New Delhi, May 25 (PTI) Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday hinted at challenges along the borders with China and Pakistan, saying India should focus on advancements in defense technology in view of the “dual threat” along the border.

Addressing a conference, Singh underlined the need for extensive research to develop defense technologies for the country to meet various security challenges.

“For a country like India, this is very important because we are facing a dual threat on our borders. In such a scenario, it is very important that we advance in technological development,” he said.

“Today we have one of the largest armies in the world and the prowess of our army is discussed all over the world. In such a situation, it is imperative to have a technologically advanced army to protect the interests of the country,” he added.

The defense minister’s comments come against the backdrop of the lingering line of demarcation in eastern Ladakh and Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism.

In his remarks, Singh called for collaboration between the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and academia to ensure the necessary technological advancement.

“Research is the only way forward for this progress. It is the need of the hour for both DRDO and academia to work together,” he said. .

“Though all of you will connect with each other through partnership, I want you all to try to connect with each other at the individual and organizational level as well,” Singh added.

Mentioning the various challenges facing the country, Singh said joint efforts and partnerships are needed to effectively tackle them.

“Today we see many great challenges before us. When it comes to the country’s security, these challenges become even more pervasive,” he said.

“No organization can tackle these challenges alone. The most important thing we can do to address these challenges is through joint efforts and partnerships,” he said.

Singh also said that the partnership between DRDO and academic institutions will help DRDO develop dual-use technologies.

“In this way, if a partnership is established between DRDO and academic institutions, DRDO will move towards the development of dual-use technology,” he said.

Dual-use technologies are used for both security and civilian purposes. PTI MPB DV DV