Synopsis While announcing the winners of Defence India Startup Challenge, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hinted that the funding for developing prototypes could be increased from the current grant of Rs 1.5 crore each. AP Attaining self-reliance in defence manufacturing is a crucial factor for maintaining India’s strategic autonomy, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says. Bengaluru: The defence ministry has selected a host of projects, including adaptive stealth, smart loitering munitions, pseudo satellite and underwater swarm drones, for development by startups as part of a programme to promote indigenous technology. Announcing the winners of the Defence India Startup Challenge, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hinted that the funding for developing prototypes could be increased from the current grant of Rs 1.5 crore each as the government is focusing on promoting indigenous design and development.