PRAYAGRAJ, May 5 -- An extensive exhibition highlighting indigenous innovations by MSMEs, private defence firms, start-ups, and innovators in uniform is the key attraction at the North Tech Symposium 2026. With participation from around 284 companies, the event underscores India's growing focus on self-reliance in defence technology. The exhibition features a wide spectrum of products-ranging from systems already in limited use by the Indian military to cutting-edge technologies seeking induction into the armed forces. Among the key highlights are newly developed indigenous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones designed for surveillance and reconnaissance, offering flexible deployment in diverse terrains. Next-generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS) tailored for aerial logistics, operations in electronic warfare (EW) environments, and nano-drone with kamikaze capabilities have also drawn attention. In response to emerging aerial threats, companies are showcasing AI-driven counter-unmanned aircraft systems capable of detecting and neutralising hostile drones. Complementing these are advanced tactical aerial systems equipped with high-end avionics and electro-optical (EO) sensors for enhanced surveillance. Mobility solutions form another major segment of the exhibition. The exhibition also features a tactical mobile command centre and a tactical manpack antenna mast, showcasing advancements in battlefield communication and command infrastructure. A display of cutting-edge indigenous defence equipment and technologies-including drones, surveillance systems, and all-terrain vehicles-by firms participating in the expo was another highlight of the opening day. Representatives from over a dozen companies conducted live demonstrations of their products at the firing range in the presence of defence minister Rajnath Singh, chief of the Army staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi....