The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar has taken a significant step towards bolstering India’s defence capabilities by signing a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with the Indian Army. This collaboration introduces a Master of Technology (MTech) programme in defence technology, specifically tailored for officers of the Armoured Corps Centre and School (ACC&S). The initiative aims to enhance academic engagement and research in defence innovation, aligning academic training with operational military needs.
The MoA was signed by Maj Gen Vikram Varma, AVSM, VSM, Commandant of ACC&S, and Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar. The signing ceremony was attended by esteemed personalities including Lt Gen S S Mahal, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd), Professor of Practice at IIT Ropar, and other key figures from both institutions. The programme, jointly developed by ACC&S and IIT Ropar, will focus on applied learning, hands-on research, and innovation-driven problem-solving to prepare officers for technology-intensive roles within the armed forces.
Prof. Rajeev Ahuja described the collaboration as a paradigm shift in India’s approach to defence technology education. “This collaboration marks a paradigm shift in how India approaches defence technology education. By bringing together the intellectual rigour of IIT Ropar with the operational excellence of the Indian Army, we are creating a unique model that will produce defence technology leaders capable of driving India’s self-reliance in critical defence sectors. This is our contribution to Viksit Bharat 2047,” he said.
The MTech programme will cover several strategic focus areas, including Joint Research & Development Initiatives, Next-Generation Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) Technologies, Advanced Armament Solutions, and New Materials and Technologies for Armoured Platforms. Upon successful completion, officers will be awarded an MTech (Defence Technology) degree from IIT Ropar.
This partnership not only strengthens the academic and operational synergy between IIT Ropar and the Indian Army but also underscores India’s commitment to advancing its defence technology sector. By fostering a new generation of defence technology leaders, this initiative is poised to significantly contribute to India’s vision of self-reliance in critical defence sectors, aligning with the broader goals of Viksit Bharat 2047.