The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken a significant step toward bolstering India’s defence industrial ecosystem by hosting a pivotal conclave at its Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC) in Lucknow. The event, aimed at fostering collaboration between the DRDO, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and start-ups, underscores the growing emphasis on indigenous defence production and innovation.
Over 100 participants from MSMEs, start-ups, and Laghu Udhyog Bharti gathered to discuss critical aspects of skill development, R&D funding, technical consultancy, and technology transfer. The conclave reflects a concerted effort to integrate India’s vibrant MSME sector into the defence manufacturing landscape, a move that aligns with the broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat set the tone for the event by highlighting the strategic importance of the DTTC, which he described as the brainchild of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. “The DTTC is now yielding results for the benefit of industries,” Dr. Kamat said, emphasising that the centre is playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between defence research and industrial application.
He urged MSMEs to seize the opportunity to engage in defence R&D, stressing that the current moment presents an unparalleled chance for collaboration. “DRDO will provide all possible support to help MSMEs contribute to making India Aatmanirbhar and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047,” Dr. Kamat assured the participants. His remarks underscored the DRDO’s commitment to nurturing a self-sustaining defence industrial base, one that leverages the agility and innovation of MSMEs.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his address, commended the DRDO and MSMEs for organising the conclave. He praised the crucial role of MSMEs in realising the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, acknowledging their potential to drive technological advancements and operational excellence in defence manufacturing.
The conclave also featured insights from senior DRDO officials, including Dr. RV Hara Prasad, DG (Naval Systems and Materials); Dr. LC Mangal, DG (Technology Management); and Dr. Mayank Dwivedi, DG (Human Resources). Their presence highlighted the DRDO’s multi-faceted approach to strengthening the defence industrial corridor in Uttar Pradesh, a region poised to become a hub for cutting-edge defence technologies.
This initiative comes at a time when India is rapidly expanding its defence capabilities, with a focus on reducing dependency on foreign imports. By empowering MSMEs and start-ups, the DRDO is not only fostering innovation but also creating a robust supply chain that can support large-scale defence production. The conclave serves as a testament to the government’s determination to position India as a global leader in defence technology by 2047.
As the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor continues to evolve, the collaboration between the DRDO, MSMEs, and start-ups will be instrumental in shaping India’s defence manufacturing future. The conclave has set the stage for deeper partnerships, ensuring that the nation’s defence sector remains at the forefront of technological advancement and self-reliance.