Boosting Defence R&D: India's Strategic Steps Forward

Minister Sanjay Seth outlined government initiatives to enhance defence manufacturing R&D, highlighting the DRDO's role through partnerships, technology transfers, and incentives for innovation. He emphasized collaboration with private sectors and start-ups, aiming for self-reliance, innovation, and future readiness in defence technology.

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth illuminated the strategic steps undertaken by the government to amplify research and development in defence manufacturing, responding in writing to the Rajya Sabha on Monday. He emphasized the DRDO's implementation of the Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) model, a competitive initiative engaging both public and private entities to identify manufacturing partners and transfer the necessary technology.

Seth revealed the DRDO's collaboration with 2,000 industries tasked with manufacturing a variety of sub-systems and equipment. Technology transfers from DRDO to these industries have been facilitated at zero cost under specific partnership models, enhancing accessibility for production partners. Furthermore, DRDO Scientists are extending consulting services to support industrial growth.

The Minister also touched on the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, managed by DRDO, which incentivizes public-private sector participation, particularly from MSMEs and start-ups. Seth announced Rs 500 crore in additional funding directed at Deep-Tech, marking a significant push towards self-sufficiency in defence technology. This initiative aligns with the Make-in-India drive, encouraging innovation and future adoption in defence and aerospace sectors.

Seth highlighted the success of four 'Dare to Dream' contests aimed at fostering innovation, by engaging start-ups and innovators in R&D with potential defence applications. DRDO has made several R&D test facilities available to industries, uploaded on the Defence Testing Portal (DTP) for greater transparency and access.

The integration of industry and academia features prominently in the DRDO's strategy, illustrated by 15 Centres of Excellence fostering critical future technologies. The Defence Ministry has opened 25% of its R&D budget to industry and academic collaborations, intensifying focus on innovation and self-reliance.

Support to industrial corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu signifies DRDO's commitment to building an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat.' The initiative is bolstered by 148 new R&D projects sanctioned in the past three years, aimed at reinforcing India's defence capabilities and future-oriented goals, as per Budget 2025-26 projections.

(With inputs from agencies.)