On Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the DRDO-MHA Collaboration Conference and Exhibition in the national capital. During the event, he highlighted the changing nature of security threats and stressed the importance of developing adaptable policies to address them.

At the Seminar on Advanced Technologies for Internal Security, Singh emphasised the link between internal and external security, describing them as “two sides of the same coin.” He highlighted the need to recognise emerging threats to develop effective security strategies.

“As far as internal security is concerned, we are facing threats like terrorism, separatist movements, left-wing extremism, communal tensions, trans-border illegal immigration, and organised crimes,” Minister Rajnath Singh conveyed. “Externally, we have our own set of challenges.”

The Defence Minister pointed out that while security threats were once mainly conventional, modern challenges now include hybrid warfare, cyber threats, and space risks. “Earlier, these threats were only conventional, but in recent times, we are also seeing unconventional threats in large numbers,” he stated.

Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of DRDO, emphasised the importance of collaboration between security agencies and technology developers. “This conference is crucial as it allows users and developers to openly discuss requirements and challenges,” he stated. Kamat also mentioned that DRDO is focusing on developing both weapon systems and countermeasures to counter emerging threats.

Addressing the recent avalanche in Mana, Uttarakhand, he commended the role of advanced rescue equipment in saving lives, highlighting the importance of technology in disaster response.

Singh stressed the need for greater public awareness in disaster management. “Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis. It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead; we must educate the general public,” he insisted.

He also emphasised the necessity of region-specific security strategies, recognising that threats vary across different parts of India. “Security threats in India are not uniform. The Northeast faces insurgencies, Naxal-affected areas have unique challenges, and urban security differs from rural security. We need dedicated conferences to address region-specific concerns,” he stated.

A key highlight of the event was the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of the ASMI 9x19mm Machine Pistol from DRDO to Lokesh Machinery Tool, advancing the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Additionally, the defence minister inaugurated an exhibition featuring DRDO-designed technologies developed in partnership with the Indian defence industry.