships: Rajnath Singh

Bengaluru: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday asserted that the evolving global security scenario demands innovative approaches and stronger partnerships.

Addressing the Defence Ministers' Conclave organised as part of the Aero India 2025, he said, India believes that international order and peace cannot be ensured from a position of weakness.

"Today, increasing number of conflicts is making our world, a more unpredictable place. New power plays, new methods and new means of weaponisation, increased role of non-state actors and disruptive technologies, have made the world order more fragile," Singh said.

At the same time, the distinction between security of the borders and internal security is getting blurred, as hybrid warfare can target critical national infrastructure even during the peace time, he said, "the definition of front line is changing fast today. Moreover, the dimensions of cyberspace and outer space are challenging the established definition of sovereignty."

"It is my firm belief that the evolving global security scenario demands innovative approaches and stronger partnerships. India's engagements in the global stage exemplifies our commitment to fostering security and growth for all," he added.

According to officials, the Defence Ministers' Conclave, organised in hybrid mode, is aimed at strengthening defence cooperation with friendly nations amidst a rapidly evolving global security landscape, and this year's theme 'Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)' underscores the importance of supply chain resilience and strategic collaboration in defence.

Officials had earlier said that representatives from more than 80 countries were likely to participate in the conclave and around 30 Defence Ministers in addition to Defence/Service Chiefs and Permanent Secretaries from friendly nations would attend the event.

Reiterating India's conviction on being strong to ensure peace, the Defence Minister said, "we have been working very hard, to bring about a transformation in our defence capabilities. We have put in place a very conducive policy regime which encourages investment in and production of an entire range of modern state-of-the-art land, maritime and air systems."

India's emergence as a global hub for research, development, and innovation in defence is a testament to our capabilities and aspirations, he added.

"Today, we have a vibrant defence startup ecosystem within the larger Indian startup ecosystem, which ranks third globally in terms of unicorn count," Rajnath Singh said.

"Our thriving aerospace and defence sectors, supported by a significant Research & Development base and an entrepreneurial spirit, offer unparalleled opportunities for collaboration," he added.

Pointing out that India's skill base enables it to produce at highly competitive costs, and the country is committed to share state-of-the-art defence equipment, hardware, services and technology with friends and partners, Singh told countries attending the conclave, "I invite you to join us in co-developing and co-producing advanced systems and fostering innovation together."

India's defence diplomacy reflects our commitment to building enduring bilateral and multilateral relationships. "Our approach emphasises mutual capacity building, prosperity and security for the sovereignty of our partner nations," he said.

"We do not believe in transactional relationships or imposing solutions.

Indian solutions are not prescriptive. Instead, we aim to empower our partners to chart their own paths, through support that aligns with their national priorities," he added.

India's position as a preferred partner for defence exports is reinforced by adherence to quality, reliability and commitment to the specific needs of partners, the Defence Minister said.

"Our defence industry is well-equipped to meet diverse requirements, from cutting-edge technology to cost-effective solutions," he added.

The challenges like terrorism, cyber-crime, humanitarian crises and climate-induced disasters, transcend borders, and they demand a united response, he said.

"The BRIDGE initiative represents our commitment to transforming dialogue into actionable outcomes, fostering partnerships that are resilient, adaptable and forward-looking," he said.

"India stands ready to work with all nations in crafting solutions that are innovative, equitable and sustainable. Together, we can build a future where security and prosperity go hand in hand, ensuring peace and stability for generations to come," he added.